Do Wool Socks Make Your Feet Sweat? There is a lot of false information about wool socks.
We usually associate wool garments with warmth and the wintertime, so it is normal to assume that they will make your feet sweat.
Do wool socks make your feet sweat? The answer is no!
Wool is a very breathable, anti-bacterial, and moisture-wicking fabric, which absorbs sweat and keeps moisture away from your feet.
Let’s look at this a little further.
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Do Wool Socks Make Your Feet Sweat?
Wool garments, especially merino wool, are known for their luxurious warmth and comfort. However, this leads to the assumption that it may make your feet sweat, but this isn’t true.
Wool’s characteristics make it one of the best materials to prevent sweaty feet.
Wool has 5 main properties that make it perfect for sweaty feet.
(wool in a basket)
Absorbent and Breathable
Wool is the most hygroscopic and can absorb up to 50% of its weight, and carry about 20% of its weight, without the garment feeling wet.
When wool socks dry, it loses moisture slowly, preventing rapid evaporation and you from feeling cold.
It quickly absorbs sweat from your feet, especially when hiking or exercising, allowing them to breathe and preventing odors.
Insulator
As mentioned before, the inner core of wool fibers can absorb almost 50% of its weight in moisture, which is a lot!
Since it still retains its insulating value, it can keep you warm and dry even when wet.
Therefore, it keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter.
Water-Resistant and Moisture-Wicking Properties
Wool wicks away any moisture from your body, helping to keep you cool and comfortable.
Merino wool, in particular, is super water-resistant, which reduces sweat on your feet.
While it absorbs the sweat into its fibers, wool socks wick the moisture away through small openings in the fabric.
So, after a long day, you will find your wool socks still dry to the touch!
(wool socks)
Anti-Bacterial Properties
The thin waxy coating of each wool fiber contains various fatty acids that prevent the growth of mildew, mold, and bacteria.
This is called lanolin, which comes from wool-bearing animals.
This coating repels sweat and prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria.
This is another reason wool items don’t need regular washing, unlike other fabrics.
Natural Fiber
Unlike synthetic materials, wool is a completely natural fabric.
It has various properties that prevent it from getting wet, unlike cotton, which gets soggy afterward.
Wool also can ‘spring back’ into shape, which makes it more durable.
(keeping warm by the fireplace)
How To Prevent Sweating and How to Care for Wool Socks
Here are some tips on preventing your feet from sweating and caring for your wool socks so they last for a long time.
How to Prevent Feet Sweating
- Wear a sock that has a blend of materials. A combination of wool and cotton prevents your feet from sweating, helping you feel cooler and drier.
- You can also use antiperspirants, which are cheap and easy to use. You can apply it just before putting your socks and shoes on. If you don’t want antiperspirants, use foot powder, cornstarch, baking soda, or baby powder. One of these will also keep your feet dry.
- Do not layer your socks, even if you feel cold. This will increase sweating, as there is a lot of friction.
(wool socks on a line)
How to Care for Wool Socks
- You should always hand wash your wool socks. Even though they are very durable, it is still a natural fabric, which is delicate. You can use a commercial or homemade detergent. After rinsing, dry the socks flat away from direct heat so they maintain their shape.
- If you want to use the machine to wash your wool socks, use a gentle cycle with cold water and detergent. Always use the slowest cycle possible. Allow the socks to air dry; never put them in the dryer.
- Do not use chlorine bleach on your wool socks; it can make them stiff and weaken their fibers.
Conclusion
Bye-bye, stinky feet! Now you know that wool socks will not make your feet sweat. Instead, they help keep your feet dry.
Wool possesses all the characteristics that make it your friend during steamy summers or when you’re exercising.