At Gococo, we are dedicated to designing the best running socks for athletes and exercisers. Let us share our expert knowledge and help you navigate the sock selection process so you can focus on what you love most: running.
Do I need special socks for running?
You may be wondering if it is really necessary to wear special running socks compared to socks for other forms of exercise. The answer is yes, as there is a big difference between different sports socks. Running exposes your feet to much more impact and friction than many other sports. A regular cotton sock easily becomes damp and wet, which can cause chafing and burning heat under the sole of the foot. A good running sock is built to keep your foot dry, cool and to reduce friction, which makes a big difference to your running comfort and performance.
What is the best running sock?
Which socks are best for running depends a bit on what you're looking for, but generally we say that the best running sock is one that:
- Made of a material that keeps your feet dry
- Reduces the risk of chafing and blisters
- Is free from seams
- Has a good fit
The best running socks should stay in place throughout your entire run without bunching up. In all Gococo socks, we use the functional material 37.5® Technology, which helps maintain an even temperature and dries quickly. Our Trail Running and Light Sport socks are Gococo customers' favorites among running socks. Both have a large proportion of 37.5 Technology in the sole but are also completely seamless and have large air channels that provide a cool and comfortable foot when you run longer sessions.
How do I choose the right running socks?
Which running socks you should wear when running is very individual. Some people prefer a more padded sock with stronger reinforcements and more protection, while others prefer a thin sock that is really cool and almost invisible on the foot.
- Thin running socks. We generally recommend the thinner Light Sport High socks for running, especially during the summer months. Many people get hot feet and then the risk of discomfort and chafing is greater. Then a cool and airy sock will make your run much more comfortable.
- Low-cut running socks are perfect when it's hot outside and you want to wear as little as possible on your feet. Low-cut socks often feel lighter, a little more airy and cooler.
- Compression socks. If you are going to run long distances or have trouble getting tired in your calves, compression socks can be comfortable and provide a little extra support to your legs while running. We usually explain it as shifting the feeling of fatigue slightly with compression on your feet.
- Surface and weather conditions. There is no obvious answer as the choice is individual, but you can think about how and where you run. Is it hot outside? Then a thinner and more breathable running sock may be best. Are you running long distances or in the woods and terrain? Then a slightly more padded sock with good support may be nice. Is it cold outside? Then a pair of socks in warming merino wool may be preferable.
The difference between different running socks
The range of running socks can sometimes feel overwhelming. The differences can be big when it comes to thickness, length, support, material and where the reinforcement is located. Some are more padded for long runs, while others are super light for competitions in warm weather. But just as we mentioned before, what you prefer for socks is very individual. The shoes you run in can also have an impact as different shoes wear differently on your feet and it can be good to adjust socks according to the shoes.
Differences in material choice are also important when you run in different weather conditions.
- In cold and wet weather, wool is preferable as it retains heat better.
- In warmer weather, functional materials that have good breathability and keep the foot at a comfortable temperature are suitable.
- Compression or non-compression socks is another issue to consider when choosing running socks. This is also individual and depends on what you as a runner prefer and what your needs are when running.
Which running socks provide extra support?
Today, there are many running socks designed to provide extra support. Many socks, like our Compression models, are designed to provide extra support to the calf muscles. The compression can reduce fatigue and aid in recovery. Our Trail Running socks have compression in the foot itself, which stabilizes the arch and ankle when running on uneven surfaces.
What is the benefit of compression socks for running?
Compression socks can help increase blood circulation and reduce swelling in your legs, both during and after running, which can be very nice when you are running long distances and training hard for a race. We usually say that a pair of compression socks is “good insurance” when you are going to run and train hard for a race. High running socks can also protect against branches and bushes if you are running off-road, and they can keep your calves warm when it is cold. In warmer weather, however, compression will be a little warmer, so it is important to make decisions from day to day which socks you want to use and what suits you as a runner. 
Which running socks are best for chafing?
Chafing is a runner's nightmare. To minimize the risk, it is crucial to choose good running socks that effectively transport moisture away quickly and fit really well on the foot. Chafing is often caused by friction and moisture, so Gococo's socks with 37.5® Technology, which dry quickly and breathe, are a great choice. Also make sure the seams are flat/invisible and that the sock is the right size for your foot.
What materials are best in running socks?
The material in your running socks plays a big role in comfort and durability. By choosing good materials, you get socks that keep you dry and are durable. At Gococo, we especially like 37.5® Technology , which is a unique material. 37.5® Technology gets its properties from a natural technology but also has superior performance when it comes to regulating temperature and moisture.
Other good materials are synthetic blends and wool that "marry" perfectly with the properties of 37.5® Technology. The materials you use in your sock make a big difference to your comfort. Socks with a lot of nylon and cotton do not have the same comfortable feel on the foot and can easily cause chafing during longer runs. 
Does the thickness of the running sock matter?
Yes, absolutely! The thickness can affect both comfort and how the shoe fits on the foot. A thin running sock is often more comfortable in warmer weather, while a slightly thicker sock can be more comfortable on longer runs or colder days because it provides more cushioning. But as I said, this is individual and some runners can't imagine running in anything other than thin socks and vice versa.
Which running socks are recommended for long distances?
For long distances, we recommend a sock that provides good moisture transport, a little extra cushioning and a really good fit on the foot. Our Technical Cushion socks are examples of models that many long distance runners like.
How often should you change your running socks?
Just like your running shoes, your socks wear out over time. How often you should replace them depends a bit on how much you run - but generally as soon as you notice that the sock loses its fit, gets thinner in parts or starts to slide around in the shoe. Many people think about changing shoes, but forget that socks actually wear out too and affect the feel of the run.
Are there special running socks for men and women?
Most running socks on the market today, including Gococos, are unisex. The most important thing is to find the right size and fit for your feet.
Gococo socks for maximum comfort and function
Why should you choose functional socks from Gococo? We are a Swedish brand that designs sports socks developed by athletes. Our socks:
- Prevents chafing and blisters
- Keeps your feet dry
- Sits well on the foot
- Local production in Europe
- Durable and hard-wearing in Oeko-Tex certified materials
Choosing the right running socks is an investment in your running comfort and performance. By understanding your own needs, taking external factors into account, and choosing socks with good materials and fit, you will be able to enjoy your runs even more. So the next time you update your running wardrobe, don’t forget the important layer closest to your skin – your socks!
Buy the best running socks at Gococo – We have socks for all runs.
