Research-backed
Image: MomJunction Design Team
Athleisure is the new trend, and that’s why you need the best athletic socks for women. Athletic socks are a necessity for every physical activity, be it gym workouts, running, or other forms of exercise. These widely tried and trusted socks will provide you with all the support, comfort, grip, stability, and moisture control that you need. So, now you can work out at ease without losing grip. In this post, we present you with a list of athletic socks from trusted brands to save you time. Therefore, delve into this post to check out the best-selling socks and pick your favorite.
Top Picks
13 Best Athletic Socks For Women
1. Best To Absorb Moisture: Feetures Elite Max Cushion Athletic Socks
Image: Feetures Get adequate support and cushioning with the unisex athletic socks by Feetures. These seamless athletic socks for women are ankle-length and have tabs at the back, above the heel, and at the front. This helps it withstand the test of time and gives a better grip and protection. They are made with iWick polyester fibers and have a targeted compression zone for stability.
Pros
- Seamless toes
- Moisture wicking
- Keep you cool and dry
- Anatomical design to differentiate left and right foot
- Available in a wide range of colors
Cons
- May be a tad thick
- May have sizing issues
"I find these socks worthwhile for my active lifestyle; they stay in place during workouts and long shifts at work. I also love the moisture-wicking technology, which keeps me dry and prevents blisters. Overall, they serve me well."
Quick tip2. Best To Keep Feet Dry: CelerSport Running Ankle Socks
Image: Cs Celersport Store 
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It's no wonder that this quality product has earned over 8,821 positive reviews on Amazon.
Reduce impact and friction with this set of tested-and-trusted athletic socks from CelerSport that comes in a pack of six pairs. It is made with a mixture of combed cotton, nylon, polyester, and spandex. This unique combination of fabric and quality craftmanship helps absorb moisture and dissipate perspiration, thereby keeping the feet dry. They are ankle length, easily stretchable, and do not have a seam at the toe area to keep friction away. These breathable socks for women have an elastic cuff and tab above the heel for protection.
Pros
- Breathable and comfortable
- Available in gray, white, and black
- Provides great arch support for a perfect fit
- Designed with mesh ventilation to maintain temperature
- Suitable for cycling, running, walking, skateboarding, and more
Cons
- May not be comfortable for broad feet
- Material may become stiff upon repeated washing
"I enjoy using this pair for everyday comfort; they seem to tick the right boxes for me. They're well-fitted and have good arch support. They're versatile too, and I wear them both for active use and just lounging around. Plus, they've held up pretty well despite repeated washing."
3. Best Cushioned: Saucony Women’s Performance Athletic Socks
Image: Saucony The pair of athletic socks by Saucony is designed for athletes and active individuals. These low-cut athletic socks for women feature arch compression for added support and moisture-wicking technology to keep your feet dry and comfortable during intense activity. The pair of high-performance socks also features a comfortable toe seam to reduce irritation.
Pros
- Machine washable
- Mesh ventilation for breathability
- Available in multiple color options
- Targeted zone cushioning
Cons
- Socks may roll down and bunch up
- Material may get a bit stiff after washing
"I love the comfort these socks offer, enabling me to keep up with my active lifestyle. The fit is good, and durability is commendable. Also, they retained their shape even after multiple washes."
4. Best Lightweight: Under Armour Women’s Essential No Show Socks
Image: Underarmour The six-pack essential socks by the trusted brand Under Armour are made from a blend of polyester, cotton, and spandex. These lightweight socks feature Under Armour’s signature moisture-wicking technology to keep your feet dry and comfortable and anti-odor treatment to prevent the growth of odor-causing microbes.
Pros
- Machine washable
- Embedded arch support
- Heel contours around the foot for a snug fit
- Available in different colors
Cons
- May be a bit thin for some
- May slip off the heel and bunch up
"These ankle socks pair well with my sneakers and are pretty comfortable. I've been using them for daily wear and gym sessions, and they are holding up well."
5. Best Anti-Slip: Amutost No Show Women’s Athletic Ankle Socks
Image: Balega Amutost No Show Socks, made of 80% cotton, have the perfect design and padded buffer to keep your feet dry and cool. The unique anti-slip design and arch compression help avoid any accidents from slipping. In addition, the compact siro spun yarn provides a lasting buffer during workouts. These performance socks for women with multiple positive reviews are suitable for wear when running, playing, or chilling at home.
Pros
- Mesh construction for breathability
- Targeted cushioning sole
- 360° arch support
- Moisture wicking
- Available in various colors
Cons
- Might shrink after wash
- Might be uncomfortably thick
"These no-show socks are the right thickness and provide comfort without being bulky. The added grips stop me from slipping on smooth floors; they've been a good fit. Also, they've stood the test of regular use and washes."
6. Best Arch Support: Monfoot Athletic Cushioned Crew Socks
Image: Mon Foot Stay active with the MonFoot Athletic Cushioned Crew Socks made of polyester and spandex. The socks have mesh ventilation, allowing your feet to remain dry and odor-free. Furthermore, the ultra-soft cushioned sole and toe keep your feet free of blisters. The athletic crew socks for women also have fitted bands for a snug fit, and the elastic rubber ribs keep your ankles comfortable.
Pros
- Proper arch support
- Silicone grip strip
- Keep the feet balanced and stable
- Machine washable
Cons
- Might not be highly durable
- Might be thinner than expected
"I like that these socks don't feel very bulky. However, the elastic band feels slightly tight on first use. Nonetheless, they are great for daily wear."
Quick tip7. Best Natural Fit: Nike Women’s Everyday Max Cushion Training Crew Socks
Image: Nike Make your feet smile with the Nike Crew Socks as they come with Dri-fit fabric to ensure maximum comfort. These cushioned socks for women are designed to prevent any friction caused by working out. In addition, the crew silhouette covers the calf area, making them ideal for women who indulge in athletic activities. The quality craftsmanship and mesh fabric panel on top enhance mobility and ventilation, making them the ideal cycling socks for women.
Pros
- Durable
- Machine-washable
- Cushioned support to reduce bulk, chafing, and hot zones
- Natural fit for each foot
Cons
- Might not be true to size
- Might shrink easily
"This pair caters to my various athletic needs, and I'm quite impressed by their versatility. The extra ankle support and the foot-specific design enhance comfort. I find it comfortable to wear throughout the day."
8. Best Ventilation: Pembrook Athletic Socks For Women
Image: Pembrook This six-pack no-show and low-cut sports running socks for women from Pembrook are made from polyester. The yarn has a moisture-wicking capability to help keep the feet dry. There is also mesh ventilation in the toe area. The compression socks for women are thick, soft, and well-cushioned to provide comfort. Arched compression provides both support and stability. These sports socks for women come with a tab above the heel area providing protection from blisters and chafing.
Pros
- One size fits all
- Designed with pattern and solid color
- Ankle-length
- Offers maximum airflow
Cons
- May not have slip resistance
- May not withstand frequent washes
"I'm happy with the softness and support of these socks. Their arch compression is just enough for daily comfort. They suit various shoes and hug my feet without being too tight. Although they run a bit large, the comfort is commendable."
Did you know?9. Best Breathable: Starter Women’s Athletic No-Show Socks
This is another set of women’s athletic socks from Starter, but this time in a ‘No-Show’ length. These gym socks for women are made from a combination of polyester, cotton, and spandex. The socks have a cushioned footbed that prevents moisture retention, thus keeping the area well-ventilated. The toe area of the sock has been reinforced, which makes it durable.
Pros
- Ribbed cuff to keep socks in place
- Stretchable to offer an ideal fit
- Well-crafted
- Different colors to pick from
Cons
- May be slippery around heels
- May not be ideal to wear for longer durations
10. Best To Avoid Friction: Amazon Essentials Women’s Performance Athletic No-Show Socks
Image: Amazon Essentials Say goodbye to irritation with these socks by Amazon essentials. These no-show socks from Amazon Essentials are made primarily of cotton along with polyester and nylon. This makes the socks breathable and very comfortable. These ankle socks for women have extra cushioning in both the toe and heel areas, and they do not retain moisture due to the mesh. The seam area of the toe is very smooth to prevent irritation while running or working out.
Pros
- Minimize foot fatigue
- Offer comfort in high-impact areas
- Enough room for toes
- Ideal for walking, running, and gym training sessions
Cons
- May slip or not stay in place
- May run large
"These socks are quite comfortable, and their soft texture feels pleasant against my skin. It's a relief that they do not slide down when I wear them, and I appreciate the extra padding and color range."
11. Best To Prevent Blisters: Dimok Athletic Running Socks
Image: Dimok Store These workout socks for women are of ankle length and primarily made out of cotton. They are designed to absorb moisture and are seamless to avoid friction while running or other athletic activities. There is a tab above the heel area to prevent any movement and blisters during activity. There is also extra padding at the heel and toe area for protection and comfort.
Pros
- Made of cotton, polyester, spandex, nylon, and elastin material
- Unique ankle cuff design to prevent slips
- Machine washable
- Available in many colors
Cons
- May shrink
"I've been using these socks for a while now, and I'm pleased with their performance. They endure regular washes pretty well. Plus, I love their stylish design."
12. Best Snug Fit: Hanes Women’s Crew Athletic Socks
Image: Hanes Women's Socks This ten-pair pack of athletic socks from Hanes is of crew-cut length. These moisture-wicking socks for women are made from a combination of cotton and polyester fibers. The sole area of the sock is thick and cushioned. The knit ensures that the socks are breathable, and the inclusion of spandex allows for a snug fit without slippage.
Pros
- Knit weave type
- Reinforced sole and toe
- Sweat-wicking
- Smooth seams
Cons
- May roll down
- Material around foot bed may be thin
"I am impressed with the snug and comfortable fit. I've been wearing this pair in all types of weather and haven't experienced any discomfort. I also really like the classic, unbranded look."
13. Best For Everyday Wear: Core 10 Women’s Performance Sport Athletic No-Show Socks
These no-show-length socks from Core 10 are made of nylon, polyester, and elastane. The lightweight fabric makes the sock thin and airy. These socks are super soft and can be used for workouts or everyday wear. These arch-support socks for women have a smooth toe seam area.
Pros
- Sit below the ankle
- Breathable fabric
- Available in beautiful colors
- Can be machine-washed
Cons
- May feel tight around the ankle
- May run small in size
"These socks are a valued addition to my collection! They are lightweight and fit snugly on my feet. The middle band is a clever feature to keep the socks from sliding down. Plus, they are moisture-wicking, keeping me comfortable all day long."
Women’s Athletic Sock Styles
Athletic socks are usually categorized into the following styles based on their length.
- No-show: These socks are generally not visible when worn with shoes
- Ankle or low cut: End close to the ankle and helpful in preventing blisters
- Crew: Generally six to eight inches in length and a unisex style
- Calf length: Longer than crew length and offer more protection and coverage
How To Choose The Right Athletic Socks For Women?
When choosing athletic socks for women, it is important to keep in mind the following features.
- Moisture absorption and breathability are crucial in socks for running, gym wear, or any kind of performance sport where perspiration is natural.
- Cushioning makes the socks more comfortable and provides support.
- Seamless socks or those with a well-designed seam will reduce friction.
- Tabs for protection from blisters, chafing, and slipping.
Are Workout Socks And Athletic Socks The Same?
Yes, workout socks and athletic socks are considered to be the same. However, there may be some socks that are more suited to a specific type of workout or running.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are athletic socks good?
Yes, athletic socks keep your feet dry and fresh by absorbing sweat and dispelling odor, thanks to their moisture-wicking fabric construction.
2. Is it better to run with thick or thin socks?
Thick socks are ideal for winter and provide the comfort of padding, especially on the heels and toes. Plus, their cushioning effect reduces the chances of blisters. Opt for thin ones only if your shoes cannot accommodate thick socks comfortably.
3. Should athletic socks be made of cotton or polyester?
Most athletic socks are made with a blend of cotton, polyester, nylon, and spandex to make them breathable and moisture-wicking.
4. What length socks are best for running?
While ankle socks are ideal for warmer weather, crew socks are best for winter or cold regions.
5. Should running socks be cushioned?
Yes, running socks or athletic socks come with full-sole cushioning to provide ample support and comfort to your feet and prevent blisters by minimizing the friction between the feet and the shoes.
6. Why do runners wear low socks?
Low socks or ankle socks bestow a sleek look and keep the legs cool. However, opting for low or high-length socks is a matter of personal preference.
Why Trust MomJunction?
After conducting trend analysis, comparing products from various websites, and screening user reviews and feedback, our team of experienced writers and reviewers has set forth a list of the best athletic socks for women that will provide you with comfort, support, grip, stability, and moisture management. We have also added information on various styles of athletic socks, their difference from workout socks, and a buying manual to help you pick the appropriate pair.
The Bottom Line
Athletic socks allow you to pursue any sport or physical activity with added ease. These socks feature thicker material with more flexibility, letting your feet move freely and preventing blisters. The best athletic socks for women also offer added features such as breathability, cushioning, moisture absorption, and sweat resistance. Our top recommendations are the Feetures Elite Max Cushion Athletic Socks with moisture-wicking properties, the CelerSport Running Ankle Socks with impact reduction and moisture control properties, and the Saucony Women’s Performance Athletic Socks with arch compression and comfort toe seam. These premium athletic socks that absorb impact and prevent friction will improve your performance when working out, jogging, running, or playing a sport, protect your feet from injuries, and help you stay warm.
Infographic: What Are The Advantages Of Wearing Athletic Socks?
Athletic socks are designed to offer support and protection during high-intensity physical activities. Understanding their distinct features and benefits, which regular socks do not provide, can help you determine why they are a worthwhile investment. Check out the following infographic to learn more about the advantages of using athletic socks. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Douglas H Richie; (2010); Athletic Socks
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/226069625_Athletic_Socks - Gustavo R Mota et al.; (2020);Effects of Wearing Compression Stockings on Exercise Performance and Associated Indicators: A Systematic Review
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6985982/
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