Hi Reader,

This month is all about socks — specifically, moisture-wicking and moisture-absorbing materials, and how they impact blisters.

We’re breaking down the science behind fibre types, knits, weaves, and why your sock choice matters more than you think when it comes to blister prevention.

I hope you enjoy!

Rebecca

RESEARCH

Moisture-Wicking Socks

Sock choice can play a critical role in blister prevention — but not all “moisture-wicking” or "blister prevention" claims can be substantiated.

• Effective moisture-management sees sweat moved away from the skin, through the sock, for evaporation through the shoe upper. This will obviously be limited in "waterproofed" shoes/boots.
• Different fibres have different moisture regain and drying times. Cotton retains moisture while synthetic fibres like polyester, acrylic, and polypropylene repel moisture and dry faster.
• Fibre density and knit structure (e.g. terry vs jersey) impact moisture movement and friction. Padded, densely woven socks tend to perform best.

Though limited, current studies show that sock performance depends on both material and design. If blisters persist despite moisture-wicking socks, consider reviewing both fibre type and sock construction — or move to targeted site-specific prevention.

👉 Read the full article: Moisture-Wicking Socks - A Research Update.

PREVENTION STRATEGY

Double Socks

Double sock systems are commonly discussed in athletic and hiking communities — but how effective are they, and which configurations actually work?

There are two main types:

• Wearing two separate socks (a thin inner + thicker outer)
• Manufactured double-layer socks with distinct inner and outer surfaces

These systems aim to reduce blister-causing shear by introducing a third interface (sock-sock), shifting rubbing away from the skin.

What the research shows:

• Military studies suggest that double sock systems can reduce blister incidence and severity — but results vary based on material composition and thickness.
• The most effective combinations used a thin, hydrophobic inner sock (e.g. polyester) with a dense, moisture-wicking outer sock that retains bulk.
• One study found that a single padded polyester sock outperformed a double-layer wool-cotton combo — highlighting that not all double sock setups are equal.
• ArmaSkin socks, with a silicone-lined inner surface, may offer added benefit by increasing skin grip and reducing internal sock movement, though research is needed.

Clinical takeaway:

Double sock systems show promise. However, effectiveness depends heavily on the specific materials, construction, and fit — and results are not universally reliable. For patients with persistent blister issues, combining sock strategies with site-specific interventions remains best practice, imho.

Bonus: Watch how toesocks for blisters between toes really work 👇🏻

OFFICE HOURS

Moisture-Wicking/Absorbing Socks

Missed this month’s Office Hours: Features of a Sports Performance Sock? No worries—you can catch the replay now!

If you’ve ever wondered why some socks prevent blisters better than others (or why marketing claims don’t always align with reality), this 30-minute replay is well worth your time.

We covered key topics, including:

✅ Moisture regain and moisture transport
✅ The role of fibre density and swelling
✅ How knits, weaves, and blends affect performance
✅ Friction coefficients and heat transfer
✅ What current research says about sock materials and blister rates
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🎥 Watch the replay here: Features of a Sports Performance Sock​

PARTNER WITH US FOR FREE!

Trusted Sock Brands

Blister Prevention offers a curated range of high-performance socks — available to podiatrists through our wholesale program to help meet your patients’ needs.

A quick look at what’s available:

• Smartwool – Merino wool socks offering moisture regulation, thermal insulation, and natural odour control.
• Balega – Mohair fibre and Drynamix socks with soft cushioning and seamless construction.
• Injinji – Merino wool and synthetic toe socks that cushion and manage moisture for lower interdigital shear.
• ArmaSkin – Hydrophobic silicone-lined inner socks that grip the skin to reduce friction and prevent blisters during prolonged activity.

As a Blister Prevention Wholesale Partner, you can:

• Stock ENGO patches at exclusive wholesale rates
• Offer your clients a science-informed solution—not myths!
• Join for free and start maximising your margins

Becoming a Blister Prevention Wholesale Partner is completely free! Join the growing network of practitioners who are enhancing their blister care offerings while maintaining healthy margins.

Sign up to Blister Prevention Wholesale here.

BLISTER PREVENTION

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