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A podiatrist weighs in on what you should be looking for when you slip on a pair of running socks, plus our top picks.

You take the sneaker selection process seriously when it comes to investing in great running shoes. It’s time to apply that same level of consideration to choosing your running socks, too.“When selecting proper running socks it is important that the socks are sized properly. In the past, many socks were grouped into small, medium, and large but now many sock companies are creating socks per individual shoe size,” says foot and ankle surgeon/podiatrist Mark J. Mendeszoon, FACFAS, FACPM, a partner at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties Inc in Chardon, Ohio and the owner of Achilles Running Shop in Willoughby, Ohio and Erie, Pennsylvania. (He’s also a track coach who loves to work out and run.)

This foot pro stresses the importance of trying on socks before you use them to ensure that they are comfortable, fit well, and have no irritating seams or stitches which could cause blisters or small wounds when running. Buying socks in person is his preference, but if you purchase them online, he says to make sure there is a return policy that allows you to try them on and return them free of charge. He also recommends that people buy only a few pairs of socks to start. Once you find the proper fit, you can order in larger quantities.

Runners will benefit from wearing the new microfiber socks that are moisture wicking, antimicrobial, non-restrictive, and non-friction, says Mendeszoon. “Cotton socks are very rarely used today in the running market,” he adds.

Mendeszoon also cautions people to only wear their own socks (no sharing, in other words) and wear them only once between washes. “When washing running socks, place in a light spin cycle or handwash them. Do not place in the dryer and let them air dry,” he says, adding that since socks can get lost easily, you might want to place the same marks on pairs of socks, so they can be reunited after they are washed. Speaking of which, Mendeszoon suggests keeping things consistent, especially during you biggest running days. “When big races or long runs are planned, please make sure you don't mix and match socks which could cause one foot to wind up with irritation and/or blisters," he advises.

Below, 10 stellar running socks to add to your sock drawer pronto. (Prices are per pair, unless otherwise specified)

Swiftwick’s signature running sock is one of our all-time faves. Featuring high compression to support your muscles on long runs and help keep your feet energized, we also love the thin profile. These moisture-wicking socks also keep foot sweat at bay and their seamless toe box reduces rubbing between your toes and the fabric.

These performance socks from the running brand On offer lightweight protection wherever your day’s trail running or fartlek training takes you. We appreciate that the mesh sections help regulate foot temperature (warm in the winter, cool when the sun is blazing) and that the high-quality Swiss engineering keeps the sock securely in place. Not having to bend over half a dozen times a run to adjust your socks’ positioning? We’ll take it.

Ultra-lightweight? Yep. Durable? You betcha. Odor-resistant? Of course. Temperature-regulating Merino wool is the main material (there’s also nylon and Lycra Elastane) in these socks designed for supreme comfort and a snug fit. The seamless toe closure helps you avoid blisters and the lightweight cushioning is superb, especially on trail runs.

Made with Tri-Blend moisture-wicking yarn, these compression socks will help you better your best on the treadmill or racecourse. The yarns are said to improve breathability, cut friction, and reduce blistering. In addition to keeping your feet dry and comfortable, HyperCompression sock technology is embedded into these socks, touted to help keep muscles warm, reduce swelling and increase circulatory blood flow. Bonus: Lasso's patented foot and arch compression support are designed in such a way so that they may provide active joint security and reduce foot fatigue.

Support this American manufacturer, and you’ll be sure they support your feet in return. We’re talking top-notch, all-weather outdoor socks that have a lifetime guarantee. They rate high on the comfort scale, are built to last, and are made with True-Seamless technology, as well as an exclusive blend of either ultra-fine, premium Merino wool or Coolmax/Thermolite. We’re partial to this ultra-lightweight pair but experiment with a few styles until you find your favorite.

From the seamless toe to the first-rate arch support, there’s a lot to love about these performance socks that are made from a blend of PolyPro, nylon and spandex. With a compression ribbing cuff to stave off muscle fatigue by promoting blood flow, the mesh upper also makes for excellent ventilation to keep your feet from overheating. To seal the deal, we’re big fans of the double-over ribbed cuff to give you a bit of extra ankle support, particularly on longer runs.

Serious runners will dig the cushioning on the ball and heel of the foot for extra protection while you crank out those PRs. They also boast the brand’s 4 Degree elite fit system, men’s-specific mesh ventilation zones, and a Virtually Seamless toe. Made in America with imported yarn, these socks are manufactured with Merino wool, nylon, and elastane.

These compression running socks mean business (and for the long-haul—see their lifetime warranty). Crafted with comfort and support in mind, they stay securely in place during the toughest of treadmill sessions or incline work, or wherever your workout leads you. Arch support, a heel tab, moisture-wicking yarn, and a cushioned-sole round out the mix.

Fan of quarter socks? Our vote is these unisex socks from Balega which are made from Drynamix polyester, nylon, and elastane. The mesh makes them highly breathable, while the cushioning on the sole helps give you extra support during impact. The non-constricting compression bands are a nice touch, too.

These Amazon’s Choice socks are great for runners thanks to the mesh construction to promote good airflow, the thick bottoms to cradle your foot with extra comfort, and a reinforced heel for improved durability. A heel tab makes them easy to slide on and off, and the lengthened heel design minimizes friction and safeguards your ankle. Now, go crush that five-miler.