How to make your socks last!
Socks, oh glorious socks!
We often ignore these foot-hugging marvels until we notice an issue. No one wants to walk around with their big toe sticking out the front or their heel rubbing on the back of their shoe making a blister. Ouch!
It is always a sad day when we find a hole or rip in a sock, especially when it is one of our favourite pairs. But, luckily for you, there are ways to help lengthen the lives of our dear foot-loving friend the sock.
Wear a sock that fits!
It's crucial never to underestimate the importance of wearing socks that fit your feet correctly. Wearing oversized socks can cause them to bunch up and shift inside your shoe, resulting in friction between your foot and shoe. Conversely, wearing undersized socks can stretch the fabric, leading to premature wear and tear, particularly around the toes and heel. It's also essential to check your shoes; oversized shoes can cause the sock's heel to rub and wear out the fabric.
Take care of your feet!
Do you often notice holes in the toes of your socks? It could be due to your toenails! Ensure to keep them trimmed and, when you can, file them to a smooth finish. Sharp nail edges can easily damage your socks. The same applies to the soles of your feet; maintain soft, moisturized feet to reduce friction caused by dry skin.
Follow the washing instructions!
Socks can be crafted from a variety of fabrics, and similar to other garments, they may shrink after the first wash. Fabrics such as bamboo and wool are prone to shrinking in hot water or a high-heat dryer. To prevent this, it is advisable to wash them in cold water and opt for air drying or using the delicate/low heat setting on your dryer if possible.
A Pair of socks is Key!
We all share the belief that our socks vanish in the dryer - two go in, but only one comes out. However, could it be that you missed washing both, and the missing one is lurking dirty in a forgotten corner? Before tossing them in the laundry, always double-check that you have a matching pair. After washing, take the time to pair them up instead of just dumping them in a drawer. Rolling socks is a neat trick, but remember to handle them carefully to avoid stretching the elastic.
Quality over Quantity!
While it may be tempting to buy a bulk pack of 48 socks at a low price from Amazon or a local big box store, it might not be the most cost-effective choice in the long term. It's recommended to opt for socks made from high-quality materials whenever possible. Despite the initial allure of a large pack, replacing them every three months due to wear and tear can add up to a significant cost over time. Investing in a quality pair of socks can last for years without any visible damage. Considering the amount of pressure and wear socks endure, why not prioritize spending on them as much as you would on, for example, a shirt that tends to endure less wear and tear?
Wear the Right Sock!
Socks vary in materials, lengths, and thicknesses, so not all socks are created equal. It's important to match the right sock with the right activity to avoid discomfort and potential issues. Consider the appropriate sock for your daily activities. For instance:
- Avoid wearing thin dress socks if you are doing more physical activities like hiking or running.
- Wearing a heavy wool sock in a dress shoe may be too thick, causing discomfort and pressure on your feet.
- Feeling discomfort and numbness in your feet and legs due to the elastic? Look for a pair of non-binding or non-elastic socks.
- Suffer from sweaty feet? Wear socks that use a more breathable material such as bamboo which will naturally wick away moisture from your feet.
It doesn’t hurt to sit down and do a bit of research before you buy and if you’re unsure about your day's activities, carrying a spare pair of socks is always a good idea!
Finding it hard to select the perfect pair? Don't hesitate to reach out to us. Share your preferences, and a sock specialist will assist you find the ideal match!
