"Do your feet smell bad?" - Socks can change that
The moment you take off your shoes at the end of work.
When you take off your shoes after running.
Have you ever suddenly noticed the smell of your feet?
In fact, the choice of socks can have a big impact on foot odor. Deodorizing sprays and foot soaps are effective, but the socks you wear every day are the real deal.
In this article, we will explain everything from the causes of foot odor to counteracting socks made of different materials and washing tips.
【table of contents】
1. Isn't the real cause of foot odor "sweat"?
2. Three conditions for socks that suppress foot odor | Basic design is more important than material
3. By material: What are the most effective socks for preventing odors?
4. Does washing method make a difference? It can actually be the cause of "smell returning"
5. Socks alone can make a 90% difference in preventing foot odor
6. Introducing OLENO's recommended odor-resistant and sweat-absorbing socks
1. Isn't the real cause of foot odor "sweat"?
The first thing to understand is that sweat itself does not have an odor .
The problem is when sweat doesn't get absorbed and remains inside the shoes.
There are three main causes of foot odor:
- A large amount of sweat comes from the sweat glands concentrated on the soles of the feet
- Bacteria that grow in moist environments
・An odorous component called "isovaleric acid" that is produced when bacteria break down sebum and keratin.
In other words, the longer it remains "moist and wet," the stronger the odor will become.
2. Three conditions for socks that suppress foot odor | Basic design is more important than material
If you are serious about reducing foot odor, the key points to consider when choosing socks can basically be summed up in the following three points:
① High sweat absorption
It is said that the soles of the feet sweat 200 to 300 ml per day.
If the shoes are unable to fully absorb the sweat between the toes and in the arches of the feet, the inside of the shoes will become damp and become a breeding ground for bacteria . In addition to highly absorbent materials, shoes with a design that covers the spaces between the toes, such as five-finger shoes or tabi-style shoes , are also effective.
② Quick-drying and moisture-wicking properties
If the absorbed sweat is not allowed to dry , it can actually cause odor.
Be careful with materials that are hard to dry, such as 100% cotton, as they can easily become a breeding ground for odors. Ideally, socks should be made of quick-drying materials such as polyester or have a breathable knit structure .
The thickness of the socks is also important. Choosing socks that are breathable but not too tight will help prevent stuffiness.
3) Antibacterial and deodorizing materials or processing
It is also important to prevent the growth of bacteria that cause foot odor.
Socks made with antibacterial fibers or treated with antibacterial agents such as silver ions inhibit the growth of bacteria , thereby preventing odor.
However, "odor prevention" does not mean that the product is completely odorless. It is important to understand that it has the effect of " reducing and delaying odors ."
3. By material: What are the most effective socks for preventing odors?
Material is the biggest factor that determines the performance of socks. Here, we compare the main materials in terms of odor prevention.
■ Merino wool: A moisture-resistant, "top-quality natural material"
High moisture absorption and release properties → Less stuffiness
Gentle on the skin and comfortable to wear for long periods of time
Naturally derived antibacterial properties prevent odor buildup
This material is known for its ability to prevent sweating and inhibit the growth of bacteria .
■ High-performance synthetic fibers (polyester and nylon): "Quick-drying" type that dries sweat quickly
Sweat absorption → quick drying → quick ventilation cycle, less stuffiness
Many models are treated with anti-odor treatments such as silver ions and antibacterial threads.
Thin and light, and resistant to sports and hot and humid environments
4. Does washing method make a difference? It can actually be the cause of "smell returning"
Did you know that no matter how high-performance socks you buy, their performance will decrease if you wash them incorrectly?
Below we have summarized some particularly easy-to-put-into-practice points, so please check them out.
・No fabric softeners : They create a film that impairs sweat absorption and quick-drying properties.
・We recommend using a laundry net to prevent the fabric from wearing out and losing its shape.
・Dry thoroughly in the shade : Prevents damp smell and bacterial growth
Proper washing will help your socks last longer and prevent odors from reoccurring.
5. Socks alone can make 90% of the difference when it comes to combating foot odor
Many people who have trouble with foot odor have experienced significant improvement simply by changing their socks. This is because many of the causes of foot odor, such as sweat, stuffiness, and bacteria, can be resolved at the sock level.
Choosing the right shoes and taking care of your skin every day are important, but as the gear closest to your skin, take a look at the performance of your socks.
6. Introducing OLENO's recommended deodorizing and sweat-absorbing socks
I don't really like to advertise, but let me introduce three of our socks. Our company, OLENO, has been making socks in Nara Prefecture for over 90 years, and although it is rare in Japan today, we sell completely made-in-Japan socks.
Among these, the socks are made specifically for active scenes such as sports and outdoor activities, which are more likely to produce odor, so I think they will be a good fit for people who are troubled by odor.
Comod(y) pecora
⇒ A perfect blend of soft merino wool and washable polyester. A versatile piece that can be used for running and everyday wear.
This product was developed together with over 100 runners, so we were able to release it in a way that addresses the concerns of many runners.
➡️See product details
ULTIMATE SHR Series (five-finger, tabi, round-toe type)
⇒ They are truly effective in harsh environments, such as high temperatures, humidity, and rain. They are made with a special polyester material that is extremely sweat-absorbent and quick-drying, with moisture absorption and quick-drying capabilities that are about five times greater than regular socks. If you sweat a lot, these socks are the perfect choice.
➡️See product details
Comod(y) Water-absorbing and quick-drying type
⇒ Although it is less absorbent and quick-drying than the previously introduced ULTIMATE SHR, it is still made of polyester, which is highly absorbent and quick-drying, so it is guaranteed to be comfortable. It also has a casual look, making it suitable for everyday use.
➡️See product details
If your feet change, the smell will change too.
"Foot odor" is a topic that we tend to avoid, but the choice of daily tools is crucial. Just by changing your socks, you can change the distance between you and others and how you feel. I hope you can experience this for yourself.
