The best running socks for women

"I discovered Balega Hidden Comfort socks and I now won’t wear any others. They’re the bee's knees."

"I haven't had any blisters since I discovered Balega socks! Comfort and joy."

A common complaint from runners is that running socks slip down as they run. However, these socks by Balega do not budge, which is probably why they’re an Amazon bestseller. These running socks provide a sturdy fit as they are designed with a heel tab and deep heel pocket to prevent any slippage. Thanks to a poly-blend fabric, designed to wick away sweat and a mesh ventilation to stop your feet from overheating, you should be blister-free! The ‘Hidden Comfort’ design means the underfoot is cushioned and provides padding for long distance runs. These socks are popular with runners with wide feet, they’re not great if you’re looking for a thinner, second-skin sock.

These are bargain socks with eco credentials, and they’re plush and comfortable to boot! At this price, feel free to snap up a few pairs without any eco-anxiety as these socks are made from viscose sourced from organic bamboo, the most sustainable plant on the planet. Bamboo requires less water to grow and produces more fabric per acre than cotton. Fabrics made from bamboo are typically very soft and breathable which is ideal for running socks. They’re designed with a cushioned sole and a ventilated panel on the upper foot. You’re getting great quality for a bargain price here.

压缩袜子帮助最小化跑后勒g fatigue and CEP socks have this sussed. The brand promises ‘light legs and a feel good effect’ and reviewers couldn’t agree more. How is this possible? The idea is that the compression socks remove metabolic waste while you run to aid recovery. The socks fit snug around the foot and ankle, and the compression decreases as the sock fits up the calf. So you’ll be blister-free and have great ankle support. They’re pricey, but can be worn all year round, keeping you warm in winter and cool in hotter months.

These merino wool socks are a favourite with expert runners. The test editors at《跑者世界》magazine rate this running sock very highly. Expert tester and Textile Director Lexie Sachs at theGood Housekeeping Institutesays, ‘It may sound strange to wear wool socks while you run, but merino wool is finer than regular wool, making it feel soft and lightweight. It’s also moisture-wicking and has natural temperature-regulating properties.’ These running socks are durable with a reinforced heel and toe. If you’re after padding, you might want to upgrade to the medium-cushioned Pursuit version. This sock is more slimline with great airflow.

A treat for your feet! The cushioning provides ultimate comfort around the foot so you feel like you’ve got great support when heading out on your run. Extras like a supportive arch and ventilation on the top of the foot and a reflective logo mean you are good to run that extra mile. Despite the cushioning, there are no ‘lumpy seams’ to report. The other bonus is that the ankle section is made from the same thin, ventilated fabric that features on the topside so the socks won’t bulk up if you want to pop them under your running leggings.

If you want to be seen on dark mornings or evenings then pop these hi-viz socks on for your run. The mid-calf-length design comes in an extremely visible and stylish fluoro pink or yellow and features a band of hi-viz yarn at the top of the sock. The fit is snug and the socks are thin with no plush cushioning. Ventilation panels will keep your feet cool as you run, but some reviewers recommend them only for shorter runs.

“I use Runderwear and have found them fab.”

The secret behind the success of these socks is that they’re made of two layers of technical fabric. The idea is that the two layers rub against each other, minimising the friction against your feet and therefore preventing blisters. They’re a bit thicker than other socks, but this might appeal if you’re prone to blisters. These socks will keep your feet warm on cold mornings, but they’re still breathable and sweat-wicking. The heel tab stops these low-rise socks from slipping. One reviewer recommends sizing up as they can come up slightly small.

Like most things, you get what you pay for. With this bargain multi-pack you’re getting a good basic running sock. The socks have mesh ventilation to help prevent blisters and you’ve got a slightly padded underfoot. What you’re paying extra for with other socks is structure and technical fabric. But that said, these socks won’t do you any harm and they’re great to wear as a substitute pair now and then. It’s worth noting that they’re slightly thicker than standard socks and can come up large.

If your feet are prone to overheating during a run then try these lightweight socks. They have anatomical contouring and seamless closure to give you that second skin feeling. Like other products from high end brands, these socks are made with moisture wicking fabric and have mesh ventilation to keep your pounding feet ultra cool. That said, they don’t provide much cushioning so they should only be worn with cushioned trainers.

“The Injinji toe socks are a favourite.” “Ininji toe socks are good if you suffer from blisters! Takes a while to get used to but I’m a convert!”

Suffer from pesky blisters between the toes? Not any more! Once you’ve got past the slight weirdness of slotting your digits into the knitted toe shapes (a bit like a glove) you’ll never look back. The socks are made from a blend of polyester, nylon with some added lycra, so your toes can move freely as you run. Say goodbye to squashed toes and most importantly, blisters! One word of warning – some testers found the socks a little baggy around their pinky toes.

Price: £16.25