Whether it is for leisure or sport, most people don’t know any different when it comes to socks. Wearing something from that big multi-pack grandma bought as a Christmas present for every purpose, they just aren’t built for certain activities. This is why a lot of people want to know if quality socks make a difference. This can be for everyday life, running, at the gym, or other sports, even debating whether sleeping in good socks is a sensible idea.
We’re going to look at some of the plus points for wearing a quality pair of socks, the difference might shock a lot of people.
Breathable
Traditional cotton socks might be good for when you need to grab a pair for work, but using them in the gym is a no-no. Because they hold on to moisture, feet become clammy and uncomfortable. Not only will this be a hot spot for fungus and the likes, but it can mean feet will move around in the running shoe or gym footwear, causing blisters along the way.
Feet tend to burn up as a result of prolonged wearing of cotton socks. A good pair made for performance is going to be a much better choice when it comes to being breathable.
Odor Prevention
This comes hand in hand with being breathable, but quality socks tend to have better odor control. When they aren’t causing feet to become damp and sweaty, the odor does not develop in the same way. Of course, any seriously long run is going to cause some sort of odor, but nowhere near as bad as with the wrong socks. Good socks absorb some of the sweat so it doesn’t start pouring out for everyone around to endure.
Moisture Wicking
To find a moisture wicking sock, it all starts with the materials used. Try and find a product that is made of acrylic and polyester. These repel moisture to keep feet cool and dry when you are clocking up the miles and working up a sweat on the outside.
Durability
One of the common complaints with cheap socks is that they lose shape and are riddled with holes before too long. They often lose their elasticity rendering them useless. For most people, this is acceptable since they don’t cost a lot in the first place, but the problem is that they are usually replaced with more cheap socks. This results in a repeated cycle where the wearer misses out on the benefits and durability of quality socks.
Because the materials are higher quality, performance socks last longer, keep their shape and offer the various benefits for longer than cheap cotton socks.
Variety
There was a time where performance socks tended to come in basic colors, not offering much in the way of variety and a chance for the wearer to express themselves. Thankfully, most quality socks are available in all sorts of shapes and sizes, with everything from the functional and multipurpose black and white, to the vibrant designs for the brave.
Fir For The Right Purpose
Because all sports and outdoor activities put different demands on the body, their footwear is usually wildly different. So, someone wearing hiking boots is going to need different socks than someone going for a run on flat terrain. Thankfully, there are performance socks for every niche sport, made from the ideal materials for such activities.
This means anyone hiking can wear the likes of merino wool to keep feet cool and dry, they are also light and comfortable when you find a quality pair.
Cushioning
Because the pressure points that come with strenuous activity will put a strain on different parts of the foot, having socks with the right cushioning is important. Features such as toe padding and cushioning on the heel are going to go a long way when you are halfway through a 10k. This protects the underfoot from some debilitating issues such as blisters in a way that regular socks do not.
Quality running socks also protect the right areas such as the toes and ankle bones with added cushioning that are otherwise vulnerable to injury.
Reduced Skin Friction
A common issue with regular socks is that they are not made with constant friction in mind. Because of this, any strenuous activity that results in more friction is going to cause them to rub. Running socks tend to be thicker and fit better so they do not cause this problem. This, and the material are two important factors for ensuring blisters does not cause your feet pain.
This is the opposite of what you want as any pain around the foot can mean you have to take rest and recovery days when you should be ready to go again.
Comfort
Above all, people want comfort from their socks. The problem with regular, cheap socks is that they don’t feel uncomfortable during day to day wear, but they are also not comfortable. A lot of people aren’t aware of what a comfortable pair of socks actually feels like. They are missing out on socks that are comfortable, not just because they repel moisture, reduce odor, and stop feet from swelling, but they fit better and feel good supporting the key areas.
Things To Remember Why Buying Good Socks
It isn’t just the brand name that is important, there are other aspects that make the good socks better than a cheap pair. Still, it is important to remember some of the basics including the following:
Length – This should match the activity. Ankle socks are good for running but less ideal for hiking. It is counterproductive to buy a sock that is perfect for one activity and expect it to be comfortable for another.
Material – With a variety of performance socks out there, again, it is vital to match the material to the activity. Something light and breathable will be good for summer activities, but thicker materials can be more comfortable, especially in winter.
Arch Compression – Although this isn’t as important for some activities, it can help keep the foot stable and reduce friction.
Shape – Some performance socks are designed to conform to the shape of the foot and ankle area. This can make them more comfortable for strenuous activity, but less so for the likes of hiking.
