13 Best Walking Socks That Support Your Muscles, As Per A Fashion Stylist
Sock up to achieve optimum levels of comfort and freedom of movement this year.
Michelle Wagman is a fashion industry entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience as a designer’s agent. She is also the editor-in-chief of FashionEdits, a fashion and lifestyle blog. She graduated from FIT with a degree in fashion merchandising and has worked with notable designers on 7th Avenue in NYC.
Read full bio of Michelle Wagman
Experience: 3 yearsThe day Priyam learned that having strong opinions about everyday products can be a full-fledged writing career was the greatest day of her life. Partially driven by a passion for everything timeless, she likes to explore and recommend styles and makeup products that will endure the test of trends.
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Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
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Experience: 3 yearsAsmita De is an associate editor with over three years of experience. She graduated in English Literature from the University of Calcutta. She has collaborated with several digital companies and reputed publishing houses as an editor.
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Whether you want to go for a little evening walk every other day or take very long brisk walks to keep your body and mind healthy, the ideal footwear will be your best ally. However, when picking footwear, don’t underestimate the value of the best walking socks, particularly if you have foot-related ailments like plantar fasciitis. A decent pair of walking socks may make a big difference in your stride and help you heal without compromising your performance. They keep your feet snug and warm and also minimize perspiration so that you may come home without a lot of sweat and stench. “Walking socks provide comfort and support during long walks or hikes. They keep feet dry and prevent blisters with moisture-wicking materials. Extra padding in the heel and ball of the foot absorbs shock and reduces fatigue. Some also have arch compression for added support.”, adds Michelle Wagman, a Fashion Stylist.
You can choose from a variety of lengths, colors, and prints, as well as different fabrics based on all seasons and your comfort. Let’s take a look at why you need walking socks in your gym closet before we get into the most wonderful walking socks of the season. Read on!
In This Article
What Do Walking Socks Do?
Walking socks offer compression to your whole leg. This works to reduce swelling, pain, and fatigue, which is a natural consequence of being active for too long. Furthermore, these socks are made of a breathable fabric that repels sweat and keeps your feet dry, thus removing odor-causing bacteria. Cushioning is added at targeted locations such as the arches, heels, and forefoot to aid with pain reduction and to reduce both impact and shock. Wearing walking socks with extra padding is a good way for people with foot-related issues to keep muscles and joints supported all around.
13 Best Walking Socks That Support Your Muscles And Joints
1. Best Overall:CS CELERSPORT Women’s Ankle Running Socks
The CS CELERSPORT Women’s Ankle Running Socks provide everything you could be looking for, from comfort to aesthetics and durability. These socks come with reinforced heel and toe for longer usage, the mesh fabric supports breathability and ventilation, and they quickly dry up sweat and moisture. The tab designs on these tough socks provide foot protection to prevent blisters. These bestselling women’s athletic socks are well-cushioned to reduce friction while walking or running and provide comfort to the sole for long wear.
Pros
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Breathable
- Fully-cushioned sole
- Quick-drying
- Durable
- Sweat absorption
- Non-slip design
Cons
- Not durable
Pro TipPull your socks from the bottom part instead of the tip for better product durability.
2. Best Lightweight:Hanes Women’s Ankle Socks
The Hanes Women’s Ankle Socks deliver comfort and are high in style quotient. The sophisticated design with mesh ventilation panels and lightweight knit prevents sweating and keeps odor at bay. The spandex and polyester fabric provide arch support and flexibility. Reviewers noted that these socks are easy to maintain as they are machine washable.
Pros
- Comfortable wear
- Ergonomic design
- Machine washable
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Provide arch support
- Low maintenance
- Skid-proof
Cons
- Thin material
3. Best Lightweight:DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Cushioned Hiking Socks
Your best buddy on the trail, these cushioned socks for walking are composed of merino wool to regulate body temperature. This way, you don’t have to let the seasons stop you from whipping out your hiking gear. Ventilation mesh panels are placed strategically on these padded socks for walking, which promote breathability in warm conditions, wick away sweat, and control odor. Cushioned optimally, for blister prevention on your feet during your hikes with these lightweight socks.
Pros
- Anti-blister padding and extra cushioning
- Temperature-regulating
- Breathable mesh panels
- Sweat-wicking
- Shock-absorbing construction
- Pack of 3 pairs
Cons
- Some might find the cuffs slightly tight.
Pro TipUse a lint brush to take out unwanted pet fur or other hair from the socks.
4. Best Moisture-Wicking:FIDEER Women’s Walking Socks
The best socks for walking on concrete exist, and they are brought to you by FIDEER with a composition of cotton, polyester, and spandex. Their Exclusive Moisture-Wicking Management helps to repel sweat, keeping your feet cool and dry even in hot weather. A thickened towel bottom design reduces foot friction and keeps blisters at bay. The arch brace in these walking boot socks is elasticated with ribbed cuffs, so you can keep your gait flexible. With the fine gauge knitting technology, your feet remain swaddled during morning walks.
Pros
- Breathable socks
- Moisture-wicking
- Quick-drying
- Thick bottom cushioning
- Elasticated ribbed cuffs
- Shock-absorbing
Cons
- Might be slightly tight at the opening
5. Best Well-Cushioned:WILD STAG Outdoor Walking Socks
The best socks for walking are made from sturdy fibers, like these ones by WILD STAG that combine 65% combed cotton with 25% polyester and 10% spandex. Cushioning is also added for comfort, which combines with a high-quality exterior to keep you walking confidently. Well-ventilated with the ability to repel sweat and moisture, these are the best women’s socks for walking owing to their versatility and ability to maintain foot temperature. These socks have gained many positive reviews for the snug relaxed fit and excellent arch support they offer.
Pros
- Pack of 5 pairs
- Well-cushioned
- Breathable
- Moisture-wicking
- Quick-drying
- Keep feet warm
Cons
- Might lose stretchability with overuse
6. Best Quick-Drying:Innotree Mid Cushion Hiking Socks
A fine-gauge knitting technology is used in Innotree’s best athletic socks for walking, which keeps their elasticity strong. The fit is quite snug, so there is no slippage to deal with during your performance. As the socks are lightweight, they can be worn all year round. A combination of cotton, nylon, and lycra keeps these extra-cushioned walking socks moisture-wicking and breathable for fresh, odor-free feet. Protecting the toes and heel while also extending ample arch support, Innotree’s lightweight hiking socks are a must-have for every athlete.
Pros
- Moisture-wicking
- Quick-drying
- Breathable
- Mid-level cushioning
- Minimizes the incidence of blisters
- Arch and heel support
Cons
- Some might find the material to be slightly scratchy.
7. Best Odor-Resistant:Saucony Women’s Performance Heel Tab Athletic Socks
The Saucony Women’s Performance Heel Tab Athletic Socks are ideal for all the sporty girls out there! These comfortable socks are made from a blend of 98% polyester and 2% spandex that provides the right level of flexibility and support. These socks are trusted by users as they feature air mesh venting technology to support breathability and ensure your socks stay odor-free all day long. The thick front and back cushions deliver immense toe comfort and facilitate arch support.
Pros
- Flexible design
- Quick-drying
- Cushioned bottom
- Minimize friction
- Provide arch support
Cons
- None
8. Best Clinically Designed:Thorlos Women’s Max Cushion Distance Walking Socks
Thorlos’ best socks for long-distance walking are only ankle-length with a blend of acrylic, nylon, and elastic. The Thor-lon fibers wick moisture away and your feet are taken care of with the help of the excellent padding provided in the forefoot, arch, and heel. These good socks for walking feature No-Rub toe seams that are non-irritating, so you can flex your toes all the way and enjoy free movement as you walk, run, or indulge in your favorite sport.
Pros
- Moisture-wicking
- Quick-drying
- Breathable
- Amply padded in strategic areas
- Non-irritating toe seam
- Clinically designed to reduce fatigue
Cons
- Might shrink slightly after the first wash
9. Best For Daily Use:YUEDGE Cushion Crew Walking Socks
With YUEDGE’s walking socks, women can keep their feet in great shape. Not only do they wick sweat away but also allow a constant airflow and dry quickly for convenience. Combed cotton, polyamide, and spandex come together to create a sock that feels buttery-soft against the skin. Extra yarn is added at the bottom of these walking socks, so your feet are protected in high-impact areas. Arch support with the cushioned footbed reduces foot friction and fatigue so you can be at ease on the trail.
Pros
- Breathable
- Moisture-wicking
- Quick-drying
- Reduces foot fatigue
- Minimized friction
- Wear-resistant
Cons
- Some might find the elastic cuff slightly snug.
10. Best Non-Slip Cuff:FEIDEER Women’s Hiking Walking Socks
The FEIDEER Women’s Hiking Walking Socks available in a stunning multicolor range are perfect for outdoor adventures. They are fully cushioned and provide proper support to minimize foot friction and prevent painful blisters. The moisture-wicking fabric prevents sweat from seeping into the socks keeping feet comfortable. The Y-type heel and ribbed arch make the socks an ideal option for hiking and camping.
Pros
- Cushioned sole and toe
- Comfortable fit
- Breathable mesh panels
- Minimize friction
- Moisture-wicking material
- Reduce foot fatigue
Cons
- Not durable
11.Best Cushioned Sole: SOLAX Merino Wool Walking Socks
If you’re on the hunt for socks to walk around the house in when the temperature begins to drop, SOLAX’s pairs have got your back. The 100% merino wool is soft and snug, and causes no itching, while Lycra keeps the stretch prominent for a snug and warm fit. With a cushioned sole, all impact is absorbed while the flat-knit toe seams dramatically reduce the incidence of blisters. Walking in socks even at home is necessary to keep you toasty in winters, but in addition to that, the woolen pair of hiking socks also extend arch support, targeted padding, and wear resistance.
Pros
- Moisture-wicking
- Antimicrobial treatment given
- Breathable
- Seamless toe
- Warm
- Cushioned sole
Cons
- Might pill slightly after a wash
12. Best Skid-Proof:Slolife Walking Socks For Women
Slolife’s cozy cotton walking socks are reinforced with high-density fibers to keep the feet moving confidently and comfortably. Made with a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex, these cool walking socks hug your feet and keep unwanted moisture at bay. The cushioned footbed is skid-proof so you can do little dances on hardwood floors with no slippage. Mild compression also offers warmth and targets weak areas like the heels, arches, and toes for support.
Pros
- Breathable
- Flexible
- Medium compression
- Moisture-wicking
- Skid-proof
- Cushioned footbed
Cons
- Might not be color-fast
13. Best Breathable Fabric:Dickies Women’s Dri-tech Moisture Control Crew Socks
The Dickies Women’s Dri-tech Moisture Control Crew Socks are perfect for people who are not a big fan of low or ankle socks. If the constant sliding of the socks is a nightmare, these pairs of crew socks will seem like bright sunshine. The reinforced toe and heel, and arch compression are ideal for outdoor sports and perfect for running. The moisture-wicking material supports quick drying and provides proper ventilation to prevent foot fatigue and offer comfort for long wear.
Pros
- Moisture-wicking
- Anti-fatigue
- Elastic arch support
- Cushioned bottom
- Stretchable
- Reinforced heel and toe
- Mesh ventilation
Cons
- None
Now that we’ve looked at some of the best walking socks to prevent the formation of blisters and fatigue, let’s see how you can pick out the right pair for yourself.
How To Choose The Best Walking Socks
- Length
The point to keep in mind with regard to sock length is that they should fall just a little above whatever shoes you’ve chosen to wear. Something too short might cause rubbing, and socks that are too long might cause overheating and slip down. You need to decide based on the type of shoes you are wearing. No-show socks are the shortest and run a little below your ankle. They aren’t the best at preventing abrasion or friction, hence not the ideal choice for walking. On the other hand, ankle-length socks are slightly higher than the aforementioned style, covering your ankle bone for extra protection. You can wear them with low or mid-cut boots and shoes.
Crew socks are the ideal length for walking and hiking, going quite a bit higher than the ankle bone for abrasion-resistant protection from boots. This extra coverage keeps you warm but can’t be worn with low or mid-cut footwear. The most suitable choice would be knee-high socks. They aren’t the most common as they are used for sports like mountaineering, wherein you tend to wear big, bulky boots that can cause friction and blisters. This can be prevented by choosing high socks. They are also ideal for keeping you warm in the cold months when you’re outdoors.
- Cushioning
A few walking socks feature no cushioning and are lightweight for use in the warm weather. Amply breathable with light padding, a few in this category are used as liners worn under heavier socks. They are known for their moisture-wicking abilities and can help with layering in the winters.
Light cushioning is present in socks that are worn during the summers where breathability and moisture-wicking are top priorities. Even though these socks are thin, they are padded in areas like the heel and forefoot for pain reduction.
Medium-to-heavy cushioning in socks is suited for colder weather and long hiking or trekking trips. They are super-warm and thick, trapping in body heat and protecting the foot on all sides.
- Fabric
There’s no walking sock made of a single fabric as the best qualities of multiple fabrics are combined for the most desirable results.
Wool isn’t just the most popular fabric for walking socks but is also recommended by many footwear specialists. This is owing to how well it regulates body temperature by preventing excess sweating and providing a cushion for your feet. Wool is naturally antimicrobial, which also causes it to not trap odors. Sustainable materials like merino wool are soft, non-itchy, and dry quickly as opposed to other wool types.
Polyester is a synthetic material that is good at insulation, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying. It is mixed with wool or nylon to keep you warm and dry fast. Spandex isn’t ever used on its own but a very small percentage is added to other fabrics. It helps minimize bunching and wrinkling while retaining the shape of the socks.
If you think walking socks aren’t worth the investment, read below to learn of benefits that might change your mind.
Benefits Of Walking Socks
- Offers cushioning
The best women’s walking socks have cushioning added at the forefoot and heel. Apart from feeling soft and relaxing, this also has the advantage of making the socks durable, long-lasting and preventing pain or swelling after long hours spent walking or trekking.
- Prevents rubbing
Providing significant protection against rubbing, socks for walking outside can help provide protection against blisters and cuts.
- Keeps you sweat-free
Not only are wet feet stinky and uncomfortable, but they can cause infections as well. Thick walking socks that are also breathable with mesh panels can keep your feet dry as sweat is collected and repelled instead of absorbed.
- Regulates temperature
Summer walking socks might seem too thick but they help with temperature regulation. This way, you can keep your feet warm in the winter and vice versa.
- Multiple uses
Another advantage of walking socks is their versatility. As they offer compression, they aid healing and can be worn for every activity and even at home owing to the comfort they give you.
The Bottom Line
When you are heading out for a long or short walk, having the right gear on is absolutely essential. This doesn’t just help you stay comfortable outdoors but can prevent future injuries. You might find something like walking socks to be not-so-important, but trust us, they are quite the hero for your feet. To positively impact your performance and stay on your feet for long hours pain-free, pick your favorite pair of socks from this list. Pick the CS CELERSPORT Women’s Ankle Running Socks if you need a well-cushioned option that prevents blisters. The FIDEER Women’s Walking Socks are trusted for shock-absorbing capability, while the Thorlos Women’s Max Cushion Distance Walking Socks come with unique padding on top of the foot for added comfort. Lightweight enough for ventilation but also warm and thick socks for compression, this gear will soon become something you can’t do without on your way out the door.
Infographic: Care Tips For Walking Socks
Keeping your socks in good condition is essential to protect your feet from swelling, aches, and shock when walking or standing up all day. Improper storage or rough cleaning can wear them out quickly. The infographic below covers a few day-to-day care tips that you can follow to extend the lifespan of your walking socks. Take a look!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Priyam Gupta, a fashion aficionado, loves to keep an eye out for the latest trends and emerging products. She enjoys reviewing the best of these using her exemplary research skills. To curate this list of the best walking socks, she looked closely at numerous available options and dug deep into online reviews. The products shortlisted here keep the feet snug and warm, minimize perspiration and help provide support and stability for those with foot-related conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you wear socks while walking?
Skipping socks can lead to blisters and sores while also increasing odor. Socks can help keep your feet dry and reduce pain, swelling, and muscle fatigue.
Are thick socks better for walking?
Thick socks are designed with more cushioning so you can feel comfortable on your walks. However, they might not be very breathable and cause overheating, leading to sweaty feet. Thanks to the warmth they offer, thick socks are a good choice for the winter.
Should you wear compression socks while walking?
Compression socks have a healing effect on people who are physically active by reducing swelling, pains, and fatigue, increasing blood flow, and keeping muscles supported.
What are the best walking socks to prevent blisters?
To prevent blisters, you can look for socks that go above the ankle and are layered with soft fabric to prevent rubbing.
Are running socks good for walking?
Yes, walking is also a form of exercise. You can wear running socks while walking because they provide enough support and comfort.
How do you wash socks without ruining them?
Turn your socks inside out and gently wash them in cold water and with a light detergent. Then hang them to air-dry.
What is the difference between walking socks and normal socks?
Unlike regular cotton socks, walking socks have better moisture-soaking quality. They also prevent blisters resulting from constant friction.
How long do walking socks last?
Walking socks can last for a year if you take care of them correctly.
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