Soccer socks are often known as calf socks, and they differ from the day-to-day socks most people use in several important ways. For example, they are taller than most daily wear socks because they help protect a player’s shins from flying debris on the field.
The fabric also helps absorb and disburse some of the impacts from the ball. Are soccer socks thick?
Soccer socks are thicker and longer than most athletic socks, however they’re not overly thick for your cleats. Soccer socks are between 2-4 millimeters thick. The added weight serves to aid players by helping them maintain grip, ankle support and cover up shin guards. Socks that are too thick may cause shoes to become too tight and make running a lot harder.
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Should Soccer Socks Be Thin Or Thick
Soccer socks should be thicker in winter but thinner and more breathable in summer.
That said, most soccer socks are thick compared to similar casual and sports socks. Thin socks are often breezy and cool, which is excellent in the summer heat.
However, thinner socks lack the advantages a thick soccer sock provides. Most importantly, thin socks don’t usually provide the necessary grip.
Fortunately, you have a lot of variables to choose from when fitting the ideal soccer socks.
Some people prefer a thinner foot area and a thick shin and calf, while others enjoy socks that are an even density all around.
Your style depends on personal preference, but any pair you choose will still likely be much thicker than other sports and casual socks.
Why Are Soccer Socks So Thick
Soccer socks are so thick for several reasons. Overall, the fit and density are an advantage to players and help prevent accidents and injury.
I will share the reasons you need thick soccer socks in more detail on the list below.
- Grip – Thick socks help soccer players stay in their shoes by providing more traction and grip.
- Impact Protection and Shock Absorption – The density of soccer sock fabric helps players handle incoming balls by disbursing the kinetic energy through a thick layer of material.
- Blister Prevention – Socks help keep your shoes from rubbing against your skin as you run and maneuver. Because of this, thicker socks can aid in preventing blisters.
- Arch and Ankle Support – The firm hold of soccer socks help your ankles and the arches of your feet by offering additional support beyond what your shoes provide.
- Circulation – A thick calf sock creates mild to moderate compression by gripping around your leg. As the National Health Service of the UK explains, “Compression stockings are specially designed to apply pressure to your lower legs, helping to maintain blood flow and reduce discomfort and swelling.” Soccer socks aren’t as effective as prescription compression stockings, but they have a similar if lesser, benefit.
- Warmth – The thickest socks keep your feet warm in winter.
- UV Protection – Thinner soccer socks breathe well in summer, but they also provide a layer of UV protection, like sunscreen, to help prevent sunburns.
- Shin Guards – Your socks help keep your shin guards in place and provide a comfortable buffer that prevents any pain, distraction, or friction.
- Moisture Wicking – Good, high-quality soccer socks help move the sweat away from your feet, so you stay cool in summer and warm in winter.
- Fungal Growth Prevention – Another side effect of moisture-wicking is that it helps inhibit fungal growth on your feet. Foot fungus eats away at the proteins in human sweat.
How Thick Are Soccer Socks
Soccer socks are often 2-3 millimeters thick. Some pairs may even reach 4 mm, though they are unlikely to get much wider as it would cause significant problems with fitting your shoes properly, even when the fabric around your foot is compressed inside.
Although that may seem like a lot and is very dense for a sock, these particular socks need their thickness.
Most sports and casual socks are only about half as thick to remain breathable and easy to use, but it is worth the extra effort to pull on your soccer socks if you plan to hit the field and kick a ball around.
Notably, there is no standard thickness for a soccer sock. Instead, the exact dimensions of the fabric are determined by the manufacturer’s weaving process and the company that produces the socks.
However, it is safe to say that soccer socks are generally on par with casual (non-fuzzy) winter socks.
Are Soccer Socks Thicker Than Regular Socks
Soccer socks are thicker than regular socks. However, most players use at least two different thicknesses.
A slightly thinner sock is great for summertime or playing on synthetic turf where the heat is higher than natural grass fields.
The second, thicker pair provides all the usual advantages and warmth during the cold months.
There are usually two soccer seasons, one in spring and another in the fall.
Competitive teams often take shorter season breaks in summer and winter but play most of the year.
Snow, heavy rain, and extreme heat are among the only things that will stop players from taking the field.
Are Soccer Socks Supposed To Be Tight
Soccer socks should be thick, but that doesn’t necessarily mean tight. Some players opt for enough tension to have their socks double as compression socks because it helps with blood flow.
However, this is a personal choice rather than a universal design. Your soccer socks should be comfortable.
In general, you should be able to get soccer socks on easily. While it’s okay for them to feel snug, your socks should never be so tight they are cutting off circulation or causing a distraction.
In short, you should be able to stretch the socks a little bit, but they need to fit firmly enough to stay in place.
Children’s soccer socks have to be loose enough to put their shin guards inside but tight enough to keep them from shifting or rubbing while they are running around.
Helpful Tips To Know About If Soccer Socks Are Thick
All soccer socks are thick, but exactly how thick or dense they are depends on the company that makes them.
Choosing the right soccer socks for your climate and feet should be easy because so many options exist, but they can also feel overwhelming.
To narrow it down, start with a reputable sportswear brand that makes soccer shoes.
Here are more helpful tips to know about if soccer socks are thick.
- Any material can be made thicker by using heavier threads with more strands wound together or multiple layers. Your soccer socks may have varying thicknesses throughout. For example, the arch might have more material to offer support. It’s a good idea to try different brands to see what feels best on your feet.
- Soccer socks come in a variety of materials. According to Juventussanddiego, “Soccer socks can be made up of Nylon, Polyester, Spandex, Cotton, Olefin, Polyamide, and Profilen. Top brands like Adidas, Nike, and Under Armour vary their material blends.”
- Choose your soccer socks based on what feels comfortable. It would also be best to consider the local weather and how breathable the material is to select several pairs for different conditions. Natural fabrics like cotton and rayon will allow more airflow to your feet. Meanwhile, polyester and other non-organic materials hold heat and sweat inside.
Final Thoughts
If you are used to wearing sports socks or casual socks, then soccer-style socks may be a bit of an adjustment.
Not only do soccer socks come up to just below your knee, but they are also thick. Although the exact density and materials can vary based on which company produces them, these special socks need that thickness.
Soccer socks offer grip, protection, and stability, among other essential and helpful features. For some players, they also hold shin guards in place.
Everything bout soccer socks, including the thickness, is designed to serve and help the players enjoy their game more, so choose proper soccer socks in a fit and material that feels good for you.