Hello. We are OLENO, an outdoor and sports socks brand.
Many people who enjoy running or trail running are probably worried that their favorite socks will tear easily. In fact, there are several reasons why socks tear, and by understanding these and taking measures, you can continue to wear your socks comfortably for a longer period of time.
This time, we will explain in detail the causes of sock tears while running, how to prevent them , and how to choose durable socks . Finally, we will introduce some durable running socks that we have developed, so please take a look.
【table of contents】
1. The general lifespan of running socks
2. The main causes of torn socks
3. How to choose durable socks
4. "Highly durable running socks" developed by OLENO
1. Typical lifespan of running socks
The lifespan of running socks will vary greatly depending on frequency of use, distance traveled, material, and maintenance method , but the following is a general guideline:
・Use once or twice a week (approximately 30 to 50 km/month)
→ About 6 months to 1 year
- Use 3 to 4 times a week (approximately 80 to 150 km/month)
→ About 3 to 6 months
- Harsh use such as full marathons and trail running
→ About 2 to 4 months
Therefore, if yours breaks sooner than the number of days listed above, there must be some underlying reason.
2. The main causes of torn socks
When running or trail running, your feet move more vigorously than in everyday life, which puts a lot of strain on your socks. Socks are particularly prone to tearing due to the following reasons. The heels and toes are particularly susceptible to strain because they come into contact with the ground frequently when running.
① Deterioration due to friction (toes and heels)
When running, your feet move back and forth and side to side inside your shoes , causing the fabric of your socks to rub against the inside of your shoes. This friction can build up, especially over long distances, making the toes and heels more susceptible to tearing.
【countermeasure】
Choose socks that are highly abrasion-resistant (nylon blends or reinforced).
- Review the fit of your running shoes (if they are too big, your feet will move around easily inside the shoes)
・Thoroughly remove any foreign objects (sand or pebbles) from inside your shoes.
② Poor compatibility with shoes (toes/heels)
If you run repeatedly in shoes that are the wrong size, the heel will move, causing more friction and making the shoes wear out faster. Also, if there are hard seams or protrusions on the inside of your running shoes, friction will be concentrated and they will be more likely to develop holes.
【countermeasure】
・Try on the item before you buy it. (Avoid buying online without seeing the actual item.)
・Choose the right shoes while listening to the advice of the staff at the specialty shop
③ Nail catching (toes)
The feet of long-distance and trail runners are prone to having their nails deformed and thickened due to repeated impacts, which can put extra pressure on the toe area of socks and cause holes to form.
【countermeasure】
- Trim your nails regularly (if they are too long or have sharp edges, they can easily scratch your socks)
・Choose socks with reinforced toes・Use five-toe socks (to reduce friction between the toes)
4. Deterioration of rubber (toes and heels)
Socks have rubber around the opening and arch of the foot, but if this rubber deteriorates, the socks will slip out of place, which will increase friction and make them more likely to tear. Also, if the rubber loosens, the fit will decrease and it will cause unnecessary movement inside the shoes.
【countermeasure】
・Use a laundry net when washing and wash gently. ・Avoid using a dryer (rubber can easily deteriorate due to heat).
Choose socks that fit properly
⑤ Deterioration of materials (toes and heels)
Standard cotton socks are highly absorbent but not very durable , and during strenuous activities like running, the fabric wears out quickly and is more likely to tear.
【countermeasure】
・Choose durable materials (nylon, polyester, wool blends, etc.)
・Choose socks that are breathable and allow moisture to escape. ・If you wear socks several times a week, rotate multiple pairs.
⑥ Running habits (toes/heels)
Some runners put excessive pressure on certain parts of their feet when they land (the big toe, pinky toe, or heel), which can cause certain parts of your socks to wear out more quickly.
【countermeasure】
- Be aware of your balance when landing (heel, toes, and entire sole of the foot)
・Record videos to check your form・Use insoles to evenly distribute the pressure on the soles of your feet
3. How to choose durable socks
The basic premise is that there are no socks that never tear, but there are socks that are less likely to tear and methods to make them less likely to tear.
However, to extend the life of your socks, it is important to choose socks that are made of durable materials (less likely to tear) and have a durable design. By choosing socks that meet the following criteria, you can achieve both comfort and durability while running.
✅ Made of highly abrasion-resistant material (nylon, polyester, wool blend) ✅ Reinforced toes and heels ✅ Fits securely to the foot and prevents slipping.
✅ Highly absorbent and quick-drying, preventing deterioration due to sweat.
✅ Five-toe socks and arch support reduce friction
4. "Tear-resistant running socks" developed by OLENO
Using the textile technology we have accumulated over the 90 years since our founding and the highest quality materials, we have developed highly durable (tear-resistant) socks specifically for running.
Features
❶ Made of high-strength nylon called Cordura nylon, which is also used by the military, it is about six times more abrasion-resistant than regular running socks and is less likely to tear.
❷Reinforced toe and heel areas to prevent holes
❸Arch support and heel hold design to prevent slippage while running
❹ High gripping power significantly reduces movement inside the shoe (Ultra-grip silicone rubber non-slip material on the sole, and Nanofront, a fiber with extremely high friction, on the ankle and instep)
5. Conclusion
There are many factors that cause running socks to tear, including friction, nails catching, deterioration of the rubber, durability of the material, running style, etc. However, by taking appropriate measures, it is possible to extend the life of your socks.
Choosing the right socks is also very important. Choosing socks that are highly abrasion-resistant (less likely to tear) and reinforced will make your running experience more comfortable.
Our durable running socks are a great companion for long distance and trail runners. If you are worried about your socks wearing out, be sure to check them out!
