Whether you're a runner, walker, biker, hiker, or just someone who leads an active life or spends a lot of time on your feet, choosing the right sock can be the difference between happy feet and "barking dogs."

Moisture management is the key property one must look for when getting socks. Just say no to cotton. Cotton absorbs sweat and creates a haven for blisters, odor, and fungus. Socks made of synthetic "technical" fibers pull sweat and other moisture away from your feet. Having dry feet reduces friction between your foot and your shoe. The most well known synthetic sock fiber is Dupont Coolmax, but there are many other similar fabrics out there. Synthetic, sweat-wicking socks are usually more expensive than the multi-packs of cotton socks that are available at any department store. Expect to pay between $4 and $8 per pair for moisture managing socks.

Sock thickness is another concern. There is no right or wrong way to go with thickness, but different thickness can affect a sock's breathability and affect the fit of your shoes. Some people prefer thick socks because they offer more padding. The trade off is that thick socks are less breathable. Other people prefer a thin sock because they are very breathable and allow for a snugger fitting shoe. I am a seasonal sock wearer. Throughout most of the year, I wear a medium thickness sock because it is a nice extra layer between my feet and the road, and they are also very breathable. Once the cooler weather arrives, I switch to a thick sock for extra warmth and padding. All year round, I run races in very thin socks because I like the minimal feeling of a thin sock and a lightweight racing shoe. Thicker socks contain more material, therefore usually cost a few dollars more than thin ones.

Those are the sock basics. There are some other innovative socks out there with extra bells and whistles that solve certain problems or add extra comfort. One such innovation is the double layer blister proof socks. These socks are made of two thin layers of Coolmax. They eliminate the two main causes of blistering: moisture and friction. Moisture is instantly wicked away from your feet and evaporated from the outside layer of the socks leaving your feet dry. Friction is eliminated by the two layers rubbing against each other instead of your foot rubbing against the shoe. Wrightsock is the most well known Blister-proof sock and usually costs between $7 and $9 per pair.

Another fairly new sock innovation is the platform sock. These socks consist of several different materials woven together for added durability and comfort at your foot's hot spots. Platform socks also have a superior fit because they are anatomically correct, meaning there is a right sock and a left sock. Some shoe companies, including Asics and Brooks, have actually developed platform socks that are specifically engineered to be compatible with their shoes. For example, the Brooks Adrenaline sock has added arch support specifically designed to fit with the Brooks Adrenaline GTS running shoe. Platform socks typically cost between $10 and $15 per pair.

The latest in specialty socks are compression socks. Compression socks use graduated compression to increase the flow of oxygenated blood to your feet and lower legs. Studies are still being done, but the possible benefits of compression socks are less fatigue because of the reduction of muscle vibration and improved performance because your body would process more oxygen. Compression socks are available in quarter length and knee high, and are all made of Coolmax. The knee high variety offer the best compression and performance benefits, but the quarter length offer great compression around the arch and ankle, which can help alleviate pain involved with plantar fasciaitis and Achilles tendonitis. Compression socks cost between $15 and $22 per pair.

If you have any training, injury, or shoe questions that you feel would make a good "Tip of the Week", email shoegeek@RunPA.com