How to Pick the Best Running Socks for Men

Running shoes can be expensive, and there are so many choices based on your running style, where you like to run, and so on. Many times, socks are an afterthought, and you may just toss whatever is on a display rack in your shopping cart or just throw on whatever is in your drawer. If you're serious about running, however, you should really consider getting the best men's running socks, just as you've carefully chosen your coveted running shoes.

When you're trying on your running shoes, make sure you consider the socks at the same time. Depending upon the thickness of the socks (thin or thick), it can affect the fit of the shoe. Remember too that your foot will swell as you run, so you don't want thick socks with a tightly fitting shoe. That will just lead to trouble.

The typical cotton socks that may be in your drawer can cause problems for you if you try to run in them. Cotton absorbs moisture without wicking it away from your feet, and this will practically guarantee that you will get blisters. Instead look at socks that have wool, synthetics or a blend of the two to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Some socks have a dual layer of materials - the first to wick away the sweat, the second to provide padding for your feet.

Running socks that are made from Merino wool or have a blend with Merino wool naturally resist odors. This can help you keep your shoes longer so they don't get too smelly after long runs.

Consider your running style too when making a decision about thicker socks versus thinner socks. If you're into running during the winter, you may need to purchase some heavier socks during the cold weather. Thinner socks can help during the hotter summer months too. If you're into trail running or where there may be mud, make sure you get a good pair of socks that can withstand the moisture, wicking it away, and still keep you comfortable.

Finally, make sure the sock fits both your foot and the type of shoe you're wearing. Minimalist shoes don't need socks to go as high up on your foot, but you want to protect your ankle and heel if you're wearing a taller shoe. Furthermore, running socks aren't a "one-size-fits-all" like regular socks typically are. Get the correct size for you. If you have too much sock material, it can bunch up or slip causing blisters. If your socks are too small, it can lead to lack of circulation.

If you have questions, be sure to ask the experts at the Mosaic City Sports and they will be happy to help you pick out the best running socks and running shoes to fit your style.

The Best GPS Running Watches for Beginners

GPS running watches primarily help runners to track their progress and pace themselves by providing information on distances run and times to complete them. Rather than guess at the riding pace, runners are given exact times and can retrace their routes at another time to compare their overall running improvement over time. GPS running watches have become a staple of long-distance runners, triathlon competitors, and others. The following provides information on some of the best GPS watches for runners.

Timex Ironman One GPS+

The Timex IronMan One GPS+ is an evolutionary “smartwatch” that works as a GPS running watch, an MP3 player, and a texting service. The watch is light and comfortable to wear and allows runners to get text messages while on the go and to respond to them. Unlike many other GPS watches, it does not require a connection to a cellular phone, but it does need a data plan for full operation. There is no heart rate monitor, so runners looking for that option will need to find another watch. Otherwise, it’s a highly competent and effective GPS running watch.

Adidas MiCoach Smart Run

The Smart Run is an Android-powered device with GPS tracking and a heart rate monitor. The Smart Run provides information on running pace, time, distance, and the amount of calories burned. When installed, a virtual coach application will tell wearers whether to speed up or slow down to maintain an ideal heart rate. The watch has a simple interface that is easy to use while running, and it includes 3GB of storage space for storing music to be played while running. The Smart Run is water resistant for running in the rain and comes with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. Its battery is good for up to four hours in training mode and eight hours in marathon mode. Recharging simply requires access to a USB port and using the included charger.

Polar M400

The M400 is a relatively affordable GPS running watch that includes a heart rate monitor and provides around-the-clock information on activity, calories burned, and the number of steps taken throughout the day and night. An integrated Web service provides detailed analysis for runners to help them determine where they are doing well and where they need to improve. The watch has a sleek and attractive face with side buttons for changing functions and launching applications while competing or training for events.

Visit our sporting goods store in Georgetown to check out all the latest GPS equipment for runners.

What Are The Best Fitness Trackers for Runners?

If you are a runner, you are likely interested in the latest technological devices like fitness trackers that gauge your performance and health. What are the best fitness trackers for runners that have hit the market over the last few years?

Fitbit Flex

Widely considered to be the best overall fitness tracker on the market, the Fitbit Flex bracelet is designed with an internal accelerator that helps you monitor your health and running performance. It measures the number of calories that you burn during your runs, how many steps you take, the distance that you cover and much more. All of your fitness data can be delivered to your smartphone app in a moment's notice. The Fitbit Flex has Bluetooth functionality to provide iPhone owners with the option of directing call alerts directly to the bracelet. This is the perfect fitness tracker for runners who are focused on losing weight as well as those who have the simple goal of living a more active life.

Basis Science Basis B1 Band

Those who pride themselves on having the coolest tech devices will love this fitness tracker. It provides more information than most competing products. The only downside is its egregiously large size. The B1 Band is chock full of advanced features that measure all sorts of information about your personal biology. It measures your skin temperature, perspiration level, heart rate and more. It is even programmed with a “healthy habits” game that offers reward points for reaching fitness milestones.

Misfit Shine

This fitness tracker just might be the most aesthetically pleasing device on the market. It actually resembles a piece of jewelry. Yet this diminutive tracker tells you all sorts of health and fitness information like the number of steps that you have taken, the number of calories that you have burned and the total distance that you have covered during your run. It comes with a watch battery that lasts up to four months without requiring a recharge. It is extremely comfortable to wear compared to those bulky rubber wristbands that other fitness aficionados wear around the clock.
Visit our Bethesda, MD sporting goods store to see all the latest electronic gear, including fitness activity trackers.