It seems like you can’t walk from one side of a gym to the other without seeing some Under Armour workout shirts and shorts on the buff bodies.

But hey, they make socks too. Quite good ones in fact. And at a price that appeals to the frugal shopper who hates spending lots of money on things like socks, belts, or underwear. I like a pair of great performance socks from companies such as Lorpen or Teko as much as anyone, especially when hiking, but these Under Armour training socks come with a price tag that’s easier to live with for all the other days. In the case of these HeatGear III socks for men, $11.99 for a two-pack.

Part of that price break comes from being made in China instead of made in the USA like others I’ve reviewed. Otherwise though, they’ve got all the right features in place. We’re talking moisture wicking, thin vented fabric over the spaces between the toes, extra cushioning where needed, and a seamless toe. There’s even a built-in microbe-zapping technology for odor prevention. They come in black or white and the design will almost make you think you’re Spiderman.

These would be great socks to pack for casual travel because they are relatively thin and light, they dry quickly when washed in the sink (polyester/nylon/lycra), and you won’t stink up the hostel when you’re wearing then a long sweaty day. They make your feet more comfortable, but barely come over the top of your shoes. They’re available in models for both men and women.

This other model for women gets by with the minimum amount of fabric, for when you don’t need a whole lot of sock. My personal trainer wife has been using these Kris Concealer Liner socks for weeks and is loving them. She is a regular Thurlos buyer and was skeptical at first because there’s not much to them, but hidden behind the low profile is a long list of features and a lot of comfort.

As with most of the HeatGear line, you get the moisture wicking, the heel and arch cushioning, seamless toe, and odor protection. What you don’t get is a lot of fabric where you don’t need it when running or walking in sneakers/trainers or shoes where the top of your foot is exposed. And once again, $11.99 list price for two at the Under Armour site.

If you’re traveling to warm places and like this style of sock, you could do well without spending a lot through this company. They sell a men’s Resistor Low Cut model with most of the same properties (but a different fabric weave) at a bargain price of 6 pairs for $20. A company after my cheapo heart.

You can find Under Armour performance socks at most sporting goods stores and many shoe stores. Search prices online at Bizrate.com