Best Horseback Riding Socks

Choosing the right pair of socks is important for keeping your feet comfortable, whether you're doing barn chores, training in the arena, or putting in those miles on the trail. After all, there is nothing worse than experiencing blisters, rubs, and sweaty feet during an otherwise lovely day with your horse. Our crew has tested and tried many socks to find the best-suited ones for all of your horseback riding needs.

We considered design features like material content, breathability, support, and more to narrow down our options and help you avoid the pitfalls of bad socks. From socks for hot weather to socks with top-notch technologies and designs, we've put together a guide of the most ideal choices around, so you can put your best foot forward with your hoofed companion!

Our Top Sock Picks By Type

Why do you need horseback riding-specific socks?

When you're a horseback rider, sometimes you throw on any old pair of socks on hand only to regret that decision later. Having socks designed specifically for sports performance (like horseback riding) really does change your overall comfort. You might not think of your socks as an important part of your riding ensemble, but your feet will feel the difference in your boots with a great pair of socks instead of just a decent pair. Feeling more comfortable allows you to better focus on and improve your connection with your horse, which is always for the better! Below, we will address a few features you should keep in mind when choosing your horseback riding socks.

Sock Materials:

The material content is something important to keep in mind, so you can better understand your socks' performance. Socks with natural materials, such as bamboo or merino wool, offer both breathability and warmth in varying temperatures. Synthetic sock materials like nylon, elastane, polyester, and acrylic are typically blended with other natural materials to sustain sock shape. These synthetic materials all interact differently based on the varying degrees of moisture content, as some are more quick-drying than others (think acrylic and polyester).

Socks with too high of a cotton content can retain moisture and heat, leading to issues like blisters. If you're doing heavy work or riding, we encourage steering away from cotton socks, even though they are both durable and comfortable. You can always have a thinner pair of socks with breathable materials underneath, then layer your cotton socks on top for improved temperature regulation.

Sock Height:

Most equestrians choose their sock height in relation to the type of riding boots they wear. Ankle or crew socks are typically worn with endurance boots that have the "hiking boot" design. Crew socks are generally worn with paddock boots and cowboy boots; however, some equestrians might choose to wear tall socks with their paddock boots then put half chaps on while riding. Knee height socks, otherwise known as tall boot socks, are traditionally worn with tall riding boots to better prevent rubs for the rider's overall comfort. In the end, the sock height you prefer comes down to what you like wearing best with your boots.

For more information on equestrian footwear for horseback riding, be sure to take a look at our guide to cowboy boots and article on how to size and fit tall boots!

Sock Cushioning:

Horseback riding socks are offered in varying thicknesses, from no cushioning to targeted cushioning to full cushioning. The thickness of your socks can make or break your comfort when you're on the ground or in the saddle, because they alter the overall function of your boots. When considering sock thickness, horseback riders should keep in mind the weather they're riding in as well as the fit of their boots.

A snug-fitting boot should prompt riders to search for thinner socks; if your riding boots are already snug, then wearing thick socks with them will put too much pressure on your feet. If your riding boots are a bit big, wearing thicker socks can help fill the space for a better fit. Should you choose to consistently wear thick socks no matter the occasion, consider going up half a size from your typical boot size for some wiggle room to improve your circulation.

Socks with targeted cushioning are great for horseback riders, as they provide extra support at points prone to rubbing and discomfort like the toes and heels. We suggest trying a few socks with different cushioning options to find what you prefer.

Ovation Zocks Socks

Constructed of a highly breathable nylon/lycra blend, the Ovation Women's Zocks Solid Color Tall Boot Socks are made to keep your feet cool and dry. They are ultra-thin to fit seamlessly underneath your tall boots or half chaps, and their design provides airflow for comfort during those hot summer rides. When our feet are starting to itch from the heat, we reach for these socks!

Back On Track Therapeutic Socks

The Back On Track Therapeutic Socks are the ultimate riding and recovery sock. The fabric is infused with ceramic powder to reflect your body heat for natural thermal therapy. You'll feel the soothing effects while in the saddle with increased circulation benefits, and you can keep a fresh pair of these socks on hand to wear at night for relief from any muscle soreness. Help soothe your tired and sore feet, so you can begin your ride the next day fresh and renewed!

C4 Performance Riding Socks

The C4 Performance Riding Socks feature a ribbed athletic fabric with a cushioned footbed and arch support. A reinforced toe and heel ensure durability, so these socks can take you through rides or chores time after time. Simple yet super functional, the C4 Performance Socks are the perfect choice for keeping your feet comfortable. Plus, who doesn't love the variety of colors that can color coordinate with so many different outfits?!

Kerrits Dual Zone Socks

The Kerrits Dual Zone Socks were designed for those long schooling or show days thanks to their breathable and moisture-wicking design. They feature a cozy wool fabric blend with a cushioned footbed and arch support that softly wraps your feet in a lightweight feel. The mid-foot compression also relieves tired feet, so you can stay out at the barn with your equine companion for longer!

Playful Donkeys Adult Crew Socks

The Playful Donkeys Adult Crew Socks are a favorite around the Riding Warehouse office thanks to their cute donkey pattern on a variety of colors. Pretty-looking yet functional, these socks still perform well with their thin construction of polyester, nylon, and spandex. They are very breathable, and not to mention comfortable! You can show off your unique style or offer a fun gift to a fellow equestrian friend with this economical pack of 6 socks.

EGO7 Knee High Tall Boot Air Socks

The EGO7 Knee High Tall Boot Air Socks are a high-performance option with light compression to give you support without altering your boot fit. Made with a reinforced cushioned footbed, these socks pad your toes where it counts while being naturally bacteriostatic and anti-static. The thermo-regulation technology also maintains your temperature when the competition heats up! We love these socks for their sleek and anatomical design that's well worth the investment.

Closing Thoughts

We hope you enjoyed taking a look at our best horseback riding socks. When shopping for socks, it's important to consider factors like materials, height, and cushioning to determine which ones would be the most ideal for your horseback riding needs. After testing these socks ourselves, we're confident that you won't go wrong with any of the options listed here! Should you have any questions, please reach out to our friendly customer service team at 1-800-620-9145 or info@ridingwarehouse.com for assistance. Happy riding!

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