You know from the second you step outside and your socks bunch up to your toes that it will not be a good day.
So overlooked and yet so important to get right, your choice of socks can have a big impact – especially true when it comes to working out.
You likely pay close attention to securing moisture-wicking shorts, pocket-adorned leggings and supportive sports bras for your high-intensity exercise. Yet your socks may be the run-of-the-mill cotton kind that dominates your everyday wear.
No fitness fashion arsenal is complete without gym socks. The best will enhance your performance by remaining lightweight, and distraction-free, protecting precious feet from blisters as you stretch, lift, run and rep.
Whether you’re into the Gen Z- favourite crew sock with a sportswear aesthetic, lean towards the Millennial camp with ankle socks or are somewhere in between, there are high-performance pieces that look as good as they feel.
We spoke to Jenni Tardiff, Master Trainer at The Gym Group to discover all there is to know about sporty socks.
What should you look for in a gym sock?
“We always recommend great fitting and comfortable gym kit, and that includes wearing a good gym sock”, she says. “Some gym goers prefer to kick off their trainers and weight-lift in socks as it improves stability and balance in the movement”.
And so, Tardiff continues, “A gym sock should offer a good level of cushioning and support; not too tight and not too loose. Choose lightweight socks made from moisture-wicking materials to keep things feeling cool and comfortable during particularly more intense workout sessions!”
Is compression good for gyming?
“Compression socks are tight-fitting socks that are designed to encourage blood flow to the muscles”, the trainer explains. “Some gym goers advocate wearing compression socks for both strength training exercises and cardio-based exercises like running, to improve performance because of the increased blood flow. However, others prefer to use the socks after their exercise session to help speed up recovery and limit the chances of injury”.
Shop the perfect pairs of workout socks below
Stance Athletic Tab Socks Performance Black Cushioned
Stance’s Athletic Tab Socks reign supreme in our sock drawer. We have put them through their paces in endless HIIT classes as well as through marathon training and their polyamide blend keeps our feet dry and cool, while the ankle tab prevented any blisters. The socks are stretchy in design but fitted on the feet, especially at the arch to combat strain.
Buy now £12.99, Amazon
Adidas Thin and Light Sportswear Low-Cut Socks
For the logo-averse, you can still maximise the benefits of Adidas’ gym-ready socks but the instantly recognisable three stripes are at the toe so will be stashed safely in your sneakers. Made from recycled and renewable materials, they make for an environmentally-conscious addition to your workout collection. They are lightweight in construction but fitted at the arch for support and come free from seams that have the potential to rub.
Buy now £9.00, Adidas
Sweaty Betty Workout Trainer Socks 3 Pack
This multi-pack of specially designed workout socks from Sweaty Betty will soon become your fitness favourite. The sumptuous socks have a soft cotton construction, made using organic components, meaning you will relish the chance to slip them on. There is tactical cushioning at the heel and toe that reduces pressure on your feet throughout your weightlifting, running, boxing or more. Bonus points go to the heel tab to prevent rubbing and the subtle mesh provides breathability.
Buy now £19.99, Sweaty Betty
Lululemon Women's Power Stride Tab Socks
When the workout gets tough, these hard-wearing socks get going. In vibrant colourways, they’ll make an attractive addition to your workout wear but combine fashion and function in equal measure. They are also feature-packed, from the arch support to the blister-fighting ankle tab. The socks are constructed from the brand’s 3D knit fabric that hugs the feet for support and prevents bunching.
Buy now £28.00, Lululemon
Alo Unisex Throwback Sock
Spotted ubiquitously on the streets of LA, Alo is one of the biggest activewear brands in the US and has set its mind on world domination. While it is yoga wear that the brand was founded on, the range extends beyond low-intensity essentials to pieces that will see you through the toughest of workouts. These socks are complete with cushioning for support and a blend of cotton, nylon and lycra to keep them in tip-top shape for longer.
Buy now £24.00, Alo
TALA Logo Socks 3 Pack - White And Black
Each piece in TALA’s collection is produced with intent - and these socks were designed to enhance performance in the gym. With a minimalist design that emblazons the brand logo but is otherwise classic in its style cues, detailing comes from the fitted arch support and cushioning for cloud-like comfort with every step. The construction is eco-conscious, made from recycled polyester and organic cotton.
Buy now £17.99, TALA
Falke 4GRIP Stabilizing Unisex Socks
One look at Falke’s 4GRIP Stabilizing Unisex Socks and it is obvious that these are not your run-of-the-mill pair. The brand has infused technical details from the outset of the design with compression technology, silicone grips and a fit tailored to the left and right foot. There is also a three-layer construction to prevent rubbing but they remain dynamic enough so you’re light on your feet.
Buy now £42.00, Falke
Nike Everyday Plus Cushioned
There is a reason why these are the bestselling socks in the Nike collection. The long crew silhouette prevents rubbing from even the newest and unworn-in kicks, while there is cushioning in all the right places - namely under the heel and forefoot. The cotton blend has impressive moisture-wicking that is enhanced by the sportswear giant’s Dri-FIT technology and ventilation through the knit construction. The socks are fitted around the arch for support no matter your shoe size. They come in a range of colours.
Buy now £24.99, Nike
Bombas Women's Grippers Non-Slip Ankle Socks
Look good, feel good in Bombas’ socks, one of the biggest sock brands over in the US. The label donates a pair of socks to those in need with every purchase. What’s more, they are created with functional details like stay-put grips and a cushioned footbed, and check out that honeycomb design - while it brings an interesting detail, it also offers arch support. The seamless toe keeps it comfy and after innumerable sessions, they have remained hole-free.
Buy now £39.84, Amazon
Adanola 3 Pack Socks - White, Black, Light Grey Melange
Flash the Adanola branding to mark your style credentials in your local gym. The brand is synonymous with fashion-forward activewear and the crew socks will be a testament to your insider knowledge. The soft socks are made from organic cotton and come in a pack of three. This set covers the basics - white, black and grey melange.
Buy now £21.99, Adanola
