The 12 Best Cushioned Socks to Keep Your Feet Supported During Exercise, Vetted by Us

For those long-distance runs or sprints, we wear the Jogology High Cushion No Show Socks. Editor Katrina Cossey fell for these deeply cushioned athletic socks and now sports them all the time, even without shoes. “I like to wear these while walking or just around the house, because they're very supportive and comfortable,” she says.

Designed for runners and high-performance athletes (and true to their name) these socks have cushioning that’s comforting and impressive. “They're really plush, and I actually feel comfortable not wearing slippers at home (a huge deal, because I have plantar fasciitis),” Cossey says.

The Jogology socks’ design fits each foot and boasts a supportive and snug arch. Cossey liked other thoughtful design elements, such as a seamless toe that “doesn't rub against my shoes during exercise,” and the convenient “front and back heel tabs that prevent my skin from rubbing against the shoes” — a huge bonus for runners and athletes.

“The socks have cushioning in the heels and toes that contours to my feet,” she says. And extra cushioning on the big toe adds plushness in high-impact zones.

Jogology utilizes a unique yarn blend that mitigates sweat while keeping feet soft, dry, and temperate. During testing, we found the temperature regulation, breathability, and anti-chafing qualities to be excellent. “They've seen miles already,” Cossey says, and “despite the thick cushioning, my feet do not sweat or overheat.”

These socks are a bit of an investment, but we believe they’re worth it. But because of the plush cushioning, they're on the thicker side, so you may need to loosen your sneakers or laces to prevent them from feeling tight.

After testing and tracking all of those miles, we found that the socks held up well and were quite durable. They look and feel like they did on the day we opened them. We had no issues tossing them in the washing machine and drying them on low heat. They’ve been through the washer multiple times, and their construction hasn't deteriorated or changed in quality.

If you’re looking for deep comfort during high-impact performance sessions, no matter your destination or mileage, the Jogology High Cushion No Show Socks hit the mark.

No matter the terrain or altitude, when you’re traversing a mountain or on the trail, you need breathable socks that keep your feet warm and comfortable. That’s why we’re slipping into the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks for all of our hiking adventures.

Editor Lili Ladaga can attest. After wearing these socks with her hiking boots on a few rainy days, “they held up well and kept my feet comfortable and dry, even though my boots aren't waterproof.” The socks are breathable and comfortable and didn’t cause any irritation, chafing, or hot spots.

These toasty socks are a blend of shrink-treated merino wool, nylon, and a touch of spandex. So they excel at keeping feet warm while wicking away moisture. Other design elements include a ring-toe construction that hides the seams, while a reinforced, cushioned heel and toe add durability for ongoing impact. Also, an elastic support around the midfoot adds snugness and extra arch support.

We’re impressed with the quality and cushioning. “These socks are well-made, durable, and comfortable,” and they tout a “high level of cushioning” in the underfoot, “so they're super-comfy,” Ladaga says. However, plan on reserving these socks for your roomier hiking shoes. “Since they are highly cushioned, I won't be able to wear them with my regular shoes due to the thicker fabric,” she says.

Ladaga was also a fan of the style and the micro-crew height. “As a short person, crew and knee-high socks always hit higher than normal on my legs, so it was nice to finally have a pair of crew socks that hit at the correct spot.”

When it comes to fit, we recommend sizing down. While the socks are available in small, medium, and large, there is no accompanying shoe size. So it can be challenging to select the correct size.

As for care, Darn Tough recommends washing the socks inside-out in warm water on a gentle cycle and tumble-drying on low.

These hiking socks are a bit pricey. But if you’re searching for socks that provide comfort and wick away moisture, the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks really deliver. 

Whether you’re aiming to take 7,500 or 10,000 steps a day, your feet can stay comfy and supported in the Adidas Women’s Athletic Cushioned No Show Socks. Writer Raki Swanson found these socks to be a gold standard for any movement. From walking to running to playing pickleball to working, these socks are perfect for daily life activities.

Swanson was immediately drawn to the comfort factor: “It's like your whole bottom part of your foot is on a cushion.” We love the plushness at the top part of the sock as well as above the ankle. The sock holds in place on the foot well without being too tight.

These Adidas socks are made of moisture-wicking yarn to keep feet dry and comfortable during sweat sessions. They also have a compression arch for extra arch support and foot stability.

Swanson found this pick to be the “most comfortable everyday sock that is affordable” and can “hold up” to use and wear. The socks are machine-washable and available in a six-pack featuring basic black or white, or a mix of muted neutrals.

For walking, errands, and everyday wear — no matter your daily step goal — the Adidas Women’s Athletic Cushioned No Show Socks will give your feet support and pep throughout the day. 

While ankle, crew, and calf socks are having a moment, sometimes you want to go back to the basics and don a pair of no-show socks. Whether you prefer this style for aesthetic reasons, comfort, or just because, we understand. That’s why we recommend the Darn Tough No Show Tab Ultra Lightweight Running Socks.

The socks are designed for runners, and editor Katie Tuttle tested them during her runs. While they “felt a bit snug at first,” especially in the collar, “after a short period of time, this was not noticeable,” she says. The snug socks are “intended to provide arch support, so they are slightly compressive,” she adds. However, folks with wider ankles may not care for a snugger fit.

The Darn Tough socks are made of a blend of 49 percent merino wool, 47 percent nylon, and 4 percent Lycra spandex. Tuttle found that the merino wool wicked away sweat well and helped keep her feet dry without slipping or bunching in her shoe — a major win for runners. “These socks stayed in place throughout my regular 2- to 3-mile runs, and did not slide down,” she says.

Despite being made primarily of wool, these socks are lightweight and not bulky. They feature a soft, very light cushioned underfoot and a unique heel tab designed to improve heel rebound when running. Using a seamless toe method, the socks are smooth, with minimal toe seams.

The socks are thin and lightweight, so runners may love them or prefer a more cushioned underfoot. After testing, Tuttle continued to wear her Darn Tough socks to help “keep my feet from getting blisters or getting excessively sweaty when I run. And they did a great job of that, despite being thinner than my typical running socks.”

Darn Tough recommends washing socks inside-out on a gentle, cold cycle, then tumble-drying or air-drying, and avoiding using bleach or dry cleaning. While the socks may not be visible from the outside, there are several vibrant color options, such as the canyon with red, cream, and orange accents, and the lavender with neon green accents. You can also select a white pair if you want to keep it straightforward.

For a no-show or low-profile sneaker sock that keeps your feet comfortable and supportive while exercising, the Darn Tough No Show Tab Ultra Lightweight Running Socks are an impressive choice. 

If you’re looking for that bit of ankle sock flair, editor Olivia Campbell found the quality of Smartwool Women’s Hike Ankle Sock to be “outstanding” and “one of the best socks I’ve ever worn.”

While the socks are pricey, we think it’s justified. The high-quality socks feature a trademarked knit called “Indestructawool,” which adds durability in high-impact areas. These ankle socks are composed of 53 percent Merino wool, 42 percent nylon, and 5 percent elastane, which provide strategic stretch and various mesh zones for breathability.

During testing, the Smartwool socks kept Campbell’s feet at a comfortable temperature and wicked away sweat. She found that the socks delivered on targeted cushioning and breathability as well. “They are super soft and cushiony,” and the wool regulated the temperatures so my feet didn’t get “too hot or too cold,” she said.

Campbell liked how well the socks “stayed put and held up just right without restricting” her feet, and the “toe area felt roomy enough for my wide feet.” They also feature a narrow heel to better fit and support women’s heels. We love that they stay up on our ankles without suffocating them, and the various sizing options are great for women with wider feet.

Smartwool recommends washing socks inside out in warm water and tumble-drying on low, and avoiding bleach, dry cleaning, and ironing. Even after multiple washes, the socks “looked new, and are still cushiony and incredibly soft,” added Campbell. No matter your activity of choice, the Smartwool Women’s Hike Ankle Sock is a high-quality, durable option. 

For a varsity crew–style performance sock, writer Brittany Scanniello, RD, loved rolling up a pair of All in Motion Women’s Cushioned Striped Crew Socks. Scanniello put these socks to the test; whether she was running, hiking, weightlifting, doing Pilates, running errands, or lounging, she was never disappointed.

The socks are mostly recycled polyester with stretch to fit up the lower leg. They tout a cushioned heel and compressed arch support. While Scanniello found them to be lightweight, the socks had “just enough cushion” to support her feet. We also like the reinforced toe and heel, which gave us a pleasant, snug feel.

The All in Motion socks are washing machine– and tumble dry–friendly. Throughout various and rigorous activities, the socks remained in excellent condition and didn’t stretch out.

If you’re looking to bulk up on your cushioned socks, you’re in luck. These socks come in a pack of four, so you can easily rotate throughout the week. We like the visible double-stripe design, which adds to the cute athletic look. The All in Motion socks are available in two color stripe options: a white sock with black, gray, and pink stripes, or a white sock with burgundy, gray, and cream stripes.

If you’re into the varsity look, these crew socks pair perfectly with leggings and running shoes without being too long, Scanniello says — making them a cute look for when you’re on the go or crushing it at the gym.

I often reach for a pair of calf socks when I’m strapping on a pair of hiking boots. So does Ladaga, who can attest to the Bombas Women’s Merino Wool Blend Calf Socks: “I've worn these hiking countless times, and they never slip down,” she says.

These calf socks are 77 percent merino wool, 21 percent polyester, and 2 percent elastane for some stretch. “These socks are meant to be thermoregulating, anti-odor, supportive, and stay up,” says Ladaga. “They definitely deliver on all those promises.”

One of Bombas’ signature design elements is a “honeycomb arch,” a supportive band in the arch area that feels like a snug hug around the midfoot. They also won’t roll down, although you can certainly rock them slouched if you like that look or feel.

We think these socks are great for athletics thanks to their nice midweight cushioning. Compression at the arch provides support, while cushioning at the toe and heel protects our feet from rubbing.

These socks deliver on durability and performance as well. “I wear them constantly at home during colder months, walking on bare wooden floors, carpets, and other surfaces, and I haven't seen any pilling or threads catching on things,” says Ladaga. They also have “kept their shape longer than other socks I've had.”

These socks are pricey. But we think they’re worth it, because they feel comfortable and are well-made. Plus, they include several extra details that go above and beyond a regular athletic sock, such as the seamless toe.

To keep your Bombas socks in prime condition, the product maker recommends washing in cold water with a mild detergent and tumble-drying on low. Avoid using bleach, ironing, dry cleaning, or using fabric softeners.

These calf socks are available as a single pair or in packs of four, eight, or 12. Color options include pink, lavender, khaki, and dark charcoal.

When it comes to a higher length–style sock that delivers on performance, durability, and cushioning, this one is our bet. What’s more, for every sock sold, Bombas donates an item to help those experiencing homelessness, so you can feel extra good about your investment. 

Finding socks for wider feet can be a challenge, but that’s where Wide Open comes in: a sock company dedicated to designing socks for wide feet. Made of merino wool, nylon, and spandex, the Wide Open Women's Multi Stripe Cushioned Micro Crew Socks are stretchy and provide midweight support without feeling tight on the leg.

Cossey wore these socks while walking: “I love these socks! I like their stretchy, wide fit and the soft merino wool material that keeps my feet equally warm and cool,” she says. If you’re someone who runs hot, though, these cushioned socks may make your feet sweaty.

We appreciate that the socks stayed in place while walking and that the plush material supported our feet. We could wear them with our sneakers without loosening the ties to accommodate the cushioning. The gentle stretch in the material was also key. “They're stretchy enough to fit wide feet with no problems, are easy to put on and take off, and they don't roll down while walking,” says Cossey, who also liked the soft material. There were zero changes in durability, quality, and construction during wear.

Wide Open recommends washing these socks inside-out on a cold-water gentle cycle and tumble-drying on low or hang-drying. Make sure to avoid bleach use or dry cleaning. These socks washed well in the washing machine. In fact, we didn’t notice any changes in the quality, colors, or fabric despite washing them many times.

Speaking of colors, you can choose from colorful striped options like cranberry with orange and yellow accents, and denim blue with pink accents. The socks are made in the U.S. and come with a lifetime guarantee, so your feet can enjoy them for years to come. 

Bombas socks are known for their comfort, and the Bombas Men’s All-Sport Calf Socks are no exception. Designed for active men and peak performance — from the gym to pickleball to cycling — these socks deliver. They’re made of polyester, nylon, Supima cotton, and elastane. And they don’t bunch or slide down the calf.

The anatomically designed socks feature a midweight cushion, arch support, and a seamless toe to prevent discomfort. Editor Ashley Ziegler’s husband, Spencer, tested these socks. He says their signature honeycomb arch-compression system “gives plenty of support” and “adds a sense of comfort” in the foot. The socks fit snugly “without feeling too tight.”

Ziegler liked the sock's mid-weight feel and its support for key impact zones in the heel and toe. “They have a heft to them that makes [them] feel durable and comfortable, without being too weighty or hot,” he says.

Bombas uses a moisture-wicking yarn alongside a ventilated knit to enhance breathability during peak-performance moments or in heat. In fact, Ziegler wore the socks on scorching days that reached nearly 100 degrees F. He found that they could handle the heat, showing no signs of distress or wear and tear for several weeks.

To keep your Bombas fresh, the manufacturer recommends machine-washing them on a gentle cold cycle, using non-chlorine bleach when needed, and tumble drying. Avoid ironing, dry cleaning, and using fabric softeners.

The Bombas Men’s All-Sport comes in single, four-pack, or eight-pack options. The socks are also available in several colors, such as white with a crimson red stripe, charcoal marl, and midnight navy. Every pair supports a wellness organization for those facing housing insecurities, so the guy in your life can feel good about himself with every step. 

No matter what your preferred physical activity is, it can be difficult to find reliable sweat-wicking socks that handle foot perspiration and odor. For writer Jen Sinclair, the Brooks Ghost Crew Running Socks were up to the challenge.

Sinclair wore the socks on daily walks and runs, and even in bed to get a sense of the support. “These socks were made with arch support and comfort in mind,” and they “did a fairly good job with the moisture wicking during long walks and runs, even in a Floridian summer,” she says.

The Brooks Ghost Crew is made with a unique antimicrobial fabric treatment to help ease odors. The socks boast both arch compression and extended cushioning in the heel and forefoot for added comfort.

Sinclair, a runner, was a fan of the compressed arch: “It gave an extra lift that my old worn-out running socks don't have.” The extra cushioning and fabric in the heel helped prevent the fabric from stretching and thinning out. Other details include a looser and seamless toe area, which “allows for proper foot spread during a run,” she says.

When it comes to fit, count on a more snug fit. “These socks go on well, but are snug around the arch, which may feel strange to anyone who hasn't worn this type of supportive sock before,” says Sinclair. “This is due to the band of compression-like material (or at least feel) around the middle or arch of the foot.” Despite the tighter fit, we didn't find any lingering marks or imprints from the socks on our skin, and we were pleased with how well the crew socks stayed up, even with occasional ankle swelling.

As for the promised sweat-wicking properties, Sinclair says the socks “felt heavy when I took them off, but that means they did the job they were supposed to do.” We also love that they didn't cause any pain, blisters, or chafing.

To keep your socks in shape, Brooks recommends washing before wearing and tumble-drying on low heat. Avoid using fabric softeners. These crew socks are available in magenta, blue, white, and black. A prominent, visible logo is on the side of the sock, but Brooks also offers a no-show version.

If you’re looking to keep your feet fresh and dry, the Brooks Ghost Crew Running Socks deliver just that. 

I was immediately pleased when I first slipped into a pair of the Hanes Women’s Absolute Active Super No-Show Socks. Available as a four-pack, these athletic socks stood up well. I wore them several times at the gym — whether I was on the elliptical or treadmill, or strength training — and my feet felt supported, warm, and cushioned.

They’re made of 80 percent cotton and a blend of polyester, nylon, and spandex. So they have some stretch. But every time I put them on or took them off, they maintained their shape. I personally liked the snug fit around my arch and the supportive underfoot cushion. The interior heel grips kept the socks in place and prevented chafing and blisters. And the four V-shaped mesh strips at the top of the sock foot kept my feet ventilated.

The socks are available in black or white, with playful neon accent colors like bright pink and orange. It may sound silly, but the colorful accents brought me a bit of joy, especially before a grueling workout. Another small detail is that the Hanes brand logo is at the bottom of the foot and toe area, which is nice for people who don’t love an obtrusive logo or brand placement.

I found these socks easy to maintain. I regularly machine-wash and dry them on low heat without any issues or shrinking. If you’re looking to add to your cushioned sock collection at an affordable price, you can’t beat the price of these Hanes socks. 

For more of a minimalist sock vibe without the bulk, the Jogology Low Cushion No-Show Socks hit the mark. “These socks are so thin that I almost forget I have them on,” says Cossey.

The front and back heel tabs help prevent rubbing and blisters, reducing foot pain. A cradling arrow heel design contours the heel for extra support and helps prevent slipping. The socks are labeled left and right to match your feet, and the snug arch support creates a comforting fit. Other thoughtful design features include a seamless toe and a flat knit on the big toe area to prevent chafing and discomfort.

During testing, Cossey appreciated the slim material. It felt like she didn’t have anything on and gave her an extra bit of wiggle room in her shoes. These socks also kept her feet cool and dry during workouts thanks to the material that manages moisture and aeration. “These are best for everyday wear, people who run every so often, and hot weather,” she says.

While these socks are machine-washable, Jogology recommends air-drying. Still, Cossey dried the socks on low heat and didn’t notice any changes in quality.

Whether you have sensory issues or just prefer a lightweight sock, the Jogology Low Cushion No-Show Socks do the trick.