SubscribeAlameda Runners recently caught up with DeFeet to discuss running sock and clothing products athletes rely on. DeFeet is best known for its socks, but also has products ranging from arm warmers to boxer briefs and baselayer shirts.
We focused on socks and making sure we keep everyone injury free (to the best of our ability).
Trying to determine when to replace running socks can be a difficult challenge, especially as runners begin to prefer certain socks over others.
“Generally when the yarns begin to wear thin or become overly rough on the skin, usually in high abrasion areas for runners,” DeFeet told Alameda Runners. “Also if the sock no longer fits snug and secure to your foot. Never run in loose fitting or baggy socks.
When to throw them out varies greatly on the individual and how well the socks are cared for. It is perfectly normal for spun polyester or Merino Wool to develop some piling (little balls of fiber that appear after multiple wash & wear) in friction areas.
DeFeet also recommended proper care for technical running socks (so you’re less likely to destroy your pricey socks). “Never subject your high-end technical running socks to bleach or harsh detergents, it damages the fibers and results in pre-mature breakdown.”
People new to running (and sports in general) may be shocked to see the cost of running socks and other performance apparel. Despite the higher price tag, most athletes believe it’s worth a few extra dollars to purchase the higher-quality products. DeFeet was quick to point out what sets its products apart:
“The most important things that go into DeFeet are technical fibers that work by providing rapid moisture management, secure fit, durability and value. We personally use and test the socks we manufacture and bring to market. High-end technical fibers such as EcoMade CoolMax® and Merino Wool bring with them a higher cost of goods. Defeet is a premium brand that is owned and operated (manufactured) in NC (USA).”
We typically like to try to shorten quotes to prevent including large blocks of information, but our final discussion topic (plantar fasciitis) warrants a full verbatim entry:
“In general – plantar fasciitis is the result of inflamed foot muscles tightening up overnight. Tightened foot muscles accentuate the pull on the heel bone spur and plantar fascia, making your first steps painful. You know you have heel pain if getting out of bed in the morning and stepping down makes you want to yell “ouch”! Relief and prevention is not usually associated with socks. Here is some info I found while refreshing my mind on the condition. Taking the pressure off the foot goes a long way in helping treat plantar fasciitis. Other plantar fasciitis treatment techniques include:
- Wearing proper footwear for both everyday and sporting activities.
- Using insoles that support the arch and reduce tension on the ligament.
- Making use of a heel pad, heel cushion or slight heel lift to relieve pressure and reduce inflammation of the plantar at its attachment to the heel bone.
- Correcting leg length discrepancy via an adjustable heel lift.
- Using a heel cup to add extra shock absorption to shoes, thus reducing pressure on heels.
- Giving the afflicted area an ice massage to reduce inflammation and relieve tension.
- Stretching calf muscle to reduce tightness
- Maintaining length of the tight calf muscle with the use of a night splint.”
We won’t tell you to buy DeFeet socks, but we hope you appreciate they took the time to answer our questions for us. Keeping your feet, ankle and knees healthy is extremely important for runners, and the socks are an important starting point.
Leave a comment