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Running socks are as important to a runner's comfort and performance as a decent pair of running shoes. Choosing the wrong pair of socks could lead a blisterful rather than a blissful running experience. Here's why socks are important to the runner.

Choose socks wisely

It is highly recommended that you give as much thought to choosing your socks as you do your running shoes. Why? Well, for a number of reasons, not least the fact that they can help prevent injuries, in addition to preventing some shocking blisters.

It makes little sense purchasing a really good pair of running shoes, if you then wear a pair of cheap socks.

It makes little sense purchasing a really good pair of running shoes, if you then wear a pair of cheap socks that mean your foot slides around in the shoe causing friction and ultimately painful blisters. This effectively negates the benefit you should be getting from the decent running shoes, reducing them to footwear that effectively handicaps you every time you run.

Sock technology has come a long way in recent years, but it is quite hard for manufacturers to get runners excited over a humble running sock. Many runners still pick up a three-pack of poor quality cotton socks over a decent pair of technical running socks and then wonder why their feet are getting damaged. Yes, cheap socks may cost a fraction of the cost of quality running socks but it is a false economy to buy them instead of a running-specific pair of socks.

The idea behind this concept was that double layers would absorb friction, whilst at the same time wicking away moisture, so dramatically reducing the very cause of blisters. With the constant improvement in the fabrics, these qualities have been enhanced over time with resultant improvements in performance. Many runners would not consider running long distance events in anything else, but some still regard them as overpriced gimmicks.

Cushioning is another improvement in modern socks, and is often the main reason why some runners invest more in a pair of socks than others. The level of padding can differ by brand, but the principle is the same in all of them; they give the runner more protection in those areas of the foot that take the most pounding. Principally the cushioning is around the heel and in the toe area, which has the effect of dissipating the pressure normally associated with these points.

What about running socks and other injury prevention?

In addition to the positive effects of good cushioning, there are two other issues to cover. Firstly, some have an additional thread woven into the sock from top to bottom, which operates like a bandage to protect the joints. Secondly there is the use of pressure sensors. These prevent deviation from natural motions, so common towards the end of a run and the cause of so many injuries.

There are a couple of misconceptions when it comes to children’s socks. For example, parents are always asking me whether they need to provide their children with socks that come with grippers or not.

The Importance of Wearing Socks – Grippers or No Grippers?

If your little ones are walking barefoot around the house —as recommended for healthy foot development— they are going to need a pair of socks to protect their feet from the cold.

Children should only wear socks with grippers when they are not wearing shoes. The main reason for this is that the grippers will stick to the insoles of the shoes, preventing your child’s feet and toes to move freely. Babies and toddlers move their toes as a way of exercising their feet, that’s the reason why it’s so important to not constrict this toe movement. If your child’s toes are cramped inside the shoes, this can also lead to the formation of blisters.

If your children are not wearing shoes, like when they are walking inside the house, you can definitely provide them with socks that come with grippers, as they will provide your children with better stability and prevent them from falling.

Gripper socks are ideal for babies or toddlers who are learning how to walk. The grippers will help make your toddler feel more stable when walking.

When looking for your kids’ socks, it’s critical that you always take into account the type of fabric used. The fabric will have an impact on both the comfort and durability of the sock.