What To Look For
Sport socks have the large task of keeping an athlete's feet dry and odor-free. Several different kinds of sports socks are specifically sold for individual sports. Sports socks can even help slow the spread of fungi and infection in the toes and other areas of the feet. Look for socks made of man-made materials, such as polyester, rayon or natural wool. Cotton socks will only retain moisture and smells, creating a terrible smell and soaking the foot in its own sweat. For cycling, Sierra Trading Post.com lists the SmartWool PhD Ultra-Light Mini Crew Cycling Socks--Merino Wool with a five-star user rating. Altrec.com lists the Bridgedale Socks X-Hale Cool Lo Socks for all sports with a five-star rating. For a long sock, try the five-star rated Bridgedale Socks Bamboo Rayon Crew Socks.
Common Pitfalls
The problem that most people run into with sports socks is not wearing them. Regular socks sold for regular day-to-day wear do not provide the comfort, support, moisture and fungal control that socks specifically sold for sports do. Another problem that people run into is wearing the wrong type of sock for the task. According to the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine, the correct sock can make the difference in sports performance and health. Always purchase a sock designed for the sport you will be engaging in.
Where To Buy
It is possible to find sports socks at any sporting goods store. Avoid buying sports socks at budget stores as these will not offer the comfort and protection that you will find at stores specific for sports. Sports Authority, Academy, REI, Altrec.com and Dick's Sporting Goods are all excellent places to find socks for many different kinds of sports. Look for sales and discounts to bring the cost of expensive socks down to a reasonable price range.
Cost
Sports socks can get expensive depending on the size, brand, technology and materials that make up the sock. Expect to pay about $8 to $20 per pair of sports socks, as of 2010. Since most sports players require at least five pairs of socks, this can get expensive fast. The SmartWool PhD Ultra-Light Mini Crew Cycling Socks--Merino Wool cost around $17. The Bridgedale Socks X-Hale Cool Lo Socks cost around $11. The Bridgedale Socks Bamboo Rayon Crew Socks cost about $17. Prices may be lower if purchased through discount stores.
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