10 Best Trail Running Socks in 2021

Last updated 04. January 2021

Whether you’re running your favorite trails or exploring new and exciting ones, your experience is only ever going to be as good as the equipment you’re using to help you get from start to finish. If you have the wrong apparel and the wrong gear, you’re only going to feel held back and irritable.

While many runners will focus on the shoes you’re running with, and the clothing you’re wearing, many overlook the importance of choosing the right trail running socks. With the right socks on your feet, you can push yourself to the limits without experiencing all the problems you’ll have with running trails in the wrong socks.

Today, to help you ensure you’re choosing the right socks for your run, we’re going to explore the top ten trail running socks available right now, as well as detailing everything you need to know about them!
Let’s get straight into it!

View The Best Trail Running Socks Below

1. Balega Hidden Comfort No-Show Running Socks

Balega Hidden Comfort No-Show Running Socks

Check Price on Amazon

Easily one of the most popular trails running socks on today’s market, Balega are a leader when it comes to running gear, and this product line is a prime example of what they’re able to achieve, and the experience they’re able to provide for you.

These affordable Balega Hidden Comfort socks put their focus in both performance and comfort and are ideally worn when you plan on training for long periods of time. The material used is a combination compound known as Proprietary Drynamix, which actively takes the moisture and sweat away from your skin.

You’ll also find aspects like the seamless to have been designed to ensure you don’t have to worry about friction issues which you typically get with traditional socks. Even smaller design aspects, like the reinforced heel and toe area, only help to enhance the durability and longevity of these socks, even while under pressure.

With over 12 unique colors and styles to choose from, you’ll not only find some socks you love but also ones that help you perform your best, every single time.

Pros:
+ Drynamix materials to help make sure your feet stay dry
+ Reinforced toes and heels for increase durability
+ 12 awesome colors to choose from
+ Less friction than traditional socks

Cons:
– Can be a little bit baggy on some feet


2. Saucony Men’s Multi-Pack Performance

Saucony Men's Multi-Pack Performance

Check Price on Amazon

If you’re looking for a proper running sock that can help you push your limits and perform to the best of your abilities while out on the trails, one of the best household names is a Saucony, and they never disappoint when it comes to quality sportswear.

These socks are made from 95% Polyester, 3% Rubber (which is used to give the socks an extra comfortable fit and a bit of stretch), as well as 2% Spandex. This is all then sewn together in a way which helps to actively transport moisture away from your feet and into your shoe, ensuring comfort is always maximized.

Additionally, these socks contain extra features including the Targeted Arch Compression to help compress your foot in all the right places and supports your feet to dramatically reduce the risk of traditional aches and pains after running; making these are a great choice when you want one of the best running experiences.

Pros:
+ Cushioned sole to help boost comfort and minimize slipping
+ Thin design so your shoes stay comfortable and not tight
+ Designed to maximize airflow and keep your feet breathing
+ Keeps your feet and your foot smelling fish

Cons:
– Check sizes before buying because a little different to standard sizings


3. Balega Blister Resist No Show Socks

Balega Blister Resist No Show Socks

Check Price on Amazon

Our second entry from Balega comes in the form of these no-show socks that are designed for trail runners who have previously been put off the sport because they have sustained injuries like blisters. Sound like you? Take a look at these socks.

These socks use Balega’s patented Drynamix materials to help keep your feet nice and comfortable while you run, and to make sure your feet aren’t wet with sweat and moisture. They also include Balega’s awesome seamless toe and heel design.

These design touches are so important because it means you’ll be able to minimize friction around your foot and prevent your socks from breaking through extended use. These are also so much more comfortable than your traditional trail running sock.

As we spoke about above, the specific cushioning of these socks in specific places mean you’ll also be far less prone to blisters, which is perfect for those of you with sensitive skin on your feet.

Pros:
+ Perfect from trail runners with sensitive feet
+ Made from Belega’s Drynamix materials
+ Available in 15+ unique colors and designs
+ Specifically designed to minimize blisters


4. Saucony Men’s Multi-Pack Mesh

Saucony Men's Multi-Pack Mesh

Check Price on Amazon

Another second entry to our list, this time from Saucony with their classic Polyester, Rubber, and Spandex trail running shoes. These particular running socks still contain all the benefits from your traditional Saucony socks, including the breathable design, venting airflow, and the built-in compression technology.

Thanks to all these amazing properties, you’ll be able to use these socks for any workout, whether you’re running trails, working out in a class, or taking some time to hit the gym. These are socks designed for men and come in a variety of suitable colors you’re simply going to love.

Whether you’re buying for yourself, buying for a loved one, and no matter how experienced you are at trail running, these are the socks you’ll need to keep up you, even when you decide to push the extra mile.

Pros:
+ Integrated compression technology in key areas of your socks
+ Available in a variety of colors and designs
+ Anti-moisture wicking technology

Cons:
– Limited colors (all follow a black pattern)


5. Balega Silver Antimicrobial No-Show

Balega Silver Antimicrobial No-Show

Check Price on Amazon

Our third and final entry from Balega features the same Drynamix Polyester, Nylon, Elastane materials used in most premium-quality trail running socks, but these are then combined with compression technology to help support your feet in every way, no matter what you’re putting them through.

What makes these running socks special is the fact they’re designed to mimic the exact shape of most running shoes. This means the fit of these socks is out of this world, and you won’t have to worry about these socks being too tight or slipping while you run.

These socks also incorporate the same Seamless toe design to stop your feet through suffering from traditional friction and help to cushion your toes so you can run in complete comfort. With both comfort and performance in check, there may not much need to look further than these.

Pros:
+ Available in 10+ vibrant colors and designs
+ A premium pair of running shoes that maximize performance and comfort
+ Anti-friction design to not feet hurting and sock slipping

Cons:
– Slightly more expensive than traditional trail running socks


6. Saucony Women’s 8-Pair Performance

Saucony Women's 8-Pair Performance

Check Price on Amazon

As a female runner, there are several things you’re going to want to think about when it comes to running to the best of your abilities; and Saucony has paid a lot of attention into making sure they tick all these conditions.

With this multi-pack set that comes with eight pairs of socks, all in different colors and designs, you’ll get advanced moisture management technology to help keep your feet dry from sweat and natural water from your trails.

These socks also include advanced arch support for your feet to help minimize the risk of cramps and after-run pains that are common with traditional running socks and to help maximize the amount of comfort with a snug fit.

All in all, these are fantastic socks for female trail runners for any experience level, and with the added facts they’re machine washable for easy cleaning, these are all you’re going to need from start to finish!

Pros:
+ Machine washable for easy cleaning
+ Comes with eight pairs of socks per pack with multiple socks
+ Compression technology to help reduce traditional slipping

Cons:
– Doesn’t add anything extra to the socks, but comes at a good price


7. Feetures Unisex Elite Max Cushion

Feetures Unisex Elite Max Cushion

Check Price on Amazon

If you’re on the hunt for a pair of socks that are a little bit more elite that can help you really test your limits and push your boundaries, the Feetures Elite Max Cushion socks could be everything you’ve been looking for.

Easily the best selling feature of these socks is the level of comfort they provide. With the Max Cushioning technology, every sensitive part of your foot is cushioned and supported to minimize pain and to ensure your mind is clear to focus on what matters.

These socks are also designed differently from the rest of the Elite sock range since these iWick Polyester materials and fibers. These have been chosen to once again boost the level of comfort these socks provide all over.

However, these socks don’t stop there. Thanks to the seamless design, especially in the toe and the heel areas, you’ll be able to enjoy anti-blister technology and targeted compression to help make sure the level of support you’ll is consistent on every single run you undertake.

Pros:
+ Anti-blister technology to help to keep your feet pain-free
+ Targeted compression to support your feet throughout your run
+ Available in 12 beautiful colors you’ll love
+ Specially engineered to boost your performance over traditional socks

Cons:
– Only one pair of socks per pack


8. Thirty 48 Running Socks

Thirty 48 Running Socks

Check Price on Amazon

Easily one of the most popular affordable trail running sock product lines available right now, these socks have been marketed the best men and women running socks for some time, and are comfortable for any sports, no matter what trainers you’re used to wearing.
These socks have prioritized their advanced cushioning as their best feature.

This cushioning helps to protect and nurture key areas, like your Metatarsal, your heel, and your Achilles. This is important to help make sure you’re not bruising your feet and minimizing the risk of pain after your run.

You’ll also find these socks come complete with Coolmax Fabric technology. The main purpose of this material is to make sure your feet stay cool and dry at all times, even when your feet are hot and sweaty, or there’s moisture coming in from the trail.
This is all coupled with the CatalystAF Design, which is patent-pending, that enables an above average amount of airflow throughout and around your feet to help ensure your feet can breathe clearly.

With added compression, you could even use these socks throughout other areas of life, especially if you have feet problems thanks to running with other, less suitable socks. Instead, you can remedy using these socks to help improve the condition of your feet and get yourself feeling on top form as quickly as possible.

Pros:
+ A fantastic customer service team who can help out whenever you need them
+ Made from a patent-pending CatalystAD designs for increased breathability
+ Uses Coolmax Fabric to help ensure feet don’t hold moisture

Cons:
– Check sizes because standard sizes can sometimes be a bit big


9. dimok Athletic Running Socks

dimok Athletic Running Socks

Check Price on Amazon

The dimok multi-gender Athletic Running Socks are another ideal choice for men and women looking to get the most out of their long-distance trail runs and need a pair of socks that support their feet, rather than holding them back.

Truly the most breath-taking feature of these socks is the fact the quality and manufacturing quality is, quite simply, amazing. These no-show socks are made using deodorizing antibacterial materials for managing your feet sweat in the healthiest and most efficient way possible.

Even the materials used here, which measure up to 80% cotton, 5% Spandex, 5% Nylon and the 5% Elastane, have then been chosen to make these socks guarantee the perfect fit every time you put them on, and ensure you won’t have to worry about them falling off while you run; basically providing you with a complete trail running experience.

Pros:
+ Comes with a 30-day return policy in case you’re not happy with your purchase
+ Made with a combination of fantastic materials to ensure the best fit
+ Blister-resistant design to keep your feet pain-free
+ Can be worn for workouts or as casual wear


10. Rockay Accelerate Anti-Blister Running Socks

Rockay Accelerate Anti-Blister Running Socks

Check Price on Amazon

Last, but certainly not least on our list of the best trail running socks available right now, we have the Rockay Accelerate Anti-Blister Running socks; another fantastic line of socks that will be exactly what you need them to be, all of which is guaranteed.

While these are a little bit more expensive than your traditional running socks, what you’re paying for here is quality over quantity, and it really shows in every detail. These socks are made from organic merino wool from South America, which has been chosen for their special anti-odor properties for keeping your feet smelling fresh; even after the hardest runs!

These specific socks even boast powerful anti-blister technology to stop your feet from running, as well as making sure your socks don’t slip off and cause discomfort while you’re running and would normally make you stop and break off your stride.

All in all, these are one of the most popular lines of trail running sock out there, and they are adored by hundreds of outdoor runners from all over the world. While these socks can be enjoyed by anyone, if you’re looking for an expert and professional experience, you won’t need to look further than these.

Pros:
+ Integrated anti-blister technology to stop your socks from producing friction
+ Come with a lifetime guarantee
+ Professional-level compression to support your feet during every run

Cons:
– More expensive than your traditional pairs of trail running socks


Trail Running Socks Buyers Guide

As you can see, while these best trail running socks are similar in a lot of ways, this is because these socks are at the top of their game. You will still need to know what to look for when shopping to ensure you’re buying the socks that will work best for you; but how can you be sure what you need to look for?

For the rest of this guide, we’re going to share the top things you need to look out for to get the best pair for your style of trail running.

Anti-Blister Technology

It’s simple. Nobody likes to get blisters after running, but that doesn’t mean you need to stop running just to avoid blisters. No matter what pair you go for, just get socks that don’t cause blisters, and you won’t need to worry about them.

Compression Technology

If you’re serious about your trail running, you’re going to need compression socks. This design helps the blood to flow around your feet and helps to reduce the risk of pain and aches during and after your runs. Ultimately, this technology helps to keep you healthy and well!

Moisture Technology

The final technology you’ll want to think about is related to moisture. When you run, your feet are going to sweat, and when you run outside, nature can make your feet wet.

There are so many problems with this, from having smelly feet to making you uncomfortable, so get socks that help to draw the moisture away from your feet to maximize both your comfort and performance.

These are the key things you’ll want to look for in your trail running socks. Get these right, and you’ll be able to push past your limits and perform your best every single time you decide to hit the trail.

Amazon Recommends:

Bestseller No. 1
Feetures Trail Max Cushion Mini Crew Sock - Running Socks for Women...
  • Targeted Compression and anatomical design provide an unmatched Custom-Like...
  • Recycled yarn wicks moisture to keep feet cool and dry
  • High density cushioning provides extra protection in high impact areas
Bestseller No. 2
DANISH ENDURANCE Long Distance Running Socks, Quarter, Cushioned &...
  • Our non-slip running socks have arch compression and cushioning for...
  • These cushioned socks are designed to reduce foot fatigue and perfect for...
  • Our running socks are designed with Danish Olympic Runner Stina Troest who...
Bestseller No. 3
Saucony Men's Multi-Pack Bolt Performance Comfort Fit No-Show Socks,...
  • Run Dry Moisture Management Provides Superior Moisture Transport with our...
  • Air mesh venting. Mesh ventilation construction creates maximum airflow to...
  • Targeted Arch Compression Engineered with Just the Right Amount of...

If you liked this review, please rate below.

Recommended Reads