Cushioned Socks Are Key for Happy Feet During High-Impact Activities Like Running and Hiking—Here Are the Best Ones

With a cute, quarter-height silhouette and plenty of cushion, these versatile socks from Bombas are perfect for taking on any activity. Because they feature the brand's signature honeycomb-style arch support and a snug ankle cuff, they'll keep your feet feeling supported throughout long days on your feet. And, while there's plenty of zoned cushioning on these socks, they're made with sweat-wicking yarn and include airflow vents to keep your tootsies cool.

Having a cushioned sock on the soles can provide an extra layer of comfort while running, be it on pavement, a treadmill, or on the trails. Our top pick for this category are the Gonii Ankle Socks from Amazon, which come in a 5-pack and are designed from a cotton, polyester, and spandex blend that is breathable and fits the foot comfortably. We love these because, in addition to their breathable material, the socks are cushioned in areas that that hit the ground the hardest (aka, the ball of the foot and the heel), and include a plush heel tab to prevent scratches and blisters. Plus, you can get five of them for less than $20.

If you’re looking for extra comfort and grip for Pilates, barre, or yoga, these socks provide both thanks to the cushioned bottoms and rubber treads. Additionally, they’re constructed from stretchy cotton that is breathable to keep soles dry and comfortable during your workout. Plus, they come in a little pouch perfect for stashing in your gym or yoga bag.

Comfort goes a long way when hiking, and we swear by these Darn Tough socks for getting us up the mountain with a little extra cushion. They’re designed to fit with hiking boots or sneakers—whatever your preference is—and are constructed from a durable Merino wool that wicks away sweat and maximizes airflow while you roam. They're also cushioned on the toe and heel to help with high impact, reduce friction, and prevent blisters, while the reinforced arch provides extra support.

Looking for something a little more low-profile? Check out these no-show socks from Bombas. Unlike most other no-show socks, these sport a performance material that wicks sweat away from your feet, keeping them cool and collected, mile after mile. There’s plush reinforcement in the toe and heel, plus a seamless toe-box to avoid bunching in your sneaks. Most importantly, they actually stay in place thanks to a grip in the heel, which is a major plus for no-show socks since so many of them tend to slip and slide around.

If you struggle with plantar fasciitis, bone spurs, or just prefer more cushion in the back of your foot, check out Thorlo’s 12-Hour Shift Ankle Socks. They’re specifically designed for people who stand for hours and can provide extra comfort to those in work shoes and work boots since the padded heel helps reduce blisters, pressure, and pain. In addition to cushioned support, the socks are also moisture-wicking and help keep soles dry while wearing.

Bunions can be incredibly uncomfortable, especially when wearing certain shoes. If you’re looking for something that can provide a little more relief, a pair of cushioned socks designed specifically for bunions are a must. We love these padded socks from OrthoFeet because they are designed to be worn with most shoe styles and feature a split-toe construction that keeps the big toe separate from other toes to help support natural alignment. The socks also promote circulation, and can even relieve pressure on the soles.

There’s nothing worse than swampy feet, which is why the Hylaea Athletic Running Socks are our top pick for the best moisture-wicking cushioned socks. They’re constructed from high-quality and durable material that reduces fatigue, provides arch support, and cools the soles of feet so you’ll stay comfortable while you wear them. Thanks to the brand’s CoolMax technology, they pull moisture away from the body, too, ensuring your feet stay dry no matter how sweaty you get.  Plus, they come in a three pack which adds to the value.

Wool is one of the best materials for socks because it’s naturally temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking. We adore the Feetures Merino 10 Max Cushion No Show socks because they are constructed from a high-quality merino wool blend that incorporates Tencel fibers, giving your feet unmatched softness with reinforcement in the toes and heels. They’re also compressive with reduced spandex throughout the body that creates a fit-like-a-glove feel underneath sneakers. Bonus points for the no-show height you can wear with various styles.

Cushioned socks are extra comfy in boots, so if you’re shopping for the best pair of knee-high socks the Wrangler Angora Blend Cushioned Knee High Boot Socks are worth a try. These socks come in a two-pack and are constructed from ultra-soft Angora with an acrylic, nylon, and spandex blend, for warmth, stretch, and long-lasting comfort. The socks are also not only moisture-wicking but quick-drying, too.

For cushioned socks with added compression, look no further than the CWVLC Cushioned Compression Athletic Ankle Socks. These socks are great for exercise as they are made from a moisture-wicking material with lots of good, form-fitting stretch for compression and, of course, cushion in the parts of the foot vulnerable to the most impact. Plus, there’s a rainbow of colors to choose from, including single styles in black, white, purple, lime green, watermelon, and royal blue, as well as multi-packs of matching or mixed colors, allowing you to add a lot of variety for excellent value.