For those that love the outdoors, and those who take part in outdoor sports, there is the perennial problem of footwear, most especially socks. Most socks provided for outdoor use do not perform satisfactorily, particularly in extreme weather conditions. Outdoor socks, predominantly those made from synthetic materials do not provide enough protection for the feet, and are usually not comfortable for the wearer. Apart from the fact that they are itchy and cause blisters, they get wet and cause cold feet (literally). Enter the wool socks.
Wool socks are socks made from wool (trust me, some people do not know). These are literally the best socks to wear when outdoors and in fact when indoors too. They provide everything the synthetic materials do and then some. Wool is known to be about the softest fabric available, which means that when used in making socks, they have zero itchiness (i.e. they do not itch). They also have a cozy feeling about them, which makes them very good for wearing while riding, hiking and basically any outdoor sport in summer, and snowboarding, ice-skating, and the winter sports.
Wool is also known as a wicking material.
Thus, any moisture contained within it is removed and evaporated. The lightweight knit increases the breathability of the socks. This keeps the feet dry and removes the risk of blisters forming on the feet, and thus removing the main source of discomfort in the feet. In addition, if you happen to already have blisters or other form of skin irritation, likely from wearing other socks, wearing wool socks actually protects them, being non-itchy.
Wool socks have the capability to regulate temperature, due to their wicking ability. Thus, they keep the feet warm in winter and cool in the summer (not cold). This makes them good to be worn in all seasons. In addition, unlike the synthetic materials, wool socks do not smell. The wicking also comes into play here. Stinks usually result from moisture in the socks. Whether from sweat or wet conditions; the material keeps it out, thus eliminating the stink. The fineness of the fibers mean that bacteria that cause stinks do not have a surface to live on, which in turn keeps the socks healthy and stink free.
Wool socks are usually thicker around the ankles and arches due to the extra cushioning given at those points, providing extra protection, comfort and reinforcement to the feet. This also ensures that the socks do not crumple or fall. Slipping, sagging and bunching are eliminated, making for a better experience while wearing them. Most synthetic materials are made with a petroleum base. Wool on the other hand is a natural product gotten from sheep.
They are therefore environmentally friendly, unlike the synthetic materials. Wool does not lose shape over time, unlike its artificial counterparts. Quality wool can be used for upwards of five years, without becoming loose and slack. Socks made from wool do not wear and tear easily and can be washed as often as one likes. They hold up in all conditions and it is rear to see them balding or with holes in them.
Wools socks are available in most sports gear stores and are not too expensive, except if you decide to get the ones made from merino, which are a wee bit costly, though very durable. Many online stores also offer them for sale. Some of the sites that have them in their stocks include amazon.com, shoebuy.com, natureshop.com and wigwam.com. There are many stores offering the socks for sale, and you might want to search a bit, to get the right socks for you. Also look out for guarantees, discount prices and special sales as these abound and can be found if searched for well.
Choosing the right pair of socks is not hard, provided that you know your foot size. Armed with this information, you will easily find wool socks that keep you going all year long. Different lengths are also available, some reaching up to the calves and others stopping at the ankles. Making this choice is entirely up to the individual’s preferences. Having said that, if you are going to wear it in winter, choose a longer pair to get adequate protection from the cold.
There is a saying popular among bikers that ‘a biker should not worry about his socks’. If you do not want to worry about your socks, then you might as well wear socks that need no attention. In this respect, wool socks provide the best choice. Wool socks are recommended for use by all the outdoor enthusiasts.
