BETTER COMPETITOR GEAR LJR
SUPER FEET
Picking the best running socks for \ Rebecca Heaton Besides your running shoes, the right socks are some of the most important pieces of gear you wear-unless you're barefoot running, of course. So we asked our in-house running expert, Matt Fitzgerald, for his top three tips on what to look for when shopping for running socks.
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Buy socks designed for runners. There are subtle but important differences between c running socks and general athletic socks, which may include moisture-wicking fabrics to keep the feet drier and fewer seams to reduce chafing.
r\\e aware that there are significant differf* ences in sock designs. They come in different k , n materials, thicknesses, heights and so forth. If you don't like the socks you have or don't know what you like, try a few and learn what works best for you.
(- x; Different socks may be more comfortable =: < in different shoes. You might, for example, ; ..-::,::::; prefer a thinner sock with your racing flats than you like with your trainers. Check out some of our favorites:
SAVE OUR SOLES ECOSOLEMAX SOCKS Made from a special blend of 70 percent COOLMAX EcoMade, which is recycled plastic, and 30 percent Cordura nylon for durability, these ankle socks arc wonderfully soft, with cushioning along the bottom and at the back of the ankle, and thinner stitching along the top for breath ability. $11. sos.socfes.com
ORYMAX HOT WEATHER RUNNING One look at the breathable mesh vents along the top and arch of these low crew socks, and you know your feet will stay cool on any hot run. These socks are made with the patented Blister Guard system using special woven fibers in the heel, forefoot and toe to keep friction low and help with wicking. USA made. SI6, dmnaxsocts. com
WIGWAM EXCEL
i mm % ULTRA
These crew socks are made with a blend of Freshguard fibers, plus polyester and cotton with a bit of spanclex arid nylon to control moisture. They have a nice foot-hugging fit and an extra cushiony sole, with a seamless toe closure. This style conies in a fun stripe pattern with different colors, and they are US A made. $11, wigwaiii.com
i A minimalist sock • with a gentle snug i fit. particularly i across the arch and j ankle, these justi over-the-ankle socks i are made from soft i and durable merino i wool, which is great i for moisture arid ; temperature mani agement. Nicely i knit mesh ventila• lion zones along j the top of your foot i help with breath| ability SI4, \m
Competitor October 2010
INJINJI PERFORMANCE SERIES MiOWEIBHT
This cushiony crew style features a patented five-toe seamless design that studies have shown help strengthen muscles in your foot and leg. Made from COOLMAX, Lycra and nylon fibers, these socks offer up light compression and arch support, along with moisture management. $16, injinji.com
i 8ALEGA X ATHLETE i SEAMLESS i COMFORT i Soft and comfort; able, this seamless j style is made from i a blend of Balega's • Dynamix polyester, i nylon, olefin and \e that is j quick-drying and ; allows for a freej moving yet snug fit. j Extra cushioning i along the bottom, i in the toe box and i at the back of the \e complete the \, $10. : balegasports.com
I LIGHT MiCRO CREW