Which women’s athletic socks are best?
Many consumers fail to realize that there are many sock types that better benefit certain scenarios. While some socks might be best for formal occasions, these socks might not be good for working out. Women’s athletic socks are all about increasing one’s comfort while assisting in wicking moisture or reducing a tendency toward blisters.
The best women’s athletic socks are the Eallco Women’s Athletic Cushioned Running Ankle Socks. These socks are built around running, have padded heels and moisture wicking for ultimate comfort and are available in three color options.
What to know before you buy a women’s athletic sock
Types of women’s athletic sock
There are two types of women’s athletic socks: standard and compression.
- Standard: Standard socks can have a range of possible features depending on the brand and which athletic activity it’s marketed toward. They can come in all four leg coverage types.
- Compression: Compression socks introduce a restricted fit that is known to promote improved blood circulation which in turn results in a faster recovery time. You do pay a higher cost for this type of women’s athletic sock.
Leg coverage
There are five lengths of leg coverage for women’s athletic socks. Some provide a few benefits, but most are simply for looks.
- No-show (ankle) socks don’t peek out of the shoe and are cooler for hot-weather activities.
- Low-cut and quarter crew socks peek out a little from the shoe to provide a little additional protection from chaffing or rubbing.
- Crew, which goes halfway up the calf, and knee-high socks provide the same benefits as low-cut and quarter crew while providing an aesthetic benefit.
What to look for in a quality women’s athletic sock
Moisture wicking
Most women’s athletic socks use materials that provide levels of moisture wicking. This keeps your feet dryer during activity while also limiting the chances of bacterial growth. Synthetic materials like polyester have better moisture-wicking abilities than natural fibers like cotton. The exception to this rule is Merino wool — an expensive, natural material with high comfort, temperature insulation and natural moisture-wicking capabilities.
Cushioning
Some women’s athletic socks use padding to provide additional comfort when engaging in high-impact activities. Socks that are marketed for runners commonly place cushioning in the heel to help absorb the impact.
Heel tabs
Some low-cut and no-show socks use additional material that forms a tab at the back of the ankle. These tabs mostly serve as padding between the Achilles tendon and your shoe but they’re also helpful in preventing a low-cut women’s athletic sock from slipping into the shoe.
How much you can expect to spend on a women’s athletic sock
The typical price range for a set of women’s athletic socks is roughly $10-$25, with more expensive socks using special technologies. Remember that socks often come in multipair packages, which helps to keep costs per pair down.
Women’s athletic sock FAQ
I have an unpleasant foot odor after wearing my women’s athletic socks; how do I get rid of it?
A. If you have a foot odor you don’t want after wearing your women’s athletic socks, there are a few things you can do. The first is to switch to a moisture-wicking sock and, if that doesn’t work, an antimicrobial sock. If you’ve tried both of these sock types and you still have a foot odor, then the culprit is likely your shoes instead. Grab an antimicrobial shoe cleaner and give your shoes a few rounds of treatment. If you still have a foot odor after all of these steps, you should consult with a doctor.
Is there a difference between men’s and women’s athletic socks?
A. In terms of function, no. Men’s and women’s athletic socks are identical. The only differences are size and design. Men’s athletic socks usually run in larger sizes and in fewer colors and designs, which are typically muted compared to women’s brighter and more fun designs.
What’s the best women’s athletic sock to buy?
Top women’s athletic sock
Eallco Women’s Athletic Cushioned Running Ankle Socks
What you need to know: These women’s athletic socks were made for running, thanks to their cushioned heels.
What you’ll love: Cushioned heels lessen every impact and work to prevent blistering and chafing by limiting rubbing against your shoes. The polyester and Spandex material works to wick moisture away from your feet. They are available in black, white and gray.
What you should consider: Some consumers reported a tight and uncomfortable fit around the front of the foot where it meets the ankle.
Top women’s athletic sock for the money
What you need to know: These excellent and affordable socks are made by a top-recognized athletic brand.
What you’ll love: Many consumers iterated on the comfort of these socks, even after hours of steady use. Reviewers also noted the high breathability of these socks and their sturdy construction. They have a thickness that perfectly straddles the line between thick and thin.
What you should consider: Some consumers reported that these socks can shrink a little or start to pill after being washed a few times.
Worth checking out
Under Armour Women’s Essential No Show Socks
What you need to know: This is yet another excellent sock from one of the biggest names in athletic wear and equipment.
What you’ll love: These women’s athletic socks are most well known for their arch support as well as their tight fit which conforms to the foot. There are very few instances of these socks shrinking after being washed. They’re durable enough to last for years.
What you should consider: Some consumers had problems with the tight fit, noting that these women’s athletic socks run a little small and have less breathability than similar products.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.