The Best Athletic Socks for Women
When it comes to athletic performance, it's a well-known fact that shoes make all the difference. But what about socks? You may be tempted to keep wearing your old ratty socks, but you'd be surprised at the latest sock technology on the market. Slip on a pair of these cushiony, ergonomically designed socks and you'll never look back. Say goodbye to blisters and hello to bliss with our top picks.
Saucony Women’s Performance Athletic Socks
Saucony was founded in 1898, meaning that it has over 120 years of experience making products for athletes. That level of dedication is evident in the thoughtful design of these socks. They feature RunDry Moisture Management technology to keep your feet comfortably dry through any activity. They’re made of 2% spandex for a snug fit, and the seams are designed for reduced irritation. All in all, these socks are well-designed and dependable.
Pros:
- Air-mesh ventilation creates a breathable environment for your feet
- Targeted zone cushioning in high impact areas like the heels
- Comes at an affordable price for 8 pairs of socks
Cons:
- Tend to run big, so make sure to size down for a better fit
Under Armour Essential 2.0 No-Show Socks
These socks from Under Armour stand out for their stretchy material. They’re made of 6% nylon and 3% spandex, which will conform to your feet perfectly. Not to mention, they’re made with built-in arch support to combat foot fatigue. We also love the sporty design of this sock with graphic letters in contrasting colors. They’ll add style as well as support to your athletic wardrobe.
Pros:
- Flat heel seams create a snug and secure fit
- Updated minimalistic stitch pattern creates a flattering silhouette
Cons:
- Only comes in one size for shoe size 6-9
Bombas Women’s Socks
As far as sock companies go, Bombas is the hottest name in the game. They first rose to fame through an appearance on Shark Tank, where they won an investment from fashion mogul Daymond John. All this is to say, Bombas socks have made a splash for a reason. They’re built with Hex Technology construction for breathability, and their Honeycomb Support System provides firm support to the arch of your foot. We recommend Bombas to those looking for a long-lasting pair of socks.
Pros:
- Blister tab cushions your ankle and prevents irritation between you and your shoe
- Right and left side socks are contoured to provide strategic support for each foot
- Bombas donates one sock to homeless shelters for every sock purchased
Cons:
- One pair of Bombas is more expensive than multi-packs of other socks, so this isn’t a great deal for the quantity
EnerWear Women’s Merino Wool Sock
This pick by EnerWear is made of 86% high-quality merino wool. Nothing beats wool when it comes to keeping your feet warm, dry, and odor-free in cold conditions. This sock is knitted with terry-loop cushioning all throughout for extra softness. The top of the sock is engineered with Lycra stretch to stay up without feeling uncomfortably tight. Whether you’re skiing, hiking, or camping, these socks have got your back.
Pros:
- Great length for boots, and can even be layered over short socks for optimal warmth
- Heel and toe are reinforced to prevent holes and extend product life
Cons:
- Since they are so thick, these socks can only be worn with shoes that have some extra room
Adidas Superlite Super No Show Socks
Undercover Comfort
No-show socks are a trend we love, and Adidas knocks it out of the park with this sleek design. They fit perfectly around the lower foot so that it doesn’t peek out of the shoe. Sliding is a common problem with this style of sock, but thankfully, these stay put through movement. They’re made with moisture-wicking yarn that will keep your feet dry. Also, who can resist those sweet pastel hues?
Pros:
- Creates a minimalistic look on the foot by letting your shoes shine
- Great to wear with loafers or other casual shoes, as well as athletic ones
Cons:
- These socks are both low-cut and lightweight, so they won’t work well in cold weather
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need athletic socks?
The complicated answer is no, of course not, but yes, kind of. You see, athletic socks and regular socks are quite different. Your run of the mill cotton sock is thin and easy to tear, while athletic socks are thicker and cushioned to prevent irritation. If you’re someone who enjoys an active lifestyle, athletic socks will make a huge difference. They provide padding at the front and back of the foot and help prevent injury with proper cushioning. Athletic socks are also designed to wick away sweat and moisture, which will keep your feet healthy and prevent odor. It’ll also provide insulation to keep your feet warm in the colder months. We tend to lose a lot of warmth through our hands and feet, so a sturdy sock is a must.
How should I wash my socks?
Socks are stretchy but delicate, so be careful with how you treat them. We recommend putting them in the washing machine in a mesh laundry bag. This protects your socks from snagging on any zippers and tearing. Use a gentle laundry detergent and remember, heat is a sock’s enemy. Avoid washing or drying your socks on high heat, as they will weaken and pull at the fibers of your socks. Even better, hang your socks to dry for maximum longevity.
Why Trust Us
Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.