The first thought that comes to an athlete’s mind to win a race is to have the best quality shoes and socks. Furthermore, In order to have that perfect cushioning athletes pay attention to every detail of the shoes and socks. However, most of us tend to ignore this factor and continue to wedge those old pairs of socks with our brand-new loafers or sneakers, making a negative impact on the speed of the person. It maintains warmth and so plays a pivotal role for an individual.
Difference in materials:
Not all socks are considered good for wearing, in the first material socks one should never consider wearing at all costs is cotton. No doubt cotton socks will easily help you ace that 4 to 5-kilometer post-exercise jog during the different seasons but for summer, Oh Well we better say nothing about that. Cotton retains excessive amounts of sweat and causes shoe bites during hot blazing days of summer. We understand how your trust lies in our research and this is why we do not recommend wearing cotton socks. On the contrary Merino wool socks work best throughout the year no matter how harsh or severe the weather turns out to be. Credit goes to its amazing ability to maintain temperature, keep smelly odors at bay, and transport moisture. Due to the same reason, you’d see a lot of athletic running socks made of merino wool. However, most industries use a collection and combination of synthetics such as polyester, nylon, and spandex. By using these synthetic fabrics there’s less chance of blisters and irritation and additionally, they are a great value for money.
Socks are made using a variety of different materials; each material helping to give different characteristics to a single pair of socks. Every sock industry has one main and common goal which is, to provide socks that are not only soft but also moisture-wicking. For the production of socks, there are many options but the most important in natural existing fibers are cotton and wool while synthetics are nylon, acrylic, and polypropylene.
Cotton:
We all have once in our lifetime seen those cotton plants and thought, does cotton really come from these plants? Well, that's true cotton is a natural fiber that is indeed grown from these plants. Due to its distinctive characteristics of being soft, featherweight, and durable, it is used mostly in both athletic and dress socks. As mentioned earlier these cotton socks are then combined with other materials to ensure elasticity. It is important to note here that generating cotton can be a very water-intensive process so recycled cotton is used by industries.
Wool:
Animals that are sheared help in the production of wool. The coats of the animals when sheared and spun into a yarn give us wool. The unique characteristic of wool over other materials is its excellent ability to not hold much moisture. This makes it perfect for hiking and skiing in extremely low temperatures. Another advantage of wool is that it keeps one warm during a severe cold. However, like cotton is combined with other materials, wool is also combined to make it softer as wearing 100% pure and premium wool socks can be scratchy.
Synthetic:
There are many names for synthetic yarns. They’re commonly known as polyester, polypropylene, acrylic, nylon, and more. These are always included in the production of socks as they provide elasticity. Our suggestion for you is to avoid 100% synthetic material socks. This is because they aren’t breathable as they do not include natural fibers. Furthermore, they’re not good and suitable for the environment since synthetic materials are made using chemicals.
Elevation and Support:
The thickness of a sock supports or offers two main benefits.
- Makes every upcoming step for you lighter
- Occupy a portion of the additional space within a shoe.
If you’re a person who enjoys cloud foams of Adidas or similar shoes whose foams are softer then try to inculcate socks that are thicker so that they provide that epic padding beneath the feet. To modify the fit of a shoe, we frequently recommend wearing a thick or thin sock. For instance, try wearing a relatively thicker sock if your shoes are a bit loose considering it's not too loose like above half size. These thicker socks are recommended in conditions when you’re not embarking on the trail. In the past few years, crew length has made a major comeback. The sock may not always glide into your shoe as a no-show length may, but the cut doesn't really give much in the way of performance value.
Examples of some best running socks:
As the softest and most padded model from Balega, the Hidden Comfort continues to rule. This has been stealing hearts forever and works best whether one is hitting the trail or the treadmill or performing slow and calm yoga. The disadvantage of these pairs of socks is that they are barely visible when worn. They are basically ankle socks that hide inside your shoe. The heel tab keeps it safe from slipping down but it doesn’t offer much coverage for the ankle. Thanks to Enduro’s amazing length. We recommend you opt for Enduro for running as it gives performance as well as coverage during those freezing months of December and January. This way one remains safe not only from the chilly wink getting inside the feet but also from the dirt and debris on the track. Enduro’s cushioning is made using Balega’s Drynamix Polyester yarn which is moisture-wicking and feels comfortable.
Characteristics:
When one considers the following characteristics in socks and buys them paying attention to all the details specified below there’s no chance they won’t turn out as the best for running.
Lay greater emphasis on the material:
Material plays an important role in buying socks. This typically depends on the activity that you’re involved in. Whether it's a cozy cotton mix for daily wear or moisture-wicking for athletic pursuits it's important to lay greater emphasis on the material.
Length Is Important:
Take note of the socks' length to make sure they will fit snugly with the shoes of your choice. Choose the crew sock length that fits you best; some may be a little shorter or longer.
Comfort:
Optimized compression to give that comfort and support you need during your hard-core activities.
shape:
The anatomical shape fits like a custom pair by fitting the left and right feet.
Odors at bay:
Perspiration-wicking qualities are provided by synthetic and natural fibers in order to keep your feet cool and warm.
Lesser Shoe bites:
Designed with a seamless toe to reduce discomfort and blisters.
Craftness:
Knitting with a high density for improved comfort and longevity.