Why good socks are just as important as good running shoes

Herzog Medical
May 9, 2025

Ask any runner what the most important piece of gear is, and you’ll probably get the answer: “my shoes.” That’s understandable, because the right running shoe helps prevent injuries and supports your running style. But what many runners forget is that good socks are just as important for your comfort, performance and recovery .

In this blog we explain why running socks are so much more than an afterthought and why you should take them as seriously as your shoes.

1. Socks are the direct link between your foot and shoe
Where your shoe absorbs the initial shock, it is your sock that makes direct contact with your skin. The wrong sock will chafe, sweat through or shift while walking. The result? Blisters, irritation and discomfort.
A good running sock prevents this by:

to breathe and wick away moisture well
fits perfectly on your foot and lower leg
use flat or smooth seams to prevent friction
to provide compression in the right places for extra support

2. They support the anatomy of your foot and lower leg
Just as your shoes are tailored to your gait, so can your socks. Think compression around the ankle, support for the calf muscles and a secure fit that hugs the lower leg.
The Herzog PRO compression socks are a good example of this: they are available in different lengths and circumferences, so you can choose a stocking that fits your leg. Thanks to the decreasing pressure gradient — from the ankle to the knee — they provide targeted support that stabilizes the muscles, absorbs shocks and helps prevent overload.

3. Good socks help prevent injuries
Many running injuries are caused by overload, insufficient muscle support or poor waste disposal. Compression stockings can play a crucial role in this:

Shin splints and calf pain are often caused by micro vibrations and overload. Compression stockings dampen these and actively support the muscles.
Achilles tendon and ankle complaints can be reduced by the extra stability that compression provides.
Blisters and irritation are prevented by a good fit and moisture-wicking material.

4. They contribute to faster recovery
The decreasing compression in the Herzog PRO Compression Socks promotes blood circulation and stimulates the removal of waste products. This allows you to recover faster after a heavy training or competition. Even if you have no complaints, you can benefit from the restorative effect that compression offers, especially if you train often or intensively.

5. You simply walk more comfortably
Perhaps most importantly, good socks make walking more comfortable. And when walking becomes more comfortable, you can keep going longer, walk with more pleasure and stay motivated to continue training.

It pays to pay as much attention to your socks as you do to your shoes. Think of it as a team: your shoe absorbs the impact, but your sock provides support, stability and comfort during and after your run. The Herzog PRO compression socks are specifically designed for runners who want to improve their performance and prevent injuries — with success.