What socks to wear for obstacle course racing is often a hotly debated topic. Popular choices include anything from normal sports running socks, neoprene socks, merino wool or even no socks at all.
I've experimented with many different kinds and brands of sock, and finally I think I've found a good all-round solution: Injinji 2.0 Toe Socks.
Review
Many of the other socks I've tried performed fairly well, such as the really comfy More Miles running socks. Though after a long run through thick mud and being submerged in water, I would often still end up with blisters and sore feet.
A lot of the thicker comfier socks would also retain the water too much and become really heavy.
Range of Injinji Performance 2.0 Toe Socks
I first came across Injinji toe socks being mentioned on Twitter, and so thought I would give them a blast. When I first tried them on, it did feel a bit strange having individual sections for each of my toes. I've never worn Vibram FiveFingers or anything like that before, so was a bit apprehensive with these socks at first.
However, I persevered and wore them for a few training runs and then for a race at the end of last year. The verdict: awesome!
Comfort (and no blisters!)
The individual toe compartments meant that I could spread my toes a bit wider inside my shoe (I have fairly wide feet), which felt more natural and comfortable for my running style. More importantly, it also meant that I never got any blisters! Which in itself makes these socks worth it.
They are also some of the best socks I've tried for running while soaking wet. Even after being completely submerged, they drain well and are still comfortable. Likely thanks to their trademark Nuwool material which is made from Merino wool.
The Injinji Toe Socks are still comfortable even when soaking wet
The padding the socks provide differs depending on the version you get. Though I've tried several different models and have been quite happy and comfortable in all. Currently I've been using the lightweight (Run) ones for summer or shorter races, and the slightly thicker ones (Trail and Outdoor) for winter or longer races, which seems to work pretty well.
Any Drawbacks?
If there are any drawbacks to these socks, it would probably be the price. They are by no means the cheapest socks out there, but then you get what you pay for. If you're only doing one race, and don't really care about optimum conditions for your feet, then these socks are probably not worth it.
However, if you've signed up for a few races, worried about blisters, or looking for an improvement on your current race attire, then these are definitely worth the investment.
I've yet to find any better sock solutions for OCRs, but if anyone has any other recommendations feel free to sound off in the comments below. For the meantime, Injinji toe socks will definitely remain my go-to sock for obstacle course races and mud runs. (I've already converted my wife into wearing them as well!)
Where to Buy
If you're interested in trying out these Injinji socks, I've included a couple links below to the lightweight 2.0 Run and standard 2.0 Trail pair that I currently use:
(These are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase via these links then I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I would never recommend anything if I didn't use it myself and I greatly appreciate your support.)