When it came to learning the ways of the world, socks were one of the things most of us got the hang of early. Pull them on all the way so they don’t flop around and make sure to avoid holes (or at least not wear them when company comes). Beyond the basics, though, do you know the best socks for your needs? There are more types than you might think.
First, there are three main materials when it comes to socks: cotton, acrylic, and wool. The natural fiber of cotton is a nice choice for people who want softness on days they’re not very active. Cotton does not make the best socks for sports or heavy activity, as it doesn’t wick moisture away from the skin. This leads to a heightened chance of blisters, athlete’s foot, and foot odor if the feet sweat a lot.
Acrylic is a synthetic fiber that is a better fit for sports. Although it doesn’t tend to absorb sweat as well as cotton, it wicks moisture away better to help prevent blisters and other problems. Acrylic is also a good choice for people with poor circulation or diabetes, as it can cause less irritation that might lead to sores.
Wool is a fine choice for outdoor use, as its insulating properties can help regulate the temperature of the feet regardless of the thermometer reading. This goes out the window when a wool sock becomes fully saturated, but they can take a good amount of moisture before doing so. They are excellent at wicking moisture away from the foot and tend to stay fresher in the face of foot odor issues.
There’s even more to consider than just material, and we haven’t even talked about blends! If you’d like help determining the right socks for your situation, give the office of Dr. Kevin Powers a call at (812) 333-4422. Serving Bloomington, Ellettsville, and surrounding areas, we’re always happy to lend our expertise for the best in your foot care.
