Do your feet ever seem sweaty or dry? Or do you ever have the urge to go sockless when it comes to wearing your shoes? It may seem that doing so would air out our feet, but this is not the best thing to do.
There are several reasons to wear socks whether it’s for business, casual use or athletic competition and they include:
- Cushioning – Socks add another layer to our feet when we walk
- Moisture absorption – keeps our feet dry
- Prevents the accumulation of bacteria- helps prevents the creation of fungus and athlete’s foot
- Warmth – helps circulation during cold months
- Prevents blisters, corns and calluses – prevents undue rubbing and therefore irritation against your skin
- Can aid in sleeping – may help regulate body temperature and signal the brain it’s time to sleep
- Prevents Raynaud’s disease – Helps regulate blood flow in your foot
Not all socks are the same though. Many are designed to fit the foot with careful attention to structure and support. Socks often cushion the ball of the foot and the heel where much of a person’s weight is applied. Here too, extra stitching may be found to add strength to the sock.
What material is used is also important as not all provide the same benefits. Common fabrics used in socks include:
- Merino wool – a natural product good for providing warmth and allowing for breathability
- Cotton – most likely the least expensive, but your feet will sweat in them
- Polyester – breathable, light and strong and good for all around use
- Olefin – a strong and durable synthetic fabric which is excellent for repelling water
- DryMax – another excellent synthetic fabric that has an anti-microbial treatment that helps prevent the accumulation of odor
- Coolmax – a strong synthetic fabric that keeps warmth and is excellent for athletics
Of course, size is also important whether you have a small or extra-large foot. Make sure your sock fits your feet. Too small and too large a sock, are both very uncomfortable and a waste of money and time. Regarding sock height, choose one that feels the most comfortable and fits your style.
If you have any questions about choosing the proper footwear or have any other questions about your feet call our office and make an appointment with our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brad Toll. He will assess your feet and make the appropriate suggestions or find the appropriate treatments. Call Crofton Podiatry at (410) 721-4505, which provides services to Crofton, Gambrills, Odenton, and Bowie, MD areas.