Asics Cushion Low-Cut Socks Are Comfy and Great for Walks

We purchased the Asics Cushion Low-Cut Socks so our writer could put them to the test. Keep reading for our full product review.

Whether it’s running for exercise or walking my dog for fun, I’m always on the go—and I need socks that keep up. I’ve gone through dozens of pairs of socks that either don’t fit, aren’t breathable, or simply lack cushioning and comfort.

Enter Asics, and the Cushion Low-Cut socks that caught my eye. As a six-time marathon finisher, I know all about Asics’ quality. I run in Asics shoes, so I was excited to try these socks, which the brand promises are breathable, comfortable, and built with ventilation for moisture management. I put these to the test for a week’s worth of exercise runs and dog walks, evaluating them for their design, performance, and value. Read on to see if they passed the test.

Material + Design: Soft and lightly cushioned

One of the simple joys in life is slipping on a cozy, well-designed sock for the first time. (No? Just me?) Well, whether this is a simple joy in your life or not, I can say wholeheartedly that you’ll be impressed the second you put these socks on. The material—which is 81% acrylic, 17% polyester, and 2% spandex—is smooth, cushioned, and cozy. The y-heel gore fit kept them comfortably in place the whole time I wore them. The cushioned ankle tab also helped with any rubbing, which always comes in handy on longer runs. However, although the socks do have cushioning in the sole, the padding is pretty thin. This works for me because I prefer thin socks without much bulk—ideal for those who also wear inserts like insoles for flat feet. However, if you like a lot of cushioning and padding in your socks, this isn’t the pair for you.

These Asics Cushion Low-Cut socks come in three different colors per pack, with four different color packs to choose from. Some come with designs, while others are more muted. (I opted for the Stone Grey Assorted pack, whose three pairs come in red, blue, and grey.)

Fit: Snugger than expected

I’ve never had an issue with Asics sizing, but I did have problems with the first of the included three pairs of socks I put on. The fit was uncomfortably tight around my ankles, which doesn’t happen often—and they were the right size. After an hour of walking with this first pair, I had a ring mark around each ankle. Fortunately, when I tried the other pairs on, they fit better. I’m convinced it was a fluke with that first pair, but that’s a bummer because it was the bright red color—and therefore my favorite!

Style: True ankle socks

If you dislike ankle socks that cover your entire ankle, you’re in luck—the Asics Cushion Low-Cut socks are truly low-cut. They sit comfortably below my ankle, with the slightly higher back tab for blister-prevention where I need it.

Performance: Built for blister prevention

Ever since I ran my first marathon, “acrylic, not cotton!” has been ingrained in my head. That’s because cotton socks absorb moisture (read: foot sweat), which causes rubbing in your shoes and, as a result, blisters. With their blend of acrylic, polyester, and spandex, these socks are built to wick moisture, making them perfect for blister prevention when running and walking. I had zero rubbing after multiple wears! 

To that point, these socks worked really well for running, walking, and even my cross-training cycling classes. They’re super thin, a necessity given that my shoes don’t have much extra room. They’re also cushioned in the places most likely to experience pain (the sole and ankle), which kept me comfortable as ever.   

Price: Budget-friendly and high quality

At $10 for three pairs, these socks are a smart buy for runners, walkers, cyclists, and even hikers. Plus, they’re so comfortable that you’ll inevitably wear them for non-exercise activities; I wear them all over the house!

Competition: Multiple cushioned socks to choose from

Bombas Women's Marl Ankle Socks: At first glance, the Asics and Bombas Women's Marl Ankle Socks look similar (View on Amazon). Both come in fun and quirky colors with a low-ankle style that sits comfortably and fits snugly. I tested out both pairs for weeks of walking and running, and found the Asics socks ended up being better for exercise and longer distances because the Bombas weren’t as breathable and lead to sweaty feet. That said, the Bombas are ultra-cushy and great for chilly winter lounging or walks when paired with shoes for walking on ice on a frosty day. They’re also more expensive; one pair will set you back $12.

Thorlos Women LWMXW Walking Lite Cushion Ankle Socks: These socks from Thorlos (View on Amazon), which I also tested, promise a similar outcome as the Asics ones. They’re built for blister prevention, and from my time wearing them, this actually works—I had zero blisters! Stylistically, though, they’re quite different. Because they have built-in cushioning for comfort, they’re a bit bulkier than the super-thin Asics socks. They’re also more expensive, at around $15 a pop.

Need some help finding what you’re looking for? Check out our list of the best socks.