Seasoned runners, running socks?

I just started couch to 5 k and I've never been a runner before- the app suggested I get running socks as cotton socks lead to blisters.

I'm wondering if there is any truth to this. If there is and you have experience, drop your recommended sock suggestion below!

Replies

  • dewd2
    dewd2 Posts: 2,445 Member
    This is true. When you feet get wet blisters happen. Running socks help wick the moisture away from your feet.

    Proper shoes (fitted at a real running store) and socks make a big difference.

    Good luck.
  • crvaughn13
    crvaughn13 Posts: 5 Member
    Definitely true. It wasn't so bad when I was inside on a treadmill the first week, but I switched to running socks when I started week two. When I finished the program and went outside, I didn't have any clean running socks so I thought it wouldn't be horribly different. I got MASSIVE blisters.

    I haven't found a running socks I didn't prefer over regular socks, but I seem to favor my Feetures medium cushion.
  • apullum
    apullum Posts: 4,838 Member
    Yes, definitely. I ran in plain cotton socks at first. I got blisters. Specific sock brands are really about personal preference and what your feet need. I have very wide feet, so I need a very thin sock that doesn't add bulk inside my shoe. I prefer Balega Hidden Dry, which are extremely thin and light.
  • bendyourkneekatie
    bendyourkneekatie Posts: 696 Member
    It definitely *can* be a problem but it's not a given. I run heaps, half and full marathons etc., and have only ever used the cheapest ankle socks I can find. I never get blisters. I can run in the rain (and once 37km in weather that included hail) and my feet are soaked and I don't get blisters.

  • hapa11
    hapa11 Posts: 182 Member
    I second the vote for Feetures. I get mine in 3-packs on Zappos.
  • mk2fit
    mk2fit Posts: 730 Member
    I run maybe 30 miles/week and in the summer wear Hanes footies and in the winter some black socks with great padding. Can't remember the name, but never had blisters. Callluses, yes, but no blisters. I do trail running so my feet are constantly wet.
  • CTcutie
    CTcutie Posts: 649 Member
    Bale gave & Feetures feel SO good! I’m always happy when I put them on :-)
  • nowine4me
    nowine4me Posts: 3,985 Member
    I'm SUPER picky about my socks as I had all kinds of blister problems when I stated. I read somewhere that people like running in black socks, I have no idea why or if it's superstition of some sorT, but now I only buy black running socks. These are my fave, expensive but worth it:

    Wigwam Women's Ironman Lightning Pro Low Cut Running Sock 3-Pack, Black/Black/Black, Medium https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LQDXIFO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_24b2zbSGNGM4Y
  • spiriteagle99
    spiriteagle99 Posts: 3,740 Member
    Don't wear cotton. If you run someplace warm, something specifically meant for hot climates is a good idea. In winter and wet weather, light wool are good. Brands are a matter of individual preference. I can and often do wear cheap athletic socks that I find at Walmart or Dicks since my feet are not especially delicate. However, they don't last very long. I've worn others that were more durable but I can't find them anymore. Some people like compression socks. Others like to wear fun socks with patterns or pictures. Do some experimenting and see what works for you.
  • AmyOutOfControl
    AmyOutOfControl Posts: 1,425 Member
    It definitely *can* be a problem but it's not a given. I run heaps, half and full marathons etc., and have only ever used the cheapest ankle socks I can find. I never get blisters. I can run in the rain (and once 37km in weather that included hail) and my feet are soaked and I don't get blisters.

    Ditto. I tried a pair of the smart wool no blister socks and I felt like my feet were encased in a furnace. I use cheap ankle socks from Walmart without issues. That being said, everyone is different. Experiment and find what works for you.
  • Azdak
    Azdak Posts: 8,281 Member
    nowine4me wrote: »
    I'm SUPER picky about my socks as I had all kinds of blister problems when I stated. I read somewhere that people like running in black socks, I have no idea why or if it's superstition of some sorT, but now I only buy black running socks. These are my fave, expensive but worth it:

    Wigwam Women's Ironman Lightning Pro Low Cut Running Sock 3-Pack, Black/Black/Black, Medium https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LQDXIFO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_24b2zbSGNGM4Y

    I’ve got those socks from when they were the Ulitimax brand. Never a problem, never a blister. I’ve been wearing some of them 15+ years.