From Blisters To Bliss: Socks Can Do More Than You Think

Have you heard the phrase “cotton is rotten”? When it comes to the socks we choose for athletic activities, it’s true! Cotton socks absorb about 50% of our sweat and hold it next to the skin. When this fabric absorbs moisture, it can cause friction against the skin and lead to blistering on the feet. And of course, when our feet don’t feel comfortable, our movement and athletic performance can be affected significantly.

Athletic socks are commonly made from synthetic blends (i.e. polyester, nylon, and spandex), natural blends (like merino wool) or a combination of both. The most important thing is that the material keeps your feet dry.

These moisture-wicking socks pull sweat away from the skin through the fabric. But as moisture reaches the outside of the sock, it then has to leave somehow. The best way to keep your feet dry is to pair this type of socks with a breathable shoe.

A blister will form if there is excess moisture in your socks or if there is a high-friction area between your socks or shoes and your feet.

To keep things comfortable and blister-free, consider wearing synthetic or wool socks. These materials are good at keeping your feet dry by wicking away moisture. And don’t forget about the fit – make sure your socks fit properly and don’t bunch up around your toes or heels. This snug fit helps minimize friction and will make your activities more enjoyable.

Additionally, pick socks that are seamless and offer a constriction-free design. Seams are often a point of irritation and friction, so opting for seamless socks can help prevent blisters.

Do you find your toes get cold on winter walks? Or maybe your feet are always hot and sweaty in the summer? Socks can help with that!

You may think wool can only help in cold temperatures, but socks with Merino wool fibres should be your go-to for any type of temperature regulation. Merino wool has the incredible ability to adjust to external conditions, keeping your feet toasty warm when it’s cold out and cool when it’s hot. In the winter, Merino wool sock fibres trap warm air to keep you warm without adding unnecessary bulk. But what about in the summer? Well, those same fibres create air pockets to keep you cool. When the Merino wool absorbs your feet’s heat, the air pockets trap cooler air, protecting you from the elements.

The fine, itch-free fibres of Merino wool have virtually replaced the scratchy ragg wool socks worn by previous generations. Wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in water, which helps feet remain dry in most conditions. However unlike cotton socks, wool is moisture wicking and can manage the moisture.

Socks with compression promote circulation by helping push blood and fluids out of your legs. They create a “pressure gradient” by fitting snugly around the ankle and tapering off in pressure towards the top of the sock. This creates better blood pressure in your veins and prevents swelling and increased fatigue after a long day of work or during an activity.

Compression socks may also be used after running or playing sports to reduce lactic acid buildup in the lower legs and reduce the feeling of leg fatigue. Most athletic compression socks are knee-high and made of a sweat or moisture-wicking and antimicrobial material. They may also have a distinct panel in the calf area that allows for more expansion of the calf muscles during exercise.

Whether you’re walking or running, your feet endure significant impact from the ground. Many athletic socks have cushioning at the heel and the ball of the foot. That cushioning absorbs some of the impact that your feet experience while moving, putting you at less risk of injuries from repetitive stress.