Socks that do not get wet from sweat
Short answer: No sock stops sweat, but a sock that moves moisture away from the skin keeps the foot drier than one that soaks it up and stays wet. Your shoes and habits matter at least as much as the sock itself.
The foot sweats the most
For its size, the foot gives off more moisture than the rest of the body, and it spends most of the day in a closed shoe. So the sock turns damp quickly, even on cold days. The moisture feels clammy and can lead to smell over time. Read more in bamboo socks for sweaty and smelly feet.
The material
A fabric that moves moisture on keeps the skin drier. Cotton soaks up moisture and stays wet against the foot, while bamboo viscose takes moisture into the fibre and carries it out into the fabric. The foot does not sweat less, but it feels drier. See the styles in all bamboo socks for men.
The shoes
A closed shoe without ventilation keeps the moisture in, whatever sock you wear. So wear two pairs of shoes in rotation, giving each pair a day to dry. Take the insoles out in the evening if you can, and leave the shoes somewhere airy. Shoes with a breathable upper give the foot better conditions.
Change daily
A sock worn two days in a row does not dry fully. The moisture from the day before stays in the fabric, and the foot feels clammy from the morning. So change every day, and at midday too if you have been on your feet a lot or trained. A spare pair in your bag takes up little room.
For women
The same applies to women's socks. A thin sock in a fabric that moves moisture on makes the biggest difference in closed shoes and boots. Choose a length that suits the shoe so the sock does not slip down under the heel. See the matching styles in all bamboo socks for women.
Washing
Fabric softener leaves a film on the fabric and reduces moisture transport, so the sock feels wet sooner. Skip it. Wash at 40 degrees inside out so dirt and skin residue from the inside come out, and let the socks dry in the air. More tips on temperature and detergent in the washing guide.
See also
Wet socks and smell are closely linked, because moisture gives good conditions for the bacteria that cause the smell. Dry feet and dry shoes are therefore the best place to start. Read more on the subject in socks and smell in shoes, which also has advice on caring for your shoes.
The fit
A sock that is too big folds in the shoe and chafes, and one that is too small is tight and presses the fabric against the skin. Both make the foot damper. Choose socks in your shoe size and check that the heel sits in the right place. A good fit also makes the sock last longer.
If it bothers you a lot
If your feet sweat heavily even when you walk barefoot or in open shoes, there may be causes other than socks and shoes. Clothes and habits can reduce the discomfort, but they cannot treat heavy sweating. If you are unsure, talk to your doctor about what may lie behind it.
Frequently asked questions
Can a sock stop sweat?
No, but it can move moisture away from the skin so the foot feels drier. A sock that soaks up moisture and stays wet does the opposite and feels clammy.
Do the shoes matter?
Yes, at least as much as the sock. A closed shoe without ventilation holds on to moisture, so wear two pairs in rotation and let each dry for a day.
How often should socks be changed?
Every day, and at midday too after exercise or a long day on your feet. A sock will not dry overnight in the shoe, so it belongs in the wash.
See our range of men's bamboo socks.
