Whether you’re headed to the gym, hiking rustic trails or incorporating daily strolls around the block into your fitness routine, choosing an appropriate style of sock will help you get off on the right foot. For instance, socks that are composed primarily of cotton are not recommended because they can trap moisture close to your foot and bunch up or cause friction against your skin putting you at risk for fungal infections, chafing and blisters.

Some factors to consider when selecting socks that will best meet your needs include elasticity, the ability to wick moisture and proper ventilation. Whatever your needs may be, you can choose a style that fits your budget as well as your foot from the more economical multipurpose socks to specialized support socks and higher-end wool socks:

1. Asics Intensity Quarter socks
When it comes to comfort, ASICS Intensity Quarter Socks have you covered from heel to toe with their lace pad and cushioned sole. These socks also keep your feet well-ventilated with knitted-in mesh for adequate moisture management. An arch band provides added support where feet often need it most, while the seamless toe provides a less bulky experience.

2. Drymax Run Hyper Thin socks
Drymax Run Hyper Thin Socks are constructed using the Drymax dual-layer system that causes an inner layer to draw moisture away from the foot and pushes it to an outer layer freeing the foot of sweat and blisters. These socks are especially thin so that they can provide a more natural and contoured fit. Feet can also breathe more easily through the ventilated arch band and mesh while antimicrobial technology reduces the presence of odor-causing bacteria.

3. Thorlos Experia XCCU Thin Cushion Running socks
The Thorlos Experia XCCU Thin Cushion Running Low Cut socks are the socks that fit like a glove. This is due to the elastic bands incorporated throughout the entire sock as well as the thin layer of cushion strategically located at the ball and heel of the foot. Thorwick fibers along with a mesh design allow for proper ventilation reducing the likelihood of developing blisters. These ultra lightweight unisex socks also sport a low-cut fit with light padding on the achilles tendon.

4. Saucony Performance socks
Saucony Performance Socks aim to meet the needs of any foot by providing basic comfort and support. A light layer of cushion prevents aches and pains from harsh impact but doesn’t create unnecessary bulk in your shoe. Built-in arch support applies just enough compression to give your arch the stability it needs while preventing your sock from slipping out of place or bunching up under your foot. Your feet can also breathe easy through a layer of mesh as moisture-wicking fibers keep your feet cool and dry.

5. Balega Hidden Contour socks
Balega Hidden Contour Socks deliver the ultimate experience in comfort with luscious impact-resistant cushioning and elastic bands woven throughout the design of the sock to promote healthy blood flow and a more natural fit. These socks are engineered with large panels for ventilation and breathability. The tight fit no-show design of this sock keeps it hidden from view, but the heel tab prevents them from slipping into your shoe. The premium plush cushion and contoured fit are often reflected in the price of these socks.