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A good pair of running socks are a game changer when it comes to pounding the pavement. The right pair of socks can mean the difference between finishing strong, or calling it quits and heading back home because you can't fathom running any more miles with that newly-formed blister. Can you say ouch?
The socks you pull on should be catered to the conditions you're running in. They'll give an added edge to your stride. So if you're heading to the trails on a snowy day, you may want to pick something that'll keep your feet extra warm and dry, like merino wool. And if you're going for a summer jog, maybe something a little lighter will do, especially if it's got moisture-wicking properties.
You can also choose running socks that cater to your feet specifically. Say you have a bunion, you may want to go for a pair of socks that keep your toes from overlapping, or if you're prone to athlete's foot, you may want socks that are designed to fight odor and prevent smelly feet.
Finding the best running socks for you requires a little bit of research (maybe a few trial runs). But if you want to skip the extra work, go ahead and bookmark this list of the top-rated running socks for women, according to user reviews and expert intel from Women's Health editors who've put plenty of 'em through their paces.
These socks from Agogo Active are news writer , thanks to their blister tab, supreme moisture-wicking ability, and silver fiber yarn that can kill bacteria that leads to stinky feet.
Reviewer rave:"They have a blister-tab on the heel that keeps them in just the right position, an arch support cushion, and a hand-linked toe seam that supports but never squishes a single piggy. Thesweat-wicking materialis also clutch for my sweaty runs." —Jennifer Nied, news writer, womenshealthmag.com
When it comes to performance socks, Swiftick knows a thing or two. This pair is the perfect mix of comfort and durability, and the National Parks collection is designed with photos of America's most famous outdoor destinations, like Yosemite National Park and the Grand Canyon. Part of the proceeds of each pair sold goes to support the National Park Foundation.
Reviewer rave:"These compression running socks are super durable and the seamless construction means they never chafe, yet they still feel thin, light, and breathable--they're not bulky like a lot of running socks. —Kristin Canning, health editor, womenshealthmag.com
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These Drymax running socks keep moisture under control using a special dual layer removal system which filters sweat from your feet to the outer more absorbent layer of the sock. Talk about next level. The moisture-wicking keeps your feet blister free.
Reviewer rave: "These socks are my go-to’s for running because they’re masters at preventing blisters (which I am SO prone to), thanks to plenty of cushioning around the heels, but are really breathable and keep my feet dry and stank-free, no matter how sweaty my run is." —Lauren Del Turco, Fitness & Wellness Editor, womenshealthmag.com
These socks are specifically designed for running in the cold. They'll keep your feet warm without making them sweat. The mesh venting system on the fabric helps the socks manage moisture and breathability.
Reviewer rave:"Running in cold weather is tricky because your feet are cold, but you are also sweating... these are perfect and keep your feet warm and dry. It's a miracle. ! Don't run without them." —Kathleen,smartwool.com
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These no-show socks from Under Armour are made with cushioning that softens the blow of every step and the arch support prevents foot fatigue. They're also made with anti-odor tech to make smelly feet a nonissue.
Reviewer rave: "Really comfy socks that do not slide down. Perfect for an active workout or day." —Haley, amazon.com
These socks are made from 100-percent recycled materials and for each pair of socks sold, 22 plastic bottles are removed from the ocean. Designed for trail running, but suitable for all your runs, the socks are perfect for blister resistance and anti-slip.
Reviewer rave:"I LOVE these socks! I’m not a trail runner, I run on paved areas. These socks are fantastic, and I don’t say that lightly! My feet are beat up feet from running, and I find it difficult to find socks that work for me. These socks feel amazing, the arch support is so comfortable and they do not shift and cause any sort of friction." —AngieZ, amazon.com
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At about $2 a pair, these Puma running socks are a total steal, and with almost 10,000 positive reviews on Amazon, it's safe to say people love them. The socks are cushiony, moisture-wicking, and made with arch support.
Reviewer rave:"I love these socks. They just just enough cushion forrunningwithout being too thick. They are low cut but not so low that they ride down when you arerunning. They do not shrink in the wash, which is a plus." —Brittany B., amazon.com
8
Best Year-Round Option
Vertex No Show Tab Ultra-Light Cushion
These no-show socks are a secret running weapon. They're made from merino wool fiber that keeps cool in the summer and warm in the winter, while pulling moisture away in all conditions. Though the socks feel like they're barely there, a light layer of cushioning on the bottom make them extra comfy.
Reviewer rave:"These ones are super cushy and snug on the foot. It hasn't slipped down on my heel — perfection. Quite warm, but they've also felt fine as I've run in 70 and 80 Fahrenheit weather." —Christina B., darntough.com
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The only thing better than their cool palm print design is that these socks will upgrade your performance while feeling next-level comfortable thanks to their cushioned bottom, and the crisp colors on the design won't fade even when you throw them in the wash.
Not only do these toesocks keep your toes comfy by contouring to their natural alignment, but they also keep your feet cool using their light and breathable mesh top. The anti-slip heel tab also protects against chafing.
Reviewer rave: "I wore these socks, ran 10 miles, and my feet felt amazing. No blisters. I wear them any time I plan to run over six miles and I haven't had any issues. The only time I get blisters now are when these socks are dirty and I am forced to wear others.At $10 a pair, they are not inexpensive, but they are totally worth it." —Haley Kearns, amazon.com
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These bunion relief socks use a cushioned toe pocket to separate the big and second toes. This prevents the toes from overlapping,minimizing friction and bunion pain, according to reviewers.
Reviewer rave: "These socks are amazingly comfortable. They separate mybigtoeand secondtoewhich tend to overlap due to bunions. These feel great and I will buy some more." —Carol Stoddard, amazon.com
When running in wet conditions, keeping your feet dry is top priority. But on the not-so-off chance your feet get wet, these Drymax socks will keep your feet dry using their proprietary tech that claims to keep feet 25 times more drier than the average sock.
Reviewer rave:"I have used these socks for years and they are literally the best socks out there for runners. I haven’t had a blister since using these socks." —Jen, amazon.com
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This lightweight sock is designed with firm compression that contours the foot to reduce fatigue and makes the sock more responsive. Light cushioning provides an even more comfortable feel, too.
Reviewer rave:"These are amazing socks! They fit perfect and actually feel supportive when I do my long walks and short jogs!" —Debbie Jones, swiftwick.com
Bombas are a fave among runners and fans of a feel-good sock. These socks are made of soft Merino wool that's breathable, quick-drying, and cushy, so that you're comfy no matter how many miles you're tackling. For every pair bought, a pair of these socks are donated to others in need.
Reviewer rave:"These socks are AMAZING!! I cannot believe how incredible these feel on my feet!! I am a true sock snob & these are just amazing!!" —Jill K., bombas.com
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These ribbed crew socks are designed to tackle odor, while reducing moisture. The socks also feature extra support in the parts of your feet that experience the most impact to keep them comfy throughout your entire run.
Jasmine Gomez
Commerce Editor
Jasmine Gomez is the Commerce Editor at Women’s Health, where she cover the best product recommendations across beauty, health, lifestyle, fitness, and more. When she's not shopping for a living, she enjoys karaoke and dining out more than she cares to admit. Follow her @JazzeGomez.
