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Best running socks of 2020

While you may spend weeks and weeks deciding on the perfect pair of trainers, you probably just throw on whatever socks are closest in your drawer before you embark on your regular run, but this essential kit should not be underestimated.

Running is a high-impact sport for all areas of the body, but particularly for your feet where lost toenails, blisters and sores are unfortunately par for the course.

That being said, with the right socks, you can prevent common aches and pains to your feet and toes, ensuring that you can truly focus on the run at hand without distractions or having to throw the towel in early.

Improved technology has resulted in innovative sock constructions that offer protection in the places where you need them. You can opt for compression iterations that are elasticated for a faster recovery as they reduced vein diameter which increases blood flow and extra cushioning in high-stress areas like your toes, heels or arches.

The material should also be considered as your classic cotton tennis socks are unlikely to hold up in a typical British rainstorm. The absorbent fabric is no match compared to quick-drying and moisture-wicking alternatives like merino or synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon. They are also better for regulating temperature, odour resistance and durability.

Shop one of the most important items in your kit list here.

PhD Run Light Elite Low Cut

These are some of the most comfortable socks on the market with strategically placed cushioning at high-impact areas where your feet need them the most. The extra padding comes at the ball and heel as well as seamless toe and mesh zones for added breathability. They are thicker than your average running socks (although honestly, it doesn't feel like it when on) and so work better for long distance runs like half or full marathons.

£17.99 | Smartwool

Stance Train Tab Socks

Keeping your feet dry and warm no matter your running conditions, Stance is on hand to stop sweat and moisture from reaching you. Made from a cotton-nylon blend that helps reduce odour and regulates temperature, the designated left and right foot ensures a proper fit with arch support. This set of three comes in three vibrant designs. The socks are thin and lightweight and so can be worn for all types of runs, especially shorter sprints. The handy tabs at the heel prevent rubbing so can also work for long-distance training.

£24.99 | Wiggle

Rockay Running Socks - Flare

Anyone suffering from blisters and sore spots should consider these elite running socks from sustainable performance brand Rockay. Using 100 per cent recyclable materials, the Flare sock offers the perfect mid-height construction that will keep you cool but cushioned. The seamless toe and snug arch support provide a solid, friction free run while the breathable mesh panels help cut down on excess sweat and moisture. The small reflective logo is a nice touch on night runs and every pair comes with a lifetime guarantee. A lightweight, proper running sock - this is a great pick for all types of runners.

£14.14 | Rockay

Falke Ess RU4 running socks

Falke has designed these socks to act as a second skin with an invisible, lightweight design that does not sacrifice on comfort. They are kitted out with a moisture-wicking fabrication and cushioning in all the right places to protect against rubbing and blisters. There is even an anti-slip heel for added stability. By the very nature of being an "invisible" sock, they are thin but won't cause friction so can be worn on longer stints but are best for 5-15k.

£15 | Matches Fashion

Higher State Freedom Running Socklet

This pack of five running socks will not only bring a vibrant pop of colour to your running look but the technical design offers an improved fit and comfort. The soft cotton fabrication feels nice against the skin and fine mesh weave is lightweight, and more importantly breathable to help prevent odours. There is slight compression at the mid foot that helps with circulation and recovery and added cushioning at pressure points. These socks help you push further during those longer endurance runs, your marathons and Ultras to give you support as you tackle those 26 plus miles.

£9.99 | Sports Shoes

X-Socks Marathon Energy

Designed specifically for long-distance running, the X-BIONIC 4.0 is the brand’s best performing sock yet for optimising and supporting your feet as the miles start to rack up. The socks are fitted with a type of air-conditioning where fresh air is pushed to the sole for improved airflow and ventilation. At the Achilles, you can expect better protection against friction and pressure with sculpted padding. The longer length may also be preferable for full hugging support.

£29.00 | X-Bionic

Low Anti-Blister Running Socks

There are few things worse than running with huge blisters and these socks are created to prevent just that with a two-layer technology that encourages the material to rub against each other instead of your overworked feet. They are available in a range of colours and sizes.

£15 | Runderwear

Thorlo Experia Running Socks

These super slick socks from Thorlo are designed to fit like a glove to protect your feet without interfering with your workout. They are composed of a proprietary polyester fibre with impressive moisture-wicking that will keep them cool, comfortable and dry.

£11.19 | Sports Shoes

2XU Vectr Ankle Socks

Available in black or in a white and grey col our palette, the 2XU have been crafted to optimise your running movements with innovative features like compression technology and cushioning at the pressure points. They help with stabilisation, locking the feet in place with the elicitation. The socks also feature anti-odour technology.

£12 | John Lewis

Technical Running Socks

These Technical Running Socks from Sweaty Betty will encourage you to put your best foot forward without suffering from the painful side effects of long runs. They have an anti-blister panels at the heels as well as ankle lips to prevent your skin from rubbing against the trainers. The socks are crafted from a breathable nylon, polyester and cotton composition that is natural but also soft to touch.

£15 | Sweaty Betty

Adidas By Stella McCartney Set of two jacquard-knit socks

They may be some of the best looking running socks on the market but don’t for one minute think they are all style over substance. The jacquard-knit socks from Stella McCartney for Adidas is crafted from the soft and flexible fabrication that will fit your feet seamlessly and comfortably.

£18 | Net-A-Porter

Hilly Supreme Running Socks

Running sock specialists Hilly has designed its pieces to maximise performance with advanced features that will prevent chafing, blisters and wet feet. The Supreme models are composed with a soft wool that is anti-odour and moisture-wicking. There is also cushioning in high-impact pressure zones for added comfort.

£13 | John Lewis

Nike Elite Cushioned Ankle

While minimalist in design, these versatile socks from Nike will support your feet throughout your run, be it a 5 or 50k. They have a cushioning in targeted areas but remain lightweight for that second skin feeling. The polyester-nylon blend is sweat and moisture-wicking.

£12.95 | Nike

Alphaskin Low Socks

These are some of the most comfortable socks that we’ve ever worn so much so that we’ve incorporated them into our everyday rotation. They are crafted from recycled polyester and nylon and help to cut down on waste, while also being moisture-wicking to keep your feet dry. The low cut socks also have cushioning at the points with the most amount of contact.

£9.95 | Adidas

Verdict:

The sock you choose should be an informed decision based on the characteristics of the particular run you are about to embark on. For example its duration, training vs. racing, topography, terrain, weather or even nursing a blister. ​For comfort and performance, the Smartwool PhD Run Light Elite Low Cut has earned our vote. They feature cushioning in all the right places while still remaining relatively lightweight.