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Our pick of the best ankle, waterproof, anti-blister and compression running socks on the market.

Do you really need specialist socks to go running? While you can technically hit the road in any old pair and still survive, the right socks come with a number of benefits (while the wrong ones can cause absolute havoc), so it is worth investing in a good pair to save your feet from future distress.

But what are the different types and how do you know what to buy? We've answered your essential kit questions, plus keep scrolling for our pick of the best run socks on the market.

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. But what exactly is a running sock and how do they differ from bog standard cotton options?

'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.

'The importance of socks is often overshadowed by the quest to find the perfect pair of running shoes,' he adds. 'However, without the support of some high-quality socks, problems such as blisters, overheating and discomfort can persist.'

In a hurry? Here are some of the best sellers. Keep scrolling for the full list.

• Best running socks for blisters - Runderwear anti-blister socks, £15 • Best running socklets - Balega hidden comfort, £13 • Best compression running socks - 1000 Mile compression, £9.99 • Best trail running socks - Bridgerton merino sport 3/4 socks, £14.49 • Best women's running socks - Sweaty Betty technical socks, £25 • Best double layer socks - 1000 Mile anklet socks, £12

From ankle-high to super-thin socks, there are number of different types to choose from but they usually fall into the following categories:

There are a few important factors to consider when shopping for run socks:

Just like your favourite run vest, your socks should be made from a breathable, quick-drying fabric to keep your feet dry as you clock up the miles. '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. 'Socks which use technical synthetic materials instead will help to transport the sweat away from your skin.'

Your socks should be the same size as your running shoes. 'Too big or too small can slide around and cause blisters,' advises Paterson. 'They should have a good fit, especially under the arch of the foot and around the heel. To make sure you have the right size, make sure that the heel portion of the socks perfectly lands on your heel without stretching.'

The devil is in the detail, as something as small as a seam could end up causing you considerable discomfort over a long distance. 'Make sure the socks are seamless, as this can reduce the risk of chafing,' advises Paterson.

Do 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). So think about your ideal thickness before you invest. 'What you choose depends on personal preference, as both have advantages,' says Paterson.

The golden rule 'nothing new on race day' definitely applies when it comes to socks, so make sure you've worn them several times in advance of any planned events. Some specialist running stores will also let you try on kit, so if you're struggling to decide what suits your feet it is worth asking if you can test them out for size and feel first.

Like most sports kit, taking care of your socks isn't rocket science, but there are a few things you can do to maximise longevity.

'It is best to turn your socks inside out before popping them in the washing machine and wash them on a cool setting and avoid fabric softener,' advises Paterson. 'Also make sure to air dry them as the heat from a tumble dryer could damage some of the specialist materials.'

To help you choose your ideal pair we've rounded up our pick of the best running socks on the market:

A staple of any “best socks” list, the Hidden Comfort from US brand Balega is a big hit with the RW team. They’re super soft and stretchy, but amazingly resist slipping when they’re on your foot. While the bottom is cushioned, the top is nearly see through so you’ll stay cool on any run. If you're a fan of hidden trainer socks, these are super low-cut so barely peak out of your shoe, and they're available in black, charcoal or white.

Stance finally has a genuine rival when it comes to producing high-performance, high-fashion running socks. Bombas come in multiple colours, sizes and styles, but are united by a commitment to quality and comfort. RW experienced zero hotspots while running in a variety of its socks, and were suitably dazzled by the natty designs. You can choose between ankle socks, quarter-length socks and calf-length socks, but our particular favourites were these ones, which neither slide nor rub. Made from quality materials throughout, Bombas gains bonus points for donating one pair of socks to homeless shelters for every sock purchased. What’s not to like?

There’s no doubt about it, UK brand Runderwear know a thing or two about anti-chafing. These cushioned ankle socks give you extra protection where your foot needs it most, which will come in handy over 26.2 miles. Made from breathable fabrics, the mid-foot grips to hold the sock in place and the high tab on the back protects against blisters.

We recently tested a pair of lightweight run socks from US outdoor specialists Darn Tough, with great results. The merino wool feels cushioned without being too hot and they didn't slip at all during the run. We also like the fact they come in distinctive colours, making it easier to pick them out in a pile of laundry on run day! They also stock great lightweight socks in women's sizes too.

Whether you’re looking for hidden, ankle or simply stylish running socks, Stance have it covered. Typical of the brand's style, these are technically excellent, with targeted leg compression to boost blood flow and a reflective logo for increased visibility. They also have reinforced toe and heel sections for improved durability, and stock women's sizes too.

Balega’s Blister Resist Quarter socks prove that you can have great protection and a soft feel. Many socks are soft when you put them on, but that softness can mean they’re also moisture-absorbent or fragile. These use a combination of mohair and Balega’s own moisture-wicking materials to create a plush yet durable option. Even on particularly swampy and wet runs, the Blister Resist never felt waterlogged or created hot spots (like wet socks can).

Designed especially for women's feet, if you suffer from blisters, Sweaty Betty Technical Run Socks are a good option. With an anti-blister heel panel and ankle lip to protect your feet, and breathable, sweat-wicking panels, you can't go wrong.

Yes, we’ll admit, toe socks look ridiculous. But, here’s a little secret: Nobody sees them when they’re inside your shoe doing exactly what they’re supposed to—preventing blisters. The Liner sock maximises blister protection, which is what you need when you're running a marathon.

The first brand to come up with the double layer socks we know and love today, these anklet versions from 1000 Mile are a classic. Comfortable and cushioned, with ventilation zones for breathability, Achilles tendon protection, and inner layers to wick sweat away from your feet. The brand also stocks anklet socks specifically for women too.

Made in Europe, these socks contain wool, which has natural anti-odour properties. They feel thick, soft and comfortable and work well when it comes to preventing blisters on the run. Rockay socks have a lifetime guarantee, so if you do find them falling apart after 10 washes, you can swap them for a new pair.

This funky pair from On Running feel supportive and lightweight yet still luxuriously thick underfoot. They're available in three lengths and a rainbow of colours to suit every style of runner, plus they have the same great socks specifically for women too.

This classic 3/4-crew-length pair from veteran Irish sock brand Bridgedale are perfect for off-road running. The merino wool is not only supremely soft, it's anti-bacterial, fast-drying (great for when you've just splashed straight through a massive puddle) and durable enough for many a long day in the hills. They come in women's sizes too.

A good multitasker, these are thick enough for autumnal weather, breathable enough to keep your feet cool in hotter climates and strong enough to last you a good while. They also feature mid arch compression to hold the sock in place.

These are as good as you'd expect from a company that only makes socks. They're lightly padded enough to do the job for anything up to half-marathon distance, and the toe section is seamless to help reduce friction.

We're not sure that staying odour-free is the prime concern during a marathon, but it's good to know the Polygiene treatment in these socks provides the service. What's more impressive about these is the comfort, the cushioning and the ventilation.

While the science on wearing compression socks during a run is inconclusive, research has found that compression socks can help recovery. If you're looking for a pair to have in your kit bag on race day, here are a few worth investing in:

The jury is out on whether compression adds benefit during exercise but if you're a fan, these are the best you can get. The compression is firm but not confining, they don't lose shape in the wash, the toe area offers seamless comfort and the hi-vis design will keep you seen. They also stock the same socks for women too.

Stick these on after training to speed up recovery. The graduated compression improves blood flow to fatigued muscles and helps flush out lactic acid, and the underfoot section is padded to make your post-long-run hobble that bit comfier.