'What you choose depends on personal preference, as both have advantages,' says Paterson. So think about your ideal thickness before you invest. ĭo you prefer a cushioned sock or an invisible feel? Most run socks will offer extra padding in the areas of the foot that take the most impact – your toes, heels and arch (which is why running socks often have a right and a left foot). 'Make sure the socks are seamless, as this can reduce the risk of chafing,' advises Paterson. The devil is in the detail, as something as small as a seam could end up causing you considerable discomfort over a long distance. To make sure you have the right size, make sure that the heel portion of the socks perfectly lands on your heel without stretching.' 'They should have a good fit, especially under the arch of the foot and around the heel. 'Too big or too small can slide around and cause blisters,' advises Paterson. Your socks should be the same size as your running shoes. 'Socks which use technical synthetic materials instead will help to transport the sweat away from your skin.' 'It's best to avoid cotton because it holds moisture and traps it against your skin, which causes blisters in the summer and coldness in the winter,' says Paterson. Just like your favourite running vest, your socks should be made from a breathable, quick-drying fabric to keep your feet dry as you clock up the miles. There are a few important factors to consider when shopping for run socks: Blister-free socks: Plagued by blisters? 'These socks tend to use a two-layer system, as the potential for friction is reduced by the two layers of material moving against each other, rather than against your skin,' says Paterson.Compression socks: These are designed to gently squeeze your muscles to improve blood circulation, reduce tiredness and boost recovery time.Odour-repellent socks: Do your kicks get a bit stinky after a run? These help to keep feet cool and dry – and slightly less smelly – thanks to clever antibacterial technology.Waterproof socks: Fair weather runners will be pleased to hear you can buy waterproof running socks that are designed to keep your feet warm and dry in adverse conditions, by wicking the water away from your feet.'However, without the support of some high-quality socks, problems such as blisters, overheating and discomfort can persist.' The main types of running socksįrom ankle-high to super-thin socks, there are number of different types to choose from but they usually fall into the following categories: 'The importance of socks is often overshadowed by the quest to find the perfect pair of running shoes,' he adds. 'The right pair are vital for good performance, comfort and support, because they have been designed specifically to increase ventilation, wick moisture and offer support in all the right places,' says Steve Paterson, people development and product trainer at Runners Need. But what exactly is a running sock and how do they differ from bog standard cotton options? Whether you’re training for a marathon or stepping out for your very first mile, as a runner, looking after your feet is a must.
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