The 6 Best Trail Running Socks for Venturing Beyond the Pavement

ProsExcellent blend of wicking and cushion A smooth fit that doesn’t move inside shoes Addition of bamboo-derived rayon adds softnessLé Bent blew me away this year with its updated sock line, and its Targeted Cushion 3/4 Crew displaced my top pick from last year. Built specifically for longer trail endeavors, this sock has ample cushion under the forefoot, a tighter arch weave for added support, and reinforced heels that don’t bunch up.It uses a proprietary fit system that varies the weight and structure of the construction for an excellent, close fit that never feels constricting. The three-quarter crew height has become a go-to for my trail runs, providing just enough protection from overgrown trails and debris without feeling hot on warm days.The socks vent well and wick sweat so well that I didn’t even realize my feet were getting hot, and I love the 30-percent rayon—a bamboo-derived fiber that feels incredibly soft when paired with merino. The nylon adds durability and the 4-percent elastane helps the socks retain their shape even when worn multiple days in a row, and they feel silky smooth on my feet.I’ve also never had an issue with the cuff stretching or sliding down. These socks came out of left field to land as my top pick, but it’s well deserved and I predict many more miles with them this summer.Shop UnisexKey SpecsMaterial30% bamboo rayon, 21% merino, 46% nylon, 4% elastaneSizesS–XLColor OptionsGray, blueCushionMediumProsHighly odor resistant Lightweight shin protection for overgrown trailsArch support is subtle but appreciated ConsLonger outings will require more cushioning Not only are these socks ultralight and stretchy, they come in three different heights for versatility depending on conditions and temperature. If I’m on a run without much chance of debris falling into my shoes, I’ll grab the no-show or quarter-crew. Otherwise, the 7.5-inch microcrew is my top pick, offering just enough compression for support and a tall height to keep dirt out of my footwear.The lightweight merino / synthetic blend is optimized for breathability in the heat, and these have never slid down on me or bunched up at the ankles. They have Darn Tough’s remarkable durability through all major contact points, and the top of the sock (connecting from foot to ankle) has a thinner construction to reduce flexion pressure.These are made with a lower percentage of merino than other Darn Tough models (particularly hike-oriented or thicker socks) but that helps them breathe better while still maintaining the odor resistance and softness from the merino. Similar to my top pick, these socks have a 4 percent elastane (Lycra, in this case) that helps with shape retention without feeling too tight.Shop Men's Shop Women'sKey SpecsMaterial49% merino, 47% nylon, 4% LycraSizesXS–XXLColor OptionsGraphic prints in blue, pink, green, grayCushionUltralightAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsHigh amount of synthetic helps these resist abrasionLow-cut profile is streamlined with running shoes Foot-mapped mesh at the top enhances breathability ConsLimited size range, would love to see XL optionsWhile I often opt for taller cuffs on my trail running socks, I like the look of a lower sock, and wear them when I’m not worried about overgrown trails. Darn Tough’s Light Hiker Quarter is a solid choice for both durability and cushion, and the hike-oriented padding offers more support for long days on foot. The increased durability comes in part from the majority of synthetic fibers (52% nylon) but it helps the socks maintain structure and abrasion resistance better than models with more fragile natural fibers.These are technically a light-cushion sock, but I’ve found the heel and toe padding to be more than enough, and they have a slightly tougher build than pure running socks. The ankle-height cuff sits about an inch over my low-top running shoes, which creates a sleek silhouette without any issues of sliding down. They also do a decent job keeping debris out of my shoes, though not as much as something with a taller cuff like a micro or quarter-crew.Despite their low cut, these feel quite supportive. Darn Tough extended the tighter structure up past the heel for more Achilles support, and they feature tighter mesh weave across the top of the foot for breathability.Shop Men's Shop Women'sKey SpecsMaterial52% nylon, 44% merino, 4% lycraSizesS–LColor OptionsGray, purple, tealCushionLightProsAdded padding in the toes for protection Strategic, zoned knit breathabilityMore robust build for cooler weather ConsToo warm for hot runs These socks were one of my top-rated crew socks this year, and I have continued to wear them well into spring. The range is impressive, with a heavier material blend and build that helps trap warmth in cold weather, but enough mapping through the foot and cuff so they vent well in warmer temperatures. I wore these during snowy runs this winter and felt warm and protected, and also wore them on a 60-degree trail run this past week without feeling overheated. One of my main issues with past Smartwool socks was that they had a tendency to stretch through the upper and lose elasticity in the cuffs, but their recently revamped “Indestructawool” technology has all but eliminated this. The new knitting technique helps the merino maintain its shape and structure, and I’ve noticed a better fit since they introduced it to the market. These socks are incredibly versatile, and while I wouldn't wear them on the hottest runs, they’re a great cold-weather and shoulder-season option for a range of conditions.Shop Men's Shop Women'sKey SpecsMaterial56% merino, 41% nylon, 3% elastaneSizesS-LColor OptionsMedium-LightCushionGraphic prints in pink, gray, and blueAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsSoft next-to-skin material blend Reinforced toes and heels without too much bulk Foot-mapped support on arches ConsThe low-cut lets some debris into your shoes I have had some version of Balega’s Ultraglide for years now, and the thick padding and reinforced heel tab show no signs of wearing out or stretching. Made with Balega’s soft “Drynamix” material (a low-friction synthetic spun for softness next to skin), these socks have held their own in hot weather, after getting wet during creek crossings, and on off-camber trails where my feet are sliding around in my shoes.Like my other top picks, these have strategic cushioning and support throughout the top and bottom of the sock, and the yarns are tailor-made for reducing friction. The toe and heel are seamless to further reduce rubbing, and my feet don’t sweat out in these thanks to the venting at the top.These are the lowest-cut option on my list this year, with just a small heel tab poking out the top of my shoe. I’d warn against a low sock like this if you’re at all worried about debris getting into your shoes, but for stickier surfaces and a good fit through the shoe collar, a low-cut sock like this feels freeing.I’ve heard these socks referred to as low cushion, but I’d call them a solid medium, with added material in the toe and more support in the heel than my lightest pairs.Shop UnisexKey SpecsMaterial78% Drynamix polyester, 20% nylon, 2% elastaneSizesS-XLColor OptionsMediumCushionGraphic prints in pink, gray, and blueProsThe lower cuff with a full cushion is a nice (and unusual) option Made in the US with sustainably sourced materials Can be worn multiple days in a row without losing shape ConsToe material can feel a little bulkyWhen crew socks feel too tall and a no-show isn’t protective enough, allow me to introduce you to Minus33’s ankle socks. The cuff of these socks sits just around two inches over the top of my shoe, which has proven to be an excellent middle ground between no-show and tall socks. They do a good job keeping dirt and dust out of my shoes, but feel airy and easy to wear. The 59-percent merino is soft and wicking, and despite the slightly heavier material through the bottom, I’ve never felt too hot in these.They have a nice stretch over the arch of the foot that doesn’t bunch up in my shoes, and the short height with higher levels of cushion is a rare combo that I appreciate for days with a lot of pounding descent in the heat. These are strategically mapped with lighter material at flexion points and added padding in the toes and heel, and my only gripe is that sometimes the toe material can feel a little bulky.Otherwise, these made-in-the-US socks are reasonably priced and beautifully made, and I’ve seen no wear and tear on the pair I’ve had for over a year.Shop UnisexKey SpecsMaterial59% merino, 40% nylon, 1% SpandexSizesS-XLColor OptionsFullCushionBlack, green, tan, gray, teal, red, graphic blueAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7FAQ with Maggie SlepianWhat is the best material for trail-running socks?The best material for trail running socks is a combination of natural and synthetic fibers. Natural fibers like merino (and increasingly, alpaca wool) provide odor resistance during long efforts, and are comfortable next to skin. They help wick sweat to keep your feet dry, and are naturally antimicrobial. The synthetic blend adds structure, stretch, and durability. Most of our top picks are a blend of the two, but if you prefer fully synthetic, you'll get a very sturdy sock that might not have the most odor resistance. Choose fully natural fibers and you'll have a soft sock that won't' last quite as long. Can I wear normal socks for trail running? While you can wear standard (cotton) socks for trail running, we don't recommend it. Trail running socks are designed to provide cushion and support, and to fit in a way that allows your feet to breathe without having too much bulk. They're also made with wicking fibers that stay dry even when your feet are sweaty and don't shift or rub in your shoes to cause blisters. How thick should trail running socks be?Look for a light- to-midweight sock that includes added cushion around the heels and toes. The socks should fit comfortably around your feet without feeling too compressive, and you don't want any extra material bunching up at the front or back. That's a recipe for hot spots and blisters. Trail running socks are also usually built with a foot-mapped design that has less material around the arch and top, which gives you the best of both worlds with protection and support. Maggie Slepian is a full-time freelance writer in the outdoor industry and has tested gear professionally for almost ten years—she is an avid backpacker, trail runner, bikepacker, and horseback rider and has thru-hiked thousands of miles on the Appalachian, Colorado, and Ouachita trails, along with backcountry travel on terrain including coastal trails, the desert, and high alpine peaks. Maggie has written for New York Magazine, Huffington Post, REI, and Outside. She is a columnist with Backpacker Magazine and is the co-founder of BackpackingRoutes.com. Contact her at MaggieSlepian.com.