Best Grip Socks
This footwear is exactly what it sounds like – socks that grip. And while you may be wondering why, when, and where one would use textured socks rather than just popping on a pair of cozy slippers, think yoga, Pilates, and quick home workout sessions. Grip socks deliver the extreme non-slip features you need to hold that downward dog, execute a full-body stretch, or complete a safe exercise session when more serious foot protection isn’t required. They’re lightweight, easy to slip on or off and instantly eliminate pesky laces and bulky athletic shoes.
What Are the Benefits to Using Grip Socks?
While being able to enjoy greater agility during stretches and exercise sessions easily makes this type of footwear a popular option with active adults, grip socks are also ideal for helping to prevent slips and falls by seniors, kids, or simply those of us who live in homes with solid-finished floors. Thick, cushioned soles make them a comfortable alternative to slippers, while the soft, pliable grips deliver just enough traction to prevent your feet from sliding out hard surfaces, but not so much that it impedes movement.
What to Look for When Buying Grip Socks
Length
From barely-there liners that cover the soles of your foot to crew socks that land mid-calf, there’s a grip sock to suit every need. For light workouts and yoga stretching, a low-rise ankle design is an ideal option that won’t add bulk or heat to your calves and shin. And if you’re looking for a cozy alternative to a standard slipper, the taller crew-length height sock offers a little extra warmth and leg coverage.
Material
Just like with running shoes that feature aerating side panels, you want a grip sock that won’t hold the heat, and cause feet to become uncomfortable. While pure cotton is great at absorbing moisture, it can absorb odors and cause that funky foot smell. So, look for cotton, polyester, or rayon blends that are either breathable or feature vented panels that allow warm air to escape. And with any grip sock, having an elastin component in the fabric helps the sock to maintain its shape, contour to the foot, and for longer lengths, it prevents sagging and slipping.
Top 6 Grip Socks
Unenow 4-Pair Non-Slip Cotton-Blend Grip Socks with Shock Absorbing Heel
Best for Thick, Impact-Resistant Soles
Whether you engage in an extreme morning yoga stretch or just like to pad around the house and need to gain a better footing on slippery floors, these ankle-length grip socks are about to become your cozy go-to option. Made from a soft, cotton-blend material, these socks are not only moisture-wicking, and highly elastic for a comfortably snug fit, but they come in a 4-pack that means a fresh pair of socks is ready and waiting for each workout. The extra-thick sole is not only cushy underfoot and impact-absorbing, but is covered in non-slip silicone dots that are soft, flexible, and won’t dry out or break down with machine washing. And because these lightweight grip socks cover just your foot and graze the top of your ankle, you retain a full, comfortable range of motion without the bulk and too-warm feel of a longer sock.
Who Should Buy These Grip Socks?
If you want a lightweight sock that you can slip on and off with ease, this low-rise ankle option with silicone dot grip sole is a great choice.
Pros:
- Moisture-wicking cotton material
- Elasticized for a snug fit
- Soft, flexible silicone dot tread
- Thick, shock-absorbent sole
Cons:
- Pairs are different colors
Specs for Comparison:
Pair/Pack: 4 pair
Material: Cotton blend with silicone grips
Height: Ankle
DIBAOLONG 6-Pair Breathable Rayon-Blend Grip Socks with Elasticized Arch Support
Best for Breathability
When your exercise regimen means you’re working up a sweat, you want comfortable, breathable clothes that can wick moisture and vent warm air. And because you need footwear that can do the same, these breathable grip socks are the perfect addition to any gym bag. Made from a soft, antibacterial brushed rayon blend, these socks are fully stretchable and even offer elasticized arch support to deliver the snug, stay-put fit you need when in motion. All, without creating that too-warm, too-tight feel. And because they’re made with a thicker, impact-reducing heel, these socks are ideal for those suffering from foot pain due to spurs or bunions. Flexible silicone grips that run across the entire underside of this sock provide the traction needed to prevent slips, falls, or loss of position during workouts. Best of all, they’re made from odor-reducing materials and are machine washable.
Who Should Buy These Grip Socks?
For those that need a breathable, non-slip sock that helps to prevent feet from overheating during workouts and long-term wear, this ventilated option is a perfect choice.
Pros:
- Antibacterial brushed rayon
- Elasticized arch support
- Cushioned sole with silicone grips
- Odor reducing fabric
Cons:
- Non-wicking fabric
Specs for Comparison:
Pair/Pack: 6 pair
Material: Rayon blend with silicone grips
Height: Ankle
Hylaea 3-Pairs Toeless Cotton-Blend Grip Socks with Elasticized Straps
Best for Barefoot Agility
For those activities that benefit from the tactile sensation of working with bare feet – such as yoga, barre work, or martial arts – this toeless grip sock offers the design features you’ve been looking for. Made from a cotton/spandex blend, they provide the full sole coverage you want from a grip sock, but the individual toe-holes allow for better control, greater range of motion, and that barefoot comfort you just won’t get with a full sock. The slim profile lands low on the ankle follows the natural curves of your foot and leaves the upper exposed for optimal aeration. Soft, elastic straps span from insole to heel for a custom, non-shift fit while a heel-to-toe grid of eco-silicone grips prevents feet from slipping out of position and loss of stability when you need it most. Machine-washable, they come with their own little pouch for transport or washing.
Who Should Buy These Grip Socks?
If your style of workout requires barefoot agility, this grip sock with an open-toed design is the perfect compromise. You get the traction needed for better stability, without sacrificing the freedom of bare feet.
Pros:
- Open-toe design
- Eco-silicone grips
- Elastic straps for a custom fit
- Machine washable
Cons:
- Can be tricky to get into
Specs for Comparison:
Pair/Pack: 3 pairs
Material: Cotton/spandex blend
Height: Open-toe, low-cut liner
TruTread 4-Pairs Slipper-Like Grip Socks with Longer, Crew-Style Length
Best for Cozy Comfort
When your need for a non-slip, grip sock is more for maneuvering across a slippery floor by you, your kids, or older family members than for completing a barre workout, you may want something that can do double duty. And that’s where this super-soft chenille grip sock fits the bill. Right off the bat, its crew-style design rests higher on your leg for greater coverage and a substantial alternative to the slim-line ankle socks used for workouts. Color-coordinated rubber grips feature a proprietary chevron pattern that extends from toe-to-heel on this sock and delivers optimal traction on any hard surface. And the cozy synthetic fiber and elastic blend not only keeps feet toasty warm and eliminates the need for bulky slippers, but is also breathable so odors don’t collect and you never have to worry about funky foot smells. They’re durable, machine-washable, and won’t fade or shrink.
Who Should Buy These Grips Socks?
These cozy grip socks are perfect for all ages. The soft, plush texture makes them perfect for lounging around the house, while non-slip grips keep everyone safe.
Pros:
- Fuller, crew length
- Soft, breathable chenille fabric
- Color-coordinated rubber grips
- One-size fits all
Cons:
- Not suited for work-outs
Specs for Comparison:
Pair/Pack: 4 pairs
Material: Synthetic fibers/chenille
Height: Crew
Debra Weitzner 6-Pair Microfiber Grip Socks with Fun, Colorful Patterns
Best for Relaxing at Home
For those of us who are all about enjoying at-home pedicures and budget spa days, why not add a little fun to your evening. These colorful, heart-patterned grip socks are perfect for slipping on following a nice soak in the hot tub, bathtub, or after lathering lotion onto tired tootsies. A grid of non-slip grips spans the sole of this sock for optimal traction and safer mobility. And because these grips are neutral in tone, they won’t detract from this sock’s uniquely vibrant character. Made from a silky polyester/elastin blend, this grip sock is not only super soft, but you never need to deal with sagging or loss of shape – they fit comfortably snug and are ideal for those who suffer from circulatory issues or diabetes. Best of all, this six-pack is machine washable which means that every night can be a spa night.
Who Should Buy These Grip Socks?
The breathable, soft texture and fun design of these socks makes them perfect for après pedicure, when you want something lightweight and cushy to protect freshly moisturized feet, but need a little more traction than you’d get with a standard sock.
Pros:
- Full, crew-length height
- Silky microfiber construction
- Anti-slip grips across the entire sole
- Plush, breathable material
Cons:
- Not suited for workouts
Specs for Comparison:
Pair/Pack: 6 pairs
Material: Polyester blend
Height: Crew
Ozaiic Store 2-Pair Strappy Cotton Grip Socks with Silica Gel Traction Pads
Best for Mat Work
For workouts such as martial arts or the stretching found in Pilates and yoga, having a grip sock that not only prevents unintentional slips and slides but will also stay put and not shift, is key. And that’s why these strappy, ballet-inspired socks are a perfect choice. Made from premium combed cotton with form-fitting elasticized bands, they feature soft, pliable silica-gel grips, that run the length of the sole to provide the traction needed to prevent slips and falls. And because this one-size-fits-all sock is made from breathable cotton, feet stay comfortably cool and you never have to deal with smelly foot odor. The fully enclosed body of this sock keeps dust and dirt out while a thick interior nap minimizes friction and any worry over painful blisters or calluses forming. Machine-washable, they even come with a convenient carry-tote that helps preserve the non-slip grip.
Who Should Buy These Grip Socks?
For an easy-wear breathable sock that offers the lightweight comfort of a slipper with the traction of an athletic shoe, this grip sock is an ideal choice.
Pros:
- Breathable cotton material
- Elasticized straps for a custom fit
- Natural silica-gel grips
- Includes protective tote
Cons:
- May absorb odors
Specs for Comparison:
Pair/Pack: 2 pair
Material: Combed cotton
Height: Closed toe, low-cut liner
Bottom Line
Today’s grip socks have been designed to incorporate the needs of today’s busy households into a pretty simple format. High-traction grips hold up to multiple machine washings and the lightweight, breathable fabrics allow for air movement and total foot comfort. Best of all, they do the work of an athletic shoe, a slipper, and a regular pair of socks without the need for pesky laces or bulky shells. They’re great to slip on pre-workout, or after a long day at the office, when you just want to relax at home. And because they come in a wide range of colors and sizes, they’re an easy to wear, wardrobe essential for the entire family.
Photo credit: Anton Starikov/Shutterstock