Socks — Three Tips for Runners

Graeme Queen serves as the senior director of IT solution delivery for a national insurance and financial services company in Oregon, where he oversees key business technology projects. His achievements include revamping the company’s aging workflow system with a cloud-based case-management system. When he is not working, Graeme Queen is an avid runner who has competed in multiple races, ranging from 5k runs to full marathons.

Having quality running shoes is crucial for any serious runner, but what you wear underneath the shoes is just as important. These three tips will help you find the right socks.

1. No Cotton — Leave your normal cotton socks at home. When cotton gets wet, it stays wet, and your feet are bound to get sweaty during a race. Even with the best running shoes, wearing cotton socks can lead to excessively uncomfortable moisture, chafing, and blisters.

2. Test Different Options During Training — There is a plethora of running socks available, each offering different advantages and disadvantages. Thick running socks provide extra padding, while thin running socks are often more breathable, keeping your feet cooler. Test different running socks while training for your race so that you know exactly what will work best for you come race day.

3. Compression Socks — Often used for air travel, compression socks help promote proper blood flow in your legs. While compression socks have long been a popular option for post-race recovery, more runners are using them during races to improve circulation.