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What To Look For
Providing the proper cushioning needed inside the shoes for your sport of choice, athletic socks not only absorb sweat but also prevent blisters that can occur when shoes come in direct or uncomfortable contact with the skin. The most important consideration is the material. Athletic socks are made of wicking fabrics designed to pull moisture away from the skin, decreasing discomfort and the potential for blisters. Another consideration is the purpose of the socks. Long-distance running has a higher demand for moisture control than the socks you wear to the gym. Socks designed for cold vs. warm climates will vary in knit weight, fabric and style. When shopping for athletic socks, consider the purpose of the socks as well as the shoes with which you'll be wearing them. Then explore the fabrics, styles and weaves available for your needs.
Common Pitfalls
Inexpensive athletic socks are typically all cotton or a cheap cotton/polyester blend. Neither option is superior with moisture management and is better suited for wearing around town than with your athletic shoes. The fit is also extremely important as a sock that's too loose will cause more blisters and discomfort, and absorb less moisture than a properly fitting one. Always ask to try on a pair of socks before purchase. Athletic socks should also be tried on with the shoes with which you intend to wear them. Socks can vary greatly in weight. Athletic socks should fit snugly but not tight, feel comfortable when you pair them with your chosen shoes and offer the right type of moisture management (wicking) for your chosen activity.
Where To Buy
Your best bet for buying specialty athletic socks is an outdoor retailer or running-specific shop. This way, you can speak with experts who work all day to pair socks with customers' shoes. These specialty and outdoor retailers will also be familiar with the technologically advanced fabrics that are prevalent in today's athletic socks, and be able to make recommendations based on your activity, shoes and the intensity of your workouts. After you find a particular sock or brand that works well for you, online retailers can offer some excellent bargains.
Cost
Athletic socks can cost anywhere from $8 for a multipack of four or six pairs at mass retailers to $20 per pair for those made of advanced fabrics by high-end brands as of September 2009. Price is most often dictated by the brand, fabric and features of the sock. Socks made of wool and other wicking fabrics will cost more than those of simple cotton or a cotton/polyester blend. When you find a pair of athletic socks you like, always see if they're available in a multipack as there are often discounts for multipair packages.
Comparison Shopping
When comparing athletic socks, their fit in your shoes is paramount. Always bring your athletic shoes when sock shopping. Many people don't realize the fit of their athletic sock is as crucial as the fit of their athletic shoes.
Insider Tips
Once you find an athletic sock you're partial to, you can always shop the brand's online store or outlet store (if available) for further bargains. The socks sold at a brand's outlet are of no lesser material or quality and are most often cosmetic seconds. Their performance should not be affected.
