Quick Summary: We have picked the Nike Men’s Elite Versatility Basketball Crew Socks as the top basketball socks as they provide a comfortable plush feel, compression capabilities, and a glove-like fit. They are stylish and affordable, and they do not slide down into your shoe. They are also breathable and moisture-wicking properties.
They say that the suit doesn’t make a man (or that the best equipment doesn’t make the best athlete), but research has proved otherwise. People who invest in their looks or athletes that invest in proper equipment have higher chances for success.
When it comes to playing basketball, most people try to maximize their performance and joint safety with an expensive pair of shoes, which admittedly works. But all of them are overlooking a very important thing: there is a sock between your foot and your expensive shoe. So why wouldn’t you also invest your money in a pair of the best basketball socks?
You may be wondering how something simple like a sock can have such an impact on your performance. Well, it can, because the best basketball socks are specifically designed to provide you with additional cushioning in the forefoot and around the heel. These socks are made from a unique mix of cotton, polyester, nylon, and elastane (spandex) to prevent excessive sweating, bring you maximum comfort, and help you to avoid blisters.
When it comes to whether you will make it or break it, apair of the best basketball socks can make the difference. So keep reading and find out which one of these socks are best for you.
Quick Navigation
- 10 Best Basketball Socks Comparison
- Reviews of 10 Best Basketball Socks
- How To Choose The Right Socks for Basketball
- FAQs
- Final Verdict
10 Best Basketball Socks Comparison
 | 1. Nike Men Elite Basketball Crew Socks (Best overall)With the Nike Men Crew Socks, you will be comfortable thanks to the 4% spandex construction and footstrike cushion. It’s an exceptional cushioning that helps to align the pressure points that exist in your feet for optimal comfort. | [button url="https://amzn.to/3DOONtY"]Read Our Review |
 | 2. NIKE Dry Elite 1.5 Crew Basketball Socks (Best Budget)Enjoy improved performance when you have the NIKE Dry Elite Basketball socks. These socks feature nylon, polyester spandex, and cotton for optimal comfort. | [button url="https://amzn.to/30VmJpX"]Read Our Review |
 | 3. MUMUBREAL Elite Basketball Socks Athletic Crew SocksBecome better on the basketball court when you have the MUMUBREAL Elite Socks. These socks are available in three pairs, and they also have an exceptional arch compression fit. | [button url="https://amzn.to/3DNcLWd"]Read Our Review |
 | 4. Nike Hyper Elite Basketball Crew Socks SmallThe Nike Hyper Elite socks help keep your feet dry and comfortable regardless of the game intensity. It's also easy to wear and can adjust to different foot sizes. | [button url="https://amzn.to/3DSgBxt"]Read Our Review |
 | 5. Nike Boy's Pack Performance Cushioned Crew SocksNotice your performance improving when you have the Nike Boys Dri-Fit socks. The socks have advanced zonal cushioning for optimal comfort and sweat-wicking material. | [button url="https://amzn.to/3oYBuRd"]Read Our Review |
 | 6. Thorlos Unisex B Basketball Thick Padded Over the Calf SocksThe Thorlos Unisex Padded sock is also an excellent addition to your basketball regimen. The sock has the legendary Thorlo padding for heel and forefoot comfort. | [button url="https://amzn.to/32jlhOW"]Read Our Review |
 | 7. Custom Team Number Crew SocksWear your player number with pride when you have the Custom Team Socks. These socks are looking amazing and are half cushioned socks for the right fit. | [button url="https://amzn.to/3nIySHY"]Read Our Review |
 | 8. NIKE Performance Cushion Crew Training Socks (3 Pairs)NIKE performance crew training socks are perfect for those who want to beat the competition. The socks are made using nylon and spandex for optimal comfort. The DRI-Fit technology ensures the feet are dry. | [button url="https://amzn.to/3cIdoEH"]Read Our Review |
 | 9. TCK Digital Camo Crew SocksIt's time for a change with the TCK Digital Socks. These socks are available in 12 color combinations, and they are also exceptionally comfortable. DRY-IQ moisture control ensures optimal moisture-wicking benefits. | [button url="https://amzn.to/3l3eLT7"]Read Our Review |
 | 10. Champion Men's 6 Pack Low Cut SocksFor elite-level performance, try out the TCK digital camo crew socks. These socks feature ergonomic cushioning and arch compression for optimal comfort when playing. | [button url="https://amzn.to/3cLmj8x"]Read Our Review |
Reviews of 10 Best Basketball Socks
Here’s a list of the best basketball socks we found on the market:
Best Overall
1. Nike Men Elite Versatility Basketball Crew Socks
What You Will Love: There is a ribbed band at the top that helps keep your sock up during play, so you do not have to deal with them slipping down into your shoes.
These Nike Elite Versatility Basketball Crew Socks are incredibly comfortable basketball socks. They are extremely breathable and provide moisture wicking properties to keep you cool and dry while hitting the court.
If style is a concern, these socks are very stylish- and they are very affordable. You can get them in three different lengths, they fit like a second skin, and there is an ankle support system.
They also provide shock absorption and reduce any foot pain you might choose. The cushioned foot bed and plush feel wonderful, and the ventilation helps prevent odors after long hours of play.
Even better, the top has a ribbed band, meaning that your sock stays up throughout your wear- goodbye, discomfort. And, of course, they come from Nike- a brand who understands athletes and the needs they have, so you can trust that they will provide what you the comfort and support you need.
Pros:
- They offer a comfortable plush feel.
- The compression features make the socks fit like a glove.
- They are super breathable and moisture wicking.
- They are also pretty stylish and affordable.
- They come in three lengths, so everyone can find some that fit their preferences.
Cons:
- There really is not any downsides to these socks.
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Best Budget
2. Nike Dry Elite 1.5 Crew Basketball Socks
What You Will Love: The socks are made specifically for each foot. To give the best fit, right socks are made specifically for the right foot, and left socks for the right foot. This keeps the socks from having to adapt to your feet since they are already specifically designed for the foot shape.
The Nike Dry Elite 1.5 Crew Basketball Socks are a definite improvement from the 1.0 version. They provide excellent arch compression and a ribbed cuff keeps them from falling down in your shoe on the court.
The socks are a blend of polyester, cotton, nylon, and spandex. This blend provides comfort, breathability, and moisture wicking properties.
The DRI FIT technology keeps you cool and warm, they are designed specifically for each separate foot, and they are very affordable. Do beware of the colors, though, as they do not always come in the color of the images.
Pros:
- The fit securely and the ribbed cuff means they do not slide down while you wear them.
- The socks are made specifically for the left or right foot.
- The arch compression provides extra support.
- They are crew fit- right around the calf.
- Polyester, nylon, cotton, and spandex blend.
- They have zoned cushioning that helps absorb the shock and impact on the court.
- The DRI FIT technology keeps you cool and warm.
- They are also affordable.
Cons:
- Most of the colors are not what they look like in the pictures.
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Best Men’s Basketball Socks
3. MUMUBREAL Elite Basketball Cushioned Athletic Crew Socks with Thick Compression for Men
What You Will Love: This are a great value, especially if you want name brand quality without the name brand price.
These MUMUBREAL Men’s Basketball Socks are a great choice for athletes. You get excellent quality for a great price.
They have reinforced heels and toe sections, which not only provide extra comfort but also make them very durable.
The fabric is a mix of cotton, dri-fit, nylon, and spandex makes the socks breathable, comfortable, and gives them moisture-wicking properties.
The socks are designed specifically for right and left foot wear, making them more comfortable and durable. The arch compression makes them supportive for Plantar Fasciitis, and you do not have to worry about them slipping down.
Everything about these socks make them comfortable, durable, and supportive for athletes. The only complaint so far is that they feel smaller than the stated size. This may be due to the extra support, so you might need a size bigger.
Pros:
- They are made with a thickened and reinforced heels and toe section.
- These socks are made from a blend of cotton, nylon, spandex, and dri-fit fabric.
- They are comfortable, and keep you cool and dry.
- They are breathable and have air-circulating ventilation.
- They are very durable.
- There is excellent arch compression for support, and to help keep the socks in place.
- They are also very affordable and are a great value.
Cons:
- They may be smaller than advertised.
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Best Women’s Basketball Socks
4. Nike Hyper Elite Basketball Crew Socks Small
What You Will Love: They are stylish, comfortable, and supportive for lady basketball players.
These Nike Hyper Elite Women’s Basketball Crew Socks are a good choice for ladies who wear sizes 4 to 8 in shoes. They are green and blue in color, making them stylish and fun.
The dri-fit fabric keeps you cool and dry while running up and down the court. The sock comes up the calf muscles and has a band to help keep socks up instead of slipping down.
They are designed for specific foot sides- right socks are already shaped for right foot use and left for left foot use. This means that there is no adapting time- they are comfortable from the get go.
The seam is on top of the foot, so you need not worry about them getting in between your toe and toe nail- a very uncomfortable feeling.
Additionally, there is a compression band on your mid foot area that provides arch support, and there is some compression around the ankles as well.
This compression may get uncomfortable if you have a wide foot or ankles. Also, $33 for a pair of socks is high, but they are Nike name brand, so it comes to your preference above all else.
Pros:
- They are made with dri-fit fabric for comfort and to keep you cool and dry.
- The green and blue colors make them pretty stylish.
- They are women’s size 4 to 8.
- The calf length socks has a compression band that keeps it up while wearing.
- They are designed for specific side foot wear.
- The compression band around the mid foot provides arch support.
- The seam is on top of the foot.
Cons:
- They are expensive.
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Best Kids Basketball Socks
5. Nike Boy’s Dri-Fit 3 Pack Performance Cushioned Crew Socks
What You Will Love: They are excellent socks that come in packs of three- most starting at really affordable prices.
These Nike Kids’ Graphic Crew Socks are very comfortable, supportive, stylish, and durable kids’ socks.
They provide plush, terry cushioning in the high wear areas that give your child great comfort and help keep them around for many games and practices.
The mid foot band provides great arch support, and they give a snug and secure fit. The heel and toe are reinforced for durability, and they are machine washable. Unfortunately, they are made from a lot of cotton which can absorb a lot of sweat.
Also, you might want to hang them to dry as the cotton may shrink otherwise. Nike Boy’s awesome kids’ socks come in a pack of three in your choice of colors, and these packs start at very affordable prices.
Pros:
- List ItemThey are safe to wash in the washing machine. #1
- These socks are very stylish and come in many color options for boys and girls.
- They provide comfort and durability.
- The half cushion terry foot provides more comfort and shock absorption.
- They provide arch support and a snug and secure fit.
- The reinforced heel and toe provide more comfort and durability.
- The plush cushioning feels great.
- You get three pairs per pack starting at very low prices.
Cons:
- They are made from a lot of cotton, so they will carry a lot of moisture.
- Some color and style options get pretty expensive.
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Best Unisex Basketball Socks
6. Thorlos Unisex B Basketball Thick Padded Over The Calf Socks
What You Will Love: If you are still into the old style of long socks, this is a great choice for you.
These unisex basketball socks from Thorlo are some of the most padded options available. The foot bed area has thick padding for extreme comfort. In fact, they are so padded that some people may think that they are too thick.
Even though they go almost to the knee, they are not hot socks. This is because the fabric covering the leg is actually thin and breathable.
They provide a lot of breathabilities, and they are extremely soft. The fabric up to the knee provides calf protection and support, and these socks are made to be extremely durable.
The biggest downside is the look. There is not a large variety of colors to choose from. Thorlos Unisex is actually just black and white to choose from. And they are pretty plain, to top it all off. It you do not mind a lot of padding and a more durable look, these are excellent socks. They are also pretty affordable.
Pros:
- They have very thick padding which provides a lot of comfort.
- There is a lot of air flow for breathability.
- They are very durable.
- They offer calf protection and support.
- They are made from breathable and soft acrylic fabric.
Cons:
- There are not many color or style options.
- Some people may feel that they are too thick.
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Best Customized Basketball Socks
7. Chalk Talk Sports Custom Team Number Crew Basketball Socks
What You Will Love: You can order them with your custom team number in a black and white stylish look.
Chalk Talk Sports provide these customizable socks so you can choose your team member. They are sleek looking black and white socks that are made with a blend of polyester, nylon, and spandex.
This fabric is comfortable, breathable, and pretty durable. They wick away the sweat keeping you dry and cool. They look and feel good enough to wear on and off the court, and they are pretty affordable.
It is important to note that these are a little large on young kids but are not really large enough for adults.
Chalk Talk may be difficult to find a happy medium in this option. Also, although the are made from normally durable material, you might find holes in them more quickly than expected. All in all, these may be more of a “show off” item than an actual functioning sock.
Pros:
- These socks are made with polyester, nylon, spandex blend.
- They are extremely soft, comfortable, and durable.
- They look good enough and feel good enough for use on and off the court.
- The fabric is both breathable and moisture wicking.
- They are pretty affordable.
Cons:
- They only come in white and black.
- They might not be as durable as they seem to be.
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Best Mid Cut Socks
8. NIKE Performance Cushion Crew Training Socks (3 Pairs)
What You Will Love: These socks are impressive because of their material construction. It features cotton, nylon, and spandex, which are legendary for comfort in intensive sports such as basketball.
Equipped with special Dri-Fit technology, these socks ensure your feet are dry and comfortable throughout your games.
It even has rib cuffs that provide a comfortable fit. To back this up, the unique dynamic arch support also helps ensure a secure fit.
These are unique mechanisms that help provide a snug and comfortable fit around the feet. Plus, the rib cuffs are durable and won’t be prone to cleaning techniques such as machine washing.
The toes and heels play a major role in your performance, especially during intensive sports games. Thus, these socks feature a reinforced heel and toe for durability in places that have high wear.
When your feet stay dry, you will be safe from issues such as dry feet, blisters, and more. Thus, it’s why these socks come with Dri-FIT technology for the right levels of comfort.
Pros:
- Made using cotton, nylon, and spandex
- Has a reinforced heel and toe structure
- The rib cuffs help provide a snug and comfortable fit
Cons:
- N/A
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Best Compression Socks
9. TCK Digital Camo Crew Basketball Socks
What You Will Love: These socks are unique because they are made using nylon, elastic, lycra spandex, and polypropylene. It’s a devastating mixture of materials to ensure you have the comfort you need to meet your performance goals.
Whether you are a novice or an experienced basketball player, these socks will be with you for years. Aside from being exceptionally comfortable, they also let you stand out with style thanks to its unique construction.
These socks feature special moisture control technology to ensure the feet stay dry and prevent blister issues. Plus, the breathable mesh on the top foot section helps provide the right ventilation for your needs.
Equipped with ergonomic cushioning and arch compression, these socks will stay in place for the best performance. The double welt top on the top section of the sock ensures it sits around your calf without any slipping issues.
The good thing about these socks is that they also let you stand out from the rest, all thanks to their unique material construction. Plus, the unique sock-style hits mid-calf and is perfect for various types of high-intensity sports.
Pros:
- Comes with DRY-IQ moisture control technology
- Has ergonomic cushioning and arch compression
- Equipped with a double welt top at the top section
Cons:
- The colors fade after a while of use
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Best Low Cut Basketball Socks
10. Champion Men’s 6 Pack Low Cut Basketball Socks
What You Will Love: Made for high-end sports performance, the Champion Men’s 6 Pack Low Cut socks are perfect for intensive games. Plus, the material construction features particular types such as ring-spun cotton and natural rubber for enhanced performance.
Playing at your top levels is not all about practice, and this is evident when you have gear such as Champion Men’s 6 Pack Low Cut Socks.
These socks are unlike any you have come across on the market. Why? They feature ringspun cotton and natural rubber, which are excellent for comfort purposes.
Champion Men’s a mechanism that helps improve the fit the socks can provide around the foot’s calf. Such a feature is vital for intensive sports such as basketball, where you have to move around a lot.
The foot arch is vital for your comfort and stability, especially when you have to be agile. The makers of these socks have done well to address this issue with the unique arch support structure.
The unique combination of materials on these socks will impress any savvy sportsman. How is this possible? Well, aside from cotton and spandex, these socks also have various other unique materials. These include natural rubber and different other fibers a guarantee for optimal comfort when playing intensive sports.
Pros:
- The good comes with a pull-on closure
- Has unique arch support for a secure fit
- Equipped with natural rubber and ringspun cotton
Cons:
- Prone to staining issues
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How To Choose The Right Socks for Basketball?
The following are the criteria we judged our options with, and they are good criteria for you to judge by as well.
Comfort
Since ball s are constantly moving and grooving, comfort is important with everything you wear, including socks. The perfect basketball socks need to be comfortable throughout the game. Dealing with seams is not conducive for comfort- neither are socks that will slip. Padding can improve comfort, though.
Cushioning And Arch Support
There was a time that socks did one thing: cover your feet. Now, you can purchase socks that provide cushioning in the forefront and heel area. There are also socks that have compression bands in the midfoot area that provides a lot of arch support. Pretty much any support you need can be found.
Durability
As with anything else, you want your basketball socks to last. Avoid socks that are made from cheap materials. Usually, you can expect to spend more money for good socks that will last a while.
Material Makeup
Avoid options made from 100% cotton as they will soak up too much moisture and be uncomfortable. Instead, look for blends of polyester, nylon, cotton, and even spandex.
Compression System
A compression system can help keep your socks up and give a little more support. It can also prevent vein issues that many people start seeing over time.
Breathability
Basketball is going to work up a sweat. If it does not, you probably are not doing it right. Having breathable socks is imperative for comfort and odor protection.
Thickness
There are really no right or wrong answers when it comes to thickness. It comes down to personal preference. Thicker socks will probably be a little more comfortable but they can also be much hotter.
Socks Length
You have three different lengths to choose from: crew cut, mid cut, and low cut or no show socks. Long socks are no longer used as the now use compression pants instead.
Choosing the Right Color
You might not care about the color, but if you do, there are a lot of different colors to choose from. All in all, unless you just want to make a statement, choose some darker or duller color since dirt and dust do not show up as well on those.
Sweat Wicking
Again, you will sweat a ton when playing ball, so having socks with moisture-wicking properties is important. This material will keep you cool and dry during game time and practice.
FAQs
Why Do Basketball Players Wear Long Socks?
This is actually no longer a popular thing since the influx of compression tights, but whether it is long socks or tights, there is actually a purpose. Compression gear can help reduce muscle fatigue and soreness after workouts, keep muscles in better alignment to reduce the risk of injury, and increase of blood blow to the compressed muscles. Besides most of the NBA players use long socks.
Where Can I Buy Nike Basketball Socks?
Almost anywhere- your local mall, online, sports stores, shoe stores, Amazon- of course, Nike stores, and other such places.
What Size Should Basketball Socks Be?
This is up to you. You can get more form fitting socks or those that provide a little movement. You can also choose between three different lengths. It comes down to preference of style and comfort.
Which Brand Makes The Best Socks for Basketball?
There are a lot of great socks and a lot of great brands. We might be slightly partial to Nike, but this is due mostly to their reputation and design. Nike is a company that works with and truly considers athletic challenges, so it is easy to trust that their products are good choices.
How Much Does It Cost To Buy A Pair of Basketball Socks?
You can find them lower than $10 and up to more than $40 a pair. Do keep in mind that while most of the best socks will require a good investment, you can find some great ones at affordable prices. You can also keep an eye out for sales on the higher priced ones as that will occasionally happen, especially during the off seasons.
Final Verdict: Best Basketball Socks
Basketball socks can improve your performance or wreck it, depending on the quality of the sock. There are certain things that you should consider when you choose your socks, especially with so many options available.
We have taken a look here at factors you should consider to help you find the best basketball socks for you.
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