I used to buy cheap white athletic socks -- you know, the 4 pairs for $10 kind you find at Mega-Lo Mart. Then someone introduced me to Thorlo socks about 10 years ago, and my feet have been happy clams, not barking dogs, ever since. The Thick Cushion Tennis Socks are my favorites of them all, because of the extra padding in the heel and ball areas, plus Thorlo's usual luxurious blend of padding and added support. If you participate in sports, walk a lot, or are just on your feet a lot, once you try Thorlo's, you'll never want to wear anything else.