These Socks Are The Best For Preventing Blisters — & Yes, You Need A Pair (2024)

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by Lisa Fogarty

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For some of us, socks are an afterthought. They keep our feet warm and stop our shoes from getting sweaty, but otherwise, we rarely give them a second thought. That is, of course, until blisters happen. The best blister-proof socks prevent nasty blisters from slowly rearing their ugly heads (as they always seem to do) before sticking around for ages (because, seriously, they last forever).

No one is immune to blisters, and we've all experienced them at some point. But the worst part about them is that they don't heal quickly, which might have a lot to do with the fact that you probably can't just decide to skip shoes all together for a week while they heal. There are ways to treat and prevent painful blisters that include blister-preventing sprays, sports tape, creams, and foot inserts. But one of the best ways to actually avoid them is by investing in quality, anti-blister socks.

These 10 pairs include a variety of options like merino wool hiking socks, ankle-length running socks, neoprene sports socks for beach play, and low-cut socks to hide under casual shoes. But they all share one thing in common: wear them, and you can kiss blisters good bye.

1No-Show Running Socks That Keep Feet Comfy

Make every minute of your run or jog more comfortable with these no-show athletic running socks, which boast a high tab heel to keep them from slipping off your feet. Made from Drynamix, which wicks moisture away from your skin, and with a ventilating mesh upper, these socks are designed keep your feet comfortably dry and blister-free. They come in 19 colors, have a seamless toe, and have been race-tested by users.

Positive Amazon review: "I am extremely happy that I did, and now I own five pairs. The are extremely comfortable, and since I have followed the washing instructions (no hot water, no bleach, no hot setting on dryer), they have not lost a bit of their fit, color, or comfort! A few days ago, due to procrastination, I had to search around and find some of my old socks (most are in the garage to use as rags now). It was such a disappointingly big difference that I almost used the excuse of not having my Balegas as a reason for me not to go run! Yes, they're that good.”

2Double-Layer Crew Socks For Running & Walking

These mid-weight running socks are extra-cozy thanks to double layers of fabric that protect your feet and prevent blisters and pain. They come in black or white and feature an outer layer of polyester to wick away moisture, in addition to an inner layer designed for even more absorbency. So, basically, your feet should never feel a drop of wetness.

Positive Amazon review: "[...] I have been wearing these socks for many years and many marathons half-marathons and 5Ks. They are the ONLY socks I will use and recommend them to everyone I know.”

3Merino Wool Hiking Socks For Cold Days

If you're going hiking or plan on spending time outdoors or in a cold climate, these merino wool hiker socks will keep your feet warm and free of blisters. Lightweight merino wool does an outstanding job of naturally wicking away moisture, and this three-pair pack has an arch band and cushioned footbed, both of which add to the feeling of comfort you'll get while wearing them.

Positive Amazon review: "I had to spend 12-hour days for a week outside in the mountains of Aspen and these socks were a lifesaver. My boots were durable and warm ski-boots but these socks were the difference between frostbitten toes and warm feet. [...] But seriously, if you're in the snow for long periods of time these are the best worthwhile investment.”

4A Sport Skin Sock For Beach Activities & Water Play

The stretchy nylon upper and adjustable ankle cuff on these sport skin socks allows you to tailor them and find the ideal fit, which prevents friction and blisters. A durable neoprene sole protects your feet from unusual elements like hot sand and mud, making this the ideal sock to wear while playing beach or water sports like volleyball or snorkeling.

Positive Amazon review: "LOVE LOVE LOVE these socks for sand volleyball! I bought these after I couldn't handle my feet being raw after playing a few hours of sand volleyball on rough sand. These socks have been perfect and they are holding up really well after a month of playing.”

5Knee-High Compression Socks With Added Blister-Proof Protection Along The Foot

Not only are these knee-high compression socks perfect for taking pressure off of your legs and feet, which improves blood circulation and relieves muscle aches, but they also work wonders at preventing blisters. The socks feature a reinforced heel that provides extra cushioning and moisture-wicking materials to absorb wetness before you can feel it (and before it causes socks to slide down). Plus, they come in 20 different colors and boast more than 29,000 reviews.

Positive Amazon review: "I cannot say enough about these socks. I purchased them because my foot and ankle had become very swollen and after wearing them for just a day, the swelling was gone. I decided to continue wearing them every day and I must say that my feet no longer hurt and my legs do not tire out the way they used to.”

6Socks That Are Like A Protective Wetsuit For Feet

Think of these anti-blister crew socks as you would a wetsuit —you wear them close to the skin and under your ordinary hiking or running socks to ensure ultimate protection while you're active. Made from polyester, silicone, and spandex, these super stretchy socks have outside seams to reduce the possibility of irritation and an inner layer of moisture and bacteria-controlling fabrics.

Positive Amazon review: "I only had the opportunity to complete three training events (8,3,3 miles respectively)[...] This was my third time competing in this event and needed a way to avoid blistering. These worked well above my wildest dreams. Zero blistering and zero hot spots.”

7Waterproof Socks Made From Anti-Bacterial Fabric

Whether you're planning a ski trip or don't want to be caught off guard hiking in the rain again (which is just the worst), these waterproof, mid-calf anti-blister socks keep feet dry and come in 23 vivid colors, because sock style is a thing. They're breathable and moisture-wicking, but also boast a light cushion sole that makes them ideal for all seasons and weather. Break them out on the slopes in the dead of winter or while taking a spring stroll in the rain.

Positive Amazon review: "Unbelievably awesome I just came back from hell survivors in Michigan paintball tournament for those who are curious to see the terrain . My boots were covered to my ankle in mud yet when I removed my socks my feet were bone dry couldn't believe it.”

8Super-Low-Cut Socks For Everyday Blister Protection

These super low-cut socks are great for anyone looking for anti-blister socks that they can wear with loafers and other lower cut casual shoes. They're make from a cotton, polyester, and spandex blend, and thicker than your standard no-show sock, according to reviewers. The socks feature padding that reinforces the heel and toe and increases their overall durability, and the cushioned sole adds extra comfort throughout the day. Plus, many users say they don't slide off their feet.

Positive Amazon review: "I was so sick and tired of those thin, nylon ped like socks!!! I found these, and thought I'd give them a shot, and they are more than I'd hoped for! They feel like a regular thick and comfy sock you'd wear with your sneakers, except they hide enough you don’t see them under your slip ons. I truly love them!”

9Socks With Strategically Placed Cushion Dots For Blister Prevention

Designed with something genius called anti-blister dot technology, these running socks feature strategically placed padding in the areas of the toe and heel that are most prone to blisters. They have a breathable mesh top, no-slip cuffs, and are made with moisture-wicking fabric. Sure, you could wear them while running, but they're equally great for day-to-day errands and around the house, too.

Positive Amazon review: "Great socks for running. These have become my go to socks when I go running.”

10The Money-Saving Pack Of Eight Comfy Socks

When you just need to stock up on as many anti-blister socks as you can find, turn to this pack of eight that are affordable and comfortable. The socks feature cushioning and toe seams the reduce friction and blisters, as well as heel tabs and vented uppers for breathability. They come in a few different color options and neutrals like black and white.

Positive Amazon review: "These are my favorite socks. They don't slip down in the shoes, but they're not too high on the ankle. I really can't praise these enough. They're incredibly comfortable! I wore them in warmer weather (70-80 degrees) and cooler weather (50-55 degrees), and I was comfortable in both.”

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These Socks Are The Best For Preventing Blisters — & Yes, You Need A Pair (2024)
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