What to Look for When Your Buying Running Socks

What to Look for When Your Buying Running Socks

Every runner knows that wearing the right gear is imperative to your success. You want what you're wearing to be as comfortable and supportive as possible otherwise, you could end up covered in sweat, could suffer from chafing, and could stop your route long before you want to – and may not even be able to get back out on the track, path, or trail for a while.

When you think of running gear- shoes, shorts, or pants, your top and even your undergarments are the most apparent elements you think about. However, there's another critical component to your gear that you might not pay too much mind to, but it is super-important. What is it? – Your socks! Many runners make the mistake of grabbing just any old pair of socks in their drawer, but that's a big mistake! Why? – Because it doesn't matter how comfortable and supportive your sneakers are, if you're socks are duds, your feet will end up suffering.
So, what makes a great pair of running socks? Read on to find out what you should be looking for when you're shopping for socks for running.

Moisture Wicking Materials
First and foremost, you're going to want to make sure that the socks you choose are made of moisture-wicking materials. It's no secret that your feet build up heat while you're running, and if your socks aren't made of moisture-wicking materials, the sweat is going to build up. Your feet will not only feel wet, but your skin could start to prune and peel; plus, wet shoes and feet harbor bacteria, which could eventually lead to more severe problems, such as athlete's foot and other infections.

While natural fibers, such as cotton or wool, might seem like the best choice; these materials aren't very breathable and they can trap sweat around your feet when running. Instead, many runners opt for synthetic fibers, such as acrylic or nylon, or a blend of both, as these materials have moisture-wicking capabilities.

The Size
Of course, the size of your socks is also significant. They need to fit your feet properly; if they're too small, your feet will feel almost as if they're pinched, and if they're too big, they could slide down and flop around inside your shoes. Choose a pair of socks that match your shoe size.

Another factor to consider regarding size is how high they extend beyond your shoes. Running socks can range in size from ankle to above-the-ankle. The right option for you really depends on your specific taste; however, we should note that the higher the socks, the more a chance that sweat will build up.

Comfort is Key
It's also imperative for your running socks to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for something that offers some cushioning at key impact zones, such as your heels and the balls of your feet. Try to look for seamless toes, too, as seams can generate friction and irritating your feet.

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