Everything You Need to Know About Diabetic Socks

Out of over eight billion people in the world, approximately 422 million live with diabetes. Fortunately, science and technology have come a long way, and people with diabetes now have access to specialized products to improve their quality of life. One example is diabetic socks. What are diabetic socks? They’re socks designed specifically for individuals with diabetes, especially those grappling with diabetic neuropathy.

Now, you may wonder, what do socks have to do with diabetes? Well, choosing the right socks contributes to proper foot care, which is a common concern for people with diabetes. The safer your feet are, the lesser your odds of letting diabetes hurt them. Still not making sense? Let’s walk you through all you need to know about diabetic socks.

What are Diabetic Socks?

Simply put, diabetic socks are socks crafted to manage foot health for people with diabetes. If a person with diabetes has to go outdoors (or even just around the house), they can wear a pair of this specialized footwear for comfort and health. Why can’t they just wear the regular socks everyone slides on every day?

Well, for starters, diabetic socks feature non-binding tops, so they fit snugly without that tight, uncomfortable pressure around the calves. This feature improves circulation, which is extra crucial for people with diabetes. These socks also sport moisture-wicking materials that keep feet dry. Remember, excess moisture often leads to infections.

Another cool feature is their seamless construction. No seams means less irritation and friction, which is a gift to those with sensitive skin or neuropathy. Lastly, diabetic socks come with extra padding in the footbed, giving that extra cushiony feel and protection against blisters.

What are Diabetic Socks Used For?

Let’s dive deep into the answer to the question, “What are diabetic socks for?” They’re for folks managing diabetes—not just any old pair of socks, but ones that truly care for the feet. These socks are for keeping pesky blisters, nasty infections, and irritating sores from cropping up. This is significant in the lives of people with diabetes because any foot injury is a threat.

Regular socks are not necessarily bad or harmful; they also serve their purpose. However, individuals with diabetes need more than what ordinary socks give. How do diabetic socks do their job? By covering the skin and boosting blood flow.

The ultra-soft materials and seamless design matter a lot, especially to sensitive skin, because friction can cause irritation, which can turn into painful wounds that take a while to heal. The special no-pressure fit promotes healthy blood flow, which supports healing processes and keeps nerve damage at bay.

What Are the Benefits of Diabetic Socks?

Yes, diabetic socks were designed with people with diabetes in mind, but their benefits aren’t limited to them alone. Anyone can enjoy the advantages of wearing diabetic socks! So, what are diabetic socks good for? Here’s a rundown:

• Improved Circulation: Diabetic socks are champions at promoting healthy blood flow. Inadequate blood flow causes nerve damage that can put anyone’s feet at risk, but it has more severe consequences for people with diabetes.
• Protection Against Foot Injuries: These socks have extra padding in all the right places to fend off blisters, calluses, and bruises. For people with diabetes, this protection ultimately means preventing amputations that could result from unnoticed or untreated injuries.
• Dry, Healthy Skin: The last thing you want is for moisture to set up shop in your socks. With diabetic socks’ mastery in the moisture-wicking game, you’re sure to keep your feet dry and healthy.

What Are Diabetic Socks Made Of?

Diabetic socks stand out because of two aspects: design and material. The latter, in particular, is crucial in the socks’ functionality and benefits.

Firstly, moisture-wicking fabrics like cotton and polyester blends draw sweat away. Sweating is a natural process that aids in regulating body temperature, but excess moisture, especially in feet, is never a good thing. Next, the antibacterial fibers often incorporated into the diabetic sock fabric kick odor-causing bacteria to the curb. Beyond keeping feet fresh and smelling nice, these fibers also maintain an environment that wards off infections.

Diabetic socks combine these two materials in a seamless construction. Seams and top elastics that dig into the skin bring that irritating friction and blood flow restriction. Since nobody wants either, the seamless design is a real advantage for people with sensitive skin or circulation issues. These socks provide a smooth, comfortable fit that makes feet feel best all day.

What Are the Best Diabetic Socks?

Some people need the perfect pair of socks for everyday use, while others need something to support their sporty lifestyle. Moreover, there are those who have diabetic neuropathy, which also requires specific features in diabetic socks.

Diabetic neuropathy is an injury to the nerves in the legs and feet because of high blood sugar levels. This condition can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or loss of sensation, increasing the risk of overlooked sores that can become infected. What are the best socks for diabetic neuropathy? What about daily use or sports?

Look for the features that suit your needs. Compression in diabetic socks reduces swelling for those with feet that tend to puff up a bit. Then, there’s the padding that makes you feel like you’re walking on clouds—and finally, a good fit means the socks stay put.

Some brands you can trust include Dr. Comfort, Thorlo, and Planet Linens.

Diabetic Socks vs. Compression Socks: Key Differences

It’s common for some to answer “compression socks” when asked, “What are diabetic socks called?” because both can serve the same purpose in improving blood flow. However, the two differ in function, materials, and design.

On the one hand, compression socks improve circulation, reduce swelling, and prevent blood clots using firm, elastic materials that apply pressure on the legs and feet. These socks are best for those with poor circulation, edema, or at risk for DVT. On the other hand, diabetic socks protect sensitive feet, reduce the risk of injuries, and keep feet dry using moisture-wicking, antibacterial fabrics, and non-binding, seamless, and cushioned designs. These socks are best for those with diabetes or neuropathy.

So, what are diabetic compression socks? They combine the functions of both types of socks, offering graduated compression and diabetes-specific features. You can choose these socks to address diabetes, swelling, and blood clot issues at once.

How to Choose the Best Diabetic Socks for You

What are the best socks for an individual with diabetes? Again, the answer depends on the needs of each person. Here are some tips to guide you:

• Identify the Exact Health Issue: Are you tackling neuropathy, circulation problems, or foot swelling? There are diabetic socks for each, so know what you need.
• Prioritize Seamless Design: Check if the socks have a seamless design. If you find a pair with a top elastic, you might want to avoid that.
• Think of Moisture Control: Choose socks made from moisture-wicking materials like cotton and polyester blends.
• Check for Cushioning: Whether you’re moving all day or simply need a bit more comfort, you’ll benefit from cushioned soles.
• Choose the Right Fit: Socks that are too tight can restrict circulation, while too loose can cause bunching.
• Consider Compression Needs: If you deal with circulation problems or swelling, diabetic compression socks might be your best bet.

How to Care for Diabetic Socks

Diabetic socks are not like regular socks, but taking care of them is simpler than you might think, and it’ll help them perform their best. Wash your pairs in a mesh laundry bag using a gentle cycle and mild detergent to protect the fibers and keep the socks’ moisture-wicking abilities intact. Skip the bleach and fabric softeners—these can break down the material and lessen their effectiveness.

After washing, let them air dry if possible. Tumble drying on a low setting is okay, but air drying is gentler and helps maintain their stretch and softness. When it comes to replacing your diabetic socks, it’s a good idea to do a little check-up every few months. If you notice any wear and tear, like thinning fabric or stretched-out elastic, it’s time to refresh your sock drawer. Usually, swapping them out every six months ensures you’re getting the best protection and comfort.

Experience Comfort and Protection With KURU

It’s fascinating how the simple question, “What are diabetic socks?” leads to the discovery of a whole new world of sock technology. People with diabetes have to deal with a wide range of health complications, and foot health is one of the most significant concerns. Diabetic socks step in to cater to the unique needs of people with diabetes, guaranteeing what regular socks cannot.

Essentially, diabetic socks promote healthy blood flow to the feet through their seamless and non-constricting design. They leverage moisture-wicking technology to keep feet dry and comfortable and paddings that prevent and manage foot injuries. All these functions help people with diabetes (and those without) minimize the risk of serious foot complications, enhancing their overall quality of life.

At KURU, we value proper foot care more than anything else, so we have diabetic shoes that you can pair with your diabetic socks for maximum foot health. What are diabetic shoes? These shoes have all the features of diabetic socks! Our KURUSOLE technology provides unparalleled support to reduce foot pain and discomfort. Additionally, we have various styles and designs, so you never have to compromise fashion and functionality for the sake of comfort and health.

Every shoe, sandal, and slipper you wear must round up your health and well-being, especially if you have diabetes. Our goal is to help you live life at your best, free from all the problems that your feet may face.

If you are someone who struggles with foot health, whether due to diabetes or other conditions, try diabetic socks and shoes. Shop KURU shoes for diabetics today and walk your way to a happier and healthier life.

Sourcing

• Crew Diabetic Socks. Dr. Comfort (October 2024)
• Diabetes. World Health Organization
• ‘He Has Diabetes,’ Not ‘He is Diabetic’: Why That Matters. Sutter Health (December 2020)
• Diabetic Shoes. Foot Health Facts

About Us

At KURU, we're on a mission to help you Heel Better™ with footwear technology designed to relieve foot pain, so you can live a life you love. Since launching our innovative technology in 2008, we’ve received more than 36,000 five-star reviews from thousands of customers who tell us their KURU shoes helped them get back to doing what they love.

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