CAN A GOOD PAIR OF ATHLETIC SOCKS MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
Not many people consider the differences in sock materials, often choosing the most affordable option over performance improvement claims. However, athletic and performance socks come with some benefits over typical cotton varieties, and you can even find specific types for individual sports, like football socks.
While it is easy to brush off claims of superior performance, athletic socks, made from acrylic and polyester, do provide specific advantages over other cotton varieties, primarily in their moisture-wicking ability. However, if this article truly hopes to change the mind of you, the reader, it is necessary to explain the specific disadvantages of wearing cotton socks during high-energy activities.
Cotton Socks Just Won’t Do
Cotton is a somewhat thick and highly absorbent material; neither attribute is suitable for exercise or rigorous play. When working out or playing a sport, you want a pair of socks that encourage air movement and resist moisture.
Cotton only contributes to three primary problems: odor, discomfort, and poor foot health. Because cotton absorbs rather than repels, sweat does not dissipate; it collects. Naturally, as sweat builds in the shoe, it creates a stink, and that smell does not stay within the shoe; it permeates the surrounding area.
Beyond odor, the absorption of cotton socks can make wearing them during activities uncomfortable. Your foot feels damp, and the dampness can affect the way you move.
Because of the wet, your foot becomes more prone to movement within the shoe, creating friction. When paired with excessive moisture, the rubbing leads to blisters. Also, bacteria can thrive in a damp shoe, meaning that you can become prone to foot infections, such as athlete’s foot.
Avoiding Problems With Wicking Materials
Performance socks, unlike cotton, wick the moisture away from the foot and repel it. The materials used for these foot accessories mean that your feet remain dry during workouts. Beyond keeping your feet dry, athletic socks allow for greater air circulation around the foot, helping avoid the sweat problems associated with cotton alternatives.
Performance socks also contour to the foot; they fit almost like a second skin. The more accurate fit means that there is less movement between the sock and the foot, reducing friction and the likelihood of blisters or other foot problems. However, because of the more appropriate fit, some wearers may find performance socks a little snug or uncomfortable, which is why choosing a pair designed for your activity is crucial.
Choosing the Right Pair for Your Activity
While cotton socks for most sports are inappropriate, they are useful in some situations. For example, skateboarding requires cushion and shock absorptions. This activity’s shoes often include extra padding and support, meaning that a performance and wicking sock, like football socks, are ineffective because there is no place for the moisture to go, so cotton is fine. For an activity like football or soccer or baseball, the wicking and blended materials of performance socks ensures dry feet and less friction, meaning fewer risks of blisters or infections. Therefore, before choosing the socks, consider the activity and its footwear.
Getting On Board With the Price
Cotton socks are often preferred because of the low price. Unfortunately, you get what you pay for and lose some critical protections depending on the sport or activity. Performance socks are more expensive because of the materials, but the materials can often last longer than cotton. Also, consider that you will not need to wear athletic socks all day and that minimal wear can prolong the pair’s life.
Spending more now is beneficial, primarily to your feet. Cotton socks cannot hold up to the rigors of high-energy activities, and the absorption and comfortable fit only add to the risks of infection or blisters.
If you are an athlete, a pair of performance socks are a must, depending on your sport. Find an appropriate pair of baseball, basketball, or football socks, and invest in your foot health.
