Inexpensive, Great Socks for Beginner to Moderate Runners

 I'm fairly new to the world of running,

having begun my "Couch to 5K" training in May 2013.

I now run regularly, usually around 3.3 miles, 3 times a week. So I consider myself a "moderate runner". I've learned a few things, though I still have much to learn.

 

In the beginning, I didn't want to purchase expensive equipment till I knew I would stick with it.

Money is tight around this house,

so I need to make it really count, ya know?

I started off with my old, worn out, Champion athletic shoes, and a pair of the ankle socks I had in the drawer.

After about a week of building up to short sprints, I started to get blisters. Ouch!

 

So, I decided to wear TWO pairs of socks at once.

That worked just fine, BTW.

I recommend it if you're just starting out, really broke, or in a laundry predicament of some sort.

It's better than blisters!

 

Anyways, I really began to like the rush of running, so I committed myself to the Color Run 5K 

(read more about my experience with that HERE).

 

I went to be properly fitted for quality running shoes that were just right for me and my feet.

Thanks Run-N-Tri of Mobile, Alabama! 

My Saucony Ride 6 shoes have served me well so far :)

 

After that, I decided to go pick up some socks. I didn't want the expensive, fancy compression socks that were at RNT. I was feeling slightly shocked by the amount I had just spent on the shoes, having never spent that much on shoes before, so my frugality demanded less expensive socks.

Off to Academy.

I looked around for a bit and decided to try New Balance. I liked the height, the thickness, and the cost.

The package had 3 pairs for $9.99.

 

They were supposed to provide "stability fit" arch support (seems to work well for me), plus they had Lightning Dry® moisture management AND breathable side vent panels. Works for me, too!

 

It's great that they are Made in the USA, too. Go USA!

 

So I bought them. They had reinforced heel and toe zones and a good, stretchy fit. Even after 9 months, they still have the same fit/shape.

 

NOTE: You are NOT supposed to bleach these, nor use any type of fabric softener with them, or it will effect their moisture wicking ability. Consider yourself warned.

 

I continued on with my training, working up to being able to run that full 5K by October 2013. And I always favored those New Balance socks. So much so, that I went back and bought another pack, exactly the same. So now I have 6 pairs, which is enough for now. But if I ever need more, I'll be buying those again.

For a beginner to moderate runner like me, these are great.

If you are a Marathoner, or someone who runs great distances, you may need those expensive compression socks.

For the rest of us, these ought to do just fine.

 

What running gear is a must have for you?