{
 "id": "smartwool-run-ankle-socks",
 "name": "Smartwool Run Ankle Socks (Targeted Cushion)",
 "brand": {
  "name": "Smartwool",
  "url": "https://agenticrecs.com/brands/smartwool/"
 },
 "model": "Run Ankle Socks (Targeted Cushion)",
 "department": {
  "id": "running",
  "name": "Running",
  "url": "https://agenticrecs.com/running/"
 },
 "category": {
  "id": "running-socks",
  "name": "Running socks",
  "url": "https://agenticrecs.com/running/socks/",
  "json_url": "https://agenticrecs.com/running/socks/index.json",
  "schema": "running-apparel"
 },
 "subtype": "merino light-cushion ankle sock",
 "msrp_usd": 21,
 "msrp_note": "List price on smartwool.com; the page also showed sale prices from $14.70 by color/size. iRunFar and NBC Select also list $21.",
 "price_tier": "Mid-range",
 "price_checked": "2026-10-26",
 "attributes": {
  "fits": [
   "unisex"
  ],
  "warmth": "light",
  "wind": "none",
  "water": "none",
  "visibility": "none",
  "temp_range_f": null,
  "temp_range_c": null,
  "temp_basis": null
 },
 "awards": [],
 "summary": "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"
 ],
 "where_to_buy": [
  {
   "retailer": "Smartwool",
   "url": "https://www.smartwool.com/en-us/products/run-ankle-socks-sw001661",
   "affiliate": false
  }
 ],
 "materials": "55% merino wool, 43% nylon, 2% elastane",
 "style_number": "SW001661",
 "key_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"
 ],
 "specs": {
  "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"
 },
 "official_url": "https://www.smartwool.com/en-us/products/run-ankle-socks-sw001661",
 "sources": [
  {
   "publisher": "220 Triathlon",
   "title": "What are the best running socks for comfort and performance in 2026? These are nine of our favourites",
   "url": "https://www.220triathlon.com/gear/run/run-clothing/best-running-socks/",
   "date": "2026-09-15",
   "finding": "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."
  },
  {
   "publisher": "iRunFar",
   "title": "Best Running Socks of 2026",
   "url": "https://www.irunfar.com/best-running-socks",
   "date": "2026-06-09",
   "finding": "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."
  },
  {
   "publisher": "NBC Select",
   "title": "The best running socks for 2026, according to experts",
   "url": "https://www.nbcnews.com/select/shopping/best-running-socks-rcna183742",
   "date": "2026-01-07",
   "finding": "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."
  }
 ],
 "evidence": {
  "specs_from": "https://www.smartwool.com/en-us/products/run-ankle-socks-sw001661",
  "reviews_summarized": 3,
  "tested_by_site": false
 },
 "guides": [
  {
   "guide": "cold-weather-running",
   "chapter": "socks",
   "url": "https://agenticrecs.com/guides/cold-weather-running/socks/"
  }
 ],
 "last_verified": "2026-10-26",
 "url": "https://agenticrecs.com/products/smartwool-run-ankle-socks/",
 "markdown_url": "https://agenticrecs.com/products/smartwool-run-ankle-socks/index.md",
 "json_url": "https://agenticrecs.com/products/smartwool-run-ankle-socks/index.json"
}