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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.

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Posted by blogger in Articles, Sock Buying Tips