Fabric Matters

Fabric Matters

When we put on our shoes, we typically first select a pair of socks to go with them. We have been taught to do so all our lives without a second thought. A lot of us were never told why socks are so important - we were just told that we had to wear them when we wore our shoes. Grabbing a pair of socks always seems simple, but did you know that the type of socks you wear could impact the health of your feet? Socks are an integral part of our daily life and should not be a second thought. Podiatrists know that they protect the feet and should be selected with care and understanding.

Fabric

Socks are made of many types of different of fabrics. Some of the more common fabrics are wool, acrylic, cotton, and nylon. Each of these fabrics affects your foot differently.

Merino Wool – Wool socks are typically thicker, warmer, and are very breathable. These socks are ideal for year-round use. They are soft, itch free, and are very durable. They tend to resist odor and shrinking when washed and are great for those who take part in a lot of athletic activity. Wool isn’t only for winter.

Cotton – Cotton is a universal fabric that has a tendency to trap moisture.  If moisture is trapped in a shoe and friction occurs, then blisters will pop up on your poor, unsuspecting feet. In order to avoid blisters with cotton socks, wear them only on a casual basis. If you are participating in athletics, it is better to stay away from wool socks.

Acrylic – If you cannot afford to buy merino wool, then a more affordable option is acrylic. Acrylic is versatile, durable and provides a lot of cushion and comfort. It dries quickly and will not leave you with blisters.

Nylon – Nylon socks are typically blended with many other fabrics. They are durable, dry quickly, but do not offer a lot of cushion and can cause the foot to move too freely in its footwear. Be cautious when wearing nylon and only use them sparingly. 

Overall, when picking out a package of socks, be sure to choose a sock that is right for your circumstances. Acrylic and merino wool are great options for athletes and everyday use. They provide a lot of support and cushion to the foot and are ideal accessories for your feet. Cotton is all right, but be sure to wear it casually so that you can prevent pain in the future.

If you are having a hard time picking the right type of socks for your feet, call Dr. Joseph A. Stuto or Dr. Joseph C. Stuto of Joseph Stuto, DPM in Brooklyn, New York.  These highly trained podiatrists will take your patient history to help determine the best type of sock for you. Call 718-624-7537 or make an appointment online today.

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