Running Socks??

Scorpio_Runner
Scorpio_Runner Posts: 39 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Purchased some new running shoes this weekend, and the salesperson was pushing running socks. I run on average 20+ miles per week and my socks seem to be fine. What would running socks do for me? Is it worth the investment?

Replies

  • peleroja
    peleroja Posts: 3,979 Member
    If you're comfortable, not blistering or rubbing or cramping or whatever in your shoe, there's no need for fancy socks. If you are having issues like that, then it might be worth investing in some. They can make a big difference in your foot comfort but if you're comfortable already, I don't really see the point.
  • jacksonpt
    jacksonpt Posts: 10,413 Member
    I basically agree. If it ain't broken, don't fix it. Better socks offer a number of improvements over bad socks, but if you're current socks aren't bad, different socks probably won't do much.

    That said, socks are a relatively cheap way to improve feel/comfort at your foot. If you're currently running in cotton socks, then synthetic or wool socks are, IMO, worth trying. If you're already in synthetic or wool socks and not having hany problems, then fancier synthetic or wool socks probably won't make much difference.
  • erockem
    erockem Posts: 278 Member
    edited June 2016
    I buy running socks and only use them for running. I run the same miles. Prevention is key. I pay anywhere between $9 for 3 pair - $12 for 1 pair. Worth every penny. Rotate them out every year or two.

    Russell - My favorite are Russell Walmart.
    Balega - Becoming my new favorite.
    Injinji Running Toesocks - For longer or sweaty runs I like splitting the toes to reduce additional friction.
    Smart Wool REI - I'm falling out of love for them, maybe they need to be replaced.

    I also use Good Anti-Chafe Balm. Body-Glide works wonders. Cover your feet, thighs, seat (biking), nips for men. Again keeps things from going south fast. Protect that skin for a happy run. Ladies, do not be suckered by the Pink one for women, it's the same ingredients, but in a SMALLER pink container for more money than the Blue Original.

    Feet are baby smooth, no blisters, calluses, all toe nails, etc.
  • pomegranatecloud
    pomegranatecloud Posts: 812 Member
    I usually get blisters if I run in cotton socks. Running socks also keep my feet less sweaty, and cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
  • gorple76
    gorple76 Posts: 162 Member
    edited June 2016
    I used ordinary socks for roughly the first six months of running. Got up to about 8miles with no problems. Then I did a short, 4 mile run with the seam on my little toe. Felt fine until I peeled the sock off... Now I won't run in anything other than seamless running socks.
  • Azdak
    Azdak Posts: 8,281 Member
    Compared to cotton, "running socks" are a no-brainer IMO. I don't think cost is a big issue. I have about 8 pair of old Ultramax/wigwam socks that I have been using for close to 10 years.
  • acbraswell
    acbraswell Posts: 238 Member
    Azdak wrote: »
    Compared to cotton, "running socks" are a no-brainer IMO. I don't think cost is a big issue. I have about 8 pair of old Ultramax/wigwam socks that I have been using for close to 10 years.

    This. I have been using the same 6 or 7 pairs of running socks for almost 4 years. They were a minor investment when I started running (~$10/pair), but they've lasted through at least one wash a week and held up great. They key is to not use fabric softener.
  • ROBOTFOOD
    ROBOTFOOD Posts: 5,527 Member
    Injinji toe socks for me. Ran up to a 108mi peak week. Did dozen marathons with zero blisters. Nothin. I won't use anything else.
  • Somebody_Loved
    Somebody_Loved Posts: 498 Member
    ROBOTFOOD wrote: »
    Injinji toe socks for me. Ran up to a 108mi peak week. Did dozen marathons with zero blisters. Nothin. I won't use anything else.

    I've been struggling with pinch blisters and just ordered these to see if they help. Excited to try them!
  • one1fast68
    one1fast68 Posts: 51 Member
    I can't run, but hike in Injinji toesocks and will never go back to a regular cotton sock.
  • Scorpio_Runner
    Scorpio_Runner Posts: 39 Member
    If I would have kept the shoe purchase under $100 then I probably would have purchased the running socks. Maybe I well invest in some. I just purchased a food scale from amazon, I'm getting serious with monitoring my calorie intake. If I can drop 15 pounds that will improve my running speed and I my appearance. ;)
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  • ROBOTFOOD
    ROBOTFOOD Posts: 5,527 Member
    NJgirl001 wrote: »
    If I would have kept the shoe purchase under $100 then I probably would have purchased the running socks. Maybe I well invest in some. I just purchased a food scale from amazon, I'm getting serious with monitoring my calorie intake. If I can drop 15 pounds that will improve my running speed and I my appearance. ;)

    I buy mine in bulk on Amazon. eBay would be my next stop.
  • Mike_take2
    Mike_take2 Posts: 2,150 Member
    Sounds like you're doing great! I too like the brooks adrenaline( I rotate it between some other models I have). Running socks are a worthwhile investment once your mileage really increases. Having no seams to rub your toes and moisture wicking to keep your feet dry is vital once you start running 60 minutes or longer!
  • baciodolce18
    baciodolce18 Posts: 113 Member
    Balega all day every day for me. Like hugs for my feet lol. But I was a manager at a running store so I drank the kool aid.

    I used to have a favorite cotton sock and didn't have an issue with blisters but I ultimately found synthetic to be 1000 times more comfortable. And my balegas are out wearing some cheaper target ones. They actually do last so it's a good investment.

    Oh and congrats on the Brooks. A quality running shoe is hopefully going to make your training as comfortable as possible.

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