Odor control: This is related to keeping your feet dry.Nike Dri-FIT socks, for example, have sweat-wicking fabric that provides great breathability. Moisture wicking: Acrylic, polyester, and wool blends will help keep your feet dry.Slippage and bunching: This may have to do with finding the proper sizing, but make sure the material is tight enough in the right places such as the toe area, which helps keep the sock in place.Athletes who work out and perform frequently often prefer compression socks as a way to help boost recovery. Compression: Compression gear applies gentle pressure to stimulate circulation and deliver increased blood flow and oxygen to your muscles.Temperature: If you’re partaking in winter activities, you'll probably want socks that will keep your feet warm and dry.Padding takes up more space, so watch out that it doesn’t make your shoes too tight. This may help cushion your feet and prevent blisters. Cushion and support: Look for padding on the front and heel of the sock.Think about the following when shopping for a sports sock: If you’re snowshoeing in 10-degree weather, a thick, wool-based material will keep your feet warm and moisture-free. If you’re playing soccer in the dead of summer, you want to look for socks that have a combination of durability, sweat absorption and quick drying capability.

The features you need will depend on the type of activity you’re doing and the season. While cotton on its own won’t cut it for a sports sock, when it’s blended with other materials, it becomes much more durable and versatile. Natural fibers: These include wool and cotton. Acrylic helps provide the support and comfort while nylon makes it durable. Nylon and acrylic: These are synthetic fibers that are blended together to make a cushioned, well-built sock. In particular, merino wool is known to preserve heat when wet, which is why it’s a popular option for winter activities such as hiking, skiing, or snowboarding. Wool makes a great material for socks because it is made of fibers that are soft, non-itchy, breathable, and resistant to odors. Wool: Wool is considered one of the best materials for socks, and also one of the most expensive. Here are some different types of fabric to look for in sports socks: For athletes or people who are highly active, socks made from acrylic or synthetic materials are likely the way to go, since they have capabilities to trap and transfer moisture, which means your feet stay dry. When shopping for sports socks, look for specific fabrics to help cushion your feet in the right places while providing moisture wicking capabilities. Over-the-knee socks can be used as extra support for knee pads or other protective cushioning.

Over-the-knee socks: Athletic socks providing the maximum length and coverage, reaching all the way up to the thigh.

Knee-high socks are common in outdoor sports with a lot of exposure to the elements or those needing lower leg protection (for example, to hold shin guards in place).

Over-the-calf socks or knee high socks: Knee-highs typically reach to just below the knee.

They are common for any activities where warmth or a bit of extra coverage is desirable.

Mid-calf socks: Sometimes called trouser socks, these are longer socks that reach half way up the calf or at the top of the calf.

Crew socks are a utility size of sock that are functional in the gym, on the field, and in a wide range of athletic activities. Shorter versions also exist, often called mini-crew socks.

Crew socks: Crew socks are medium sized socks that typically reach a few inches past the ankle and sit just below the calf.

Sometimes you can't see them inside the shoe, hence the term 'no show socks.' Lower socks are commonly worn by runners and in sports where less fabric is an advantage. Low-cut socks, no-show socks, ankle socks: Exactly what they sound like: short socks that sit below, at or slightly above the ankle.

Before making a decision, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with different sock lengths and cuts.

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