AMDT 508: Analysis Of Performance Socks
Jing Sun
AMDT 508
AATCC Review Summary and Paper Assignment-Part 2
Dec 5, 2012
Analysis of Performance Socks
Footwear is the most innovation-driven part of the industry. (Thiry, 2008) Athletic footwear includes shoes, socks, and insoles. Socks can be used to prevent injuries to the athletes. Previously, athletes used to rely on shoes for prevention of injuries. Socks can act as extra cushion to reduce the effect of the stress due to the sporting activity caused on the ankle and the foot. This paper explores the influence of materials, and size on performance socks.
New technologies in the socks now have helped the athletes to perform better by providing them better comfort, keeping their feet dry and also avoiding the blisters formation.
Various technologies like odor control, ventilation, and wicking have been applied …show more content…
to improve the performance of the socks.(Kevin, 2007) Athletes want that socks should also have the same performance delivered as their other performance apparel. (Kevin, 2007) They have started expecting better performance from the socks and have started realizing that in order to perform well they need better quality socks and have started paying more for good quality stocks.
In sportswear, socks is one component which may not have appeal look wise and will not attract the attention but it forms an integral part of the footwear. The design of socks has undergone a lot change over the years. Thiry said “Socks play an important role in comfort and performance.” “Good socks make a significant difference in comfort.” (Thiry, 2008) Socks are next-to-skin-type garments, socks need to perform better in comfort properties than other garments, as less air circulation occurs in socks in shoes than in garments on other parts of the body. (Cimilli, Nergis, Candan, & Özdemir, 2010)
Material Used in Performance Socks
Fiber content is relevant textile parameters for sock comfort. Performance socks use different fibers as everyday socks. Performance socks have a preponderance of synthetic fibers, or they may be a wool or wool blend, while everyday socks use 100% cotton. (Thiry, 2008)
The most common material used in making socks is still cotton. (Kevin, 2007). But there are some problems with cotton, so the technologists have tried to use synthetic materials. The main problem with cotton is its tendency to absorb and hold moisture without wicking the moisture away. (Kevin, 2007). The ability to breathe normally is one of the characteristics of the cotton which helps the cotton to provide a better odor control than other synthetic material like acrylic. But the cotton absorbs the moisture and retains so it can become saturated in a short span of time. Synthetic materials which remove this disadvantage of the cotton along with other advantages like controlling the odor and wicking have been developed.
According to Bertaux, etc., “fiber content can influence comfort. Socks containing cotton were found to be less comfortable than synthetic socks. However, many consumers still prefer clothes containing cotton, because they like the ‘cotton touch’. ” (Bertaux, etc., 2010)
Cotton is normally being blended with other types of fiber to provide better performance. Socks providing benefits like managing the moisture, regulating the temperature, providing protection to the foot have been developed. One of the methods which are used that acrylic fiber is coated on cotton socks. These types of socks therefore provide the advantages of both the fibers. Synthetic fibers have more advantages than the cotton fibers like wicking of moisture, being light weight and are more durable as compared to cotton fiber socks. (Cimilli, Nergis, Candan, & Özdemir, 2010)
Another study by how the inplane and transplanar wicking affect the materials of the sock under pressure. Normally the fabric properties like transfer of the moisture and the properties of the absorption affect how comfortable the fabric is in wearing. Polyamide and the wool samples showed that they were time dependent with respect to the inplane wicking effect. Also in plane effect for the polypropylene was found to be scattered. Polypropylene was found to be most efficient with respect to transplanar effect. (Rossi, Stämpfli, Psikuta, Rechsteiner, & Brühwiler, 2011).
New types of fibers and technologies like Nano Tex Cotton, Lightning Dry, CoolMax, and Friction Free Profiler have been developed. These technologies provide benefits of durability, being lighter and able to wick moisture quickly and remain dry. Thus these technologies help to provide better comfort to the athletes and thus enhance the performance. (Kevin, 2007).
These materials of the performance stocks should made from the materials which have low friction with dirt and water and as a result there are less blisters, hot spots and abrasions. (Bertaux, Derler, Rossi, Zeng, Koehl & Ventenat, 2010) Socks with moisture absorbing ability is being giving more importance and is becoming a distinguishing feature between performance socks and the normal socks. Socks with double moisture wicking feature also have been developed which provided enhanced capabilities.
Size and Fitting of Socks
Size and fitting of the socks are very important, because socks are required for the athlete to be comfortable. Size of socks is fixed by National Association of Hosiery Manufacturers industry standards. These standards pertaining to the size of the sock are normally consistent across the different brands of socks available. To be able to fit properly, companies normally increase the number of count of needles in the socks. (Kevin, 2007)
The performance socks have different construction. The skeleton is made from nylon/spandex. A performance sock has a reinforced heel and toe, more cushioning in the heel, ventilations panels for better breathability, an arch band for supporting the foot, a cuff band for holding up the sock, flat toe seams or seemless, and different levels of terry in the same sock for adding cushioning. (Thiry, 2008)
Left/right technology is used to creating a better fit of socks, which is anatomically engineered in the toe box to match the contours’ feet. (Kevin, 2007)
A research by Baussan, Bueno and Derler regards how the sock structure affects the blister prevention. They did research on six types of socks made out of cotton to study how the structures affect the blister formation and found that plain jersey knitted with two yarns was the best in preventing the blisters. (Baussan, Bueno., Rossi, & Derler, 2012)
There was another study by Tsujisaka and Azuma regard to the confort pressure on the top part of the socks. The main aim was to study how the pressure is felt on the top part of the stock and thereby analyzing the result design and develop socks which are comfortable. The properties which were taken into consideration are the size of the leg, properties regarding the tensile and pressure at the top. They found out that after wearing the socks for two hours there is a certain pressure which is felt and also depending on the time for which the sock is being worn the pressure effect on the part changes. Also the pressure being faced by anterior portion surface contributed significantly to the overall pressure being felt by the individual in its top part. Lastly they found out that the comfort which is got from wearing the socks is greatly affected by the girth which is at the minimum position and also heel’s girth. (Tsujisaka, Azuma, Matsumoto, & Morooka, 2004)
One example of benefits of the recent innovations is a new type of socks called compression stocks. By using compression stocks, circulation of the blood is improved, and also muscle and ankle joints are being supported. (Kevin, 2007)
One example of benefits of the recent of innovation is the socks can be given as that circulation of the blood is improved, and also muscle and ankle joints are being supported by a new type of socks called compression stocks. (Kevin, 2007) Socks with moisture wicking material can prevent blisters happening from prolonged usage. Good quality socks will help to reduce the stress on the food for the sport person and also they tend to last longer.
Socks for Specific Sport
Socks in general are viewed by the people as an item providing comfort to the foot while wearing out shoe. But they should be looked as protecting from the foot from stress due to various activities like running, jumping, it helps to reduce the effect of soreness, and injuries can also be prevented. Companies have started manufacturing socks depending on the type of sport and requirements of athletes.
Different features of construction like support of arch, Achilles lock, cushioning of strike zone, panels for ventilation and such other things determine the type of sock to be designed. (Kevin, 2007) Companies are also constantly trying to compete with each other to develop new technologies thus providing as motivation to develop more advanced socks.
Different fiber content in socks is designed. Bertaux found, the most comfortable running socks were polyamide and PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) blend, while the most comfortable hiking socks were polyester/polyamide blend and polyester/PTFE/polyamide blend. (Bertaux, etc., 2010)
Selection of the right type of socks is important for the athletes. First they should have proper knowledge about the type of socks available in the market and what types of technologies are present in the market. Then they should consider what type of sport they are into and choose the right type of sock accordingly. Depending upon the sport, the benefits which the apparel should be provided is going to be different.
Conclusion
Various studies have undergone to research for types of material to be used for different utilities in performance socks, like wicking, prevention of blisters, keeping the foot dry, and reducing the stress to the foot.
References
Thiry, M.C.
(June 2008). Winning the Race. AATCC Review International Magazine for Textile Professionals, 8(6), 18-27
Bertaux, E., Derler, S., Rossi, R. M., Zeng, X., Koehl, L., & Ventenat, V. (2010). Textile, physiological, and sensorial parameters in sock comfort. Textile Research Journal, 80(17), 1803-1810
Tsujisaka, T., Azuma, Y., Matsumoto, Y. I., & Morooka, H. (2004). Comfort pressure of the top part of men 's socks. Textile research journal, 74(7), 598-602.
Rossi, R. M., Stämpfli, R., Psikuta, A., Rechsteiner, I., & Brühwiler, P. A. (2011). Transplanar and in-plane wicking effects in sock materials under pressure. Textile Research Journal, 81(15), 1549-1558.
Cimilli, S., Nergis, B. U., Candan, C., & Özdemir, M. (2010). A Comparative Study of Some Comfort-related Properties of Socks of Different Fiber Types. Textile Research Journal, 80(10), 948-957.
Baussan, E., Bueno, M. A., Rossi, R. M., & Derler, S. (2012). Analysis of current running sock structures with regard to blister prevention. Textile Research Journal.0(00), 1-13
Kevin Newell. (2007). Socks appeal. Coach & Athletic Director, 77(3),
62-65.
AMDT 508
AATCC Review Summary and Paper Assignment-Part 2
Dec 5, 2012
Analysis of Performance Socks
Footwear is the most innovation-driven part of the industry. (Thiry, 2008) Athletic footwear includes shoes, socks, and insoles. Socks can be used to prevent injuries to the athletes. Previously, athletes used to rely on shoes for prevention of injuries. Socks can act as extra cushion to reduce the effect of the stress due to the sporting activity caused on the ankle and the foot. This paper explores the influence of materials, and size on performance socks.
New technologies in the socks now have helped the athletes to perform better by providing them better comfort, keeping their feet dry and also avoiding the blisters formation.
Various technologies like odor control, ventilation, and wicking have been applied …show more content…
to improve the performance of the socks.(Kevin, 2007) Athletes want that socks should also have the same performance delivered as their other performance apparel. (Kevin, 2007) They have started expecting better performance from the socks and have started realizing that in order to perform well they need better quality socks and have started paying more for good quality stocks.
In sportswear, socks is one component which may not have appeal look wise and will not attract the attention but it forms an integral part of the footwear. The design of socks has undergone a lot change over the years. Thiry said “Socks play an important role in comfort and performance.” “Good socks make a significant difference in comfort.” (Thiry, 2008) Socks are next-to-skin-type garments, socks need to perform better in comfort properties than other garments, as less air circulation occurs in socks in shoes than in garments on other parts of the body. (Cimilli, Nergis, Candan, & Özdemir, 2010)
Material Used in Performance Socks
Fiber content is relevant textile parameters for sock comfort. Performance socks use different fibers as everyday socks. Performance socks have a preponderance of synthetic fibers, or they may be a wool or wool blend, while everyday socks use 100% cotton. (Thiry, 2008)
The most common material used in making socks is still cotton. (Kevin, 2007). But there are some problems with cotton, so the technologists have tried to use synthetic materials. The main problem with cotton is its tendency to absorb and hold moisture without wicking the moisture away. (Kevin, 2007). The ability to breathe normally is one of the characteristics of the cotton which helps the cotton to provide a better odor control than other synthetic material like acrylic. But the cotton absorbs the moisture and retains so it can become saturated in a short span of time. Synthetic materials which remove this disadvantage of the cotton along with other advantages like controlling the odor and wicking have been developed.
According to Bertaux, etc., “fiber content can influence comfort. Socks containing cotton were found to be less comfortable than synthetic socks. However, many consumers still prefer clothes containing cotton, because they like the ‘cotton touch’. ” (Bertaux, etc., 2010)
Cotton is normally being blended with other types of fiber to provide better performance. Socks providing benefits like managing the moisture, regulating the temperature, providing protection to the foot have been developed. One of the methods which are used that acrylic fiber is coated on cotton socks. These types of socks therefore provide the advantages of both the fibers. Synthetic fibers have more advantages than the cotton fibers like wicking of moisture, being light weight and are more durable as compared to cotton fiber socks. (Cimilli, Nergis, Candan, & Özdemir, 2010)
Another study by how the inplane and transplanar wicking affect the materials of the sock under pressure. Normally the fabric properties like transfer of the moisture and the properties of the absorption affect how comfortable the fabric is in wearing. Polyamide and the wool samples showed that they were time dependent with respect to the inplane wicking effect. Also in plane effect for the polypropylene was found to be scattered. Polypropylene was found to be most efficient with respect to transplanar effect. (Rossi, Stämpfli, Psikuta, Rechsteiner, & Brühwiler, 2011).
New types of fibers and technologies like Nano Tex Cotton, Lightning Dry, CoolMax, and Friction Free Profiler have been developed. These technologies provide benefits of durability, being lighter and able to wick moisture quickly and remain dry. Thus these technologies help to provide better comfort to the athletes and thus enhance the performance. (Kevin, 2007).
These materials of the performance stocks should made from the materials which have low friction with dirt and water and as a result there are less blisters, hot spots and abrasions. (Bertaux, Derler, Rossi, Zeng, Koehl & Ventenat, 2010) Socks with moisture absorbing ability is being giving more importance and is becoming a distinguishing feature between performance socks and the normal socks. Socks with double moisture wicking feature also have been developed which provided enhanced capabilities.
Size and Fitting of Socks
Size and fitting of the socks are very important, because socks are required for the athlete to be comfortable. Size of socks is fixed by National Association of Hosiery Manufacturers industry standards. These standards pertaining to the size of the sock are normally consistent across the different brands of socks available. To be able to fit properly, companies normally increase the number of count of needles in the socks. (Kevin, 2007)
The performance socks have different construction. The skeleton is made from nylon/spandex. A performance sock has a reinforced heel and toe, more cushioning in the heel, ventilations panels for better breathability, an arch band for supporting the foot, a cuff band for holding up the sock, flat toe seams or seemless, and different levels of terry in the same sock for adding cushioning. (Thiry, 2008)
Left/right technology is used to creating a better fit of socks, which is anatomically engineered in the toe box to match the contours’ feet. (Kevin, 2007)
A research by Baussan, Bueno and Derler regards how the sock structure affects the blister prevention. They did research on six types of socks made out of cotton to study how the structures affect the blister formation and found that plain jersey knitted with two yarns was the best in preventing the blisters. (Baussan, Bueno., Rossi, & Derler, 2012)
There was another study by Tsujisaka and Azuma regard to the confort pressure on the top part of the socks. The main aim was to study how the pressure is felt on the top part of the stock and thereby analyzing the result design and develop socks which are comfortable. The properties which were taken into consideration are the size of the leg, properties regarding the tensile and pressure at the top. They found out that after wearing the socks for two hours there is a certain pressure which is felt and also depending on the time for which the sock is being worn the pressure effect on the part changes. Also the pressure being faced by anterior portion surface contributed significantly to the overall pressure being felt by the individual in its top part. Lastly they found out that the comfort which is got from wearing the socks is greatly affected by the girth which is at the minimum position and also heel’s girth. (Tsujisaka, Azuma, Matsumoto, & Morooka, 2004)
One example of benefits of the recent innovations is a new type of socks called compression stocks. By using compression stocks, circulation of the blood is improved, and also muscle and ankle joints are being supported. (Kevin, 2007)
One example of benefits of the recent of innovation is the socks can be given as that circulation of the blood is improved, and also muscle and ankle joints are being supported by a new type of socks called compression stocks. (Kevin, 2007) Socks with moisture wicking material can prevent blisters happening from prolonged usage. Good quality socks will help to reduce the stress on the food for the sport person and also they tend to last longer.
Socks for Specific Sport
Socks in general are viewed by the people as an item providing comfort to the foot while wearing out shoe. But they should be looked as protecting from the foot from stress due to various activities like running, jumping, it helps to reduce the effect of soreness, and injuries can also be prevented. Companies have started manufacturing socks depending on the type of sport and requirements of athletes.
Different features of construction like support of arch, Achilles lock, cushioning of strike zone, panels for ventilation and such other things determine the type of sock to be designed. (Kevin, 2007) Companies are also constantly trying to compete with each other to develop new technologies thus providing as motivation to develop more advanced socks.
Different fiber content in socks is designed. Bertaux found, the most comfortable running socks were polyamide and PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) blend, while the most comfortable hiking socks were polyester/polyamide blend and polyester/PTFE/polyamide blend. (Bertaux, etc., 2010)
Selection of the right type of socks is important for the athletes. First they should have proper knowledge about the type of socks available in the market and what types of technologies are present in the market. Then they should consider what type of sport they are into and choose the right type of sock accordingly. Depending upon the sport, the benefits which the apparel should be provided is going to be different.
Conclusion
Various studies have undergone to research for types of material to be used for different utilities in performance socks, like wicking, prevention of blisters, keeping the foot dry, and reducing the stress to the foot.
References
Thiry, M.C.
(June 2008). Winning the Race. AATCC Review International Magazine for Textile Professionals, 8(6), 18-27
Bertaux, E., Derler, S., Rossi, R. M., Zeng, X., Koehl, L., & Ventenat, V. (2010). Textile, physiological, and sensorial parameters in sock comfort. Textile Research Journal, 80(17), 1803-1810
Tsujisaka, T., Azuma, Y., Matsumoto, Y. I., & Morooka, H. (2004). Comfort pressure of the top part of men 's socks. Textile research journal, 74(7), 598-602.
Rossi, R. M., Stämpfli, R., Psikuta, A., Rechsteiner, I., & Brühwiler, P. A. (2011). Transplanar and in-plane wicking effects in sock materials under pressure. Textile Research Journal, 81(15), 1549-1558.
Cimilli, S., Nergis, B. U., Candan, C., & Özdemir, M. (2010). A Comparative Study of Some Comfort-related Properties of Socks of Different Fiber Types. Textile Research Journal, 80(10), 948-957.
Baussan, E., Bueno, M. A., Rossi, R. M., & Derler, S. (2012). Analysis of current running sock structures with regard to blister prevention. Textile Research Journal.0(00), 1-13
Kevin Newell. (2007). Socks appeal. Coach & Athletic Director, 77(3),
62-65.