Feetures Elite vs Merino Run Elite – Comparison

It’s no secret that socks are important for runners.

We runners can often be quite particular about the pair of socks we use for our important sessions or long runs.

With all of the brands emerging to fill this demand (and coming in at a relatively expensive price point), it can be hard to see what brand will fit your needs the best.

We have tested some of the popular running sock brands out there to help you make a more informed decision of what you will use to keep your feet comfortable and protected.

In this article, we will review and compare Feetures Elite vs Merino Run Elite socks. Particular attention will be paid to comfort, performance, and value.

Feetures Elite vs Merino Run Elite

Feetures

Feetures is by far one of the most popular running sock brands on the market.

This can with no doubt be attributed to its dedication to providing high-performance running socks that still provide only the best quality materials and comfort. The Feetures Elite sock line could very well be the embodiment of these efforts.

Made from 94% Nylon and 6% Spandex, the Feetures Elite Light Cushion sock is constructed with an anatomical design and targeted compression around the arch of your foot, which provides as close to a  custom fit as you can get these days.

A wonderful result of this is that many reviews attest to having a reduced risk of blisters, and the light but strategic amount of cushion provides a comfortable fill within your shoes and some nice impact protection as well.

I did a full review of the Feetures Elite, you can check it out here. 

On top of the fit, the toe is seamless to further reduce the chance of irritation and rubbing.

There is plenty of ventilation as well, so you can definitely take on those warmer days with comfort and confidence.

Here are some general good and bad things that other customers have mentioned:

Merino Run Elite

If you want to talk about high-quality running socks, then Merino Smartwool is always going to be in the conversation as well.

The PhD® Run Light Elite Pattern Micro socks might just be the flagship performance sock for Merino.

Made from 57% Merino Wool, 40% Nylon, 3% Elastane, the PhD Run Light Elite Pattern Micro provides very similar benefits and features as its Feetures counterpart, but with (as you can see) a higher concentration of its famous Merino Wool.

A small lesson on Merino Wool, it is a natural fiber grown by Merino sheep. It’s thinner and softer than regular wool, which makes it easy to wear next to your skin when compared with regular wool.

Some added benefits from wearing this Merino Wool include:

• It Helps Regulate Body Temperature
  • For example, when it’s cold outside, the natural crimps and bends in its fibers trap air, insulating you.
  • On the other hand, when it’s warm outside, it transports sweat quickly away from the skin, helping to keep you cool and dry.
• It Helps Keep You Dry and Sweat-Free
  • Merino wool transports sweat and moisture away from skin as a vapor.
  • This is opposed to regular socks, which usually wick sweat when it’s already a liquid, and then your body has to heat it up to evaporate it—making you feel clammy in colder weather.
• Odor Resistant
• Resiliently soft around your feet

Without a doubt the Merino Wool will have some great benefits, but how does it fit into the Run Light Elite Pattern Micro Socks?

Well, this wool has been bundled neatly with some crazy light cushion, which is designed to provide comfort and protection without adding bulk around your feet. It can fit well for those seeking a better fit within their shoes.

Furthermore, even though these socks are designed specifically for running, they feel quite versatile. I felt like I could wear mine for day-to-day use, hiking, work, walking, and most kinds of runs.

These socks are great for any and all kinds of trail running, and that is what I will use mine for going forward. Road runs are ok, but more so for easy runs. I will say that I did not particularly enjoy these socks on workout days, as they just didn’t quite feel fitted enough for tight and fast turns on the road or track.

Another nice feature of this sock is breathability, as the mesh ventilation zones provide some solid moisture management.

Here are some general good and bad things that other customers have mentioned:

So Which Sock is Better?

Like most things in the world, the plain and simple truth is that it depends on your personal preference.

It really is a toss-up, as I like both brands and will continue to use both.

If you are one who prioritized performance over all else, then Feetures will probably be the better option to try first.

If you really want maximum versatility and have a propensity to running on trails, then I think you will prefer Merino in most cases.