Sweaty Feet Will No Longer Be Your Problem, Thanks To These Socks

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Something as simple as a pair of socks can make or break your entire day. We’ve all experienced a bunched-up sock that’s too big, a no-show sock that keeps slipping off under our shoe, or even worse—socks that make your feet sweaty. To be fair, some people are more prone to perspiring down there more than others. If you happen to be one of them, you need to invest in socks for sweaty feet.

Not only is walking around with moist, wet feet uncomfortable, but it can actually create a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus, says New York City-based podiatrist Brad Schaeffer. That's why it's important to make sure your socks are designed with ventilation. Most options of athletic socks are, since they are specifically made for sweat-inducing performance. Depending on your preferences, you may also opt for no-show or low ankle socks that cover up less of your calf for a cooler feel. The sock options for sweaty feet are basically endless.

Let’s face it. When your feet are uncomfortable, your entire being is uncomfortable, which is why it’s important to set yourself up for success with the right pair of socks. It’s not the most glamorous topic, but it must be discussed. Ahead, we share all the best socks for sweaty feet with major intel from a podiatrist, so you’ll never have to feel uncomfortable in your own shoes again.

Open Fields Crew Socks

For starters, Stance makes the most stylish, best-fitting socks around. Aside from aesthetics, these performance crew socks are made from a breathable nylon blend that provides cushioned arch support. They're also lightweight and quick-drying.

Silver Compression Fit

These no-show socks from Balega are made with silver ions. Schaeffer says this feature significantly helps with hyperhidrosis. Silver ions are infused into the fabric of these socks and have antimicrobial properties that help kill bacteria and fungi and prevent odor. Plus, this pair has over 9,000 five-star reviews on Amazon from people who swear by them.

Socks

Socks are here to serve us for all different occasions in life, even when snuggling up at home. These cozy socks from Brooklinen are meant for just that. Fully-cushioned and lined with terry that dries if you sweat, you'll get extreme comfort and a thick, comfy cushion that doesn't overheat your feet.

Run Targeted Cushion Low Ankle Socks

Smartwool products are literally made from high-tech wool that features a moisture-wicking, stretchy merino blend. Merino wool is deceiving because, when you hear wool, you don't necessarily think of high-tech cooling properties.

However, it's naturally moisture-wicking, so it draws perspiration away from the skin, keeping you dry when working up a sweat. Reviewers rave how comfortable and absorbent this pair is, especially for running.

Hiker Coolmax Micro Crew

Darn Tough makes the best socks around when it comes to hiking in general, and people with sweaty feet will reap even more benefits. With midlevel-cushioning and a seamless design, comfort is supreme. Plus, the knit is woven with Coolmax polyester, nylon, and spandex, which provides breathability and warmth at the same time.

Performance Chakra Tab Sock

Most people aren't aware of the fact that Alo Yoga makes really great socks. This statement pair not only looks stylish with your sneakers, but it's made with silver ions that protect against odor. Plus, they are fit for compression to help improve energy and blood flow. You can workout for hours without worrying about your feet becoming excessively sweaty or smelly.

The Compression Socks

Compression socks are amazing for airplane travel, but they can also be tricky for people with sweaty feet, since they are tall and super snug. Away's compression socks strike a good balance of tight compression and comfort. These are made with anti-odor technology and are quick-drying. They also come in a wide range of sizes and are meant to hit just below the knee.

Power Stride No-Show Sock

This online exclusive set of Lululemon socks are one of the best no-show styles around. They are made to train in, since they're made with a blend of super stretchy and made-for-performance nylon and elastane. What sets them apart from others (and worth the splurge) are their 3D-knit PerformaHeel with an 'active grip' tab that keeps feet locked in no matter how much you sweat.

Performance Heel Tab Running Socks

This set from Saucony gives you 16 pairs of quality socks for under $30. With 89,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, this pack is a no-brainer. The heel tab helps avoid back blisters, while the targeted-zone cushioning helps comfort high-impact areas. Plus, they are made entirely with something called 'airmesh venting,' which lets your sweaty feet breath.

Elite Ultra Light No-Show Tab Socks

Feetures claims to have "the world’s most advanced synthetic performance-wicking fibers" in their socks to help keep your feet cool and dry. After testing, I can attest these live up to the hype. The material is thin, smooth, and soft, but still provides cushioned comfort. Made from recycled 'repreve' and tencel, these socks are extremely breathable and unique to any other pair on this list.

Everyday Cushion Crew Training Socks

This is one pair of socks that belongs in everyone's closet. They are simple, but they work. Made from a breathable and porous cotton, you literally cannot go wrong wearing these Nike crews for workouts and everyday activities. The mid-weight knitting is comfortable and protective without feeling bulky—perfect for loafers, sneakers, boots, and more. Plus, the simple sweat-wicking fabric pulls perspiration away from the skin to help keep your feet dry.

Aspire Zero Running & Cycling Socks

These socks from Swiftwick are made from nylon, spandex, and olefin fiber, which is a lightweight, high-performance material that wicks moisture and dries quickly to keep feet dry and blister-free. They are super thin and lightweight for improved speed times and maximum performance. Plus, thinly-knitted upper channels and a mesh footbed helps prevent hotspots and sweat build-up.

How we chose the best socks for sweaty feet

Women’s Health editors, including contributor Vanessa Powell and commerce editor Jasmine Gomez, vetted the bestselling, top-rated socks for sweaty feet. Our team consulted a podiatrist and then evaluated hundreds of customer reviews and ratings to narrow down the best socks for sweaty feet for a wide range of needs and preferences.

Meet the expert

• Brad Schaeffer, a podiatrist at Central Park Sole in New York City

What should I look for in socks for sweaty feet?

To get technical, having sweaty feet is something called hyperhidrosis, which refers to excessive sweating in all parts of the body. But when it occurs in the feet, it can lead to other issues.

“When moisture stays in our shoes and socks, it creates a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungus," Schaeffer says. "That’s why it’s important to look for shoes and socks that are breathable and have ventilation.”

Most socks don’t have visible mesh ventilation, so you’ll have to pay close attention to the way the knit is woven. Does it stretch nicely? Can you feel air pass through with a blow test? All of these are good indications of breathability in socks.

What type of socks are best for sweaty feet?

The best type of socks for sweaty feet are ones made from performance, moisture-wicking fabrics. Usually this comes naturally with a pair of athletic socks, but be sure to check the fine print of materials.

“Silver ions are a great addition to this list because they have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties," Schaeffer adds. This adds an odor-eliminating element and stops the build of fungus.

Read more about the best socks and foot health products

Best No-Show Socks | Best Athletic Socks | Best Compression Socks | Best Ankle Socks | Best Grip Socks | Best Bunion Correctors | Best Sneakers Of 2023 | Best Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis

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