5 Features of Foot-friendly Socks

The wide array of socks makes choosing one pair rather confusing. There is an infinite number of styles, colors, designs and features to take into consideration. However, if comfort and fit is your goal, you may want to keep in mind these 5 features of foot-friendly socks.

1. Full-cushioned sole support

Whatever sport you may be using your socks for, it helps to have full cushioning at the sole area.  The average person lands on his soles so that the sole are had better be well-supported. Full-cushioned soles provide comfort with every step, buffering the impact of a jump, kick or landing and reducing stress on your heels. Consequently, your feet will not tire easily and you will have better endurance in your sport.

2. Just the right size

Do not ever commit the mistake of choosing a generic, one-size-fits-all pair of socks. Choose a brand of socks which offers at least 4 sizes and settle for the size which best represents your feet. Socks of a poor fit are the major cause of abrasion and blistering. If you can feel your socks rubbing up and down against your skin, they are poorly-fitting and must be promptly replaced. Consult a standard size chart to find the best fit for your feet.

3. Arch support

Socks with adequate arch support are some of the most foot-friendly socks around. The arch support wraps around the arch of your foot to give a warm, snug feel. The arch support also serves the added function of preventing your socks from bunching up. Also look for Y-shaped heel pockets to support the natural contour of your heels.

4. High needle count

The higher the needle count of the socks, the denser the socks are and the more durable and comfortable they are for your feet. Densely-woven socks also give added cushioning and wick moisture away much more efficiently.

5. Reinforced heels and toes

Whatever sport you may engage in, you will find that the heel and toe areas of your socks are the ones which wear out the fastest. It is thus wise to look for socks which have reinforced heels and toes. You can easily spot if the heel and toe areas are reinforced if they are thicker and denser in these areas and are of a different color or material than the rest of the fabric.

The most foot-friendly brands of socks include Nike, Adidas, Puma, Red Lion, The North Face, Timberland, Thorlo and SmartWool.