Are socks just socks

I've signed up for my first half-marathon and the lady who managed to rope me into it asked if I had running socks.  I've splashed out on some wonderful running shoes and have been running for some weeks now in preparation but had never thought of socks. 

So, the question is, are socks just socks.  If not what am I looking for and are there any reccommendations.

 Thanks

Comments

  • OO54OO54 ✭✭✭
    I'd suggest you use your training runs to try out different pairs, and see what feels best with your shoes. 
  • Mr PuffyMr Puffy ✭✭✭
    I used to think socks were just socks until I got some Hilly ones with a voucher at a race one day.  Your feet just stay fresher and feel better after a run if you have good socks.  I wear any old sports socks for training up to about 10 miles but always wear the "proper" socks for races and longer runs.
  • I wouldn't wear cotton socks for long runs - they're more likely to give you blisters as they hold the moisture and lose their shape when wet.  So using running socks rather than bog standard "sports socks" is worthwhile (but likewise, if you've already got, say, some cycling socks then they'd be fine too).  Beyond that, there's not much in it brand-wise - pick some you like and make sure they fit you OK, and you'll be fine.

  • HitchHitch ✭✭✭

    no socks are not just socks.

    The longer the distance that you run you will definitely want some proper running socks. These will help to stop blisters and will help to keep your feet dry.

    I recommend 1000 mile performance socks. I haven't had a blister since I got mine.

    best of luck with your half

  • limperlimper ✭✭✭

    Socks are as important as shoes. IMHO.
    But, as with shoes, they are a very individual choice. You need to think about whether you like them thick or thin, single layer or twin skin, anatomically structured, specific to your shoe, blah blah blah.
    I love socks, but I couldn't advise you on what to get. Check out one of the on-line shops advertised over there -->>  for a browse.

    Good luck with your half mara.

  • Mr Puffy wrote (see)
    I used to think socks were just socks until I got some Hilly ones with a voucher at a race one day.  Your feet just stay fresher and feel better after a run if you have good socks.  I wear any old sports socks for training up to about 10 miles but always wear the "proper" socks for races and longer runs.
    Wot he said ^
  • M.ister WM.ister W ✭✭✭
    Socks are just socks................ until they start giving you blisters.  Then you'll start the endless search for the perfect sock.  My sock of choice are Running Bear socks.
  • Socks are just socks.

    I have three pairs of "running" socks, and there's no difference when i wear them to any other socks. I don't get blisters. Running socks just seem to be tighter for the same size, and therefore in some instance's uncomfortable.

    I just pick a pair that lets me get a suntan on my ankles! image

  • Socks are not just socks, I love the padded ones as the twin layer blister free ones give me blisters.

    Field and Trek have a special offer on Karrimore running socks at the moment, 2 pairs for £4. 

  • I wear whatever i was wearing all day/day before, no blisters, no problems.

    It's just another gimmick to make people spend more money.

    If you want to waste your money, fine...

  • I've recently discovered Groudhog running socks. I think I'll have to buy some more as they're just so comfortable. image

    Falke socks are good too although I think I've worn a couple of pairs out. Can't get on with Hilly Twin Skins though....

  • I have a couple of pairs of running socks and don't really see the difference except they are tighter which prevent your ankle moving as freely as it should. I generally just wear the socks i wore to work which are cheapo cotton socks from Primark.

    Some people clearly like them though, but you've managed a few weeks without them. ALDI normally sell cheap ones but you can spend a fortune on them

    R

  • I'm not fussy with my kit. I did try the double skin socks when I was new, but they were more uncomfy than normal stuff.

    I just go with thin cycling socks more than anything - fine for Marathons for my feet anyway.
  • I just use cheepo sports socks, the slightly thicker type which are padded at heel and toe, which have always done me just fine. From the comments above though, I wonder if I've just been lucky!

    I do have one pair of More Mile socks, which I got as a freebie with the last shoes I bought - They definitely feel nice, but I wouldn't say they are any 'better' than my usual socks, just 'different'. 

  • StrayceltStraycelt ✭✭✭
    1000 mile I blister everytime. Swear by Falke and Brooks though. Shaped to L and R foot and 90% blister free in them. Never wear just cotton as uncomfrotable, damp etc and can crease easier leading to...more blisters. But...it's what works for you
  • I don't like groundhog socks as they make me feel like I am doing the same run day after day!

  • MACbMACb ✭✭✭
    I like the x-socks, maybe it is a bit in the mind, but I think a decent pair of socks are essential running kit. The Aldi socks are great value and seem to be indestructible.
  • Thanks for all the views.  It seems everyone's feet are different and "OlneyOne" is right - I'll try some and see what feels best for me.  But since my current sock choice (the same as for  "Lardarse" - keep on whatever was on that day or the previous one) has not given rise to any problems so far (touch wood) I'm not going to get hung up on it.  Thanks guys for all your advice.  It was my first forum post (as you might have spotted) and I'm overwhelmed by how helpful and friendly you've all been. 

  • So why the different kinds? There must be some logic behind each in ordre for people to make them unless it's ll a big con. So what's the logic for using say, a double layered sock? or a think sock or thick sock? There's got to be some logic to it. What is it as i don't know which ones to try first.

    Thanks
  • Absolutely not - when I bought my first pair of running shoes 5 years ago from a specialist running shop, they recommended I bought some running socks. Now, at £9 a pair I thought is it a con or do they really make a difference.

    Yes they do.

    I wear Falke - they even have L and R on them in case I get confusedimage 

    I have never had a blister in 5 years - maybe its luck, but I really do think its the socks and the way they are made.  And forget the cost - I have only just thrown my first pair out, and thats only because they have worn thin in the spot above my ankle.

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