Thorlo has long been known for their "protective" socks.  It was nearly three decades ago that I first wore them to protect my shins when skiing and they worked when nothing else seemed to (I had extensive injury to both legs and only scars on my lower shins and ankles).  When I looked at the socks for running, the padding in the ball and toe area along with the heel was obvious - but I normally wear relatively thin socks for running to avoid movement in my shoe.  Neverless, after seeing the socks in a retail store, I ordered off Amazon to save a few bucks.  I was happy with the price and the socks arrived promptly.  The first time I tried them on to run, I thought I would probably have problems because I could "feel" the extra padding.  I was wrong.  The socks worked perfectly.  Socks are just about the second most "personal preference" article of clothing that anyone wears.  If you are doing training or running and need a sock that fits close (sized very well with multiple options) along with a little extra badding on the bottom, this may be perfect for you.  If you don't care for socks that fit closely around the arch, then look elsewhere.  I like 'em.