Log In
As the British weather starts to pick up (or is that just wishful thinking?), some of us are ditching socks and strapping on sandals. But if you, like many, suffer from health-related conditions that affect your feet, you may find socks essential even in summer. This is especially true during long walks or hikes across the UK countryside, as socks can help protect against rubbing and chafing, which worsen in warmer weather.
One surprising summer must-have for your sock drawer is our Merino Wool Diabetic Walking Socks. Wool when it’s warm? Absolutely, if it’s breathable Merino wool socks!
Here’s why wool is perfect for socks, even in warm temperatures:
Sweat Wicking
As a rule, people often think cotton is best for warmer weather, due to its light and breathable properties. Although this may be true in some cases, when it comes to socks, wool rich socks are able to wick moisture away from the skin, keeping feet cooler and drier. This is because the fibres in wool are naturally hydrophilic, meaning they attract and absorb water. Studies have shown that wool can absorb as much as 30% of its weight in water - and still feel dry to the touch! Wool is also able to release moisture, making it a very comfortable and breathable material - ideal for walking socks.
Temperature regulating
Wool is a naturally temperature regulating yarn, that keeps you warm when it's cold, and cooler when it's hotter. That's because wool is an active fibre that reacts to your body temperature to help regulate changes in temperature. Very clever!
Odour resistant
Wool used in socks is one of the best materials to stop your feet smelling after a hot day out in the sun. The fibres in wool can absorb large quantities of water vapour, keeping your skin dry and helping to prevent the build up of sweat which can then lead to bacteria. As a result you're less likely to suffer from smelly feet when wearing wool socks.
UV protective
Sun exposure is a typical danger in hot weather and one of the leading causes of premature aging, causing wrinkles, fine lines, skin pigmentation and age spots. Wool socks can help to provide protection from the sun, compared with the protection from other fibres. As a natural fibre, evolved over millions of years to protect sheep against the elements, wool helps to absorb UV radiations and keeps it away from the skin.
So if you're setting off for a summer's day adventure, don't forget to pull on a pair of Merino Wool Diabetic Walker Socks, your feet with thank you for it!