You've invested in a great pair of walking shoes, but have you given the same consideration to what goes inside them? For ultimate comfort and support, the humble sock can be a game-changer. HuffPost editors are championing one brand in particular: Thorlo, and their maximum cushion ankle walking socks, which they credit with transforming their daily comfort and alleviating foot pain.
Why These Socks Are Worth The Investment
At $84 for a six-pack on Amazon or $17 for a single pair directly from Thorlo, the price might give you pause. However, both reviewers and the brand's policies justify the cost. Thorlo offers a lifetime guarantee against defects, promising lasting quality. More importantly, the socks are scientifically designed, with padding strategically distributed to areas of the foot that need it most for optimal support and shock absorption. The praise is high-profile: NBA player P.J. Tucker told the New York Times his Thorlos were "the most comfortable socks ever."
HuffPost audience editor Gina Escandon is a devoted fan of the maximum cushion ankle walking socks. "I never understood why specialized socks were tailored to different activities — until I wore these, and it clicked," she says. Escandon reports a "huge difference" in alleviating her foot and heel pain, crediting the ultra-thick cushioning for superior shock absorption that allows her to walk all day without soreness or blisters. She even notes her mom finds them so comfortable she sometimes wears them without shoes while driving.
Engineered for Support and Comfort
The women's maximum cushion socks come in three sizes and are built with specific features:
- A cushioned instep and spandex arch for a secure fit.
- Moisture-wicking fiber to keep feet dry.
- A design tailored for women's feet, with a smaller heel pocket and more ankle stretch.
Reviewers consistently compare the plush cushioning to wearing slippers, and Escandon admits she often wears them around the house for that reason. "They provide tons of support standing on hard floors," she adds. "I never thought I'd be raving about a humble sock, but these are truly worth every penny!" The sentiment is echoed in reviews where shoppers call them a "secret weapon" or "heaven in a sock," with nurses, golfers, and others who stand for long periods praising their blister-reducing comfort.
The main drawback? Limited color options—this style only comes in pink, a point Escandon and others wish was different. However, for the unparalleled support, they deem it a worthy trade-off.
More Thorlo Favorites for Every Need
For those seeking alternatives, HuffPost editors recommend other Thorlo styles:
1. A Neutral, Moderate Cushion Sock: When she needs a sock that blends in, Escandon chooses a moderate cushion style in plain white. While offering less padding, they are still engineered to reduce blisters and pressure, with reviewers noting they last for years.
2. A Light Cushion, Low-Cut Sport Sock: Kristen Aiken, HuffPost's editorial director of life and commerce, says her mom prefers these for summer. They feature a tight arch hug, breathable polyester, cooling fiber, and a wider color range.
3. Maximum Cushion Crew Socks for Hiking or Winter: Ideal for outdoor activities or cold weather, these crew socks offer the same maximum cushioning in a taller cut. Aiken's mom loves them for warmth without sweat, and reviewers in standing professions find them transformative for reducing end-of-day fatigue.
4. "12-Hour Shift" Ankle Work Socks: Designed explicitly for prolonged standing, these socks feature arch and ankle compression, breathable fit, and clinically tested padding. Reviewers vouch for their ability to reduce foot fatigue, considering them a vital investment in health.
Ultimately, Thorlo socks represent a shift in viewing footwear from the ground up. By investing in socks engineered for specific activities and support needs, the simple act of walking can become a significantly more comfortable experience.
