When it comes to running socks, comfort, support, durability, and breathability are among the top features that you should be looking out for, especially when it comes to socks for long-distance runs.
Near Earth’s Distance Running Socks claim to offer all of this, with a focus on sustainability and performance design. I’ve been running in them over the last few weeks to see how they hold up in the real world.
This Near Earth socks review shares my findings and everything you need to know before hitting that buy button to try a pair for yourself.
Key specifications
- Price: $24 at Near Earth
- Material: Lightweight technical fiber for minimal friction and cooling
- Fit: True anatomical fit with left/right footbeds, arch support, and a size-scaled crew height
- Design: Minimalist aesthetics, engineered in Germany
- Manufacturing: Made in Europe using 100% renewable energy, with waste recycling and micro-plastic filtration
- Features: Breathable zones, protective cushioning underfoot, and strategic wraps around toes
About the Near Earth brand
Near Earth is a relatively new running brand, so here’s a little bit about them and their design/manufacturing process, for those who are not familiar with them yet.
Near Earth is a performance-focused running brand that combines functionality with a strong commitment to sustainability. Their products are thoughtfully designed for serious runners, with a particular focus on minimizing environmental impact – something that I respect! Side note: I also respect the space themed branding, being a bit of a astronomy nerd myself.
By knitting their socks using renewable energy and employing waste recycling systems, Near Earth aims to reduce its carbon footprint while delivering gear that supports your performance. The brand’s ethos is deeply rooted in conscious production practices, such as micro-plastic filtration, which prevents harmful materials from entering waterways.
How they fit and feel
The fit of the Near Earth Distance Running Sock (DRS) feels really precise and supportive without feeling too tight. The anatomical left and right footbeds ensure they hug the contours of your feet without feeling restrictive.
I really value anatomically designed socks because it feels like a bit thoughtless design process when brands make identical pairs, given that our left and right feet are clearly different in shape.
The arch support is subtle yet noticeable, offering a locked-in feel.
The cushioning underfoot is also minimal but strategically placed, wrapping slightly around the toes and at the heel for just the right amount of protection without adding unnecessary bulk.
What I really like
- Breathability: The thin uppers and breathability zones keep your feet cool during long runs, even in warm conditions.
- Sustainability: Manufactured with renewable energy and advanced recycling systems, they align with my own environmentally conscious values.
- Comfort: The true anatomical fit and thoughtful design eliminates friction points, reducing the risk of blisters when running longer distances.
- Minimalist design: These socks blend seamlessly with any running kit, focusing on functionality rather than flashy aesthetics – that said, I really like how they look.
Room for improvement
- Price: At $24, the Distance Running Sock falls on the pricier side for running socks, which may deter budget-conscious runners.
- Minimal cushioning: Runners who prefer a plush, heavily cushioned sock might find these too thin for their taste – I personally think they hit the sweat spot
The verdict
Near Earth Distance Running Socks excel in delivering lightweight performance, thoughtful engineering, and eco-conscious manufacturing. At $24, they’re not cheap but I personally believe they are worth the money, if you’re looking for a running sock that prioritizes breathability, support and comfort with anatomical fit for long distances.
If you’re ready to invest in quality socks that align with your running performance and environmental goals, the Near Earth running socks are worth buying.
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