Pull Up Your Socks For Healthy Feet

You may find it inconsequential, but a pair of socks is multifunctional. Besides completing your formal-wear look, socks can absorb moisture, protect your feet from injury and also reduce stress on them. Padded socks, in particular, have a cushioned sole for extra comfort.    

Most of us do a lot of research before choosing a pair of shoes, but choosing a quality pair of socks can be equally challenging. Comfort, breathability and fit are key to ensuring you don’t end up with blisters or rashes on your feet.

“When you walk or run, your feet expand, elongate and flatten out with each step; they return to their original shape and size during rest. Padded socks that are designed and made with the dynamic nature of the foot in mind help protect the feet as they move inside shoes,” says the Institute for Preventive Foot Health (IPFH). 

The right length 

When choosing a pair of socks, consider the length based on the kind of shoes you want to pair it with. While ankle-length socks go well with oxfords and ballerinas, knee-length socks can be paired with thigh-high boots. Quarter-length socks are one of the most popular choices when it comes to office wear. These go best with a pair of trousers and formal shoes. 

Material matters 

You can choose between natural and synthetic fabrics. The more important factor is how well your socks can wick the moisture away—that is, quickly absorbing the sweat and transferring it to the fabric’s outer surface and drying up fast.  

On a cold day, a pair of merino wool socks can keep your feet warm as well as dry because merino wool has moisture-wicking properties. Cotton socks are a cost-effective and popular choice, but you may find them wanting in the moisture-wicking department. Synthetic fabrics like nylon and spandex also wick the moisture away and provide a snug fit. 

Pro-tip: To maintain foot hygiene and health, avoid wearing the same pair of socks the next day.