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Best Basketball Socks
Tyler Jones
Gearweare
It really can’t be that important to buy basketball-specific socks, can it? Could you not just slap on any old pair of socks you have to then grind it out on the court? While no one is going to stop you or your children from wearing such socks, you are going to find out today why certain ones can make quite the difference.
In addition to being made of highly technical materials, best basketball socks will also often implement padding to provide your feet with both support and comfort. Your feet will take a lot of abuse on those hardwood (or even backyard) courts, after all.
So, on top of providing you with all the information, you will need to buy the right pair for yourself (or your kids), you can also check out some of the best options that are currently available on the market down below.
This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:
Several different color options are available
They will not slide around
Designed with zoned cushioning
Our Top Picks for the Best Basketball Socks
1. Razer Trail Running
Each material was used for its compressive benefits
Designed with technical mesh
Features Stay Fresh Technology
Pretty much none to speak of
Yes, these are technically running socks but that does not mean that they can’t be used for basketball too. They provide arch support, performance cushioning and optimal breathability all in one.
Read moreMaterials
For the record, this entire blend has been made up of nothing but recycled materials. Of them, the primary combination is nylon and polyamide, but there is also a hint of elastane.
Breathability
In addition to the breathable technical mesh zones that have been implemented, these best basketball socks have also been engineered with Stay Fresh Technology. This will prevent odor-causing bacteria from growing.
Comfort
As you put these on, you will notice that they offer a great balance between protection and performance. This includes seamless toes, performance cushioning, and provided arch support.
Fit
There are multiple sizes available for you to choose from. The choices are from small to extra-large, so pick whichever one will be appropriate for your feet.
Longevity
Due to the materials and artistry, you can take comfort in knowing that these socks will last quite a while. They are not indestructible, clearly, but well-built overall.
Overall
When it comes down to it, the Razer Trail Running Socks are ideal for a plethora of different situations. From basketball to tennis to running to walking, they can be your go-to pair.
2. Under Armour Crew
Designed with ArmourBlock technology
They are well-cushioned
Sport quick-drying materials
The material is a bit on the heavy side
Though you will find that these socks are designed of rather heavy material, it does not affect their breathability all that much. Overall, they are extremely well-cushioned and a joy to wear.
Read moreMaterials
Indeed, the fabric of these socks is somewhat heavy. As for the blend, this is comprised of nylon, polyester, cotton, and spandex. It offers benefits from a bunch of different materials, as you can see.
Breathability
While the ArmourBlock technology is used to prevent bacteria from growing, the HeatGear technology is utilized to wick sweat away from your skin with great efficiency.
Comfort
For crew socks, these sport an admirable amount of cushioning and padding. And, while there is a seam on the top of the toe, it is not going to cause any irritation to you.
Fit
Each sock is custom made for your right and left foot so just keep that in mind. There are also multiple sizing options to pick from and they do seem to be mostly accurate.
Longevity
The thicker material does make these less susceptible to wear and tear, which is nice. You should find that these will last you a decent amount of time.
Overall
Do not worry; in spite of the heavy material, the fabric blend and sweat-wicking technology allow these to be incredibly comfortable and breathable while on your feet. That pretty much says it all.
3. Flare Quarter Running
Backed by Rockay’s lifetime guarantee
Odor-causing bacteria will not be allowed to grow
The materials are just fantastic
The price is somewhat steep for one pair
This is another example of a pair of athletic socks that also make great socks for basketball. Also, being designed with all recycled materials, you can take comfort in knowing these are environmentally-friendly.
Read moreMaterials
Among the all-recycled materials are polyamide, nylon, and elastane. And, it is worth noting that these were chosen for their durability, stability, and compression benefits.
Breathability
Past the Stay Fresh Technology that is also implemented into these basketball socks, they have also been engineered with breathable mesh for improved temperature regulation.
Comfort
The combination of the arch support, performance cushioning, and seamless toes make this one of the best pairs of socks to wear for just about any event that you have.
Fit
Small to extra-large sizing options are available to you. Most everyone is going to be able to find a suitable size because of it.
Longevity
The high-quality craftsmanship is on full display here, as these socks are not going to wear down in a couple of weeks. They may not last several years, but what socks do?
Overall
Only due to the versatility of these socks, they are highly recommended. For basketball, specifically, you will be able to reap the benefits of all they have to offer.
4. ChalkTalk Sports Athletic
A wide variety of colors are available
Dries faster than cotton socks
Quite comfortable to wear
They run small
Some of you will stick with brands that you have been using for years. But, sometimes it is fun to go out on a limb and if you do that with these socks, you are not going to be sorry.
Read moreMaterials
The fabric blend of these socks is pretty darn unique. The primary reason is 80 percent of it is acrylic. For the record, the other percent belongs to both nylon and spandex.
Breathability
Designed with CoolMax technology, these are going to breathe quite well. They will wick away sweat from your feet and keep them drier as a result.
Comfort
As soon as you put these on, you will get a glimpse of just how nice the material feels. Additionally, they offer an adequate amount of support too.
Fit
There are no additional sizing options to choose from. One size is designed to fit most here. However, they are on the small side, so if you have big feet; you may find them too tight.
Longevity
For an off-brand pair of basketball socks, these are built quite well. They are not mind-blowing in this department, but they are far from cheaply made.
Overall
Granted, you feel you do not have broad feet; you should be quite pleased with this option. The unique fabric blend is what makes them so compelling, truthfully.
5. Nike Dry Elite Crew
Several different color options are available
They will not slide around
Designed with zoned cushioning
May not last as long as some others
As with a plethora of other Nike socks, these bad boys have been designed with Dri-FIT technology. Additionally, they sport zoned cushioning for improved support and comfort.
Read moreMaterials
The material blend present here is one that you should be very familiar with. It is mostly polyester, but there is also a substantial amount of nylon and cotton present. And, just a touch of spandex caps it off.
Breathability
As mentioned, these nike basketball socks have been engineered with Dri-FIT technology, and this allows them to excel in their breathability. This will efficiently wick away sweat from your skin.
Comfort
In addition to the zoned cushioning, which adds strategic comfort, Nike also equipped its socks with adequate arch compression. This combination is quite ideal.
Fit
Helping with the fitting of these socks is the Y-heel stitching that has been integrated. This is going to deliver a snug and secure fit for each one.
Longevity
There is no questioning that these are high-quality socks, but some users have still felt like the quality has declined just a little bit.
Overall
Leave it to Nike to design such a great pair of basketball socks. Their Dry Elites will work fantastically out on the courts and that you can count on.
6. Adidas Speed Mesh Quarter
They are designed with enough cushioning
Provide nice arch support
They grip well and are stable
Somewhat narrow at the ankles
They do pick up lint
As with Nike, Adidas likes to design their socks with unique fabrics to enhance their performance. With the Climalite technology that is on display here, you can expect a lot out of these adidas basketball socks.
Read moreMaterials
There is quite a bit of latex rubber in these, so for anyone who is allergic to latex, stay away. The other main contributor of the blend is polyester (there is also spandex and nylon included).
Breathability
Thanks to the implemented mesh material and also the Climalite moisture-wicking yarn, you can enjoy a breathable and highly ventilated experience with these suckers on your feet.
Comfort
Past the arch support that is provided, you can’t help but notice the amount of cushioning that has been engineered. Put, it is not too unrealistic to expect a lot out of comfort here.
Fit
Yes, different size options are available, but you will notice that these fit tight around the ankles. That is if you have larger ankles as they should be excellent for most people.
Longevity
Alright, so while these are well-built overall, they have been known to attract lint. This does not affect the durability, but it is something that you should take note of.
Overall
Fans of Adidas will simply adore this option. Heck, even if you have never tried this brand in the past, do yourself a favor and do so as you will not be disappointed (unless you have bulky ankles).
7. Under Armour Heatgear Tech
Engineered with anti-odor technology
The arch support is really nice
Available in a youth size
The material is a bit thin
With their anti-odor technology and embedded arch support, it is hard to go wrong with these socks from Under Armour. Give them a try and you will see what so many others have raved about.
Read moreMaterials
There have been some previous reviewers who have commented on the thin nature of these socks. Still, their polyester, cotton, nylon, and spandex blend are nice.
Breathability
Both sweat-wicking and anti-odor technologies have been incorporated into these socks. On top of keeping your feet dry, no bacteria are going to grow on the socks themselves.
Comfort
As with some of the other best options on this list, you have embedded arch support when wearing these. Additionally, they feature seamless toes for maximum comfort.
Fit
Conveniently, both youth and adult sizes are available for you to select between. As a side note, no matter the option, the contoured Y heels ensure an enhanced fit.
Longevity
Indeed, as mentioned, the material is somewhat thin. As such, these may not last as long as others. But, you do get more than one pair with your purchase.
Overall
In spite of the thin nature, these still secured a spot on this list for their performance and comfort. Their fit is also fantastic, and this all combines to make one heck of a pair of socks.
8. Nike Performance Training Socks
Features sweat-wicking technology
Designed with a reinforced heel and toe
They stay in place while you train
They do run tight
Yes, these nike basketball socks are made of 70 percent cotton but they are actually ideal for the purposes of training. You also get three pairs with your purchase, which is definitely quite the bonus.
Read moreMaterials
The cat was let out of the bag but yes, these are technically cotton socks. Nylon and spandex have also been implemented, however, for their performance benefits.
Breathability
Cotton is going to absorb moisture but these have been equipped with Dri-FIT technology. With this in play, they will effectively wick away sweat from your feet for improved breathability.
Comfort
These performance training socks are that as they have been designed with proper cushioning and suitable arch support.
Fit
The rib cuffs do allow for a better fit but these do fit tight. Multiple sizing options are available, however, so you can adjust to this a little bit.
Longevity
Nike is known for engineering high-quality footwear and this is no different. Being equipped with reinforced heels and toes, these socks can take some abuse.
Overall
Adjusting to the correct size is the biggest obstacle you face with these. It is well worth it, though, as you can see just how fantastic they truly are.
9. MadSportsStuff Socks
They prevent the formation of blisters
They will wick away sweat
Made in the USA
The sizing is somewhat off
This is another “off the wall” pair of basketball socks in that they are not designed by Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, etc. However, their unique fabric blend does make them stand out.
Read moreMaterials
Yes, the blend here is quite unique indeed. This is because 77 percent of it is polypropylene. The other 17 percent is nylon and then there is some spandex thrown in too.
Breathability
You better believe that these suckers can wick away moisture from your skin. This is something that all the best options share in common so there is no surprise here.
Comfort
While the thick toe and heel areas of these socks could make your shoes feel tight, they add cushioning and support. Also, these control and prevent blisters quite well.
Fit
All types of sizing options can be selected from (with small being ideal for youth) which is a nice touch. However, as with others, the sizes are smaller and tighter than what you may expect.
Longevity
For the price and quantity, the quality is pretty remarkable. Then again, these will not blow you away with their build, either.
Overall
In addition to everything else, some of you will really like the art design of these socks. No, these are not Nike or Adidas basketball socks but they are darn impressive regardless.
10. Adidas Cushioned Crew Socks
Comes in a pack of three
Designed with sweat-wicking fabric
The polyester blend feels great
They seem to run a bit tight
These only come in two sizes so there is not a ton of room for error. The good news is they really are well-designed and perform to the standard that many of you will have.
Read moreMaterials
There is nothing out of the ordinary with this material blend. It is a highly effective polyester blend that is comprised of nylon, cotton, spandex, and, of course, polyester.
Breathability
The synthetic materials are on display here as they are going to wick away sweat from your skin. This you can take comfort in.
Comfort
Speaking of comfort, it is safe to say that these are. Credit for this can be given to the arch compression and the ample cushioning that is present.
Fit
Many users have agreed that these are pretty darn tight. They will not cut off your blood circulation or anything like that, but for some of you, they will be extremely tough to get on and off.
Longevity
Here and there, some durability concerns have been documented but this is not anything new. For the most part, the quality is on display and that is no surprise given Adidas engineered these.
Overall
If you can get past the tight nature, you can really get a lot out of these socks. Adidas even packages them in a pack of three so you will have some to spare when one pair begins to wear out.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Materials
These types of socks will need to be made with performance-based materials.
When you stop to think about it, these basketball socks are simply performance socks. What this means is they will often be designed with a plethora of different fabrics. More often than not, you will not see them made of one pure material. Nope, instead, they will typically implement nylon, polyester, cotton, spandex, and other such materials.
Now, you did see cotton listed there, and this can create some controversy. Pure cotton socks are not ideal for basketball as the natural material does not dry fast and absorbs moisture. However, it can still be present in a blend of different fabrics and still be ideal for such uses.
Polyester and nylon and other synthetic fabrics will often make up the majority of the blend. Fabrics of this nature will be very good at wicking away moisture from your skin, so this makes sense. They are the workhorse materials if you want to look at it that way.
As for the importance of spandex (also known as elastane), even just a little gives socks the ability to stretch. Most blends will not use more than two or three percent of it, as that is all that will be needed.
Breathability
This section is as important as it is ever going to get for these types of socks.
When it comes to socks of this nature, it can’t be stressed enough how relevant this section is going to be. If you overlook it, then you forget the entire reason why you are buying socks for basketball, quite frankly. Coupled with the fact that it is a high energy sport that will cause you to sweat, your feet have more sweat glands than any other part of your body.
Well, what happens when you are wearing socks when your feet start to sweat? Your socks will get saturated quickly unless they possess the capability of wicking the sweat away. This is where synthetic fabrics and specially-designed technologies (like you will see with Nike and Adidas will come into play.
Additionally, it may be in your best interest to shop for options that sport implemented mesh ventilation zones. Just as a summer tent requires the need for windows that can provide ventilation, sports socks, in general, can benefit from mesh. This is going to allow heat to escape, and while you will be wearing shoes anyway, this can enhance the breathability quite a bit.
Comfort
Outside of the materials, you will need your socks to implement other features too.
Clearly, when you put on a pair of these socks, the materials need to feel good against your skin. Everyone has a different preference but you should find that most options will not feel scratchy or irritating. To potentially avoid this from being the case, you can look for models that sport seamless toes if you want to.
More important than this, however, is padding. As you search for socks of this nature, you will notice that they tend to be quite a bit thicker than normal ones. The reason for this is the abuse that the sport of basketball causes to your feet. After all, it is going to require you to sprint, run, cut, and jump all on a hardwood (or cement) floor.
The extra thickness typically comes from padding. In specific, you will find that these types of socks will have extra padding on the balls and heels. This makes sense when you think about all the stress that these points of your feet will endure. Compression and arch support insoles are also some things you can consider.
Some models will be equipped with compression bands and these will deliver the enhanced support and comfort that many of you will be looking for.
Fit
As with anything else, you will want the option you go with to fit you properly.
How a pair of socks fits you is always going to be essential, but that need is somewhat amplified when you are buying basketball socks and other like-minded sports. When you consider how much movement basketball is going to require, you will then realize how important it is to buy socks that fit you correctly.
As you noticed on this list, however, there are several options out there that are going to run somewhat small and tight. The good news is several sellers will provide youth socks for basketball in addition to those for adults. In theory, you could technically buy the same brand for both yourself and your child (if they are sold in youth sizes, that is).
But, what about length as that will come into play too, right? Yes, it will, but as you noticed, crew and over-the-calf socks tend to be the most popular choices for basketball. In addition to the fact that such models offer enhanced protection for your ankles, they are also often preferred for their compression benefits, as an addition to the compression socks.
You can still go with a quarter or even no show socks, but if you wear ankle braces, they may cause too much friction for you.
Durability
No, your sports socks will not last forever but some will still last longer than others.
Have you ever noticed that your socks are often the articles of clothing that you need to replace the most frequently? No, this is not because the ones you are buying are cheap in quality (though it might be). Since socks go on your feet, a ton of friction is forced on their bottoms, and, as such, they will endure a ton of abuse during their lifespans.
The same is going to be right with socks for basketball, but that does not mean that specific options are not superior in this regard. It merely means that you can’t count on them to last for years on end. But, back to the point, that was just made, how do you determine the most strong brands?
While certain fabrics and artistry techniques can deliver improved socks, the best way for you to determine the durability level of a particular pair is to go through consumer feedback. Still, even with this method, understand that certain people will be harder on their socks than others. Yet, this can always act as a pretty good reference point for you either way.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Materials Breathability Comfort Fit Durability 
What you will find is more often than not, socks for basketball are going to be made with a plethora of different fabrics. It makes sense as designers will be looking to get the most out of several different materials instead of just relying on one or two. You will often see four to five materials utilized. Of them, most popular are polyester, nylon, spandex, and cotton.
Wow, is this section ever critical for you? Your feet are going to sweat when you play basketball, and due to this, you will need a pair of performance socks that can keep up. Most engineers will equip their socks with sweat-wicking fabrics because of this. Additionally, you will also see some of the same designers implement mesh ventilation zones for even further breathability.
Once again, comfort is essential here. But, due to the abuse that basketball is going to cause to your feet, your socks will need to be better prepared for it. As such, you will want to look for models that have ample thickness and padding. The padding and cushioning are going to protect your feet (especially when you land) to help eliminate the chance of injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What size should you go with?
Most manufacturers are going to list their sizes based on actual shoe sizes. This is the most accurate way to go about it. However, in doing so, the dimensions are still going to be listed as a small, medium, large, etc.
So, in addition to going with the size of your shoes, you should also stick to your gender. Some socks will be unisex, but others will be for men and others for women. This is important as best basketball socks for men are going to fit a bit differently than girls’socks for basketball will.
q: Why is it important to keep your feet dry?
Alright, so you know that you need basketball socks that can wick away sweat from your feet, but do you even know why it is essential? Whether for the purposes of basketball or any other fitness activity, quite frankly, wet and sweaty feet can create quite a few issues.
First and foremost, such feet can lead to blisters. If you have ever had blisters on your feet, then you know that they are not pleasant (read more on the best blister treatment). Additionally, odor-causing bacteria can also be formed if the socks are not treated. Heck, even in cold weather it can be detrimental as sweaty feet can lead to frostbite.
q: How do you wash your socks?
It is always advised to adhere to the recommendations of the specific manufacturer when it comes to how you should wash your socks. With that said, most of them should be excellent for machine washing. Though, to extend the lifespan of them, you can also opt for handwashing (though this requires more labor).
Air drying them will also extend their life but, again, it comes at the consequence of more time. For some of you, this will be worth it, and for others, it is not going to be.
q: Will the thickness affect the fit of your shoes?
Given the fact that you know socks of this nature are going to thicker, it is then natural for you to wonder if this level of thickness is going to affect the fit of your basketball shoes. Depending on how you look at it, there may be some bad news for you.
Overly thick socks can make your current shoes too tight to fit. Part of the reason why, ironically, is you may be wearing shoes that are too small for you to begin with.
q: What is the difference between over-the-calf and crew socks?
There is not much difference between these two types of socks, but there is a slight difference between them. They both are designed to fit near your calves, but their difference lies in where they end. You see, with crew socks, they are either going to go right under your calves or to the mid-calves.
Meanwhile, with over-the-calf socks, they will typically either end at your mid-calves or below your knees. So, they will go up a little further than crew socks. Either way, both of them are quite popular for sports such as basketball.
q: Will you need to worry about odors?
Since bacteria tend to grow in dark, warm, and damp areas, you will need to worry about them when it comes to your feet. To completely eliminate the chance of odor-causing bacteria forming, you will need to get both socks and shoes that can combat them.
And, as this buying guide is about socks, that is where your focus needs to be momentarily. This is one of the beauties of Rockay sleeves as they all will be designed with Stay Fresh Technology. This is a technology that belongs to Polygiene, and it works like a charm at combating various types of bacteria.
Sources
- , FAQS, Article
- , Basketball Socks Buying Guide: How to Get the Best and Perfect Pair, Article
- , Best Basketball Socks Reviewed for Comfort and Performance , Review
- , 10 Best Basketball Socks Reviewed and Compared, Review
