What type of socks are best for traveling in winter climes?
With the onset of cold weather, many people have a problem — their feet are constantly freezing even while wearing good winter shoes. The reason could be human physiology, or it’s simply that the pair of boots you have chosen is not designed for low temperatures. In any case, it is worth thinking about how to keep the legs warm throughout the autumn-winter-spring period.
A great solution is to put more effort into choosing socks. Let’s be honest: the vast majority of us have absolutely no idea what socks we wear every day and while hiking in particular. Some useful additional articles about hiking gear can be found on cleverwander.com. Its experts note that the right socks are extremely important for your feet to feel comfortable. So, let’s figure out how to choose socks for cold weather.
Forget About Cotton Socks
Cotton is a hypoallergenic, natural fiber. Cotton products are optimal for wearing in the warm season. It is well ventilated, highly hydrophilic and does not accumulate body heat. It quickly absorbs sweat and gets wet at the same time. During the warm season, under the influence of positive temperatures, the material dries quickly. But in dense winter shoes, your cotton socks will remain wet. When exposed to low temperatures outside, wet cotton socks quickly become cold, causing discomfort.
What About Artificial Fibers?
Socks made of artificial fibers are a great choice for cold weather. It may be Acryl, CoolMax, Nylon, Polartec and others. Alternatively, the material of the socks may be a combination of artificial fibers with natural — cotton, sheep wool or alpaca wool. Both options are acceptable — such materials absorb moisture and, due to the capillary effect, remove it from the skin surface.
Areas of High Loads
One of the important features that can be found in the descriptions of socks are the so-called areas of high loads. These are the areas of contact of the foot with the sock and shoes. These areas have the greatest load when moving — the heel and sock. Don’t forget about this feature if you have a heavy backpack, prone to steps with a sharp position of the foot, or your feet are prone to abrasions. At the same time, remember — socks with reinforcement in areas of high loads are thick, and your shoes should have a sufficient margin of size so that the foot does not feel tight. These socks help quality shoes take the weight off your feet when you are traveling and carrying a heavy backpack or running.
Importance of Correct Fitting Sock
In addition to materials, great attention should also be placed on placing the sock on the foot. If the sock is too big, it will come off, and your foot won’t feel comfortable inside the shoe. If the sock sits too tight, it will restrain the natural dynamics of the foot when moving. It is also important that the sock fits tight enough on the heel.
But the foot is not the only object to which the sock must fit well. It is important that the socks also match the shoes you’ll wear them with. What is the point of the best socks if your shoes get tight?
Stay Warm!
Lots of us are struggling with our feet getting cold during winter. And choosing the right socks is a great part of taking care of ourselves. So, before purchasing the pair of socks for winter, make sure to check the material it’s made of, the areas of high loads and the size.
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About the Author: Other Voices
Other Voices has written 1178 posts on Vagabond Journey. Contact the author.