Best running socks 2024 | Tested and reviewed

A concise summary of the Lorpen Trail Running sock is that you don’t notice you’re wearing them. And that is high praise indeed. The T3 Trail Running Padded Eco uses a combination of materials and Lorpen’s Selective Layering System. It’s a rather complex sock design but the end result is seriously impressive.

The blend of Coolmax EcoMade polyester, Tencel (Eucalyptus tree cellulose fibre), and nylon – cleverly placed – proves exceptional comfort and breathability. The use of sustainable materials – recycled nylon and Coolmax, and biodegradable Tencel – also deserves praise.

It’s pricey, but if you’re after the very best running sock this is it. And you can use it all year round.

Women's version here

For the price, these are quite impressive running socks. They’re a relatively simple single layer design made from mostly acrylic, but a bit of merino in there too. The extra padding on the heel and toe made a significant contribution to comfort.

They’re not the best in terms of breathability and we would suggest a more technical sock for high intensity sessions or races. But for more leisurely training runs or in cooler weather, it’s a very attractive option. The synthetic materials used aren’t recycled though, which is a pity.

It was a close contest for best overall between these and the Lorpen socks. We just found that the Lorpen sock was slightly more effective. But in fairness there was little in it.

The British Bridgedales are an effective blend of (majority) nylon, polypropylene, and merino. They're great for long runs and high-output sessions. The primary edge the Lorpen socks have over these is the use of recycled and more eco-friendly materials.

Women's version here

When you think of winter socks for the outdoors, you often think Sealskinz. We did test a pair – the All Weather Mid Length Sock – and there was no dismissing its waterproof credentials. But the fit is a bit odd and will put a lot of people off.

And so we arrive at the more conventional Smartwool Cold-Weather Run sock. It’s mostly merino but contains partially recycled nylon too. It therefore gains all the merino plus points and durability from the brand’s Indestructawool technology.

In addition to being warm yet breathable, your lower calves are nicely protected thanks to this sock’s crew height.

When the weather is warm, low cut socks are great for running. It’s almost like going from leggings to shorts. Darn Tough’s Run No Show Tab Ultra-Lightweight Cushioned Sock is a mouthful of a name but is, in a word, superb.

Low cut it may be, but the padded heel tabs prevent any discomfort in that region and are also reasonably effective at keeping debris out. Construction is an even merino/nylon blend, which breathes incredibly well and has proven durable too.

There are cushioned and non-cushioned versions of this sock. We recommend the cushioned version, which has extra underfoot and heel padding.

Women's version here

If you like to have running gear that is as loud as it is effective, you’ll love these socks from Dynafit. They’re a reasonably thin and highly breathable design that are great for high intensity and/or warmer weather.

There is added cushioning at the heel, underfoot, and at the toe. These socks don’t contain recycled material but Dynafit is a Fair Wear Foundation member.