The reason may lie in the way you wash your hands.
Your favorite running socks. Even though you've only worn them a few times, you're starting to notice they've stretched out, don't feel as supportive, or have lost their shape.
That discomfort may actually be caused by the way you handle your clothes on a daily basis, such as how you wash and dry them .
Today's running socks are made with tough materials and high-performance designs to last a long time. However, the difference is surprisingly large when it comes to washing. How you care for them can make a big difference in both their lifespan and functionality.
In this article, we will explain in detail common mistakes and the reasons for them, as well as basic washing rules to help your clothes last longer.
【table of contents】
1. "Washing No-Nos" that shorten the lifespan of running socks
2. Even with high functionality, the difference lies in how you wash it.
3. Extend the life of your clothes with proper washing! 5 rules
1. "Washing No-Nos" that shorten the lifespan of running socks
■ NG①: Wash without putting in a laundry net
Rubbing against other clothing can cause wear, deformation, and twisted threads.
High-performance socks in particular have delicate structures, so using them without a net poses a high risk.
■ NG②: Use fabric softener
The cationic surfactant in fabric softener coats the fibers,
- Decrease in water absorption
- Inhibits quick-drying
- Interference with anti-odor treatment
This may seriously impair the original functionality.
It is especially incompatible with merino wool and other sweat-wicking, quick-drying materials. If you notice that your clothes are getting more stuffy, suspect fabric softener.
■ NG③: Drying in a dryer or in direct sunlight
High temperatures can damage fibers, causing them to shrink, harden, stretch, and deteriorate.
Particular care should be taken with socks that contain a lot of stretchy materials, such as polyurethane and nylon.
■ No. 4: Hanging out your shoes by pulling on the toes or opening
Hanging the garment by pinching it too tightly with clothespins will stretch the elastic and cause the stitching to wrinkle. When drying, reshape the garment and, if possible, dry it flat or gently in the shade.
■ NG⑤: Leaving it dirty for a long time
Leaving your shoes in the dry place after a rainy day or a run on muddy roads can become a breeding ground for bacteria and odors, and can also accelerate damage to the fabric.
Take action as soon as possible, even if it's just hand washing or soaking.
2. Even with high functionality, the difference lies in how you wash it.
Modern running socks are made of high-performance materials and construction, with the exception of those that sell for 1,000 yen for three pairs.
For example, socks made of high-quality polyester and nylon, with a highly durable design that is quick-drying, moisture-wicking, and abrasion-resistant (OLENO's ULTIMATE SHR ),
These socks (OLENO's ULTIMATE ASO ) are made with CORDURA FABRIC®️, which is particularly strong among U-nylon fabrics, and boast strength four times that of regular socks.
Other products use merino wool, but have a unique structure in which polyester filaments are wrapped within the merino wool fiber bundles, combining the softness of natural materials with washability (OLENO's Comod(y) pecora ).
All of these have high toughness performance, but how you handle them can make a big difference in their actual lifespan and functionality .
Even if you are using the same socks, the difference can be more than double depending on your washing and drying habits.
In other words, "good material" does not mean "it's okay to treat it roughly."
3. Extend the life of your clothes with proper washing! 5 rules
✅ Place in a laundry net
This is the basic method to prevent wear and tear. It is more effective if you turn it inside out and put it in a net.
✅ Don't use fabric softener
To maintain its absorbent, quick-drying, and odor-resistant properties, simply wash it with a neutral detergent.
✅ No dryer or direct sunlight
Dry in the shade or lay flat to dry naturally. High temperatures will cause performance deterioration.
✅ Shape and dry
Do not pull on the opening or toes, but let the shoes hang to dry while keeping them in a loose shape.
✅ Wash away stains quickly
Just soaking is fine. Early care is the first step to making it last longer.
Summary: The toughness of the material depends on how you handle it every day.
Running socks have now become a form of gear .
Please be aware that even if a product is designed with high-performance materials, the comfort and lifespan can change dramatically depending on how it is washed.
For those who feel that their clothes wear out quickly, the quickest solution is to reconsider your washing habits .
Socks are the foundation of your running performance. With proper care, you can run longer and more comfortably every time. Why not start rethinking your washing routine today?
