We're back in 2027 with the ULTIMATE Rating & Ranking of the BEST Grip Socks. Give this a read before you buy your next soccer grip socks. We're testing:
Apex ELITE-1
WeFoot
TRUsox Mid 3.0
TapeDesign
Nike Grip
We have ignored socks that are cheap knock-offs, poor quality, or drop-shipped from China (If I'm honest this is the majority of the grip sock market).
Rating Criteria
Here's the rating criteria for each sock and the related features, benefits, and overall performance output we're measuring against:
GRIP: Foot to Sock. Sock to Boot. All-Weather.
COMFORT: Softness. Blister Free.
FIT: Stability. Locked-Down Feeling.
TECH: Materials & Innovation.
DURABILITY: Yarns. Grip Pads. Length of Wear.
VALUE: Price & Value for Money.
How the rating works?
Each of the 6 criteria (above) is scored out of 10. We then add up this score to find a total out of 60. This total out of 60 is then measured as a %.
Rating Results
This rating and ranking was completed by a single person. All views are of that single person who has worn all these socks (often for months at a time). At Apex we realise grip socks are 100% a personal choice and all athletes and players will of course have their own opinion. It goes without saying that the Top 5 grip socks in this list are all applicable choices. Most importantly, the more players wearing grip socks the better for the market and the footballing community long term.
Apex ELITE-1
The ELITE-1 is a complete re-invention of the concept of a 'grip sock' (and a radical upgrade on the outgoing PRO 3.0). Engineered using lightweight materials commonly seen in elite marathon running and triathlon gear - and combining this with Apex's own ExoFrame and CompoundX technology - the ELITE-1 is a game-changing sock. Nothing like you've ever worn before, at great value with the multi-pair offer. A no brainer sock.
GRIP: 10
The ELITE-1 uses a brand new proprietary grip tech called CompoundX. A truly unique grip material. Engineered to provide unprecedented levels of grip, lockdown, and confidence - but in the thinnest, lightest, most breathable, most flexible package possible - to the point that the pads feel ‘invisible’ when worn. They're also the only grip pads that actively adapt to conditions. In wet weather, moisture is wicked through the cell structure to maintain consistent grip. In heat, the structure softens slightly - like an F1 tyre - maximising surface contact and traction. Clever. And very grippy.
COMFORT: 10
The comfiest sock on the test by far. The ELITE-1 uses an upgraded UltraDri yarn that blends EcoPolyamide (recycled) with dynamic elastane (also recycled) for an incredibly soft, athletic, and structured feel. Apex has also pioneered their Density+ construction which uses 5 micro yarns (instead of 2 larger yarns like most socks). This density meant the sock felt more cushioned on my foot, held less water, retained its shape, and yet weighs 33% less than any of the other dedicated grip socks in this test. Throw in a truly seamless toe and total anatomic foot fit - you get a sock that wraps to your fit for the ultimate blister free comfort.
FIT: 10
Apex set about making a sock that fit your foot perfectly. In all-weather. And they succeeded. Along the way they also did away with cumbersome internal grip pads and taught the market a lesson in how less-is more. The ELITE-1 has a 2-part ExoFrame. Its external elastane wrap provides vertical and horizontal structure, wraps the achilles mid-foot, and toes, and I felt like it eradicates slippage under pressure. Its internal structure provides 12-18mmHG compression (that's less than medical levels) and just enough to provide improved oxygenation, blood flow, and reduce the chance of injury. All whilst ensuring the sock is as stable as possible at high speed. Also comes in 3 dialled in sizes. One-size-fits-all is dead.
TECH: 10
Simply, nothing comes close. Cutting edge materials, brand new grip system, knitting structure only matched from the world's leading sock brands. The level of tech built into the ELITE-1 is truly next level - and its be done in IMO an elegant, understated, pure way aesthetically. We know the sock took 2 years to build from scratch, 42 prototypes, and a moving the whole supply chain to the EU to secure access to the very best sock engineers on the planet. So yes it's a 10 for tech.
DURABILITY: 9
Apex have made the base material for the sock by far the most durable sock on the test. The UltraDri Eco Polyamide material is 3x stronger than Cotton, knitted better than the Polyester alternatives (which get holes), and in the testing hasn't got holes after a full 12 months of wear. Interestingly, the CompoundX grip material is actually designed to degrade (hence why it's a 9/10 and not a 10/10). The grip pads actively wear in over time and have a measured durability time of 3-6 months (in the sock FAQs). We know the socks are designed to be rotated and worn by pro players, so this is no problem, as long as you use them correctly and look after them. I rotate 3 pairs across the lifetime of this test.
VALUE: 9
Apex have said that the ELITE-1 costs 2x as much as any other sock on the planet to make. They've also said that they can't charge twice as much because the goal is to revolutionise the stale grip sock industry. But they took it a level further and actually introduced a multi-pair offer (2 Pairs = 10%, 3 Pairs = 15%, 4 Pairs = 20%). So even though it is one of the most expensive socks going, if you commit to the ELITE-1 it becomes the best value sock going.
WeFoot
WeFoot have entered the market and gained huge popularity very quickly. Their innovative grip system, unique patterned upper, and light stretchy feel makes them a leader in the market. It's great to see new grip socks competing at the highest level and the WeFoot team have delivered an exceptional pair here.
GRIP: 9
Great grip - similar to the ELITE-1 - due to the unique PU material. IN&OUT does the job great - but I felt no different to using the ExoFrame on the ELITE-1. As much as I do enjoy the octopus analogy they use and the wet floor test - it is all a bit irrelevant for the actual process of wearing grip socks with boots in high pressure situations. Regardless, the WeFoot sock performed great in the grip test.
COMFORT: 9
The WeFoot sock is definitely a comfortable sock. The sock has good compression across the midsole and fits up the ankle nicely. I'd go far to say that the compression below the calf was the best on the test - they have that added elastic athletic fit so It fruit hugs your ankle and lower calf. The IN&OUT grip system did not cause any discomfort during the test, I could not notice the grip pads inside the sock - which was great news. I will say that the sock might feel a bit loose around the under heel or toes if your foot shape is not exactly as the sock intended - otherwise a really great fitting sock.
FIT: 9
The sock provides a consistent and snug fit across the majority of the foot. With IN&OUT the stability is solid when spiriting and changing direction - also the sock is made to perform in wet weather (due to the PU grip pads) so it did well when sweaty too. The sock can slightly deform when soaking wet and does not retain structure at all times - but it still felt great to play with on my feet.
TECH: 10
I really enjoy the effort WeFoot puts into the advancement in tech they are looking to make at every turn. Their own PU material will be iterated on and improved, their own material used around the ankle and calf is a really nice touch, and the determination to test their products is always welcome. Too long have grip socks been 'crew sock + silicon pads', so it's great to see socks like the Apex ELITE-1 and WeFoot pushing the boundaries of innovation.
DURABILITY: 8
Based in Korea there are some of the best factories in the world and the WeFoot should benefit from this with properly made socks. They do still use a cotton base which easily gets holes and has issues when worn and washed a lot. The grip pads on the AIR last a long time and rarely ever fall off. They did great.
VALUE: 9
Great for the grip tech. Simple. Innovating product, well made, and priced as a great value option compares to TRUsox and Vypr in the market. WeFoot does not run multi-pair discounts (other than potential Black Friday options) - otherwise good value for money.
TRUsox 3.0
There was once a day when TRUsox was the outright leader in the grip sock market - if I'm honest those days have gone. Worn by elite players since pre-2013 they introduced us to grip pads that weren't silicon and that distinctive cubed heel pattern. But with a lack of innovation, some sizing issues, and no desire to really up the ante design wise - especially at that very premium price point, means they remain a great sock, but being left behind by the rest of the pack.
GRIP: 8
By pioneering their IN/EX tech TRUsox kept forward ahead of the competition and their grip has always been second top quality. The textured suede material is thin and nicely embedded into the base of the sock. Their internal grip pads felt great against my feet and are definitely an improvement on the TRUsox 1.0 and 2.0 form backing the day. Grip wise they will always be a great choice.
COMFORT: 8
TRUsox mix a primary cotton sole for a soft, natural, and cushioned fit. They don't cause blisters and do ensure the heel and toes are protected and comfortable. However, with the base being primarily cotton it will hold water, deform under pressure, and go dry and hard over time making it less comfortable to wear.
FIT: 7
However, a combination of the cotton base AND a slight issue with sizing in the centre of the forefoot is a problem. The TRUsox 3.0 can fit a bit baggy under the foot and move or shift when under pressure at high pace or during changes of direction. This lack real wrap around the underfoot can cause a slight loss of confidence and does make my feet feel like I'm missing that key locked down feeling.
TECH: 7
As said before, TRUsox used to be cutting edge. That isn't the same anymore. Outclassed on the base material front, slower on the uptake to improve fit and comfort (unlike the uniquely designed ExoFrame on the Apex PRO 3.0) and unfortunately only just about passing for 'tech to price'.
DURABILITY: 8
Using quality material and great machinists means the TRUsox is a durable and long lasting sock. It's yarns are well made, knitted tightly and you won't have any issues with grip pads falling off, or any random tears in the toes or sock (like you get from knock-off brands on Amazon). In the past using the TRUsox 1.0 and 2.0 I had issues with grip pads internally flaking off or running my feet, but I didn't get this through the initial testing phase - let's hope it stays that way.
PRICE: 5
Most expensive on the test. Easily. And this is a problem. At XYZ you'd expect the world's most advanced and perfect sock - but you don't get that. I love TRUsox snd everything they've done for football gear. Bu this price point, lack of innovation, and really resting on their laurels makes this a hard pass.
TapeDesign
Much like TRUsox TapeDeign have been around for years - and also like TRUsox are fully resting on their laurels. Even though a big sock in Europe, they're being copycatted endlessly (because frankly TapeDesign socks are very cheap to make) and alongside a lack of innovation quickly being left behind. This is not a hit job at all because I 'enjoy' the TapeDesign sock - just the combination of price, tech, and effort strongly marks TapeDesign down.
GRIP: 6
When I first picked up a pair of TapeDesign sock many years ago I was very surprised at the lack of grip. The pads look sticky and shiny, but in the hand they are not really at all. They are quite smooth and don't have that immediate grip you'd want from a silicon grip pad. Combine this with the fact that the grip pads sit about 2mm-3mm off the base material, and throw in some wet weather and sweat, then you're going to have a problem getting consistent grip.
COMFORT: 9
The most redeeming part of the sock is that the you initially put them on they are quite comfortable. The use a thick polyester sock, that has a nice athletic fit and feel around the ankle and lower calf - it's soft, comfortable, and cushions the feet in all the right places. In saying that, the grip pads are quite large under you foot and some players might not like the feel on the underside of their feet.
FIT: 6
Again a few problems here. Due to the sock being a plain crew sock (a soft and comfortable crew sock nonetheless) there is no structure to the sock. Combined with a lack of internal grip system at all - no grip pads or frame, then you get quite a loose fit to the sock underfoot. It feels like it slides laterally across the boot, and this gets even worse as you get sweaty and wet. You'd need very tight fitting boots to make these socks work, but even then excess material and the thickness of the sock don't make them feel stable.
TECH: 5
There isn't much tech to speak of. If I'm being fair then the base sock is a nice polyester blend that is soft and stretchy. But there is no internal grip system, the external grip pads are very average, and if I'm allowed to say the presentation and packaging of the socks is not premium at all. And all this before we get onto the price.
DURABILITY: 7
The sock is in essence a nice crew sock with silicon grip pads attached. The problem with this is that it's very easy to source the grip sock from the original manufacturer and you can not only see the price, but the scale that these are manufactured (this means less quality assurance and much easier to keep throwing out replacement pairs than actually make a durable product). I've had no problems yet, but I know people have issues with holes in the toes, some ripping, and the grip pads being placed on the sock in a non-linear fashion.
PRICE: 5
For what they are they are very expensive. The used to be a great grip sock when there was less competition and choice - but at the price point there is a whole lot of profit been taken and not a lot of product being given. Way better silicon options.
Nike Grip
Neither Nike or Adidas doing truly traditional 'Grip socks' with grip pads. However, Nike do have their own NikeGrip version without grip pads that is commonplace amongst teams that wear the Nike kit worldwide. Using Nike endless material resources they've created a rock-solid, great fitting, clever sock that will do wonders for certain players looking for a natural fit an feel, without external grip pads.
GRIP: 8
This might be a bit contentious, but during testing I felt like the grip was really really solid, for a grip sock without actual grips. The knitted NikeGrip yarns are definitely anti-slip and provide close connection to the boots insole (especially of any Nike boots). However, these anti-slip yarns are never as grippy as true grip pads and can sometimes provide friction and heat as the Nylon material wears over time. I might just be my feet, but also after washing a few times the anti-slip material feels a bit 'harder' than I'd like - which therefore feels less grippy.
COMFORT: 8
Being a Nike product of course these socks are comfortable, fit your feet well, anatomically designed, and use soft, athletic, speed-drying materials. They are thinner than the other socks on this list so far and so will have more issues with stretching under pressure - but I didn't ever feel uncomfortable. In fact, the slightly thinner feel closely matched the Nike Multiplier socks I used to wear and were a different kind of comfort to the cushioned feel of other grip socks. Made from Polyester, Nylon, and Spandex for that stretchy feel and fit means they feel good on the feet - and frankly perform exactly as a Nike sock should.
FIT: 8
I have quite wide feet - and I know Nike boots and socks can run quite narrow, so I was worried that the sock structure by not hold up to give me that locked-down feel I wanted. But I was pleasantly surprised. It feels confidence inducing without feeling over-bearing, obviously without grip pads the stability is quite natural, but you will need great fitting boots to ensure that perfect locked down performance.
DURABILITY: 8
The NikeGrip gave me no problems at all durability wise during the test. Being a Nike product they are incredibly well made, the polyester base material is very high quality utilising their Dri-Fit tech, and I'd have no problem wearing these day after day. However, some of the reviews have not been friendly. Many reviews discuss small holes appearing between the normal material and the NikeGrip yarns, which overtime grow into bigger holes. Something to take note of.
TECH: 8
Let's be honest it's Nike. They have endless resources and the tech is always going to be solid - but it's not groundbreaking at all. I do really like the socks personally and they rotate nicely into my gear pack, but I don't automatically think that these socks re the very best thing for my performance. There is good reason many pro players chose to wear separate socks and sock sleeves and do away with the integrated NikeGrip sock that comes with the Nike kits.
PRICE: 7
Solid Value, but could be better due to the lack of traditional grip related features. Plus there seems to be some durability issues with some pairs - this might be a quality assurance problem, but worth checking before purchase.
Summary
Grip socks are a deeply personal choice. You can own them all or default to one favourite pair for the rest of your career. This rating shows that each sock has their own benefits (with some clearly more advanced than others) - but it's up to you. You're the player. You're all that matters.
