Treat Your Feet to Thermal Socks

Contrary to popular idea, thermal footwear particularly socks and stockings are not just for protection against the biting cold during autumn and winter seasons. We cannot blame those who think this way either because the term 'thermal' conjures up images of heat generation.

In reality, thermal stockings and socks are used primarily for insulation of the feet and the legs in all types of weather. Thus, these pieces of underwear can be used in summer to keep your feet cool and in winder to keep your limbs warm. Think of the insulation in your house and you get the idea.

Thermal stockings and socks are also closely associated with outdoor activities like skiing, skating and sledding in winter. Nature enthusiasts, athletes and outdoors-men/women are the most common buyers of these underwear pieces but times are changing because even couch potatoes are starting to enjoy their benefits. After all, anybody with a foot or a leg will want to keep these limbs warm or cool depending on the weather and personal needs.

How do these thermal stockings and socks work? The fabric used in these pieces of clothing is designed to insulate the foot by effectively trapping the air between the sock and the skin itself. The foot then stays warm in cool weather and cool in warm weather because of said trapped air.

Of course, that's not all there is to thermal stockings and socks. The fabric is also breathable to let excess heat and moisture escape, which keeps the foot and leg as dry as possible. Take note that excess moisture in the skin can contribute to hot or cold sensations.

Yet another notable quality of thermal socks and stockings is moisture wicking. Think of it this way: The fibres in the sock draw moisture away from the skin and outside the sock itself. This has the effect of keeping the foot as dry as possible while still preserving the warmth inside the sock.

Perspiration on the skin brought by a combination of strenuous physical activity and non-moisture wicking socks has adverse consequences of its own. Your feet will have a lesser grip on the shoes, thus, making you prone to slips and falls. You will also experience uncomfortable sensations in your feet, which will distract you from the job at hand, be it skiing down a hill or chopping a tree.

Many thermal socks also have antibacterial properties. Most fungi and bacteria thrive in moist, dark places like the feet so thermal stockings treated with anti-microbial agents are good news for athletes, nature enthusiasts and outdoors-men/women. At the very least, these socks will lessen their risks for developing fungal and bacterial infection on the feet.

Thermal stockings and socks are made from a wide variety of materials. Merino wool is the most luxurious, thanks to its ultra-fine, ultra-soft premium fibres. Mohair from Angora goats is also a popular choice for thermal stockings and socks mainly because of its moisture-wicking properties.

Regardless of which material you choose for your thermal socks and stockings, the most important thing is always the proper fit. So, look for styles that fit your feet like a snug glove.

Snow + Rock is a specialist leisure store with expert staff on hand to advise on the top of the range leisure wear and accessories including thermal socks.