Best socks for kids with sweaty feet

Do your kids’ socks drip with sweat? Do you feel like your child has the sweatiest and stinkiest feet ever in the history of mankind? Choosing the right socks can significantly reduce sweat and odor.

Cotton is the most popular material. Cotton is soft and generally comfortable but retains heat and moisture. Sweat does not evaporate quickly from cotton and leads to bacteria growth which causes odor. If your kids sweat easily or excessively, cotton is not a good choice.

What about wool? Merino and other wools are great for sweaty feet because instead of trapping moisture and heat they dispel it. Merino wool also has natural antibacterial properties to help with odor. However, wool can be very itchy and irritating to your child’s feet. If your child has sensitive skin, wool is probably not a good choice either.

What materials are best? Polyester based fabrics combine the best properties of cotton and wool together to make a comfortable yet sweat reducing sock material. Most manufacturers have their own variation of polyester blends. The important factors to look at are things like moisture wicking, breathability and antimicrobial properties.

Important Factors When Choosing Socks:

• Moisture-wicking – This is important to draw sweat away from skin surface so that it is easier to evaporate. This allows socks to dry faster and therefore there is less opportunity for the socks to remain wet and less likely for bacteria to grow.
• Breathability – Similar to moisture wicking, breathability allows for air to circulate thru the socks easier helping moisture to evaporate more quickly. This helps prevent bacterial growth and odor. Many socks will use varying materials and thicknesses including air vents to help your kids’ feet remain cool and dry.
• Antimicrobial – It is bacteria that causes the odor. Socks that have antimicrobial properties can help prevent bacterial growth and stop the smelly sock syndrome. Look for bamboo, silver or charcoal integrated into the materials.

Lastly, sweaty feet can be embarrassing for kids especially teenagers. This can often induce fear and even prevent socializing because of the sweat and odor. Make sure that your kids’ socks feel comfortable and fit properly, help control sweat and odor and remind them to change their socks every day. With these recommendations, your kids’ socks and shoes should stink less and last longer. This will save your kids some embarrassing moments and will save you money.