Socks are an integral part of foot health that you probably aren’t aware of. Wearing socks that are too small can cause toes to curl up and increase the chances of hammer toes, ingrown toe nails, corns and other foot deformities.
Always ensure that when purchasing socks, you select the correct size. Be guided by the label on the pack and follow the SHOE SIZE rather than age. Children’s foot sizes differ at different ages so go with the appropriate size for their foot rather than age. Also check the label for the content of the sock. Try to look for socks with high cotton content and very little nylon, elastin or other man-made fabrics as possible. Cotton is a natural product and will breathe the best leaving your feet cooler inside footwear.
Wool socks work well in the winter time if you get cold feet, however, avoid wool socks if the wearer is suffering from Athlete’s Foot, a fungal infection which will LOVE to breed in wool socks.
Whilst ped socks or invisible socks are deemed “fashionable” these days, try to select a pair that go over the ankle a little. Quarter crew are better for wearing with shoes as they give a buffer between skin and shoe lessening the possibility of blistering.
For very small children “grip socks” are great for wearing without shoes. When putting shoes on, flip these styles of socks inside out so that the grip doesn’t get stuck to the footbed of the shoe and cause the toes to curl over when putting them on.
Finally, when putting on socks, pull the socks up firmly over the middle of the foot, heel and ankle, then go back and loosen around the toes. This will allow wiggle room for toes and ensure that they are not curled up.
Who knew there was so much to know about socks, hey?!