Like the car you drive, your favorite chips or Pop-Tarts; your preferred sock length says a lot about you as a person and as a runner. If you’re aiming to size-up the competition at your next race, suss out a potential new running buddy, or just fond of overthinking things, this list is for you. Here’s are the most-seen styles of running socks, and the kind of runner that inhabits them.
No-shows: On-trend and probably on every social media platform; you’re the pre-run/pre-race “flat runner” photo type. Your socks most likely match, or at least complement, the rest of your running ensemble. Mildly narcissistic, you don’t mind occasionally fishing your socks from the bottom of your shoes. Even mid-run. It’s a price you’re willing to pay for looking good. You’re the cheerleader of the bunch; an ideas person who pairs well with quarters.
Quarters: Dependable and understated, your socks are likely all from the same brand, and within a distinct color palette, too. You’re the low-fuss type that gets things done, doesn’t demand thanks or attention for the effort, and is just happy everyone is having a good time. You’re a control freak, a borderline obsessive, who probably planned the race or group run, and that’s fine by you. Is frustrated and confounded by no socks.
No socks: No problem! You’re a risk-taker, mostly in a good way. You’re the spontaneous type willing to go with the flow. You’re the one who’ll say “yes” to a last-minute opportunity to join a relay team, no questions asked. Long-term plans are not your thing. The fact is, you’re notoriously undependable. Some might say flaky, but almost in an endearing way? But when you do show up, you’re all-in. Pairs well with most other sock types, but consider yourself warned.
Toe Socks: You’re the secretive type. Or maybe you’re just the complicated and overly fussy type. Either way, you’re a runner of few words, preferring to linger in the periphery of the group and take it all in. You’ll comment, succinctly and reluctantly, but only when solicited. The flip side is you’re an excellent listener. Pairs well with no-shows. Should be monitored closely when paired with no socks.
Crew length: Whether it’s genius or laziness, you rock crew-length socks just so you’ll have one less decision to make. You’re a one-shoe-for-all-surfaces-and-situations kind of runner, and your sock choice reflects your Spartan attitude. How little do you care? You’ve been an empty nester for years, but still rock the minivan. Pairs with Birkenstock Arizonas and embarrassed family members.