With so many different types of socks out there, it can be difficult to decide which ones to get. Socks come in a variety of thickness, length, material, brand, and can be specialized for all different activities. So how do you know which ones to get?
The single most important thing to consider when picking out socks for yourself or someone else is the material that the socks are made of. Socks that are made of 100% cotton are the “gold standard” which all other are compared to. All cotton socks will absorb moisture, pulling it away from the skin. This can prevent conditions of the foot such as tinea pedis (athlete’s foot), hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), and onychomycosis (fungal nail infections). They are the most versatile sock, and come in a variety of thickness.
But what happens to all of that moisture that the cotton socks pull off of the foot? In a very active person, or someone that will be on their feet for an entire day, that moisture has a tendency to just sit in the sock, right up against the skin. This is especially true for those who wear cotton socks with leather shoes or other types of shoes that don’t breathe easily. For this group of people, or for this type of activity, a moisture-wicking sock will be a better option.
Moisture-wicking socks come in tons of different forms, but most are made out of either a synthetic, acrylic-based material or a natural wool fiber. These socks, rather than absorbing the moisture from the feet, will spread the moisture out so that it can evaporate at a faster rate. The socks do not prevent sweating – they simply allow the sweat that is produced in the feet to evaporate faster. Moisture-wicking socks may be marketed as running socks, hiking socks, or other sport socks. Be forewarned, though – not all brands of socks are created equal. Many companies will use an inferior moisture-wicking material that may not work as well, and will be very warm against the skin during activity. Brands such as Smartwool, Bridgedale, Drymax, Balega, and Wrightsock are all good choices, but there are a number of other brands that make good moisture-wicking socks as well.
Socks with a nylon blend or polyester fabrics should be avoided at all costs. These socks tend to be very hot, and make the feet sweat excessively. This can be a very uncomfortable situation, and will lead to hyperhidrosis, which can then lead to fungal infections of the nail and foot.
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