We all know the importance of choosing the right athletic sneaker, but what about socks? Most likely, shopping comes down to choosing your size and getting on with your day. And the same goes for compression stockings. Choose a size (and possibly a color), and you’re done.
But there’s more than just size that goes into picking the right pair of socks for your feet—in this case, size matters.
Whether it’s your running socks, gym socks, comfort socks, or compressions, Theresa Marco, board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy, and CEO and owner, Marco physical therapy, Shows you how to choose the best pair of socks for your feet, and the dos and don’ts of wearing compression.
Consider these tips when choosing your everyday socks.
Size, height, and material are what make or break your sock experience. Sock choice is very personal, and the goal is to be comfortable and feel good wearing them so you can go about your daily activities well.
That being said, “there are variables one might want to consider such as the height of the sock, and then the material the sock is made of,” says Marko.
These factors make a big difference in how a sock feels as well as how it performs on your body.
One step closer to finding the perfect fit for your feet
Size: There are two things you can do when determining your correct sock size: simply measure your foot (in inches) from your heel to your biggest toe, or go by your current shoe size. The back of the sock package will have measurements and sizes for you to choose from.
Height: Sock height is personal, and may vary depending on your activity, but remember that you want to be comfortable.
As for “no-shoe” socks that go below your shoe line, Marco advises, “It’s important to have rubber on the back of the ankle so the sock doesn’t slide down and cause blisters or soreness. Don’t cause it.”
For activities like running and HIIT, proper sock height is essential “You don’t want to run in a sock that slides down your heel, constantly bunching up in your shoe.” Marco says.
Look for a sock that stays in place, protects your feet and is comfortable.
Contentl The material of socks can be cotton, polyester/spandex, cotton/spandex blend, and then wool, wool/cashmere, and wool/spandex. Depending on the weather and physical activity, the material can have a serious impact on comfort levels and even safety. For example, you don’t want to wear cotton socks during outdoor winter activities because they don’t wick away sweat and the sock loses its insulating ability.
Whether it’s work or gym time, “various material combinations can offer moisture protection so feet don’t get hot and sweaty and help prevent things like athlete’s foot and skin disorders.” Marco says. Also, during training, it is best to choose a sweat wicking sock to support foot health.
For those who need arch support, “there are socks that have extra stretch around the arch of the foot to provide support and feel really good to wear.” Marco says.
Two types of compression stockings:
There are generally two camps of compression socks: athletic and edema.
Athletic: Athletic compression socks will be more of a traditional sports sock and will probably be knee high. “They provide support to the lower leg and help venous return and recovery by providing some compression.” Marco says. These socks are usually not too tight but have a light compression.
Edema: Swelling control stockings will be similar to traditional knee-high stockings (such as pantyhose material) that come in a variety of gauges. These different gauges are the “tightness” of the sock; Some of them are very tight and require a tool called a “donner” to put on. “These types of socks would be used in people who have edema/edema in their legs due to aging or a chronic condition like diabetes,” explains Marko.
The best variety for your training needs
Standing for long periods and long runs – Compression socks are a good idea if you are going to be standing or sitting for long periods of time. “When you stand or sit for long periods of time, blood can pool in the lower legs and feet and the veins will have a harder time getting blood to the heart.” Marco says. Compression stockings help prevent blood pooling and help clear blood clots. Marco recommends compression socks for someone who stands all day for work (nurses, factory workers, etc.). And, for someone going on a long workout routine, as well as someone who sits at a desk job all day, it’s best to slap on a pair.
lift weights – Avoid throwing irons and lifting heavy weights because compression socks help your blood pump and keep clots at bay. If you’re wearing compression socks during your training session, leaving them on after exercise can help with recovery, but, “If someone is using tighter compression during exercise, they may want to use looser compression.” ” she says.
When not to wear compression stockings. – Compression stockings are not recommended for bed. “If you want to wear them continuously, you also need to change the socks and give your skin a break to breathe every three days.” Recommends Marco.
How to choose the right compression stockings
“The level of compression of the sock depends on your comfort level and also if you have any circulation problems.” Marco says. If you have circulation problems, you need firmer compression.
“A person can use a more gentle compression without problems – however, compression is a personal comfort decision so one needs to try a couple and see how they feel.” Say Marco.
Do they feel supported? Or do they feel restricted? This will vary from person to person.
Compression socks offer a variety of benefits. A consultation with a physical therapist can help you address any questions and concerns about which compression sock is best for you!
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