What To Look For
Blisters can be a common occurrence for most runners, but they don't have to be--a good pair of running socks can go a long way toward keeping a runner's feet blister-free. Since excessive heat and moisture can lead to blister-causing friction, the best running socks are designed to keep feet cool and dry. Look for socks made with technical fabrics like CoolMax polyester or natural sweat-wicking materials like merino wool or mohair, such as Smartwool's Ultra Light Mini Crew, which "Trail Runner" magazine's editors noted for its breathability, or DryMax's V3 running sock, which Tony Portera at IRunUltras.com praised for its moisture-wicking ability.
Common Pitfalls
Beware of socks that have too much padding, as they can overheat a runner's foot, causing it to sweat more moisture than the sock can wick. Also, keep an eye out for socks that eschew padding on the upper part of the foot for a highly breathable mesh for ventilation.
Where To Buy
REI.com and Altrec.com offer wide range of socks from which shoppers can choose, allowing them to sort their searches according to price range, brand and user reviews, and they frequently offer discounted gear for people who are looking to spend a little less. Also, both offer 100 percent satisfaction guarantees and easy return/exchange policies.
Cost
Socks can vary a bit in price, depending on their materials and features, but most running socks don't cost more than $10 to $15. While some running socks go for as little as $2 a pair, you generally get what you pay for. Expect to spent around $5 to $10 for a decent pair of sweat-wicking socks.
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