Shorts

I wear three different brands of shorts:  Asics, New Balance, and some Ironman shorts.  My order of preference for them is New Balance, Ironman, and Asics.  

I like the supple feel of the New Balance shorts.  They just feel the best.  Plus I have a pair with pockets that I really like.  I never use the pockets, but I just like having them -- I didn't promise a rational review here!  I paid about $30 for these shorts.

I picked up the Ironman shorts from Sierra Trading Post (www.sierratradingpost.com) for $6 a pair.  I guess they are seconds, but I can't really tell.  Like the New Balance shorts, they feel pretty good.  I don't think their cut is quite as good, but you can't beat the price.

I have been wearing Asics shorts the longest.  They are fine unless it is a bit cool and dry.  Then I find the material to be a little bit crisp feeling, and they irritate my legs a little bit.  It's not enough to get rid of them, but I usually don't wear them on long runs anymore.  I paid about $25 for them (I'm guessing here, because I can't remember for sure). 

Socks

I wear Wright Running double-layer coolmax socks.  I've worn both the original double-layer version and the version that is stitched on the top of the foot.  While the stitched version seems like a good idea, for some reason they make my shoes feel loose even when they are tight.  So, I prefer the original version.   

Never a blister.  Always comfortable.  What more can you ask for?