As a long-distance runner, I know how important socks are for comfort during a run. I have used both regular running socks and toe socks for running. Initially, I wore only regular socks until I got blisters and athlete’s foot. Then I decided to try toe socks for running, and since then, I only use toe socks. So, which is better for sports, toe socks or regular socks?
Overall, toe socks are better than regular socks for longer sports activities such as running, walking, and hiking. Toe socks prevent toes from rubbing against each other, which can create blistering. They are also good for moisture control because each finger is wrapped in a sweat-wicking material, which keeps the foot drier and prevents the athlete’s foot.
If you want to know more about why toe socks are good for your feet, read on. I will also share more detailed information on the difference between regular and toe socks.
Toe socks vs. regular socks – Which socks are best for your feet
The best socks for your feet are toe socks because they will be more comfortable than regular socks. They help prevent blisters and keep your feet dry for longer. Each toe is in its own place, so they offer improved grip, which comes in handy for trail running or hiking.
As I said, I also used regular socks for a long time, and I ran my first kilometers in them and my first half marathon. After half a year of long and intense training (5-6 runs a week), I started to get blisters and an athlete’s foot on my feet. As a result, my feet started to ache while running, and the whole room smelled when I took off my running shoes.
If you often get blisters while running, I recommend you read this post, where I explain the 3 features that running socks should have to protect you from blisters.
I did a test and changed my regular socks for toe socks, which are supposed to protect my feet from blisters because the toes don’t rub together. And the feet will dry faster because each toe is wrapped in sweat wicked material.
Starting with toe socks was weird and strange because each toe had its own place in the sock. You must line up each toe and ensure you get them all the way in. But once you get used to it, it goes much faster. When running and walking, the grip on the feet is more stable and feels more comfortable.
When I started using toe socks, I also used a new pair of running shoes to see if my feet would still smell as bad after the run. I found it much more comfortable to run in toe socks because the toes don’t rub together, and the socks soak up more of the sweat between the toes. That’s also why my running shoes didn’t smell anymore, even though I used them almost daily.
Toe running socks are special socks, like compression socks, that have added value compared to regular socks. You can read more about compression socks by clicking on this link.
3 Reasons Why people wear socks with toes
I would recommend Toe socks to anyone who goes for long walks and runs daily. And for those who go for longer hikes in the hills at the weekends. If you are not one of these people, then ordinary sports socks are also suitable, because on shorter distances your feet are not so stressed that you can get blisters and other foot injuries.
If you are active every day and value the comfort of your feet, then it is worth trying toe socks for the following reasons.
| Toes Socks | Regular Socks | |
| Prevent rubbing of the fingers | ✅ | ❌ |
| Easier to wick sweat away | ✅ | ❌ |
| Easier to put on | ❌ | ✅ |
| Offer more grip | ✅ | ❌ |
Toe socks are warmer and more comfortable
Toe socks give a more primal feeling when walking and running because each toe has its own place and therefore feels similar to walking barefoot. When I started using toe socks, I felt more comfortable and had a better grip, allowing me to run easier and faster. Having each individual toe wrapped also keeps my feet warmer when running or hiking in colder months.
The grip will be best for those who do a lot of hill and mountain walking, allowing you to get to the top with less energy. Daily runners will like the toe socks because they wick sweat away very well, so they don’t get foot infections.
Toe socks prevent blisters and athlete’s foot
As a recreational athlete, I know how important it is to take care of your body to get a good workout and prepare for the target competition. I have always only worn ordinary running socks for running and other sporting activities, which has one drawback.
During the prolonged sporting activity, the feet sweat a lot, and the toes rub against each other all the time. This creates the perfect conditions for various foot infections and foot injuries such as calluses, fungus, and athlete’s foot.
If you don’t feel comfortable with toe socks, I recommend wearing cushioned running socks as a replacement, which can absorb more sweat due to the thicker padding in the toe area. You can read a more detailed article on cushioned socks here.
To prevent foot infections and injuries, removing socks and cleaning your feet well after training are important. You can also use different foot creams to moisturize the skin and prevent infections. We can also protect our feet during the activity by wearing toe socks, which put each toe in its own place, wicks away sweat, and prevents the toes from rubbing together.
You can also keep your feet healthy by exposing them to sunlight daily, massaging them to speed up blood circulation, and walking barefoot on the ground.
How long should you wear toe socks?
Toe socks can be worn daily if they feel good and are comfortable for you. Toe socks are better for your feet than regular socks. But if they make you uncomfortable and bother you when you walk, it is better to change them.
Although I am a fan of toe socks, and they feel comfortable, I sometimes use regular running socks for running and walking. There are several reasons for this.
Toe socks are harder to put on, so I prefer to wear regular socks for short walks or when I’m in a hurry. Another reason I sometimes wear regular socks is because some pairs are still almost like new, so I don’t want to throw them away. I want to use them to the end.
Which Toe Socks Do I Recommend?
When choosing toe socks, you get what you are willing to pay for. On Amazon, you can find a range of toe socks from $9 up to $26 for a pair.
If you’re an experienced runner or hiker, then you’re probably already aware of how important socks are. In this case, I wouldn’t waste too many words because the only natural choice is toe socks from Injinji. Injinji is a well-known brand that specializes in toe socks of all kinds:
- Running,
- Trail,
- Hiking.
If you like to run and hike, I recommend buying a pair of wool running socks that you can also use for walking and hiking, saving you some money and space in your wardrobe.
You can also choose between thicknesses and lengths. Although their socks are among the most expensive on the market ($14-$26 per pair), the quality justifies the price. They are very comfortable and fit the foot perfectly. Their socks are very elastic and flexible, so each toe can easily fall into place. You can choose between sizes S, M, L, and XL. Which size is right for you can be seen in the table below.
| SIZE | US MEN | US WOMEN | EU |
| S | 5-7.5 | 6-8.5 | 37-40 |
| M | 8-10.5 | 9-11.5 | 40.5-44 |
| L | 11-13 | 12+ | 44.5-47 |
| XL | 13.5+ | 47.5+ |
Injinji toe socks alternatives
UGUPGRADE toe socks are a good alternative to Injinji toe socks. They are cheaper ($11.99 for a pair) but still protect your toes very well. They have 1500+ reviews averaging 4.3 of 5 stars on Amazon.
AONIJIE Toe Socks for Men and Women are more suitable for runners due to their low profile. They are made entirely of breathable material, which makes the foot sweat less while running. 1400+ positive reviews with an average of 4.6 out of 5 make them a good alternative to Injinji toe socks.
If you are new to toe socks and don’t know if they’re right for you, I definitely recommend you try one of these two choices.