What’s the Talk About Socks?
Each brand offers something a little different: try Balega for an ultra-plush sock, Feetures for targeted arch compression, Injinji for enhanced blister protection (in the form of a toe sock!), and Swiftwick for all-over compression and moisture wicking.
Recently in the store, there have been many questions regarding socks. These questions have consisted of “What is the point of special socks?” “What makes a sock so special?” “How will this benefit my athletics?” etc. These are all great questions to ask, and I have enjoyed these conversations over the last few weeks. If you are similarly curious, I encourage you to come in to discuss and try on the different types of socks.
Running socks or specialized socks are not just to be made as a sale item. There are many great benefits of wearing specialized socks. Each sock is made for a purpose and with a different goal to achieve. You can buy a normal cotton sock, which is still great for a variety of purposes, but lacks a lot of the benefits that more specialized socks contain. Cotton retains moisture which can cause significant discomfort when used in the context of activity. Cotton socks are also usually made on the thicker side and tend to feel a little heavy (and smelly!) by the end of the day. The difference between cotton socks and specialty socks is that many specialty socks consist of different material blends that are moisture-wicking, and include targeted firm compression towards the arch of the foot, a more shaped fit; some socks even have special blister protection. While we are on our feet all day working, running, grocery shopping — or whatever it may be that we do consistently — having a good-fitting sock really makes a difference in how much fatigue you may have in your feet.
It may sound or seem crazy that a sock can have so many benefits, but it is all true. Just like finding a good-fitting shoe, it can make a huge difference in your walking and the health of your joints. Socks are important just like our shoes! When you add the two together it makes a great recipe for success in getting through a long day on your feet better.
Some of the benefits of wearing a specialty sock include:
Specialized Firm Compression
Reduces Level of Fatigue
Reduces Inflammation
Provides extra cushion
Adds more arch support
Blister/Friction protection
Moisture-wicking technology (preventing smell) and blisters
With the benefits of the socks, when it comes down to athletic performance, standing for twelve-hour shifts, or just running errands around town. A sock can help give you the extra step you need, in preventing fatigue and adding more support.
At Terra, we sell many different brands of socks including Feetures, Swiftwick, Balega, and Injini. Each of these brands has many different styles to choose from and different feelings on foot. Whether you are looking for firm arch compression, something more snug, or a moisture-wicking sock for a long run, a specialty sock may be a beneficial option!
Brennan's Three Summer Favorites
Brennan and Asher sport Goodr Wrap Gs
Summer is here and we have the gear!
We asked the staff what three things they are particularly loving on their adventures this summer. Read on for Brennan’s current top three summer favorites…
QALO Rings - Contrary to what your summer bible camp counselor may have told you, you do not have to be married or engaged to slip on a QALO ring during exercise. Whether holy matrimony or adventurous independence, a silicone band is the easiest way to signal your commitments to relationships or fashion. If you favor simplicity, or you want a plain ring that you can wear every day, QALO has their simple, classic band. But if you want a little more out of your rubber jewelry, they offer different features: polished, beveled edge, etched designs. There's even a compostable one! QALO is great year-round, but its rings are especially helpful in the summer. On any given day, you could lose your ring to sweat as your fingers turn into mini slip-n-slides, or you could be a little too close to your ring as your fingers swell with heat and blood flow. QALO gives you a little breathing room if your fingers swell, and it's grippier than a traditional metal band. My wife and I both have rings, and we've yet to have any issues. We run, hike, and even swim in them!
Good Wrap G - Ever been sweating and hustling on your summer run and thought, "Gee, I know running isn't in the X-Games, but this sure feels extreme"? Turns out Goodr knows the feeling, and they want pounding downhill pavement to feel like Shaun White shooting down the halfpipe. Already known for their outrageous nicknaming, Goodr also makes some outrageous shades: The Wrap G's. These are for your midday, 100% humidity, clear sky, angry sun runs. You won't find any greater coverage in a pair of sunglasses, and these are made to take a beating. Better yet, if you belong with me in the big head club, the Wrap G's have one of the most generous fits in Goodr's lineup. Of course, these will carry over to any other sport of your choice too. These are easily my favorite glasses from Goodr, and they're at Terra now! (p.s., If you do find yourself in a wintry extreme sport, you can always check out Goodr's Snow-G, their speciality snow goggles.)
Injinji Mini Crew - Toe socks are like vitamins. Everyone knows you should probably use them, but it doesn't always seem worth it. And there's a sneaking suspicion that the whole thing is a scam, health gurus laughing at us as they enjoy their Taco Bell and classic Hanes socks and our money. BUT. Some similes are bad, and thankfully this one sucks! Toe socks are in fact not like vitamins at all, and I heartily recommend them to all y'all. I don't think you need to throw out every pair in your sock drawer (though certainly use this as an opportunity for a summer cleanse), but toe socks really offer something a bit different. If you find yourself plagued with blisters, bent toes, or lost toenails, especially in the summer, check out Injinji. They're the most respected brand in the (relatively small) toe sock game. The benefit of toe socks is that each of your digits gets a little wrap of protection, saving the delicate skin between your toes from the extra friction produced while running. This can be a real lifesaver in the summer as sweaty feet can up the friction. Injinji's socks are just as quality as any other brand we carry, so you can rest easy that you're getting good materials and construction.