Footwear or apparels are often not given the priority they deserve. However, having a good pair of footwear and accessories is important. For one, it protects the feet from all elements it will be subjected to.
And second, it has the ability to give support and comfort to the weary feet. Shoes are important, but everything does not end with the shoes as socks are also important because, like the shoes, they provide an additional line of protection and security.
For the athletes, those who love running, going to the gym or simply going outdoors, shoes and socks are important foot apparels. What use is a good pair of running shoes when it is paired with socks that often slide and cause blisters?
Often times one is familiar with the cotton socks, but once in a while, a rare or new word pops up – one such example is the Running Sock.
One might ask the following questions: What are running socks? What makes it different from the more common cotton sock? When can the running socks be used? This short article will answer all those questions.
What Are Running Socks
The first question — what are running socks – is easy to answer. Running socks, as can be gleaned from the name itself, are special types of sock that are designed particularly for running or other activities that would entail the long and hard use of the feet.
Running socks are designed with some features that provide the feet not only protection but also support for the long-standing, running or jumping ahead. The feet take a terrible pounding and stress from running miles and, if not supported by running socks, may lead to foot problems or injuries.
Unfortunately, some would wear socks without putting much thought it – just having any sock to wear on together with a pair of running shoes is simply not enough. Therefore, wearing socks that are proper for running is just as essentials as using the right shoes. And this is where the running socks come in.
Cotton Socks vs. Running Socks
Cotton socks are the usual and commonly used type of sock. There is no problem with the cotton socks until one needs to go running or to perform strenuous physical activities. One consequence of running is having sweaty feet.
Cotton socks are preferred because of their gentle and soft fabric. However, they are not good in controlling moisture or sweat; instead, cotton sock absorbs any moisture it comes in contact with and retains the moisture – like the sweat – against the feet. As a result, running with cotton socks on would often lead to soggy feet.
When moisture is accompanied by friction, the combination becomes a perfect ingredient for creating calluses and blisters. Using a pair of running socks would prevent this from happening. Most of the running socks have wicking water or moisture technology that keeps out moisture and sweat from the feet.
Also, the more one runs, the warm it becomes for the feet. Most cotton socks do not allow breathability. The running socks, on the other hand, allow airflow between the fabric to keep the feet dry and cool despite a long period of running or walking.
Also, there are running socks that offer anti-bacterial technology, which helps in getting rid of awful feet odor – a common consequence of having sweaty feet. A common cotton sock does not often offer such a feature.
Health Benefits of Using Running Socks
A running sock is not only good for protecting the feet –but it also provides health benefits that will spell a difference in the well-being of one’s feet.
First, the running socks have the ability to give support and additional protection for the leg muscle from the impact.
Therefore, foot problems and injuries like Achilles issues and blisters can be easily avoided. To add, foot fatigue after a very long and tiring day can be reduced by wearing a good pair of running socks. Hence, the running socks are being preferred by athletes.
Moreover, the running socks are also important footwear for those who suffer leg muscle injury. They have the capacity to give graduated compression that will improve blood circulation in the legs. With the improved blood circulation, recovery from injury will be easier and faster.
I will be the first to admit that I never knew that it was a such thing as running socks. Or that they had health benefits. This was a very intresting post to read for sure. I learned quite a good bit of information on socks. I will be sure to I share this information with my friends on Facebook.
Thank you, James Harvey.
If you think about it, a lot of people work a lot to get great shoes and clothes but forget the socks. The things that it so important for your feet to feel good and support with the feet in a right mix with the shoes.
I run three times a week and even though I bought a new pair of running shoes awhile ago, I’ve been reminded how important it is to have good quality running socks.
I had been using some white sports socks but they weren’t really suitable for running as I was getting a callus near my big toe on my right foot which was annoying me.
Since I’ve now got proper running socks which the brand is called Lightfeet, I don’t have the problem anymore and my feet are very comfortable now.
So I do agree with you, that it’s very important to have the proper running socks for running.
Thank you, Adrian, for your comment.
Yes, all equipment are necessary because there are ideas behind each of it. Socks sometimes forgets, but we need to think about the feet. Shoes are the most important but now underestimated the runnings socks.
Wow! This is a wonderful article with all the necessary information about ”An Introduction to Running Socks”
This is really an interesting but also an informative article.I wasn’t familiar with this running socks.But after reading this article i have learn properly about this running socks and it was shocking for me to know that running socks has health benefits.I have learn something new from this article.I am going to buy a pair of running socks very soon as it has lots of benefits.Thank you very much for sharing such an informative and helpful article with us.I will share this article with my friends and relatives.
Hi, Mhasanalvi and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Great to hear your benefit of the article.
You are not the only one which hasn´t know about how important this type of socks is. You will for sure feel the difference when you start using it.
Good luck.
If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact m
Having looking for quality review on how to know the best socks to buy hence I came across this beautiful piece about running socks. Yes socks have quality more than each other. There are some socks you will wear that will give your leg good comfort and confidence. To me wearing nice colorful socks is part of fashion.
Love this article.
Hi, Tsquare and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Great to hear your benefit of the article.
Good luck.
If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.
Oh this is the first time I heard about running socks. I agree that cotton socks make me feel soggy after running a lot because it absorbs my sweat. Maybe I will buy a pair of running socks before this weekend’s running event from my office. I can imagine how it feels great paired with running shoes 🙂 Thank you for your information.
Hi, Alblue and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Great to hear your benefit of the article.
Good luck.
If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.
Hi, to be honest, I hadn’t given much thought to what socks to use for running but your post covers some important points that shouldn’t be ignored if you want to maintain healthy feet. I definitely need to run more often so will consider this to make things more comfortable. Thanks
Hi Dan, and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Here is a post about really good running socks. I thought you would feel interested as you are going to run more.
Great to hear about your benefit of the article too.
Don’t hesitate to contact me if I can help you with anything else or if you have any questions.