Whether you are at work or at play, a man or a woman, nothing leaves you limping like a foot blister. Though poorly fit shoes can be the culprit, it is often a sock that’s rubbing the skin wrong and raw.

It may sound too simple, but to avoid blisters, you must pick the right sock for your activity and the shoes you will be wearing. Proper athletic socks are essential for sports activities.

The American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine (AAPSM) has found that the factors necessary for friction blisters are shear force, pressure and moderate levels of moisture. All of these forces can be mitigated by a proper sock system, according to the Academy. Investigators looked at the role of fiber and sock construction techniques in the prevention of foot blisters. They determined that synthetic, i.e. acrylic fiber, socks produce fewer and smaller blisters than cotton fiber socks. Acrylic socks kept the foot dryer when compared to cotton.

U.S. Military research has also shown that synthetic sock materials tend to cause fewer blisters. A study performed on 357 marine recruits revealed a 69% prevalence of blisters during a four-month period of training. Blisters serious enough to warrant medical attention occurred in 24.4% of all trainees. The Military took more steps to protect their soldiers’ feet and studied various sock systems. The standard military issue sock is a 50% cotton — 50% wool cushion-sole sock.

In a 1992 study of 357 marine recruits, the use of a CoolMax® liner with a heavily padded terry design outer sock using a wool/polypropylene blend significantly reduced blisters compared to a single layer sock (40% vs. 69%). Another study of 1,079 soldiers one year later tested five sock systems on blister frequency and acceptability by soldiers. Synthetic fiber socks significantly outperformed the standard wool sock. Adding a CoolMax® liner to the wool sock significantly reduced blisters.

Also, they found that by comparing single, extra-thick acrylic padded socks to double layer sock-systems, the double-layer system tested much better.

The AAPSM also suggests that socks be designed specific to the shoe, rather than the activity. The foot’s movement and stresses vary greatly, yet in creating a sock to mitigate those stresses resulted in a sock with very similar features, despite the foot stresses of various activities.

For athletes, shoe designs are just as important as the socks worn. AAPSM knows that design in the upper sock portion and fiber composition can be varied greatly to meet the specific demands of each sport.

The following table shows AAPSM recommendations meant to ease chafing between the foot and footwear, keep the feet warm, and wick sweat away from the feet:

• Thin or Thin Double Layer Outdoor(liners): Cycling, Running (racing), Skiing
• Padded or Thick Double-Layer: Jogging, Skiing, Hiking, Tennis, Basketball
• They also suggest wearing socks of these fibers:
• Acrylic: Golf, Tennis, Hiking
• Acrylic/Wool: Outdoor-Cold
• Acrylic/Thermax®: Outdoor-Cool
• Acrylic/CoolMax®: Outdoor-Warm
• CoolMax®: Running, Cycling, Liners
• MicroSafe®: Therapeutic Hosiery, i.e., Diabetes

To further reduce the risk of foot blisters, make sure you pick a pair of socks that is well-constructed and fits properly. The statement “one size fits all” on the sock package gets many people into trouble with blisters. In fact, sock size is generally 1 ½ larger than your shoe size. If you wear a 10 shoe, your socks should be size 11 ½.

Sock experts may also suggest wearing socks with a flat, non-irritating seam across the toe, instead of a tube sock that may bunch around the toes. Reinforced heals and toes will add durability to those areas, while a fully cushioned bottom provides comfort.

Hopefully this will help you wear socks that prevent blisters, and be comfortable everyday.

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Posted by blogger as Articles, Sock Buying Tips at 9:49 PM PDT

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Like any sort of fashion element, socks are a sign of the times. Long socks; short socks. Seamed stockings for the ladies; colorful Argyle socks for men. Brightly colored, weird and wacky socks for the kids; or, just plain ‘ol white athletic socks. Times change and sock preferences change, too.

Current choices in the sock world run the entire spectrum of color and design. One thing we are seeing a lot more of atop the toes today are fashion theme socks. People have personalities to express and are stepping out of the norm every now and then by adding color and whimsy to their wardrobe. They don’t have to wear these novelty socks everyday, but fun fashion socks bring a spark of adventure to an otherwise boring day.

If you see a certain selection of colors or patterns in numerous stores, on Internet sites, or in printed catalogs, you can be sure that is the newest, coolest trend.

If you are crazy about animals or cars, a specific sporting team or favorite vacation destination, you can tell the world about it with these miniature billboards on your feet. And this trend isn’t just limited to children and women.

The same is true for the opposite sex. Men can have fun with their socks, too. In the workplace, we see bolder stripes or patterns that fit with a tie or accents the shirt color. For off hours and weekends, guys often show their die-hard team spirit by wearing an athletic-theme sock.

It’s easier, of course, for children to “be cool” with their socks. Younger girls have always enjoyed patterned tights and socks available in a rainbow range of colors and whimsical, patterned designs. Boys are getting in on the “cool” factor, too, with theme socks.

The rapidly changing selection of cool socks also includes variations in sock shapes. Toe socks, where they are sewn to have a small, separate section to enclose each individual toe, have made a comeback in recent years. Many times, these eye-catchers are worn with open toe shoes and sandals to ensure they grab a lot of attention.

Glamour is also cool in today’s fashion socks. For the die-hard diva look, there is an array of socks with feather trim, jewels, beads and lace. Ladies have taken to these socks just as much as little girls.

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Posted by blogger as Articles, Sock Buying Tips at 10:49 PM PST

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As children grow, they stay active in every way possible — wading in mud puddles, climbing hills, running half-block marathons — you name it. And all this activity is happening while their feet are undergoing tremendous growth and formation. That is why Children’s Socks are as important as their shoes.

Soft padding in the foot and toe areas helps to protect against pressure points on the skin and reduces the friction responsible for blisters. Experts say that to preventing blisters, stick with synthetics. Cotton retains foot sweat, softening the skin so blisters can form. Synthetic socks made of acrylic, polypropylene, or CoolMax wick moisture away from the foot, keeping it dry. They may cost more, but they are worth it for young feet.

Double layer socks are also good at preventing blisters. The inner layer wicks away water, while the outer layer reduces blistering friction. Try it out by wearing two pairs of socks.

Also, feel free to experiment with the thickness of socks. Socks that are too thick leave no room for the toes to wiggle in shoes. You may need bigger shoes or thinner socks. When buying shoes, wear the thickness of sock you plan to wear to ensure a correct fit. Tube socks are not recommended for children. They won’t fit right no matter how much twisting you do. Look for Seamless Crew Socks, which are advertised to “End Mornings of Frustration.” These hand-linked cotton crew socks are constructed of a high cotton blend for breathability. A mix of Lycra and nylon maintains their shape. Extra ribbing adds to the crew sock look, and is designed for the height of the sock to be around the calf on a leg. Hand-linked socks do not have a machine stitch over, which makes it less challenging for those children who have a problem with socks.

Champion socks are a good quarter-crew choice for kids’ socks. Cotton-rich knit wicks away moisture to keep feet cool and dry, while a CushionMax™ sole absorbs shock. Smoothstitch™ toe seam lies flat for chafe-free softness. Another plus is that these socks will stay up while feeling good. A reinforced gray heel and toe resists discoloration, wear and tear.

Trimfit Girls Comfortoe Cotton/Lycra Flat Knit Knee-Hi Sock offers similar comfort for girls. These cotton, flat-knit knee-hi socks use Lycra for perfect fit. It’s a great school sock with a soft toe seam. Content: 70% Cotton, 25% Nylon, 5% Lycra Spandex

For girls, tights are an essential. Look for tights with a shaped foot with elasthane for excellent fit – no baggy ankles. An adjustable waistband and reinforced stitching enhance their longevity. A mix of 70% cotton, 26% polyester, 4% elasthane keeps them breathable, too. In cooler climates, kids will thank you for SmartWool® Hiking Socks. These are made from machine-washable, itch-free Merino wool that wicks moisture from skin so kids’ feet stay dry. A nylon/elastic blend keeps them from sagging Just as with adult sizing, sock and shoe sizes do not match. Here is a typical sizing chart for girls and boys:

Know that sizings can vary by manufacturer, so read the labels on kids socks to be certain of a correct fit.

When buying Infant Socks, you can get non-skid baby socks that can act like indoor shoes. This can help a young one move around safely.

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Posted by blogger as Articles, Sock Buying Tips at 9:33 PM PST

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Sock lengths vary, from below the ankle (nearly invisible above a shoe), moving up to ankle socks (resting above the ankle), to crew socks (ending mid-calf), to full knee height. Each length has its purpose and appropriate use for current accepted styles.

Start with the below the ankle variety. High school kids love these because they show off the shoe and the leg, and they leave a low tan line. Ladies wearing dress shoes who don’t want any stocking to show also use them as “footies”.

Many athletes prefer ankle socks, or anklets. For certain sports like running, an anklet stays in place and sits just high enough above the shoe to offer adequate protection from blisters. Across the United States, ankle socks have become more popular with school children and young adults to wear with athletic shoes. Go for cotton crew or ankle socks with sneakers or athletic shoes.

Fashion anklets are a high-demand item for ladies who want color above the shoe. Theme socks can be found mainly in the anklet size to mark the four seasons, every holiday imaginable, favorite dog breeds, music, travel, and occupations. Boys get in on the action, too, with tractor and airplane anklets.

Open-toe slides, high-heel pumps, and sling-backs worn with short skirts and dresses are now paring with sheer anklets and stockings that show through the shoe opening.

Crew socks are what men wear with slacks, provided they fit the lower leg well enough to stay up without constant fiddling. Wearing over-the-calf socks with formal dress will ensure that they do not slump and bunch. If they don’t stay up, go for an over the calf pair of socks — both dress and casual. The same is true for ladies. The idea is to keep a seamless line of vertical color by matching pants with socks. Bare skin of the calf that shows through interrupts the fashion continuity.

Knee highs allow people to keep their socks in place without the fear of them bunching at the ankle. Many people wear them as dress and casual socks. Colored knee high socks are a key part of a sport team’s uniform. For example, brightly colored socks alert teammates when struggling for a ball in a soccer match. Based on the color and pattern of their socks, players can tell who is who. It’s often hard to tell who you are kicking to when several players become bunched together.

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Posted by blogger as Articles, Sock Buying Tips at 6:44 PM PDT

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As socks are getting more expensive, it is nice to know how to get your money’s worth. See our Guide to Buying Womens Socks to get the most for your money. Your socks will be more fashionable, last longers and not slump.

Posted by blogger as Articles, Sock Buying Tips at 12:57 PM PST

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Getting the Most Sock for Your Money

You get what you pay for, even when shopping for socks. Many types of socks are a true investment for most people, especially those who are making the purchase for athletic endeavors, for medical purposes, and appropriateness in the workplace.

When a single pair of socks sets you back $20 to $30, it pays to do some research before heading to the store. Here are some tips to help you before you shop:

Athletes

• Athletic socks should be synthetic, or a cotton blend. If you are in warm weather, buy thin socks that wick moisture away. In winter, choose thicker socks for warmth.
• The way an athlete moves must also be considered when investing in quality socks. An athlete who strikes the surface more heavily with the heel than toe may consider socks with a thick heel. If you have a tendency for blisters, some socks are made to primarily reduce chafing and blisters.
• Soft padding in the foot and toe areas helps to protect against pressure points on the skin and reduces the friction responsible for blisters. Experts say that to preventing blisters, stick with synthetics. Cotton retains foot sweat, softening the skin so blisters can form. Synthetic socks made of acrylic, polypropylene, or CoolMax wick moisture away from the foot, keeping it dry. They may cost more, but they are worth it for young feet. The big-name manufacturers have figured out what athletes need and are incorporating it into their socks.
• Double layer socks are also good at preventing blisters. The inner layer wicks away water, while the outer layer reduces blistering friction. Try it out by wearing two pairs of socks.
• Also, experiment with thickness of athletic socks. Socks that are too thick leave no room for the toes to wiggle in shoes. You may need bigger shoes or thinner socks. When buying athletic shoes, wear the thickness of sock you plan to wear to ensure a correct fit.
• In high-quality socks, a cotton-rich knit will wick away moisture to keep feet cool and dry, while an amply cushioned sole absorbs shock. Be sure to buy socks with a toe seam that lies flat for chafe-free softness. Another plus is having socks that will stay up while feeling good. A reinforced gray heel and toe resists discoloration, wear and tear.
• In cooler climates, outdoor athletes should look for products such as SmartWool® Socks for hiking, bicycling, and skiing.

Medical Care

• With a Diabetic foot, a wound as small as a blister from wearing a tight shoe, or a sock that rubs the skin, can cause a lot of damage and injuries heal slowly. The proper socks that will last a long time and take care of your feet:
• Though the best socks cost more, buy them! Wear clean, dry socks every day. Avoid socks with holes or wrinkles.
• Diabetic crew socks provide a loose top for better circulation and a full cushion across the bottom for comfort and blister protection.
• Buy seam-free socks also help reduce the risk of skin irritations and foot ulcers.
• Avoid stockings with constricting elastic tops. If they are too tight, the elastic will break.
• Look for square-toes socks that won’t squeeze your toes and fit better in your shoes.
• Designed for those with serious edema, or heavier people, look for socks that can stretch up to an amazing 25 inches in circumference
• Wear thermal socks when it’s cold outside, or when you feel chilly, especially at night.
• Keep your feet dry in warm and cool weather. Wear socks that will help keep the moisture away from your skin. Some brand names to look for when seeking moisture-wicking properties include CoolMax, a moisture-wicking fiber that help keep the feet dry and healthy.
• Keep your feet healthy to avoid blisters and sores from developing. Silipos® Arthritic / Diabetic Gel Socks have a gel insole to provide added support, cushioning, and comfort. SmartKnit® Wide Seamless Socks with X-STATIC™ are designed for people with serious swelling or larger legs and feet. X-STATIC™ high-tech silver fibers act as a natural antimicrobial, which helps keep the skin healthy.

Career Socks

Every job has a dress code, which includes footwear. The accompanying socks must give you the performance you pay for.

In an office, the socks should match the slacks, not the shoe. And, they must be well made to last longer. Again, you get what you pay for. Don’t waste money on socks you will rarely wear. Using too much color and patterns draws attention, which may not be proper for the workplace.

Whether male or female, it’s important to choose hosiery that fits well and stays up. It’s not proper to be pulling up your socks during a business meeting. Over-the-calf socks with formal slacks will ensure that they do not slump, and bunch. For the utmost in comfort, look for a flat seam across the toe. Cushioned tops stay up without binding, just as cushioned bottoms go a long way to keeping the foot comfortable all day long.

Women’s stockings, also called nylons or pantyhose, must never have a hole. Buy the best, for the best performance. Manufacturers have taken new measures to make sure women’s socks, even the dressier versions, have additional padding in sensitive areas for those who work in the standing position all day.

For people who work in areas where hard labor and heavy-duty shoes or boots are called for, the key is comfort. Pressure and impact points exist on every foot, and feet subjected to extended shearing forces need extra protection. When moisture is retained by socks, skin becomes vulnerable to blistering. This is why socks with high wicking properties are so important. Synthetic materials mixed with padded cotton are a good choice.

Posted by blogger as Articles, Sock Buying Tips at 4:19 PM PST

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Though they are most often hidden below jeans or trousers, socks are as important to men’s fashion know-how as they are to women. White athletic socks, for instance, will ruin even the most stylish Armani suit. It is very important that men know the basics of choosing the proper sock as part of their overall clothing scheme. Choices are endless in any department store, where socks are referred to as hosiery.

The following tips will help you pick the best men’s socks (hosiery) and avoid the wrong pair for any look.

Learn about Choosing Mens Socks

Posted by blogger as Articles, Sock Buying Tips at 1:23 PM PST

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