8 Features to Look For In Soccer Socks

Soccer socks now come in a dizzying variety of length, thickness, material composition, color and designs that choosing one or two pairs would be so puzzling a chore if you have no idea what to look for. Here are 8 features serious soccer players look for in a pair of socks.

1. Moisture management
Soccer socks have gone a long way from the days of soggy cotton and hot wool and now come equipped with slick, moisture-wicking properties. Read labels and look for synthetic fibers which repel moisture. Your feet will thank you as they stay dry longer.

2. Heel padding
All that frequent running will soon take its toll on your heels. It is best to choose soccer socks with adequate heel cushioning to keep you always on the run.

3. Toe cushioning
There's no reining in on all the kicking that's bound to happen in a soccer game. Look for soccer socks with padding at the toes to keep your digits happy.

4. Mesh ventilation on top and back of foot
Every soccer player knows the icky feeling of sweaty feet in soggy socks. Do away with that disgusting feel by donning on a pair of soccer socks which feature breathable mesh on top and at the underside of the foot.

5. Rib support above the ankle
The ankle is one joint which is most often used during the game and should be well-supported not just by an ankle guard but also with a pair of soccer socks with built-in rib support around the ankles.

6. Rib arch support at the foot
You wouldn't believe how much of a difference a simple padded support at the arch of the foot would make. Most foot pains are localized at the arch and are usually caused by a rough and hard terrain. Soccer socks with arch support help a lot in keeping your feet pain-free.

7. Comfortable fit
The fit may not be readily evident from the packaging but you can look at the material used to give you an idea of the kind of fit the socks promise. Look for soccer socks that are made of spandex, polyester, elastane or a blend synthetic materials as these are the ones which offer compression and elasticity.

8. Knee-high length
One important function of soccer socks is to hold the shin guards firmly in place. As such, your socks should reach the area above the ankle and just below the knee. This length requirement is strictly imposed in legal plays.