Sock it to me!
We all know that they are important, often escape artists from the dryer, sometimes a way to show off a quirky fashion sense; but there’s so much more.
Socks are an important barrier to prevent foot injury. Socks help to decrease friction and shear forces that cause blisters, callus and fissures. Socks promote good hygiene, prevent odor and foot fungus by wicking sweat away from skin. They should also fit well, be comfortable, keep you warm in cold temperatures and provide cushion in shoes.
One size does not fit all. Socks come in a wide variety of sizes, heights, materials and the right pair is waiting to cater to your specific needs or activity.
What does it mean to be “Moisture Wicking”?
Lots of athletic apparel boasts the ability to “wick moisture” but what does that actually mean? Let us break down the process of wicking. “Just like a candle draws wax up the wick to the flame, wicking fabric pulls moisture from the body to the exterior of the shirt where it can evaporate more easily.”
In the past, “natural fabrics like cotton, linen and even wool have been better for excessive sweaters than synthetic fabrics because they breathe better.”1 Breathable means the fabric absorbs the moisture, once the air hits the moist skin it cools lowering your body temperature. The problem is that the natural fabrics will retain that moisture, if you are sweating during exercise, the garment will remain wet and become uncomfortable.
Synthetics do not retain moisture like natural fibers and are often not considered breathable. “Being a fiber derived from oil, polyester is water-repellent, and therefore not absorbent. For this reason polyester fabrics do not absorb sweat and can give one a moist, warm, clammy feel. Since it is produced from petroleum, polyester is not considered sustainable and it is not biodegradable.”1
Wicking fabrics are often made of a synthetic and natural blend. Polyester, acrylic or nylon are often the synthetic fiber, cotton and wool are popular choices for the natural fiber, with bamboo gaining popularity. The nature in which these fibers are weaved together produces the wicking ability, the sweat evaporates exiting through the weave then sits on the outer layer of the garment. Knowing the properties of each fiber helps in choosing which combination is right for you.
Cotton is the most common fiber used for socks, often blended with nylon or polyester. Remember to avoid 100% cotton socks, they will not have that wicking property. Stance is a brand offering quality cotton blend socks for both casual and performance. Wool socks are made of knitted wool fibers trapping warmth and are especially useful for hiking and skiing. SmartWool brand is a great wool example, and my pick for best all weather hiking and winter sport socks. Bombas offer both cotton and wool blends, plus they donate one pair for every pair purchased.
-Be well, Dr. D