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We all know the importance of a good running shoe, but a quality sock can be the difference between a PR and limping across the finish line. When choosing a good running sock you want to make sure that it is seamless, moisture-wicking, and won't fall down. While this often has us opting for higher socks to ensure we won't have to fish it out of the back of our shoes mid-run, there are definitely some no-show socks out there that will stay put. To help you choose, we have lined up some of our favorites. Look below for buying advice and in depth product reviews.
The biggest issue with socks on any length run is that you want to avoid them falling and bunching inside your shoe. While this is much less of an issue with tall socks, the closer to no-show they get, the bigger the chance they have of falling down, and causing you discomfort.
When looking for a no-show sock that will stay up, there are three key things that you want them to have. The first is a heel cup that helps to form snugly against the silhouette of the heel without leaving any loose fabric on the outside. The second is a heel tab that sits above the heel of the shoe and both provides some extra padding to prevent rubbing, and helps to keep it from falling inside the shoe. Lastly, you will want an arch lock or some sort of compression. This tighter fit will help to prevent chafing, slipping, and blistering. Also helping with these issues are moisture-wicking materials and a seamless toe area.
To find the best options among the many no-show socks out there, we researched the most popular models available. We found a lot of guidance in our own testing of socks throughout the years. We then took into account price, materials, durability, and compression. Finally, we consulted more than 53,000 reviews, written by people who’ve bought these models on Amazon to settle on these eight.
The hidden comfort is like vanilla ice cream—basic, but comforting and reliably good. It is a medium cushioned sock, and doesn't have any compression, so it won't feel tight.
Despite not being like a second skin, the sock will not fall down or move around thanks to the heel tab, and the seamless, moisture-wicking material prevents any blistering. It comes in lots of fun colors, and can take you from your every day runs to race day.
The Ultralights feature the same soft feel as the Hidden Comfort with a snugger fit and a bit less bulk. They have some more compression throughout the foot as well as an arch lock that helps to keep the sock motionless against the foot, but they are generally less tight than most compression socks. Since it is more lightweight, it is great for summer running, and it makes a good race sock.
This sock offers the best of both worlds with a super cushioned bottom and lightweight, breathable top. There is some compression around the mid-foot, which helps to keep it from twisting, but it is relaxed in the toe area so it won't feel pinched and tight. For those who like a bit more cushioning, this is a great option to give you more comfort on your sole without compromising on breathability.
If you want a super-low profile racing sock to wear every day, this Swiftwick fits the bill. It sits lower on the ankle than most running socks, and you barely feel it on your foot. There isn't much stretch, which helps to prevent slippage, but the material is soft and won't chafe even on long runs and races. These are a top choice to wear with spikes because of the close fit, and the outside of the sock has a bit of a grip, which keeps it in place.
If you have issues with blistering between toes, a pair of Injinjis may help to save you from discomfort. They fit like gloves, hugging around each toe and preventing them from rubbing against one another. While most models sit a bit higher, these are true no-shows that look like a typical pair of socks when in your shoes.
$14 can be a lot for a pair of socks, but this Saucony pack offers six pairs for that price. While they won't be the same quality as the $14 single pair—generally this just speaks to durability—they will still serve you well on your runs. They have a slight tab to keep them from falling, and they have light compression in the arch, which holds them in place.
Another lightweight sock, this pair has a bit more compression than the typical option. They are tight through the arch, which prevents slippage and helps to support the foot. It has a tab and heel cup that keeps it from falling down in the back, and a seamless toe so it won't rub while you run.
Wool is a naturally moisture wicking material, so it works great when it comes to running socks. These Feetures use Merino wool which is soft, durable, and temperature regulating—meaning it will keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. They feature zone compression, which means that the compression is tailored to where your foot needs it most.