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We Tested the Best Bombas Socks to Find Out Which Are Best for Each Activity

These socks are actually worth the hype, from lounging or hiking

Bombas Marl Ankle Sock
Verywell Fit/Anna Knief

Many people turn to Bombas for high-quality socks that are comfortable, sweat-wicking, and supportive. And the brand even has a generous one-for-one charitable donation program. But popularity and philanthropy aside, are Bombas socks really worth the hype and higher price tag?

When shopping for any pair of socks, podiatrist Jacqueline Prevete, DPM, FACFAS, FACPM, suggests looking for soft materials, arch support, and moisture control. The best Bombas socks check all these boxes (and more), making them a worthy investment for daily wear. To find which pairs stand out, we consulted experts to learn more about what key features to look for. Then, we tested dozens of options in The Verywell Testing Lab and in our day-to-day routines at home. We evaluated them based on fit, comfort, cushioning, blister protection, and overall value.

What’s the big deal with Bombas socks?

Bombas specializes in high-quality socks designed for a variety of activities. The quality speaks for itself, says personal trainer Mike Hamlin, NSCA, CSCS. Bombas socks use a luxe blend of moisture-wicking materials and Supima, a type of cotton with extra-long fibers that are thinner, stronger, and softer than other cotton. The socks even feature targeted arch support and stay-up technology, enhancing their comfort. A combination of consistent comfort and commitment to philanthropy sets Bombas apart from other brands.

Are Bombas socks worth it?

With a higher price tag ranging from $10 to $28 per pair, Bombas is definitely more of an investment compared to most other sock brands. However, we found that the increased cost translates to a better experience, including fewer blisters, more breathability, and long-lasting durability. Bombas also offers a one-year replacement guarantee on their socks, which is a nice bonus. If comfort and giving back are important to you, then Bombas may be the better choice, Hamlin says.

Pros
  • Moisture-wicking materials

  • Cushioned footbed

  • Blister protection

Cons
  • Not as breathable as other options

Key Specs:

Materials: Merino wool, polyester, elastane | Length: Ankle | Thickness: Medium | Moisture-Wicking: Yes | Best For: Everyday, walking, light exercise | Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They're For

Best if you need socks for daily wear and light exercise, like running errands or taking a long walk outside.

Why We Love Them

Bombas' Merino Wool Blend Ankle Socks are soft and cozy yet still moisture-wicking, making them a solid choice for any wearer. When we first slipped them on, we noticed that the socks fit like a glove. The combination of stretch and arch support makes them ideal for daily wear, long walks, and light workouts. They're super comfy—like little blankets for your feet, one tester said.

During testing, we found that the cushioned heel tab on the back of the ankle reaches high enough to prevent blisters. And the footbed is slightly cushioned for even more support. We like that the wool fibers are sleek and smooth so the socks don't itch or irritate our feet. And the Y-stitched heel keeps them secure and in place.

Also available in men's sizes at Bombas.

Potential Flaws

  • We found these socks were not quite as breathable as others, so we don't recommend wearing them for high-intensity workouts in the heat.

Most Valuable Insight

"I really felt like these socks fit like a glove, and they're so comfortable!" —Isabella Broggini, NASM-CPT, Verywell Fit product tester

Best Overall Runner-Up

Bombas Quarter Socks

Bombas Quarter Socks
PHOTO: Bombas
Pros
  • Fitted, stay-put cuff

  • Light compression feels comfortable

  • Durable construction

Cons
  • May run a little small

Key Specs:

Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane | Length: Quarter | Thickness: Medium | Moisture-Wicking: No | Best For: Everyday, light exercise | Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They're For

Best for wearers who want a daily wear sock with a bit more coverage.

Why We Love Them

Higher than an ankle sock but lower than calf socks, Bombas' Quarter Socks are the perfect height for a variety of shoes, styles, and activities. With a fitted, quarter-height cuff and a seamless toe, these socks stay in place and don’t irritate the skin, regardless of the shoe style you're wearing. During testing, we found that the light compression in the toe area provides a comfy feel.

The cushioned footbed helps our feet feel supported, whether wearing sneakers or walking sandals. We never felt sweaty or itchy and had no issues with blisters, even in hot weather. These socks are durable enough for daily wear, and we think they're a good value if you like a mid-height sock for a bit more coverage.

Also available in men's sizes at Bombas.

Potential Flaws

  • These socks were a tiny bit snug during our test but never felt uncomfortable or restrictive.

Most Valuable Insight

"I have worn these socks every day, even when it's hot out, and they are amazing. They make my feet happy." —Donna Freydkin, Verywell Fit product tester

BOMBAS Women's Ankle Socks

Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin

Pros
  • Heel tab prevents blisters

  • Lightly cushioned

  • Arch support

Cons
  • Move around during intense exercise

Key Specs:

Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane | Length: Ankle | Thickness: Medium | Moisture-Wicking: Minimal | Best For: Everyday, light to moderate activities | Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They're For

Best for wearers who need a versatile sock for everyday activities and light workouts.

Why We Love Them

Bombas' Marl Ankle Socks are ideal for daily wear and light exercise. During testing, we immediately noticed how well they fit—feeling substantial but not overly thick and lightly compressive but not too tight. The heel tab hits the right spot to prevent blisters and keep the socks in place while we're on the move. And some extra compression at the arch delivers gentle support without feeling irritating.

On test walks, we noticed that light padding throughout midfoot, heel, and toes provides a soft landing. And we love how luxurious the blend of cotton, polyester, and elastane feels. It's also breathable and moisture-wicking, preventing sweat and trapped heat. These make the perfect everyday sock for lasting comfort and support.

Also available in men’s sizes at Dick’s Sporting Goods and Bombas.

Potential Flaws

  • We noticed the socks moved around during intense exercise, so we recommend these for more casual wear.

Most Valuable Insight

"They are really comfortable to wear, striking a good balance of feeling substantial but not overly thick. They properly hug my feet and provide good support with that middle band, but they never feel too tight." —Anna Knief, Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Non-slip ankle stays put

  • Locked-in heel design

  • Classic, attractive look

Cons
  • Not as breathable as other options

Key Specs:

Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane | Length: Calf | Thickness: Medium | Moisture-Wicking: Yes | Best For: Everyday, light to moderate activities | Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 4/5

Who They're For

Best if you want a versatile calf sock to wear with sandals, sneakers, or walking boots.

Why We Love Them

Bombas' Marl Calf Sock is ultra comfortable and stays put all day long. The seamless design provides a smooth fit while the non-slip ankle keeps the calf-height sock up. Plus, we noticed that a Y-stitched heel offers support and a locked-in feel. Our try-on tests proved that these fit true to size without rubbing, friction, or blisters.

As we walked and worked out, the mild compression helped us feel supported (especially at the ankle). And the soft material has the perfect level of thickness to be versatile enough to wear alone, with sneakers, or under boots. Still, they're light enough to prevent our feet from getting overly sweaty in mild conditions.

Also available in women’s sizes at Bombas

Potential Flaws

  • May not be breathable enough for heavy exercise in warm weather.

Most Valuable Insight

"These socks fit perfectly, lining up well with my toes and heel. They have a slight compression without being constricting. They are snug in all the right places and stay put all day." —Dana Ingemann, Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Great for warmer weather

  • Perforations for increased airflow

  • Silicone grips

Cons
  • Expensive

Key Specs:

Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane | Length: No show | Thickness: Light | Moisture-Wicking: Yes | Best For: Everyday, light to moderate activities | Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 4.3/5

Who They're For

Best if you want an ultra-light, thin sock that doesn't show under your shoes.

Why We Love Them

In warm weather, no-show socks are handy for keeping your feet comfy in shoes without sacrificing style. Bombas' Performance No-Show Socks are thinner than the brand's other socks, stopping sweat and stink from building up in your summer walking sneakers. We loved wearing these on outdoor walks, coffee dates, and errand runs. The perforations throughout add even more airflow.

Silicone grips help prevent unwanted bunching as we walk and keep the socks securely in place. Meanwhile, we found the minimal cushioning just enough to prevent blisters and overheating inside the sock. We think these are the perfect option for hiding inside your shoes without the bulk.

Also available in men’s sizes at Bombas.

Potential Flaws

  • For being so thin, we think these socks are a little pricey for a single pair.

Most Valuable Insight

"These are very, very thin socks, so by their very nature, they are breathable. They're great for warmer weather, or to wear under boots because they provide just enough cushioning that you don't get blisters without making your feet sweaty and gross." —Donna Freydkin, Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Boost muscle recovery and blood flow

  • Stay up without pinching

  • Durable

Cons
  • Not very sweat wicking

  • Can be difficult to get on

Key Specs:

Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane, nylon | Length: Knee high | Thickness: Medium | Moisture-Wicking: Yes | Best For: Prolonged sitting, standing, moderate activities | Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They're For

Best if you need compression socks for running, traveling, prolonged sitting, and more.

Why We Love Them

High-quality compression socks can be helpful during or after workouts, while sitting or standing for long periods, and even during pregnancy. Studies have shown that compression socks can improve blood flow, speed muscle recovery, and relieve muscle soreness. One of our testers wore Bombas' Everyday Compression Socks after an injury to help keep swelling down and support their ankle—they worked great.

In testing, we found that these offer medium compression (15 to 20 mmHg) without cutting off circulation. They felt great for everyday wear, while working at our desks, or for long walks—no bunching, wrinkling, or moving around. We also like that they are strategically cushioned to provide support where your feet need it most. And the material is well-padded for more comfort.

Also available in women’s sizes at Bombas.

Potential Flaws

  • These socks don't wick sweat very well during hot and intense workouts.
  • As with many compression socks, we found these a bit challenging to get on.

Most Valuable Insight

"The socks provide a snug and comfortable fit without being too tight or loose. They are compressive without being constrictive." —Abigail Wetzler, Verywell Fit product tester

Bombas Everyday Compression Socks

VeryWell Fit / Phoebe Sklansky

Pros
  • Thin material is highly breathable

  • Moisture-wicking and quick-drying

  • Stretchy

Cons
  • May be too thin for some

Key Specs:

Materials: Merino wool, nylon, elastane | Length: Low ankle | Thickness: Light to medium | Moisture-Wicking: Yes | Best For: Sweaty feet, hot conditions, intense activities | Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They're For

Best for wearers who live and exercise in warmer climates or sweat easily.

Why We Love Them

While Merino wool might seem like an odd choice for sweaty feet, Bombas' Running Ankle Socks made from this material are actually moisture-wicking and dry extremely quickly. Plus, the addition of nylon and elastane delivers a breathable four-way stretch that kept our feet comfy (and blister-free) throughout testing. And light, strategic cushioning adds comfort without the bulk.

We ran, jumped, and walked in these socks to test breathability. They never slid down or bunched up, making them functional for any activity. We also found a true-to-size fit, feeling comfortable in all types of shoes, including sneakers and boots. The thinner cushioning adds breathability while still keeping our feet and shoes completely dry.

Also available in men’s sizes at Bombas.

Potential Flaws

  • These socks don't have as much cushioning as other options, but we still found them comfy and supportive.

Most Valuable Insight

"These are probably one of my favorite pairs of socks. They fit perfectly, with no digging around the toes or sliding around the heels. They were comfortable with all of the shoes I tried them with." —Jaylyn Pruitt, Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Cuff keeps dirt out

  • Contoured for left and right feet

  • Padding in high impact areas

Cons
  • May not be breathable enough for some

Key Specs:

Materials: Cotton, polyester, nylon, elastane | Length: Quarter | Thickness: Light to medium | Moisture-Wicking: Yes | Best For: Running, intense activities | Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They're For

Best for beginner to advanced runners, especially those who run outdoors.

Why We Love Them

When it comes to running, you need a well-fitting sock for optimal comfort and performance. We found Bombas' Performance Running Quarter Socks super soft and well-cushioned, keeping us focused for miles. They're made with extra padding in the toe, ball of the foot, and heel—all the high-impact areas of running—for more support. And we also like that each sock is contoured to fit your right and left foot specifically. 

The ankle cuff on these quarter socks keeps them in place and keeps dirt out when running on trails. It is tight enough to fit snuggly but not cut into our skin or pinch. These socks also didn't slide down or bunch up. We wore them in hot, humid, and cold weather to find that our feet stayed completely dry in every condition. Our feet felt happy in these socks and we think they're a great value.

Also available in men’s sizes at Bombas.

Potential Flaws

  • These socks were very comfortable but we wish they were just a bit more breathable.

Most Valuable Insight

"I wore these socks in very hot weather, in very humid weather, and in cooler weather. My feet never once felt sweaty, itchy, in any way wet. And the socks fit perfectly." —Donna Freydkin, Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Breathable

  • Snug and supportive fit

  • Padded heel and toe

Cons
  • May be too short for some

Key Specs:

Materials: Merino wool, nylon, elastane | Length: Quarter | Thickness: Medium | Moisture-Wicking: Yes | Best For: Hiking, intense activities | Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who They're For

Best if you need a pair of supportive socks to fit seamlessly into your hiking shoes.

Why We Love Them

If you’re an avid hiker, we recommend Bombas' Quarter Hiking Socks for their performance material and cozy comfort. For this pair, Bombas utilized the impressive moisture-wicking and quick-drying qualities of natural Merino wool to keep you dry on trails and through the brush. On our test hikes, we also appreciated the taller cuff, which helps prevent friction that hiking boots can cause while also blocking debris and cold.

Hamlin wears Bombas while hiking because they keep foot fatigue and sticky sweat at bay. He also notes that they actually stay up and don't shift around, and we agree. Plus, padding at the toe and heel in this specific pair strikes the right balance of comfort and support (without feeling bulky). Along with hiking shoes, we enjoyed wearing these socks to cozy up around the house.

Also available in men’s sizes at Bombas.

Potential Flaws

  • While these socks are quarter-length, they may not be long enough for taller hiking boots.

Most Valuable Insight

"I switched between wearing these to work, wearing them with running shoes and boots, and just casually around my apartment. The comfort comes from the thickness, but not in the sense that you feel like you can't wear certain shoes with them. It's a balance that Bombas strikes very well and why I'm a fan of their socks." —Frank Corona, Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Buttery soft

  • Breathable and moisture-wicking

  • Protective enough for cold weather

Cons
  • Too thick for warm weather wear

Key Specs:

Materials: Merino wool, polyester, cashmere, nylon, elastane | Length: Calf | Thickness: Thick | Moisture-Wicking: Yes | Best For: Daily wear | Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They're For

Best if you're looking for a plush, cashmere calf sock for cool weather wear.

Why We Love Them

For a stylish, luxurious pair of socks, you can't go wrong with Bombas' Cashmere Blend Calf Socks. They're made with a blend of Merino wool and cashmere that feels buttery soft yet still quite breathable. They glide on smoothly, offering a cozy, warm hug to our feet. And there's just enough stretch to keep them in place without being too tight or restrictive.

While these socks do not have a lot of cushioning, the fabric is thick and soft. The seamless toe keeps any irritation at bay, and the Merino wool wicks moisture, keeping our feet at the perfect temperature. These socks are perfect for daily activities like running errands or walking the dog in cool weather.

Potential Flaws

  • These are a bit too thick for warm weather and intense workouts.

Most Valuable Insight

"These are perfect winter socks. Absolutely perfect. I would wear these for long walks, to the store, to walk the dog, etc." —Donna Freydkin, Verywell Fit product tester

person wearing red Bombas Cashmere Blend Calf Sock on the couch

Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin

What To Look for When Shopping for Bombas Socks

  • Materials: From casual and dress socks to athletic performance pairs, Bombas makes socks using lightweight cotton and ultra-soft Merino wool. They may also use breathable polyester, nylon, or elastane to add moisture-wicking and antimicrobial properties. Fabric that wicks away sweat is particularly important for helping a sock stay in place without rubbing or chafing, Prevete says. 
  • Fit: The fit of a sock is more important than you might think. Feet are the first point of contact with the ground, and if your toes can't move well, you won't receive proper signals from your feet, Hamlin says. It can also impede your performance and increase your risk of injury. Socks that are too large can move around, slide down, or bunch up in your shoes. Our experts recommend choosing the Bombas size that corresponds with your shoe size.
  • Height: Bombas socks come in various height options, including no-show, ankle, quarter, calf, and knee-high. Socks that are ankle-height or taller tend to stay above the heel counter of your shoes better, preventing rubbing and blisters around the collar, Prevete says. Shorter socks may feel cooler, making them convenient and comfortable in warm weather. Taller socks can protect against cold weather, dirt, debris, or pests (like ticks) while hiking or trail running. They can also help prevent irritation by putting a barrier between your skin and any sports gear.
  • Comfort and Support: According to RRCA- and USATF-certified running coach John Honerkamp, socks are imperative to ensure your comfort and safety. We like the compressive arch support in all Bombas socks, which hugs your foot to keep the socks in place. A heel tab in most ankle socks prevents blisters from forming. Our experts aren’t fans of seams because shoes can press directly on a sock’s seams, causing irritation. But Bombas socks have seamless toes and a Y-stitched heel, unlike other socks’ straight stitch designs. 
  • Activity and Purpose: Our experts agree that you should choose socks designed for your typical activities, climate, and personal preferences. Walking, running, hiking, and other cross-training athletic activities often require highly breathable, moisture-wicking socks, Prevete says. Runners should look for additional cushioning at the ball and heel of the foot. And for recovery, compression socks can help provide relief from sore feet. 

How We Tested the Best Bombas Socks

To create our list of the best Bombas socks, we tested 17 pairs in our Verywell Testing Lab and at home in our daily routines. While testing socks, we consider each of the following key attributes.

  • Fit: To evaluate fit, we put the socks on and see if the toe and heel align properly. We also consider whether the socks bunch up, slide, or pinch. Does the cuff fit snugly without being too tight? Does the height of the sock match the description?
  • Comfort: We pay special attention to how comfortable the socks are. How does the material feel? Is it soft or scratchy? Are there any seams or stitching that cause irritation?
  • Cushioning: Socks designed for workouts should have more cushioning in high-impact areas, like the ball of the foot and heel. We consider how the cushioning level effectively absorbs impact. We also note how our feet feel after wearing the socks: Are they tired and achy? Or do they feel refreshed?
  • Blister Protection: Protection from blisters is important with any sock. First, we note any specific blister protection features, like tabs on the heel or moisture-wicking fabric. Then, while wearing the socks, we note if there is any rubbing or chafing that causes hot spots or moisture accumulation.
  • Support: Socks have varying levels of compression and arch support. Those with more compression and arch support are better for more active activities, like workouts, running, and long walks. You can choose a looser sock with less targeted support for daily wear and lounging.
  • Breathability: Next, we assess how effectively the socks wick away moisture and keep our feet dry. We also evaluate their ability to regulate foot temperature—do our feet feel too cold or too hot? Finally, we check for any noticeable odors after washing and wearing the socks.
  • Overall Value: Bombas are high-quality socks, and they can get expensive. To determine the overall value rating, we look at the cost of each pair of socks after we evaluate them for all the other features. We determine if the cost reflects the quality, performance, and personal experience with the socks.

Our Experts

We consulted experts at every stage of research, testing, and reporting for this story. Our experts provided insight and guidance on how high-quality socks should fit and function. We also asked them which Bombas socks they recommend for different needs and activities.

  • Jacqueline Prevete, DPM, FACFAS, FACPM, a podiatrist, foot and ankle surgeon, and competitive runner based in New York, New York
  • Michael Hamlin, NSCA, CSCS, a personal trainer and founder of Everflex Fitness
  • John Honerkamp, an RRCA- and USATF-certified running coach, founder and chief executive officer of Run Kamp

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should you expect to spend on Bombas socks?

Depending on the material and style, a pair of Bombas socks costs between $10 and $28. Sets are more expensive, ranging from $50 to $175, although the cost per pair is often cheaper.

Should you size up or down in Bombas socks?

According to expert feedback and results from our tests, most Bombas socks run true to size. We’ve also found that they tend to be stretchy and forgiving, offering a comfortable fit even if you’re between sizes.

How long should a pair of Bombas socks last?

We agree with experts that Bombas socks truly are made to last, depending on the amount of wear and care. To prolong the life of your Bombas socks, always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, washing and drying as directed.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

A lifelong athlete, runner, Verywell Fit writer, and certified personal trainer, Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT and CNC, is always researching the latest and best in activewear. She’s always been picky about her socks (just ask her mother!) and understands how crucial a high-quality pair is for comfort and foot health. For this article, Murtaugh reviewed insights from our experts and the Verywell Fit testing team to evaluate each pair of socks based on their fit, comfort, cushioning, blister protection, support, breathability, and overall value. For running, she loves Bombas’ Performance Running Ankle Sock because its perfectly streamlined fit never slips, bunches, or causes blisters. Dedicated to reporting authentic content to her readers, she is always careful to recommend great products from reliable, trustworthy brands.

4 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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  2. Ochalek K. Three-year follow-up of the compression use in lower limb edema during pregnancy: a case report. J Vasc Nurs. 2021;39(2):43-46. doi:10.1016/j.jvn.2021.04.002

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Jessica Murtaugh

By Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT
Jessica Murtaugh, CPT, CNC, is a Verywell Fit writer living in Los Angeles, CA. A personal trainer and nutrition coach, she is passionate about life-long, balanced wellness.