When it comes to socks for long-distance backpacking I only buy the good stuff. Spending $15 or more for a pair of high-tech, lightweight, padded backpacking socks is the norm. Similar to maintaining the tires on our mini-van, I also rotate my hiking socks, check for wear and buy new pairs as needed.

If I'm so meticulous about backpacking socks, why do I put on any old pair of mangy socks before heading out for a 5K run? Jogging has become a staple in my workout and it's time to peel off those paper thin, hole-in-the-toe ankle socks I was tossed at my one-year employee anniversary back in '99. How many of us are jogging the streets occasionally wearing "5 pairs for $5.00" specials?

Runners World recently asked 20 ultrafit runners from Boulder, CO to try out a slew of running socks. Testers determined these are the Ten Best:

• Darn Tough Vermont Run/Bike 1/4 Cushion -- $15
• DeFeet Cloud 9 Regular Cuff -- $10
• Bridgedale X-Hale Speed Diva and Demon -- $16
• Teko EcoMerino Wool Ultra-Light Micro -- $15
• Nike Elite Structure Running -- $16
• Feetures Bamboo & Wool Ultra Light Cushion Quarter -- $13
• Drymax 1/4 Trail Running - $11.50
• Injinji Performance Series Mini-Crew -- $12
• Eurosocks Spring Silver -- $13
• Pearl Izumi Silk-Lite and Ultra-Lite -- $8

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