Anatomy of a Sock: Sock Finishes & Performance Fabrics

Though there are not a large number of finishes applied to socks, there are several that play important functions.

Quality pairs of socks made from synthetic fibers often have anti-static finishes. These anti-static finishes prevent pants from clinging to the socks and lint from collecting during laundering and wear.

There is also a fairly common anti-bacterial finish that is applied to socks which helps the sock resist the buildup of odors and bacteria. There are a large number of sweat glands in our feet and though perspiration is odorless and 99% water, feet wrapped in socks provide the perfect area to allow bacteria grow. It is this resulting bacteria that is responsible for unpleasant foot odors. Thus, anti-bacterial finishes are often used that help to reduce bacteria growth and remain on the sock, even after repeated laundering.

In the past decade or so, there has been a great deal of progress in the development of specially engineered fibers that are now commonly being used for a variety of socks.

Dupont has developed a fabric called Coolmax that provides good solutions for sock wearers who partake in sporting activities in warmer climates. In Coolmax socks, the fiber cross section resembles a double scallop shape which provides the fiber 20% more surface area than standard fibers. This, in turn, allows perspiration to spread over a greater area in the fabric so that it can evaporate faster. Coolmax claims to maintain superior wicking and evaporation of moisture in its socks and athletic gear.

Other high tech fabrics include Dryline, Dryfit, Dryskin, Hydrofil, Capeline, Powerdry, Stretch Supplex and BiPolar.

For colder weather solutions, Thermolite is one of the fibers that makes use of new technology to keep sock wearers warm and dry. Thermolite contains hollow core fibers with a twisted surface. The hollow center of the fiber traps air, which results in additional thermal insulation as well as a 20% reduction in fiber weight and space. This results in a greater freedom of movement as well as perspiration wicking properties. This fiber is used not only in socks, but also in thermal underwear, gloves, turtlenecks and t-shirts.

For those athletes or workers that face the challenge of blisters, Breeze socks are designed so that there is a greater abrasion between the sock and foot rather than the sock and shoe. Thus, Breeze socks stick to the wearer's foot, but instead of irritating the foot and causing a blister, the sock protects the foot.