Why are race ski socks so thin? Don't my feet need cushioning?

Race socks are thin because cushioning reduces boot feel and alters the precise fit of race boots. In a properly fitted race boot, your foot is held securely by the liner and shell—cushioning adds a compliant layer that absorbs energy and dampens the feedback you need for precise edge control. If your feet hurt in race socks, the issue is almost certainly boot fit, not sock thickness. A bootfitter can address pressure points and volume issues far more effectively than a thicker sock ever could.