Your Hockey Equipment: Don’t Skimp On Your Socks!

Your Hockey Equipment: Don’t Skimp on Your Socks!

by

Jerry L. Work

Hockey may be the most physically demanding and aggressive sport in existence. And that’s why we love it. The game often involves large burly men zooming around a small rink carrying sticks that they can use to smash one another. It requires endurance, strength and stamina, which players use to try and get a very small object, the puck, into a well-guarded net. It is a tough man’s sport.

But it is not just a sport for gladiators. It is played by women and children as well. If you are going to play hockey, or are responsible for dressing a child who will be playing hockey, then the right equipment is essential for preventing injury and making the sport enjoyable. One piece of equipment you probably haven’t put much thought into but that is very important to the enjoyment and comfort of the game is a pair of high quality socks.

By strict definition, hockey socks are actually more like open-ended tubes worn over shin guards. Just as important, however, are the socks that a player wears beneath his skates; that separate his feet from this skates. This article focuses on what a player should look for in a sock to wear beneath his skates.

The number one requirement for hockey is that is be played on ice while wearing ice skates. So even when it is played indoors, it is still quite a cold sport. Therefore, keeping your feet warm is the first priority for your hockey socks. Not only that, but you will be much more comfortable if the socks also help keep your feet dry. Having moisture trapped against your foot will make your feet much less comfortable.

Possibly the number one organic fiber that meets the above requirements is Merino wool. This type of wool is made from very high grades of wool from Merino sheep. The wool is soft and comfortable and is an outstanding insulator. Merino wool also does a great job pulling moisture away from your skin.

Another feature to look for in a hockey sock is compression. Skating is tough on the ankles and legs. Socks with compression help alleviate pain and soreness by applying pressure that reduces vibration and holds everything in place. Athletes who wear compression socks also often claim that it greatly reduces soreness after an event. The compression also helps improve blood circulation, which helps the player stay warm and fast.

As far as sock thickness, it is better to use a thin sock, which will allow for a better sense of feel and more skate control. Thin does not necessarily equate to a lack of warmth. A well constructed, high quality sock with a high thread count can keep your foot very warm and still be thin enough for wearing with skates.

Wearing seamless socks is also a great idea. Seams can become very uncomfortable. Comfort and longevity are two advantages of going seamless.

Hockey is a tough sport, so you should definitely seek out any advantage you can get. Don’t let cheap or unsuitable socks be your downfall.

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have superior moisture wicking qualities, as well as the perfect amount of compression. Visit www.swiftwick.com to learn more.

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