When you start running, the first thing you think about is shoes and clothing. However, the importance of the gear closest to your feet, "socks," is often overlooked.
Did you know that the right socks can make a big difference in the stability of your running form, your performance, and even injury prevention?
In this article, we will take a deeper look at the role of foot sensation, which runners often overlook, and the impact that socks have on the body. If you are serious about improving your running or are having trouble with your running form, we are sure you will discover something new, so please read on.
【table of contents】
1. The feeling of the soles of your feet is the foundation of your form
2. The effect of socks on running form
3. Information from the soles of your feet affects your posture and core
4. How to choose socks to prevent running injuries
1. The feeling of the soles of your feet is the foundation of your form
Running performance is not determined solely by muscle strength and endurance. Rather, whether the soles of your feet, which can be considered the foundation of your body, are functioning properly has a major impact on your running form, risk of injury, and endurance.
There are many sensory receptors in the soles of the feet , which instantly transmit information from the ground to the brain and reflect it in the movement of the entire body. In other words, if the soles of your feet are not responsive, errors will occur in your landing and posture, and extra stress will be placed on other parts of your body, such as your knees and hips .
However, many runners overlook the importance of the soles of the feet, and while they may pay close attention to their shoes and insoles, they often neglect the importance of socks.
2. How socks affect your running form
As you probably know, socks are not just fabric. In fact, the function and structure of socks have a big impact on the sensation and movement of the soles of your feet. For example,
Arch Support Construction:
By applying moderate pressure to the arch of the foot, it prevents the arch from collapsing and absorbs and disperses the shock when landing, which stabilizes posture and reduces fatigue.
Anti-slip treatment:
If your feet slip inside your shoes, your landing position will be unstable and your form will likely fall apart . Anti-slip socks increase the sense of unity between your feet and shoes, enabling efficient power transmission.
Five-finger construction:
By allowing your toes to move freely, you feel as if you are "grabbing" the ground, and the force of your push-off is transmitted more accurately. This results in a more stable rhythm when running, and reduces energy loss.
Graduated Compression:
Socks that provide moderate compression from the calf to the ankle are effective in promoting blood flow and reducing muscle vibration , which reduces fatigue when running long distances.
3. Information from the soles of your feet affects your posture and core
The body is built up from the feet up. If the sensation of the soles of your feet is accurate, the movement of the upper joints such as the knees, hips, and trunk will also be easier to regulate . In particular, the ability to sense the balance of the soles of your feet (proprioception) greatly affects the stability of your form .
Recent research has also shown that proper tactile stimulation of the soles of the feet can increase the activity of the core muscles and improve posture maintenance. In other words, if you want to fundamentally improve your running form, you should first look at the soles of your feet .
If the pressure and stimulation on the soles of your feet changes depending on the socks you wear, the sensation will also change significantly. Therefore, choosing the right socks for you is the starting point for improving your form .
4. How to choose socks to prevent running injuries
Injuries and chronic pain are often caused by a slight loss of form or an accumulation of stress . Socks are an important piece of gear that can reduce that stress and contribute to injury prevention.
Main disorders and sock features to help prevent them: 4
Plantar fasciitis: Arch support and shock absorption functions are effective
Shin splints (shin pain) : Compression design that suppresses muscle vibration is effective
Bunions and deformed toes: Five-toed shoes and wide-toe designs are effective
Stress fractures: Anti-slip and support functions help stabilize your form and prevent injury
In long-distance races, it is also important to prevent blisters and chafing caused by friction. Socks with a seamless structure and quick-drying materials are very effective in this regard.
5. Summary: The evolution of running starts from your feet
Socks have a deeper impact on the quality and continuity of your running than just their appearance. Continuing to use cheap socks, the wrong size, or products with poor functionality may be hindering your running.
If you truly value your running, I strongly believe that it is worth paying attention to your socks as much as your shoes. Socks sharpen the sensations in the soles of your feet and naturally improve your form. They are like a "hidden great coach" for runners.
For everyone who wants to improve their running style, why not start by taking a look at your feet? OLENO socks will definitely help you.
