Are expensive sports socks worth it?: I get it. Every dollar counts in these tough times. Recent purchases have made me scrutinize and think about each purchase much more.
But there are some purchases that I have always considered carefully, regardless of the economic situation. These include my socks.
As a 6’9″ guy, I have tried and purchased every type of sock available for my size. There are high socks, ankle socks and dress socks.
The price ranges for these socks are wide, from inexpensive multi-packs to as much as $30 per pair of “premium dress socks”.
Imagine my disappointment when I discovered that the “premium socks” advertised as the most comfortable, longest-lasting socks had so many flaws.
They didn’t stretch enough to fit my large feet, tore easily, and they wouldn’t stay on my calf or around my ankles.
The socks were supposedly of “high quality”, but I was ripped off for the amount I paid. The cheap socks are just as comfortable, and I can buy 6 pairs of them for pennies. You know you will get exactly what you paid for.
Before, we discussed different materials’ effects on sock production (and how they affect moisture control or insulation).
All-natural socks, such as cotton, vicuna wool, or bamboo, are more expensive than synthetic socks.
The reason for this is the amount of labour required, variations in crop yields, and other factors that affect quality and price.
The production of synthetic fabrics is cheaper because manufacturers can control each step. [Are expensive sports socks worth it?]
9 best expensive sports socks are worth it for everyone
- CEP Compression Socks
- Smartwool PhD Pro Endurance Socks
- Bombas Performance Running Socks
- Feetures Elite Max Cushion No-Show Socks
- Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks
- Stance Performance Tab Socks
- Falke RU4 Invisible Running Socks
- Swiftwick Aspire Zero
- Nike Elite Lightweight Quarter Running Socks
1. CEP Compression Socks
The sock was more snug around the arch and ankle. The pressure was not squeezing, but was felt by me because it was noticeable.
According to CEP’s website, this helps increase blood circulation, reducing swelling and relieving pain caused by plantar fasciitis or the Achilles tendon.
This was the outfit I wore for a trail run the day after nearly nine hours of rain. I was happy to see mud and puddles on the trail.
I normally look for mud and water because I am a child on the trails, but this was an excellent way to test the socks.
The socks were soaked when the run ended. The next time I put them on, I noticed no difference. The socks still feel the same after I put them on. [Are expensive sports socks worth it?]
2. Smartwool PhD Pro Endurance Socks
This synthetic sock is mid-level cushioned. It has more padding around the toes and heel than any other lightweight socks we tested.
It is also breathable. When we wore Coolmax Micro Crew socks in hot weather, our feet were drier and sweatier than our other choices.
Coolmax Micro Crew socks are suitable for shoes and boots due to their shorter micro-crew. Both the women’s and male versions are available in three sizes.
Anyone who wants to backpack or hike, whether on or off trail, will need synthetic or wool socks. Campers, outdoor sportspeople, and travellers will appreciate hiking socks that are durable, anti-odour, and resistant to odour. [Are expensive sports socks worth it?]
Read Also: Can you wear a T-shirt to the gym?
3. Bombas Performance Running Socks
These lightweight socks are true to their name. These socks are lighter than regular Bombas. The socks are noticeably lighter and thinner than regular socks.
The socks are so light and airy that I forgot I was wearing them when I ran. I forgot I was wearing them, which is exactly what I wanted.
Also, they dry ridiculously quickly. They were so dry that I didn’t even notice they were wet, despite the fact I had been sweating heavily when I arrived home.
Unlike my previous cotton socks, the socks were dry when I removed them. Moisture-wicking socks are the best!
The front of the foot also has a similar tab cushion to the back, which helps prevent the sock from falling.
These socks are also great for long walks because my Bombas started to slip when I walked this far in my new shoes. [Are expensive sports socks worth it?]
4. Feetures Elite Max Cushion No-Show Socks
Even if a sock contains 1% cotton, there is a greater chance of blisters and chafing. Cotton is bad, as we say on the run.
Cotton is a natural wicker of moisture. Moisture or heat can cause friction on your shoes. You are more likely to get blisters, calluses and hotspots.
Features can be made in different thicknesses. There are a variety of socks, from thin compression to thick plush to wool.
Their max cushion (plush socks) and Merino10 wool socks are my favourites. Feetures socks can cost up to $30. [Are expensive sports socks worth it?]
Read Also: Are jogger pants good for running?
5. Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks
Darn Tough socks have taken over from Smartwool as the leading hiking sock. Darn Tough socks are simply the best. They have a seamless, cozy construction, high-quality Merino, and a lifetime warranty.
The Hiker Micro Cushion is our favourite hiking and backpacking model. The high-density knit creates excellent padding for any outdoor activity.
It is very comfortable. It’s not too elasticized in the forefoot or arch and doesn’t create pressure points.
What are the disadvantages of an ultralight hiking boot? The materials are thinner even in the most critical areas, like the heel and the toe box. (There is some reinforcement on the toes.) [Are expensive sports socks worth it?]
6. Stance Performance Tab Socks
Stance was founded in 2009. The founders did something unimaginable. The humble sock, previously an afterthought, became the centre of sports fashion.
The brand was created by Jeff Kearl and John Wilson. Aaron Hennings, Ryan Kingman, Taylor Shupe, and Ryan Kingman.
Kearl previously served as the chairman of Skullcandy’s board, the world’s leading headphone company.
He stated that Stance was inspired by the neglect of categories such as headphones and socks. [Are expensive sports socks worth it?]
7. Falke RU4 Invisible Running Socks
Steve Paterson is a product and people trainer at Runners Need. He says the right pair of shoes is essential for comfort, performance and support.
They have been specifically designed to increase ventilation, wick away moisture and provide support in the right places.
He adds that the importance of socks can be overshadowed in the search for the perfect pair of running shoes. Without the support of high-quality socks, problems like blisters can continue.
Paterson says cotton is best avoided because it traps moisture against the skin and can cause blisters and coldness during the winter.
“Socks that use synthetic materials will help transport sweat away from the skin.” [Are expensive sports socks worth it?]
8. Swiftwick Aspire Zero
Swiftwick ASPIRE socks are lightweight, breathable and “managed”. The olefin used in the socks retains less than 0.01 per cent of its weight as moisture. Swiftwick states that olefin materials resist deterioration by detergents and sweat.
These socks are lightweight and very durable. These socks almost feel like a liner. Each length of sock works well in damp conditions.
After crossing a stream, they felt they had absorbed very little water. After several steps in the water, they felt “dry”, including the FOUR (4-inch) and TWELVE (12-inch/above calf) socks.
The socks were very durable, and I found no weakness. [Are expensive sports socks worth it?]
9. Nike Elite Lightweight Quarter Running Socks
You will get more cushioning with each step if you use thicker socks. Extra material can also make your shoes feel more snug.
For a luxuriously soft experience, choose a shoe with thick padding underfoot. If your shoe is a bit loose, but not so much that you need to increase a half-size, opt for a thicker pair of socks to absorb some of the volume.
If you are not going on a trail, where a taller sock is necessary to keep dirt and brush away from your skin, sock length is more a personal choice.
The crew-length running sock has made a big comeback but offers little performance. However, one can argue that the extra height will help the sock stay on your foot better than a no-show. [Are expensive sports socks worth it?]
Conclusion:
The comfort, durability and performance of expensive sports socks make them worth the investment. These socks offer moisture control, support, and cushioning features that can enhance athletic performance and reduce pain.
They are a great investment for those who enjoy sports and fitness. [Are expensive sports socks worth it?]
Are expensive sports socks worth it?: FAQ
1. Are expensive sports socks better for preventing blisters?
Ans: Even expensive socks can have features that are designed to avoid blisters. These include moisture-wicking fabrics to keep your feet dry, toes that are seamless to reduce friction and extra padding in areas where shoes rub. These socks are especially beneficial for long-distance runners and hikers.
2. Do expensive sports socks last longer than regular socks?
Ans: Most expensive sports socks have been designed to be durable. Using premium materials and reinforced areas, such as the heels and toes, ensures that socks can be used frequently and with intense activity. Darn Tough and other brands offer lifetime warranties on their socks.
3. Can expensive socks reduce muscle fatigue?
Ans: Compression socks can reduce leg and foot fatigue by increasing blood flow and supporting your muscles. It can also lead to a faster recovery and reduced soreness after a workout.