Sports Socks Are For Comfort

Best Socks for Running, Walking & Other Exercise

Sep 5, 2008 Elva Osterreich

Trends in sock wearing have changed over the years. A study by the American Podiatric Medical Association shows what consumers want in a sports sock.

The importance of a sock that fits properly and allows the foot to breathe is almost as critical as the need to find the right shoe. According to a survey by the APMA, 29% of consumers buy socks made for high-energy activities such as running, hiking and skiing.

When wearing a sock for any type of activity, American Podiatric Medical Association always recommends the following:

  • Purchase a sock made of a polysynthetic blend. This material will best wick away moisture from the foot, which can prevent blister formation and irritation.
  • Avoid socks with large seams at the toe or in other areas. those with diabetes or decreased circulation, who have an increased chance of developing irritation and blistering of the foot skin, should seek out seamless socks whenever possible.
  • Choose thickness of sock material based on personal preference and comfort.
  • Evaluate each sock's fit, making sure that there is no loose fabric around toes or heels. conversely, socks that are too tight can decrease circulation and comfort.

With today’s athletes in particular seeking high performance from all of their footwear products, special attention is now being paid to sock construction techniques that elevate comfort and safety levels. Hyperhydrosis (excess sweating) and bromhydrosis (foot odor) are just two types of foot ailments often caused or made worse by donning an inappropriate sock.

People with hyperhydrosis can mediate the effects of the condition by choosing the right sock.. Sock technology has advanced tremendously over the past decade. Many socks now have special properties that wick moisture away from feet and prevent bacteria from growing.

Socks made of synthetic fibers will keep feet cooler and drier than cotton. Once cotton gets wet, it stays wet, bunches up and may cause blisters. Cotton also doesn’t hold up to washing and can lose its shape and become abrasive.

New sock technology includes concepts such as the use of two layers of fabric, which reduces the chance of blisters.

Importance of Cushioning

Cushioning is another improvement in modern socks. The level of padding can differ by brand, but the principle is the same in all of them; they give the runner more protection in those areas of the foot that take the most pounding. Principally the cushioning is around the heel and in the toe area, which has the effect of dissipating the pressure normally associated with these points.

To prevent bromhydrosis, the best solution is to keep the feet clean and dry and change socks often. There are a number of powders, creams and sprays that can be used to prevent bad odors but it all begins with a comfortable, dry sock.

Socks for Kids

Children look for simple things in their socks. For example, 13-year-old Forst Hibler says he likes his short and soft: fluffy like his dog. It is up to the parent to ensure a child’s sock fits appropriately and then let him run with his imagination. If the sock doesn’t fit right, it can ruin the whole day.

But whether you are a child or adult your socks can be a reflection of who you are, and embarrassing odor or strange color can be avoided with smart shopping.

The copyright of the article Sports Socks Are For Comfort in Shoes & Accessories is owned by Elva Osterreich. Permission to republish Sports Socks Are For Comfort in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
Thr right sock makes all the difference., Elva Osterreich
Thr right sock makes all the difference.
   
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