A Pox On Cotton Socks

Posting Date: 05/18/1999

If you wear cotton socks to hike, jog or play, you?re more likely to end up with foot blisters or bruises, according to sock experts.

Synthetic socks are the way to go, says podiatrist Douglas Richie of Los Angeles, who has done research on sock performance.

The reason for this is that synthetic fibers wick away sweat from the foot, keeping it drier and thus less likely to blister or become infected.

Cotton socks, on the other hand, flatten under pressure and leave no room for air pockets to let the sweat out. The moisture is therefore driven into the outside layer of skin, and blisters result.

In other words, the experts say, cotton socks result in sweaty feet if you?re engaged in workouts or athletic activities. These socks are outdated and risky for the health of your feet.

When shopping for socks, look for synthetic fibers with a dense weave, which means more air pockets and less compaction. You might pay a little more, but your feet will thank you.

Email this page  Printer Friendly Bookmark this page