The Best Moisture-Wicking Socks to Keep Your Sweaty Feet Comfortable

Cotton isn’t the best fabric for workout-friendly socks. But, these cushion crew socks from Nike feature a good blend of cotton and synthetics that offer the best of both worlds: the softness and comfort of cotton with the moisture-wicking, odor-resistant properties of nylon and polyester. By adding a dash of spandex, these moisture-wicking socks also offer just enough give so they conform perfectly to your feet. A reinforced heel and toe also helps keep this pair in your rotation for a long time, while ribbed cuffs ensure a secure fit.

At around $5 per pair, these are some of the best value moisture-wicking socks we’ve seen this year. They don’t offer the same level of performance as more premium socks with Merino wool or high-quality synthetics. But, given the great price and more than 13,000 five-star ratings on Amazon alone, we think they’re a steal.

What do buyers say? Out of more than 17,000 Amazon reviews, 90% recommend the Nike Performance Cushion Crew Socks with at least a 4-star rating.

These athletic, anti-blister, and moisture-wicking socks are made with Coolmax fiber, ideal for keeping perspiration in check when you’re lifting, running, or cycling. We also appreciate the seamless toe closure to prevent yarn chafing and discomfort while on the move. A light compression design helps stimulate blood flow and provide a more snug fit. Bonus: Mesh ventilation on the instep ensures superb breathability from toe to heel. We also like that they’re available in a variety of bold colors (like pink and bright red) too.

With a 3-pack priced at around $24, these are another great value moisture-wicking sock. They’re also incredibly well-reviewed on Amazon with more than 3,000 five-star ratings. It’s hard to find much to dislike about these, although some buyers note long-term durability issues with socks fraying prematurely.

What do buyers say? Out of more than 4,500 Amazon reviews, 88% recommend the Hylaea No-Show Running Socks with at least a 4-star rating.

Related: Best No-Show Socks For Men

Pros

• Great price
• Excellent sweat and moisture management
• Built-in mesh ventilation prevents overheating
• Targeted arch compression
• Good color selection

Saucony has been a solid name among runners for well over a century, so it’s no surprise that these dsocks are a fan favorite. Between moisture-wicking polyester and mesh ventilation, sweat doesn’t stand a chance when you wear these no-show socks. Plus, they feature targeted arch compression to keep you stable—and prevent annoying sock slippage—during your runs. They’re available in a good selection of colors and pack sizes, including six, eight, 12, or 18.

With some six-packs available for just over $10 (that’s less than $2 a pair!), it’s hard to beat the value in these moisture-wicking socks. With more than 35,000 ratings on Amazon alone—most overwhelmingly positive—it’s clear plenty of runners agree. Even if you’re a frequent marathon runner, you can score a year’s worth of sweat-resistant socks for less than $50.

What do buyers say? Out of more than 35,000 Amazon reviews, 92% recommend the Saucony Bolt Performance No-Show Socks with at least a 4-star rating.

Thanks to the addition of copper, these performance socks not only keep your feet dry, but they’ll keep them smelling fresh too. Turns out the rare metal is something of a miracle when added as a fiber to performance wear like moisture-wicking socks. The ankle-height design is versatile enough for running and casual, everyday wear. Added cushioning in the footbed, along with arch compression, will keep you secure and comfortable for the duration of your workout. Plus, built-in mesh venting helps prevent overheating too.

Pros

• Moisture-wicking and quick-drying
• Stink-resistant
• Extreme cushioning is great on long hikes
• Very comfortable design
• Crew height adds extra protection on the trail
• Made in Vermont
• Lifetime warranty

Hikers demand a lot from their socks, and these full-cushioned socks from Darn Tough are, well, pretty darn tough. They feature a high-tech construction that’s mostly Merino wool—a material that’s naturally odor-resistant, quick-drying, and, perhaps most importantly, moisture-wicking. The addition of nylon and spandex into the mix helps make these even more durable with just the right amount of give. Plus, as the name implies, the heavy cushioning makes these great for everything from casual day hikes to longer, overnight adventures—pretty much anywhere you need your feet to stay dry and comfy.

The only downside? Price. At nearly $30 per pair, these are definitely in the “premium” category. But, you really do get what you pay for, as these are some of the best moisture-wicking socks we’ve ever tested.

Pros

• Extremely durable construction
• Blended fabric is great at wicking moisture
• Reinforced heel for added strength
• Zoned cushioning in all the right places
• Odor-resistant
• Lifetime warranty

Hard-working socks for the hard-working man. Anyone who spends considerable time on their feet—at work or elsewhere—demands socks that’ll last. True to their name, these hard-wearing socks from Wigwam boast an ultra-durable sole that many reviewers describe as lasting for years. The clever blend of natural and synthetic fibers provides the best of both worlds for your feet. Plus, thanks to moisture-controlling materials and anti-odor technology, they’ll keep your feet dry and fresh for as long as your workout or workday lasts.

At more than $8 per pair, these are a premium option that’s considerably more expensive than our most budget-friendly picks. But, if you want footwear that can go the distance, you’re no doubt willing to pay for the privilege.

What do buyers say? “I work seven days a week on a delivery route. I’m up and down off the truck all day. My pedometer reads that I walk over seven miles a day. I go through shoes quite a bit. But, theses socks last for years. They’re soft and comfortable, yet very durable,” said one Amazon reviewer.

Pros

• Added heel tab length for a non-slip fit
• Snug, supportive midfoot
• Thick knit holds up well to washing and wearing

According to the manufacturer, these socks are designed for training. An durable, thick knit heel offers a locked-in feeling, while a snug midfoot creates an athletic, arch-supporting fit.

The heel is complete with an extra-long fabric tab, so you won’t have to worry about these slipping down while you run.

Pros

• Perfect design for serious runners
• Clever design prevents chafing and reduces friction
• Mesh panels prevent overheating
• High-tech proprietary fabric blend
• Seamless, reinforced toe

Like working men and fitness enthusiasts, runners demand serious performance from their workout gear. Socks are no exception. This runner favorite features a high-tech synthetic fabric blend—primarily Balega’s proprietary Dynamix—that wicks away sweat, prevents chafing, and stays put. Mesh panels help ventilate your feet when things heat up, while plush cushioning ensures lasting comfort. A seamless, reinforced toe also maximizes comfort, even on the longest runs.

Like many of the best moisture-wicking socks, these aren’t cheap. At $18, you’re paying a premium. But, thousands of runners on Amazon alone agree, these are worth the money. If you’re an avid runner (or even just getting started), footwear is not somewhere you want to cut corners.

What do buyers say? “As a runner I have ventured across many sock brands, but the Balega’s are my favorite. They don’t lose their stretch or start to get scrunchie as you wear and wash them, they stay soft and offer all day comfort,” said one Amazon reviewer.

Pros

• Extremely lightweight
• Anti-friction design minimizes chafing
• Available in a range of sizes
• Great variety of colors
• Good design for runners

Like sunglasses and good books, socks are a very personal thing. There is no one best sock to rule them all, as it’s a matter of personal preference and what’s right for you. But, there are some universal things to look for when shopping for the best moisture-wicking socks. Here’s everything you’ll want to consider:

Fit: Fit is the most personal aspect of all when shopping for socks (moisture-wicking or otherwise). It can be especially difficult when many manufacturers offer socks that “fit shoe sizes 6-12.” Ideally, you’d want to try on any new socks first in store. If that’s not possible, be sure to pick a retailer with a generous return policy, so you can get something resembling a “free in-home trial.”

Thickness: Thickness goes hand-in-hand with comfort. If you’re planning to be very active in cool, warm, or hot weather, we almost always recommend a light- to mid-weight sock. If it’s going to be especially cold—you’re planning to go snowshoeing, winter hiking, or ice fishing—then consider something heavier. Just remember that, if you’re going to be active, you will warm up and that could mean sweating. Our best tip: always bring a second pair of clean moisture-wicking socks, so you have a backup plan for your feet.

Fabrics: In most cases, cotton is a no-go. It absorbs water very well, but is notoriously poor at wicking it away from your skin. In our opinion, responsibly sourced Merino wool is the hands-down best option for moisture-wicking socks. It’s naturally odor-resistant, quick-drying, and extremely efficient at wicking away sweat and moisture. The downside is that it’s almost always more expensive than synthetic alternatives. Synthetics—namely polyester and nylon—are more affordable, and still do a great job of wicking away moisture.

Compression: Compression socks used to be for people with serious medical conditions. These days, athletes, long-haul travelers, and anyone who works long days on their feet swear by them. As the name implies, they physically compress your lower extremities to help stimulate blood flow. Note that, if you’ve never worn them before, the sensation can feel very constricting and weird. They often take some getting used to, but there’s plenty of scientific evidence to suggest that they help promote better circulation and post-workout/post-training recovery.

Design: Some call this an option; we say it’s a must-have. And more specifically, a seamless design: A unique sewing technique that all but eliminates the awkward seam often found at the top of the toe in lesser socks—you know the one that perpetually digs into your feet all day long. It’s a far more comfortable option, especially if you’re active.

Durability: Durability is typically a by-product of the types of fabric used. The better the fabric, the longer your socks will last. You don’t have to spend a fortune to find durable socks, but the best models are more expensive. If you’re hard on your clothing—you work on your feet all day, hike on the regular, or run every other day—consider splurging on the most durable, moisture-wicking socks you can afford.

Budget: We know budget is always a factor when shopping for performance apparel. The good news is that you can score high-quality socks for less than $10 a pair. The best moisture-wicking socks, however, typically run north of $20 per pair. So be prepared to pay a premium.

At Men’s Health, we take great pride in providing our readers with reliable and trustworthy product recommendations. We believe that our readers deserve the best, which is why we always make sure to conduct thorough research and testing before making any recommendations. For this story, we spent hours researching and testing top-rated and best-selling moisture-wicking socks to understand what factors set the most popular picks apart from the rest.

Our writers and editors are experts in their own right, and use their informed opinions to select products and ensuring that our content is of the highest quality. The above product recommendations are purely editorial, and while we may receive free products to test and review, we only recommend the products that genuinely impress us. We never let retailers or publicists dictate our content or product coverage. Which is why you can trust us to provide you with reliable and unbiased product recommendations.

Over the last year, our fitness writers and in-house gear experts researched and field-tested many of the most popular moisture-wicking socks. We compared every feature and spec, noting durability, comfort, performance, fabrics, price, and, of course, how good they were at moving sweat away from our skin to keep our feet dry and comfortable. In addition to our personal favorites, we included socks with more than 100 five-star ratings on the etailer websites that we trust most. The list above represents our honest picks of the best moisture-wicking socks worth buying in 2022.