Orthopedic & Physical Therapy Products The Best Socks for Sweaty Feet of 2023 Lululemon No-Show Socks go the distance when it comes to sweat-resistant superpowers By Nicole Crawford Nicole Crawford Nicole has been a health and wellness writer and editor for over a decade, and has also worked with clients as a personal trainer, yoga instructor, and birth/postpartum doula. What she loves most: raising her six kids, running, and making nourishing, tasty meals for her family. Learn about our editorial process Updated on February 09, 2023 Medically reviewed by Adam H. Kaplan, DPM Medically reviewed by Adam H. Kaplan, DPM Facebook LinkedIn Adam H. Kaplan, DPM, is a podiatrist who has been in private practice for over 5 years in New Jersey and specializes in a wide scope of foot care. Learn about our Medical Expert Board Fact checked by Rich Scherr Fact checked by Rich Scherr Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist who has covered technology, finance, sports, and lifestyle. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Verywell Health / Kevin Liang We all sweat. But if your feet are sweatier than the average person’s, you know how embarrassing it can be to take your shoes off in front of other people after a strenuous workout or a long day at work. Aside from embarrassment, sweaty feet can contribute to more serious problems, like athlete’s foot or other fungal infections. Choosing the right socks is key to preventing these problems before they start. “Key words you should be looking for when shopping for socks for sweaty feet include moisture wicking, increased ventilation, and a blend of materials,” noted Maryland-based podiatrist Dr. Priya Parthasarathy to Verywell Health. Socks that have these three qualities might not prevent your feet from sweating completely, but they’ll keep any unwelcome side effects under control. To find the best socks for sweaty feet, our testers rated over 25 of the best products based on breathability, comfort, odor control, and value. The testers wore each pair of socks for a whole week and recorded their observations at the end of each day. A podiatrist from our Medical Expert Board also reviewed the contents of this article for medical accuracy surrounding socks for sweaty feet and the efficacy of moisture-wicking and antimicrobial fabrics. If you find yourself wishing your socks would be dryer and less stinky, give these picks a try. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Lululemon Power Stride No Show Sock at Lululemon Jump to Review Best Budget: Under Armour Essential No Show Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best Merino Wool: Patagonia Lightweight Merino Performance Crew Socks at Backcountrygear.com Jump to Review Best for Exercise: Stance Men's Low Tab Sock at Amazon Jump to Review Best Crew: FITS Casual Crew Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best Ankle: Bombas Performance Ankle Socks at Bombas.com Jump to Review Best No-Show: Balega Silver No Show Running Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Hiking: Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Blister Prevention: Bombas Merino Wool Running Ankle Sock at Bombas.com Jump to Review Best Cozy: Brooklinen Socks at Brooklinen Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks We Also Tested How We Selected What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Health Best Overall Lululemon Power Stride No Show Sock 5 Lululemon View On Lululemon Our Ratings Breathability 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Odor Control 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Breathable nylon material Stays in place Holds up after frequent washing Cons Higher price point Lightweight material If you’re looking for a high-quality, versatile sock that will also combat sweaty and stinky feet, lululemon Power Stride Socks are our top pick with a perfect 5-star rating. They’re designed to hug the contours of your foot, providing a truly no-show fit while also fighting moisture and odors. No-show socks have an annoying tendency to slip to the bottom of your shoes when you are active, but these are an exception. The built-in arch support and reinforced heel and toe keep them in place whether you’re on your feet all day at work or going on long-distance runs. The socks are primarily made of nylon, with a bit of elastane to provide the perfect amount of stretchiness. Wash the socks on cold, and have no fear if you need to wash them frequently. As our tester noted, “They've been washed 12-15 times so far, and the gel ankle cushion is still like brand new, which can be the first thing to go sometimes. And no pilling at all, either, or shrinking.” Price at time of publication: $58 Key Specs:Materials: Nylon, Elastane | Fit: No-show | Quantity: 5-pack Best Budget Under Armour Women’s Essential No Show Socks 4.4 Amazon View On Amazon View On Basspro.com View On Cabelas.com Our Ratings Breathability 5/5 Comfort 3.5/5 Odor Control 4.5/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Very breathable Lightweight material Budget-friendly Cons Too thin for colder weather Our tester gave the Under Amour Essential socks a perfect score for breathability, noting that they were amazing at keeping her feet dry. And at $22 for a six-pack, these socks also offer great value at less than $4 per pair. Made out of a blend of polyester, nylon, and spandex, these no-show socks might be a bit on the thin side for cold weather, but they’re a great option for warmer weather. “I would buy these for wearing in the summertime and engaging in light activities,” noted our tester. “They would be really great travel socks because they're so lightweight and have a barely-there feeling.” These socks also feature compression for your arches as well as extra padding on the heel, making them a great choice for runners and athletes. There is also a wide variety of colors available, from simple white or black, to subtle blues and purples, to bright neons. Price at time of publication: $20 Key Specs:Materials: Polyester, Nylon, Spandex | Fit: No-show| Quantity: 6-pack Best Merino Wool Patagonia Lightweight Merino Performance Crew Socks 4.8 Backcountry Gear View On Backcountrygear.com View On Caddisflyshop.com Our Ratings Breathability 5/5 Comfort 4.5/5 Odor Control 5/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Good for cold weather Great for hiking Cons Very thick If you’re looking for a sweat-proof sock for hiking and other outdoor activities, be sure to give Patagonia’s Lighweight Merino Performance Crew socks a try. These socks feature the durability and quality of wool, combined with the stretchiness and snug comfort provided by nylon and spandex. Our tester was surprised at the softness and breathability of these socks. “After wearing them for several runs and hikes, I grew to really like them because of how breathable they were. My feet weren't sweaty at all, even with a thick wool and nylon fabric,” she observed. Patagonia uses Responsible Wool Standard certified wool to make its products. This standard can only be met by reaching certain sustainability goals during the wool production process, ensuring that the sheep, workers, and land are respected throughout the manufacturing process. Price at time of publication: $25 Key Specs:Style: Spec | Materials: Merino wool, nylon, spandex| Fit: Crew| Quantity: Single pair Best for Exercise Stance Men's Low Tab Sock 5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Backcountry.com View On Stance.com Our Ratings Breathability 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Odor Control 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Sweat-resistant during hard workouts Snug but not too tight Stay in place Cons Only sold by the pair Stance Run Light socks also received a perfect score from our testing team. The socks provide amazing fit and comfort during workouts while keeping your feet dry and odor-free. “I love how form-fitting these are,” noted our tester. “They mold to your feet like couture, but they don't suffocate them. The band at the top also is amazing—snug but not tight. They stayed up but weren't bothersome.” These no-show socks are made from a blend of nylon, polyester, and elastane, which are perfect if your feet sweat excessively during exercise. They provide a bit of compression for extra arch support and feature a seamless toe closure to keep blisters at bay. We reviewed the light version, but if you want more or less padding, Stance also has ultralight and medium cushion options, as well as a variety of colors and patterns. At $15 per pair, they’re on the pricier side, but the quality, comfort, and sweat resistance are well worth the cost. Price at time of publication: $15 Key Specs:Materials: Nylon, Polyester, Elastane | Fit: No-show | Quantity: Single pair The Best Athlete's Foot Treatments of 2023 Best Crew FITS Casual Crew Socks Fits Socks View On Amazon View On Fitssock.com View On Gobros.com Pros Great for casual wear or work socks Excellent odor control Cons Compression is pretty tight If you prefer crew socks, FITS Casual Crew socks are a sweat-proof option. The socks feature arch compression and a lightly padded sole, resulting in a superior fit and all-day comfort. As our tester noted, “These socks strike the perfect balance of comfort and support.” FITS Casual Crew socks are made from a blend of Merino wool, nylon, polyester, and Lycra. This winning combination of fabrics results in a supportive, warm, breathable, and odor-resistant sock. The crew fit makes these socks ideal for chilly outdoor treks or long work days. Keep in mind, though, if you’re not used to compression, these might feel a bit tight at first. Merino wool blends always come with a slightly higher price point than other fabrics, but there’s a good reason. Regarding durability, comfort, and versatility, these socks are hard to beat, especially if you’re looking for a sweat-proof sock that qualifies as “casual work attire.” Price at time of publication: $23 Key Specs:Materials: Merino wool, Nylon, Polyester, Lycra | Fit: Knee-high | Quantity: Single pair Verywell Health / Anna Knief Verywell Health / Anna Knief Verywell Health / Anna Knief The 12 Best Shoes for Bunions of 2023 Best Ankle Bombas Performance Ankle Socks Dick's Sporting Goods View On Bombas.com View On Dick's View On Golfgalaxy.com Pros Thick with lots of cushioning Resistant to odors Cons Only sold by the pair Compression is very strong Bombas socks are well-known for their quality and comfort, and their Performance Ankle Socks are no exception. Made from a blend of polyester, nylon, cotton, and elastane, these socks are ideal for athletes who want more support and less moisture. They feature a seamless toe for blister prevention and a tab at the ankle to prevent chafing. We also love the gentle arch compression and cute honeycomb design. If you’re looking for a thick, supportive ankle sock that also wicks away moisture and keeps your feet feeling cool, search no more. To sweeten the deal, for every pair of socks that is purchased, Bombas donates a pair of socks to homeless shelters, medical service professionals, Title 1 schools, and other organizations that serve those in need. Price at time of publication: $17 Key Specs:Materials: Polyester, Nylon, Cotton, Elastane | Fit: Ankle | Quantity: Single pair Verywell Health / Anna Knief Verywell Health / Anna Knief Verywell Health / Anna Knief Verywell Health / Anna Knief The 8 Best Ankle Braces of 2023 Best No-Show Balega Silver No Show Running Socks 5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Zappos Our Ratings Breathability 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Odor Control 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Amazing moisture-wicking abilities Great balance of support and comfort Stay in place well Cons Sizing might vary If you wear no-show socks frequently, you’ve probably noticed an annoying problem: They tend to fall down and get lost in your shoes, especially if you’re exercising. Not these. The Balega Silver Compression No-Show socks stay in place while providing ventilation, support, and moisture-wicking comfort. Made from a blend of polyester, nylon, and elastane, these socks feature compression, medium cushioning, an extra deep heel pocket, and a seamless toe, making them a great choice for runners, cyclists, or people who are on their feet most of the day. “The heel tab makes it easier to slip the sock on and off while protecting the back of your ankle from blisters,” noted our tester. And to top it all off, the fabric is antibacterial, offering a layer of defense against those pesky microbes that thrive in sweaty environments. One tip from our tester: follow the size chart.” I'm a size 8, which usually translates to a medium-size sock for every other brand I've ever tried,” she shared. “According to Balega's size chart, I was at the upper end of a small, so I ordered a small, but I was worried they wouldn't fit right. I was wrong, and they fit perfectly.” So be sure to check the sizes before you order. Price at time of publication: $20 Key Specs:Materials: Polyester, Nylon, Elastane | Fit: No-show | Quantity: Single Pair Verywell Health / Anna Knief Verywell Health / Anna Knief Verywell Health / Anna Knief We Tested 26 Pairs of Compression Socks. These Are the Most Comfortable and Effective Best for Hiking Darn Tough COOLMAX Micro Crew Cushion Socks 4.7 REI View On Amazon View On Darntough.com View On REI Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 4.5/5 Cushioning 5/5 Blister Protection 5/5 Value 3.5/5 Pros Keep feet dry, even in wet conditions Great odor control for long hikes All-day comfort Cons On the pricey side Darn Tough’s Coolmax Crew Hiking socks were designed with one goal in mind: to keep your feet dry and comfortable on long outdoor hikes. The seamless toe, wicking fabric, and comfortable cushioning make them perfect for avid hikers whose feet need a little extra breathing space. Our tester walked over 11 miles per day in these socks, in both hot and rainy conditions, and was impressed with their comfort, breathability, and odor control. “Despite wearing the socks for long days that involved a lot of walking, they only had a slight foot/sweat smell, which I would expect,” she noted. “Those days, I walked 11 miles each. The other three days involved much shorter amounts of walking. On those days, there was no detectable smell at all.” The price tag might seem high, but if you buy hiking socks regularly, you probably won’t suffer from sticker shock. Spending $20-$30 per pair is pretty typical for quality hiking socks. If you’re planning a long trek, sock comfort, and quality can make or break your adventure. These socks won’t disappoint in either of those departments. Price at time of publication: $24 Key Specs:Materials: Polyester, Nylon, Lycra | Fit: Crew | Quantity: Single Pair Verywell Health / Jessica Fleming Verywell Health / Jessica Fleming Verywell Health / Jessica Fleming The 15 Best Clinical Strength Deodorants and Antiperspirants of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best for Blister Prevention Bombas Women's Merino Wool Running Ankle Sock 4.8 View On Bombas.com Our Ratings Breathability 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Odor Control 5/5 Value 4/5 Pros Great odor control Good for casual or athletic use Cushioned but not bulky Cons Over $20 per pair Nothing kills a good workout habit like blisters, and if your feet tend to sweat a lot, you’re more prone to experience them. If you find yourself fighting off blisters on a regular basis, you need to try Bombas Merino Wool Running Ankle socks. Our tester gave these socks a perfect score for breathability, comfort, and odor control. “These are probably one of my favorite pairs of socks,” she noted. “They fit perfectly, with no digging around the toes or sliding around the heels.” That perfect fit, combined with the blend of Merino wool, nylon, and spandex, makes them a blister-proof sock option. If you tend to get blisters on your toes, you’ll appreciate the seamless toe. At just over $20 per pair, these socks are definitely on the pricier side, but the quality, durability, and comfort they offer are well worth the investment. They fit true to size and are easy to care for—just machine wash cold on a gentle cycle and tumble dry low. Price at time of publication: $66 Key Specs:Materials: Merino Wool, Nylon, Spandex | Fit: Ankle | Quantity: 3-Pack Verywell Health / Jaylyn Pruitt The 8 Best Hammer Toe Straighteners of 2023 Best Cozy Brooklinen Socks 4.7 Brooklinen View On Brooklinen Our Ratings Breathability 4.5/5 Comfort 5/5 Odor Control 5/5 Value 4/5 Pros Very cozy and soft Thick, durable material Great house socks Cons Not good for exercise These socks from Brooklinen are designed for lounging, and they definitely fulfill their purpose. Our tester gave them a perfect 5 for comfort and odor control. “They have a fuzzy interior that really helps make them so comfy, but the outside is still a traditional stretchy sock,” noted our tester. “Also, they form to your feet and aren't all loose.” The socks have a simple but stylish design, with a contrasting toe and heel, and are available in a variety of colors. The polyester/acrylic blend makes them easy to wash. If you plan to order more than one pair, Brooklinen offers discounts if you order a pack of two or three pairs. Just keep in mind that Brooklinen socks run on the small side, so if you’re between a size 8 and 9 (women’s) or 9 and 10 (men’s), consider ordering the next size up. Price at time of publication: $14 Key Specs:Materials: Polyester, Acrylic, Other | Fit: Crew | Quantity: Single Pair The 13 Best Diabetic Socks of 2023 Best Thin Feetures High Performance Ultra Light No-Show Running Socks Amazon View On Amazon View On Feetures.com View On REI Pros Great for workouts Breathable, lightweight fabric Cons Not a lot of cushioning Feetures High Performance Ultra Light No-Show Running socks wick moisture and hold up for the long haul, despite their thinness. Our tester gave them a perfect score of 5 for breathability, noting that they kept her feet dry even on very hot days. “These were the thinnest socks I tried in the test, but they didn't feel cheap,” she noted. “They feel well made and were an ideal workout sock for me—my feet stayed cool and dry through all my runs or gym sessions.” The socks are 92% nylon and 8% spandex, and the manufacturers note that the socks might shrink in the wash. However, the spandex allows the socks to stretch back to their normal size when you wear them. For best results, wash the socks inside out and hang dry. These socks have very little cushioning and are a true minimalist option, but nevertheless, they offer amazing comfort and moisture protection. And unlike a lot of other thin socks out there, you can rest assured they will stay in place on long runs or workouts. Price at time of publication: $15 Key Specs:Materials: Nylon, Spandex | Fit: No-show | Quantity: Single Pair The 8 Best Products for Bunion Support of 2023 Best for Running Bombas Women's Running Quarter Sock 6-Pack Bombas View On Bombas.com Pros Amazing all-day odor control Cute color choices Soft fabric Cons On the thick side If you’re a runner who also happens to have very sweaty feet, the Bombas Performance Running Quarter socks should be first on your list to try. Our tester rated them a perfect 5 for comfort and odor control, which are two huge priorities when it comes to running. These socks are a bit on the thicker side, and breathability was one potential downside, according to our tester. “My feet did breathe a sigh of relief when I took them off at night,” she noted. “I wish the socks were a little bit more breathable.” However, despite the thickness, the socks retained zero odors and moisture. Made from a blend of polyester, nylon, cotton, and spandex, these socks feature a quarter-rise height, which hits just at the top of your ankle. They also have specially designed vents for added airflow, keeping your feet cool and dry even on long runs and hot days. Price at time of publication: $108 Key Specs:Materials: Polyester, Nylon, Cotton, Spandex | Fit: Quarter | Quantity: 6-pack The 6 Best Foot Baths of 2023 Best for Arch Support Saucony Performance Tab Socks Amazon View On Amazon View On Academy.com View On Sierra.com Pros Budget-friendly Great arch support Cushiony Cons Colors are very bright Saucony’s Performance Tab Socks scored just shy of a perfect 5, with high marks for breathability, overall value, and comfort. “For the quality of these socks, this is a great price,” noted our tester. “I have half a mind to buy more sets of these in white and black and just have a sock wardrobe overhaul and only wear these.” The socks are made primarily from polyester, with a bit of spandex for extra stretch. They feature cushioning in the heel and sole, a heel tab, extra arch support, and mesh ventilation for extra dryness. They are available in a wide variety of colors and designs, from neon to solid white or black. The price is also hard to beat: just $15 for eight pairs or less than $2 per pair. Keep in mind these socks are on the cushiony side, so if you’re looking for something more minimalist, they might not fit the bill. Other than that, there’s not much to criticize. Price at time of publication: $15 Key Specs:Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Fit: No-show | Quantity: 8-pack The 8 Best Shoes for Arthritis of 2023 We Also Tested Our team tested a total of 28 different socks, and although only 13 made the final cut, there were a few honorable mentions we want to include. Here are four additional selections to consider. If you prefer a very thin sock, Drymax Hyper Thin Running Mini Crew socks might be a good match. However, our tester noted that they fell a bit short in the moisture-wicking department and were slightly damp after workouts. The Trino Sprinter socks from Allbirds scored high in the breathability department but didn’t quite make the cut when it came to fighting odors. They seemed to resist smells for everyday use but not after workouts. For wool lovers, Smartwool Phd Run Lite socks were great at fighting odors. However, our tester took off points in the comfort category due to comfort and cost. Thorlos Max Cushion Walking Crew socks seemed promising for daily walks and everyday use, but our tester found them lacking in the comfort department. Specifically, she noted that the stitching around the ankle was uncomfortable, and the socks didn’t hug her feet the way she hoped they would. How We Selected the Best Socks for Sweaty Feet Although the Verywell Testing Lab is an amazing testing ground for some products, we thought when it comes to socks, we needed our team of testers to try these socks out during everyday life. After all, you can’t really say you know a pair of socks until you’ve literally walked a mile (or 11!) in them. Our team of 13 testers was assigned to wear each pair of socks for a total of one week. After each day, they recorded their answers to a series of questions, including the following: Do your feet feel wet, damp, or dry when you remove the socks? How do the socks feel: dry, damp, or wet enough that you can wring them out?Do the socks smell, and if so, how strong is the odor? The testers also washed each pair of socks at the end of the day to test the durability and make sure the socks held up well after frequent washes. They also rated each pair of socks on a scale of 1 to 5, 5 being “Excellent” and 1 being “Poor.” The ratings were for three attributes: breathability, comfort, and odor control. Additionally, we consulted with Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, a podiatrist based in Silver Spring, Maryland for her expert opinion on what to look for in socks for sweaty feet. We put all these results together to bring you our list of the top picks. What to Look for in Socks for Sweaty Feet Moisture-Wicking Fabrics A sock’s ability to wick away moisture might be the most important factor when it comes to selecting the perfect pair for sweaty feet. Moisture harbors the bacteria that cause odors, discomfort, blisters, and more serious problems like athlete’s foot or toenail fungus. Polyester, nylon, and wool are all great choices. Odor Control Just because your feet get sweaty doesn’t mean they have to also get stinky. The best socks will keep odors at bay by preventing the growth of bacteria and fungi that lead to smelly feet. Look for socks with antimicrobial fabric, and avoid socks that are made primarily from absorbent fabrics like cotton, linen, or rayon. Comfort It doesn’t really matter that your socks are made with special moisture-wicking, antimicrobial fabric if you can’t stand how they feel on your feet. Before you select your socks, think about the styles and features you like most, as well as those that annoy you. Do you prefer ankle, no-show, or crew socks? Do you prefer a heel tab or arch compression? How much cushioning are you looking for? Consider the comfort specs as well as the sweat-proof qualities. Intended Use There are so many socks on the market that looking for the right pair can be a bit overwhelming. To narrow your search, think about your intended use for the socks. Are you looking for socks to wear while running or working out, or do you need sweat-proof socks for a long day on your feet at work? Also, consider the time of year and whether you need a thick sock for cold temperatures, as opposed to a thinner sock to wear in the heat. Frequently Asked Questions How can you tell which socks are best for sweaty feet? Socks will provide maximum defense against sweat if they do three things: wick away moisture, fight odors, and fit your foot well. When you’re sock shopping, look for words like “wicking,” “ventilation,” “sweat-proof,” and “breathable,” and choose socks made with synthetic fabrics or Merino wool as opposed to cotton or linen. What material is best (and worst) for sweaty feet? You might have noticed that none of the socks on our list are 100% anything. That’s because the right blend of fibers is essential for maximum wicking powers. “Wear wicking socks made of natural or acrylic fiber blends that draw the moisture away from your feet instead of trapping it,” suggests Dr. Parthasarathy. Although 100% cotton might be a good choice for certain clothing items, it’s not the best if you have sweaty feet. As noted by Dr. Parthasarathy, “I would avoid 100% cotton socks since they absorb moisture but do not wick it away from the skin, which could make the problem worse.” Are thin or thick socks better for sweaty feet? This really depends on your preferences, as well as your intended use for the socks. For example, if you need a pair of socks for a winter hiking trip, you’ll probably want a thicker sock, whereas a thin sock will be a good match if you live in a hot climate and need an everyday work sock. When it comes to fighting odors and moisture, the most important factor is the material, not the thickness. How many pairs of socks do I need? Changing your socks frequently is key to preventing odors and other problems caused by sweaty feet, so having at least two pairs on hand per day is ideal. As suggested by Dr. Parthasarathy, “It is a good idea to change socks during the day. Make sure you have an extra pair of socks with you and change them mid-way through the day and especially right after workouts.” Why are my feet so sweaty? Sweaty feet aren’t unusual, but if you are concerned about how much your feet sweat, it’s best to consult a podiatrist. Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, can be easily treated. “According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, less than 40% of people with excessive sweating seek medical care,” noted Dr. Parthasarathy. “A podiatrist can help control this condition with treatments, which can include prescription antiperspirants, prescription creams and wipes, nerve-blocking medications, Iontophoresis, and Botox injections.” Why Trust Verywell Health Nicole Crawford has been writing articles on the topics of health, nutrition, and fitness for over a decade. She runs four days a week and is pretty picky about her socks. She also has six active kids who could definitely use some assistance in the sweaty feet department. (They might have gotten it from her side of the family, but she would never admit that on the internet.) Her favorite socks on this list are the Saucony Performance Tab Socks, which have become a staple item in her household—especially during cross-country season. 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