SOCK
SENSE
There is no other part of the anatomy so crucial to athletic performance
than the human foot. As the base of all structural support systems and home
to thousands of nerve endings and sweat glands, our feet play an important
role in our body's biomechanical efficiency and thermal regulation. It is
estimated that 3-out-of-4 Americans experience chronic foot pain, and more
experience discomfort from blisters or cold feet. If you've had consistent
problems or other discomforts in your feet, you'll need to answer a few
questions before you buy your next pair of socks.
- Do you need socks that
will help you avoid blisters?
- Will you use them in
normal weather conditions?
- Do you prefer a higher
or lower cut sock?
- Is durability or
cushioning a factor?
FIBER FACTS
With vigorous activity each foot can generate more than a pint of moisture
per day. Although some of the moisture created inside the sock will
evaporate, most of it remains in the heavy cotton fibers, clinging to the
skin and affecting the thermal comfort of the sock. Today many manufacturers
use special moisture-wicking fibers (i.e. CoolMax, Duraspun, Acrylic, and
Merino Wool) along with cotton as well as unique construction
techniques and patented anatomical designs to create technical performance
socks based on sports specific use and abuse. Before you shop, it pays to
have an overview of the different materials:
Cotton: We all know
about that desired mix 60-70% Cotton
CoolMax: This lightweight moisture transport material features a
four-channel fiber engineered to move moisture and speed evaporation of
perspiration. Besides great "wicking" action, CoolMax is lightweight and
quick drying, making it the perfect material for racing and warm weather
running socks.
Acrylic: A man made synthetic fiber, Acrylic combines softness with
light weight quick drying properties. Durable and versatile, Acrylic is the
main fiber used in Duraspun and Lumiza fibers.
Wool: The original natural fiber, Wool offers great wicking action
while retaining its cushioning properties. Too scratchy..? Today, many
manufacturers use Merino Wool-a fine grade wool that offers a softer
"non-itchy" feel against the skin. Aside from its insulation and wicking
properties, Wool also holds its shape better than other materials.
Padded Socks: Are they worth it? Yes, especially for our active
elders. As we get older the fatty pads on the bottom of our feet deteriorate
resulting in a reduction in overall cushioning. The weave of a sock ( loose
weave vs. dense weave ) can have an effect on this cushioning. Generally, a
dense weave sock will offer better cushioning. Thorlo, one of the best
brands on the market, uses a high-density combination of acrylic and nylon
in certain areas of their socks for an anatomical fit and better cushioning.
Anyone who's tried this type of padded sock will tell you; they take up a
little more space in your shoes but if you're looking for extra cushioning
between your foot and the road ahead, they're worth every penny.
DOUBLE LAYER SOCKS...Some people swear by them, some say they have an
awkward fit. It's all personal preference. As a general rule, double layer
socks will help prevent blistering by reducing the amount of friction
underfoot, but only if they fit correctly.
Sock
Terminology
-
Combed Cotton:
Cotton which has been processed through a "Comber" which removed short
fiber components to achieve higher uniformity and tenacity.
-
Mercerized Cotton:
A cotton yarn which has been treated by a solution of caustic under
conditions of cautious concentration and temperature which effects a
permanent or irreversible swelling of the cellulose.
-
Wicking : The
capacity of a fiber to transport moisture away from it self.
-
Lycra Spandex: a
product of Dupont. Used for its stretch and recovery properties, providing
better fit and retention, comfort and or support.
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