How to Choose Socks for Exercising

"Socks are supposed to protect your feet from friction, absorb perspiration and provide cushioning. However, some socks do these better than others, which is especially important to athletes and other active people," says Joanie Greggains, TV and KGO Radio fitness expert and author of "Fit Happens."

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Running Bras
• Running Clothes
• Running Shoes
• Running Socks
• Running Watches

1. Go with cotton for soft, comfortable and inexpensive socks.
2. Use wool socks if you need extra warmth but still want socks that breathe.
3. Choose an acrylic or polypropylene brand if you want to wick away moisture and don't mind spending a few extra bucks.
4. Make sure the socks are the right size and are shaped to the contours of your foot.
5. Try your socks on with the shoes you intend to wear when exercising. Gauge their thickness and make sure they don't bunch up in your shoes.

Tips & Warnings

• "Most stores now offer high-tech, sports-specific socks, often made of new synthetic materials to go along with the new high-tech shoes. Try them on and give them a test to decide what feels best for you," advises Greggains. "While sports-specific socks provide extra cushioning and can help decrease foot abrasion, they are not as important as the appropriate running shoe, since the shoe can make up for many shortcomings of a sock."