---
type: "product"
id: "smartwool-run-ankle-socks"
name: "Smartwool Run Ankle Socks (Targeted Cushion)"
brand: "Smartwool"
model: "Run Ankle Socks (Targeted Cushion)"
department: "Running"
category: "Running socks"
category_id: "running-socks"
subtype: "merino light-cushion ankle sock"
msrp_usd: 21
price_tier: "Mid-range"
price_checked: "2026-10-26"
fits: ["unisex"]
warmth: "light"
wind: "none"
water: "none"
visibility: "none"
url: "https://agenticrecs.com/products/smartwool-run-ankle-socks/"
json_url: "https://agenticrecs.com/products/smartwool-run-ankle-socks/index.json"
official_url: "https://www.smartwool.com/en-us/products/run-ankle-socks-sw001661"
last_verified: "2026-10-26"
evidence: "Brand specs; 3 published reviews summarized; not tested by AgenticRecs"
---

# Smartwool Run Ankle Socks (Targeted Cushion)

**Verdict:** A light, targeted-cushion merino ankle sock that topped 220 Triathlon's 2026 test and was iRunFar's best ankle sock. Testers found it soft, secure and odor-resistant, though some wore holes in it sooner than in rivals.

- **Best for:** Year-round road running, including crisp fall days, for runners who like a thin merino sock with a little padding.
- **Not for:** Slushy or deep-cold runs, where an ankle sock leaves skin exposed below the tights.
- **Downsides:** Some testers saw holes sooner than with other picks (iRunFar); Can feel warm in midsummer; Ankle height leaves a gap in winter

## Key facts

| Field | Value | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| List price (MSRP) | $21 (List price on smartwool.com; the page also showed sale prices from $14.70 by color/size. iRunFar and NBC Select also list $21.) | smartwool.com, checked 2026-10-26 |
| Fits | Unisex | Brand |
| Warmth | Light | Construction (see scale) |
| Wind | None | Brand |
| Water | None | Brand |
| Visibility | None | Brand |

## Where to buy

- Smartwool: https://www.smartwool.com/en-us/products/run-ankle-socks-sw001661

## Specs

| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Materials | 55% merino wool, 43% nylon, 2% elastane |
| Height | Ankle (iRunFar: 3.25 in cuff) |
| Cushion | Targeted (light) |
| Merino content | 55% |
| Toe style | Virtually Seamless flat-knit toe |
| Warranty | 2-year 'go far. feel good.' guarantee |
| Style number | SW001661 |

## Features

- Targeted cushioning at high-impact zones
- Virtually Seamless flat-knit toe
- Indestructawool reinforcement in high-wear areas
- 4 Degree Elite Fit System with stretch and mesh zones
- Made in the USA
- 2-year satisfaction guarantee

## What reviewers say

- Top sock in the test at 92% (best overall), reviewed as 'Run Targeted Cushion Ankle'. Testers praised its soft feel, padding under the ball and heel, and lack of bunching; it runs warm in summer heat. Source: [220 Triathlon: What are the best running socks for comfort and performance in 2026? These are nine of our favourites](https://www.220triathlon.com/gear/run/run-clothing/best-running-socks/), 2026-09-15.
- Best ankle-height pick: it stayed in place, breathed well and resisted odor. Some testers wore holes in it sooner than in other top picks. Source: [iRunFar: Best Running Socks of 2026](https://www.irunfar.com/best-running-socks), 2026-06-09.
- Included in its expert-backed list. A podiatrist noted the thin merino blend with toe and heel padding and suggested it for cold-weather runs; some users find the padding bulky. Source: [NBC Select: The best running socks for 2026, according to experts](https://www.nbcnews.com/select/shopping/best-running-socks-rcna183742), 2026-01-07.

## How this page was made

- Specs, materials and list price: https://www.smartwool.com/en-us/products/run-ankle-socks-sw001661, checked 2026-10-26.
- Verdict, best for, not for and downsides: our summary of the 3 published reviews above.
- Hands-on testing: AgenticRecs has not tested this product yet.