How Do Running Socks Actually Help?

Many of us know the importance of running specific sneakers and will spend hundreds of dollars on them, but what about running specific socks! Not all socks are created equal, and a good, technical pair of running socks can make all the difference during your run. Having healthy feet are vital to runners, and choosing the right sock has some clear advantages over the typical cotton socks. 

1. Maintain Good Foot Health 

During runs, our feet propel us and absorb more force than any other part of the body. As a result, our feet could be the determining factor of an enjoyable run or a miserable run. With the potential of pain, sweat, skin irritation, and odor, running socks can really help avoid these problems and provide proper care. 

With proper design and construction, running socks let your feet breathe freely with moisture wicking material and ventilation. This helps to minimize odor due to sweat and keep your feet feeling fresh. 

2. Prevent Skin Irritation

The fabrics and fit of running socks are optimal in preventing skin friction which can cause painful blisters. Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester and nylon, and natural fibers like merino wool minimize moisture, heat, and friction. These fabrics keep the moisture away, dry quickly, are great to use regardless of temperature or wet weather, unlike cotton socks.

3. Support and Injury Prevention

There are specific parts of the feet that are more susceptible to injury when running such as the ankle bones, big toe, and balls of the feet. As a result, these areas need extra protection, so running socks typically offer extra padding and cushioning specifically in these areas. With advanced technology, many running socks also provide targeted arch support and ankle stabilization.

4. Prevent Swelling

Foot swelling can be an unpleasant side effect from running that can last from a few hours to a few days. One reason this can happen is restricted blood flow throughout the legs and feet. Compression found in many types of running socks promotes blood circulation which can help reduce swelling significantly. 

5. Maximum Comfort

One of the most important things during your run is that you are comfortable! Your socks should conform to you, not the other way around. Running socks have anatomical feet with designated left and right socks. This provides a more personalized fit to support each individual foot. 

It's safe to say that running-specific socks really do help during running. Even though running socks may cost more than the average sock, its durability, comfort, and support it provides is well worth the investment. Healthy feet are happy feet! 

If you are looking for running specific socks, Zensah has got you covered with running compression socks, fun limited edition prints, mini crew, no-show and more!