The invention of socks was a colossal step forward for humanity, but it did have its drawbacks. The newly stylish Stone Agers loved the newfangled footbags that gave them warmth and protection, but they didn’t have many materials to make them out of. They soon found that socks made from animal skins and matted hair didn’t breathe. Their trapped, sweaty feet soon developed fungal growth, which means that, yes, athlete’s foot pre-dates athletes.

Today, woolly mammoth pelts are out and wicking is in. Technology has given us synthetic materials such as polyester and nylon that can keep feet dryer and cooler; wool blends are effective, too. These days, everybody smells just a little bit better—but how many of them actually know why? Here’s the process of how moisture management socks work.

The Sweat

The soles of the feet have 250,000 sweat glands and can produce a half cup of sweat a day—without exercise. Your foot does its job, expelling water and toxins, trying to return your body temperature to normal. Any sock can absorb sweat, but nowhere near that much. The perspiration needs to evaporate, but when it runs into non-wicking socks or shoes, it hits a wall. There’s no other option but for the sweat to just linger in wet socks and on feet.

The Fibers

Enter man-made materials such as nylon, lycra, and acrylic, all of which have fibers that are better at moving moisture—not absorbing it. In the same way that wire conducts electricity, these synthetic fibers conduct the perspiration from your skin, wicking it through the sock and out the other side so it can evaporate.

The Extras

Some socks go above and beyond the miracle materials, adding bells and whistles such as mesh construction and ventilation channels that can wick perspiration even more effectively. Extra padding, odor control, arch support, and compression make your feet happier to play any sport.

The Escape

If your athletic shoes are made of mesh or something similarly breathable, that moisture can escape to freedom. If your cleats are leather or higher-density fabric, perspiration may have a harder time making it out into the world, but at least it’s been lifted away from your skin.

If you’re a part of a team, the need for knee-high athletic socks that can prevent blisters and fungus multiplies. Everyone with feet should know how moisture management socks work, but for sports teams, it’s crucial. MK Socks is the source of superior socks nationwide, customizable with any team’s colors and logos. Contact us for more information on giving your team a leg up.