There are many factors to take into account when choosing socks, but their material is by far the most important one.
That is because your feet are the sweatiest part of your body.
And all that moisture can result in foul odors, fungal infections, blisters, cracked or chaffed skin.
If you own tactical boots, then you know that they are robust footwears that are typically designed to deliver results under demanding conditions while keeping the wearer agile and comfortable.
However, I would advise against using regular socks with these boots as with tactical boots, you need socks with modern technology and features that can frequently eliminate, or at least help manage, all these issues.
How to choose socks for tactical boots?
Understanding the nature of tactical boots can help you understand what sort of socks would be appropriate for the boots.
Blisters on the toes and heels can be extremely painful and incapacitating without the right footwear.
I know finding the ideal tactical or military boots deserve the most attention, but the choice of socks is also very important.
The socks you choose will be your first line of comfort and defense because blisters are brought on by heat and friction on the skin.
It’s crucial that you consistently wear the proper socks that are suitable for your feet and the type of footwear.
Socks actually act as a barrier between your feet and your shoes. Thus, you must understand how to obtain appropriate types.
Different materials for socks
There are many factors to take into account when choosing socks, but their material is by far the most important one.
1.) Socks made of cotton
Cotton is the most common material used in sock production because it is both inexpensive and comfortable. They are lightweight and breathable.
But they are considered unsuitable for active wear.
That is because when you start sweating, cotton socks quickly become saturated and take a long time to dry.
This phenomenon is frequently so severe that it results in the pruning of your feet.
Cotton socks are breathable but its inability to wick moisture away from the foot makes it the most common cause of blisters, regardless of the footwear used.
2.) Socks made of wool
Wool, especially merino wool socks regulate temperature and wick away moisture, keeping your feet comfortable in a variety of conditions.
Modern wool socks, as opposed to the scratchy wool of previous generations, are made of merino wool and are generally itch-free.
3.) Synthetics socks
Synthetic socks are designed for active wear and are suitable for sports, or athletic purposes.
They are typically made up of a variety of materials that are combined to create a more durable sock.
Nylon, lycra, polyester, and polypropylene are examples of common synthetics.
Nylon and lycra are stretchy and long-lasting fabrics. Polyester and polypropylene are both lightweight, quick-drying, and moisture-wicking materials.
The superior moisture-wicking and fast-drying properties of synthetic socks over cotton socks cannot be overstated.
Unfortunately, synthetic materials tend to stink, especially after a few days of use.
Features to look for in your tactical boots
While military socks are an excellent choice for tactical boots, there are a few features to look for.
You need to go for socks with features such as temperature control, friction absorption, and moisture evaporation.
Here are a few key features to look for before purchasing a pair of socks for your tactical boots:
1.) Height: When you’re wearing any tactical, combat boots, your ankle-high socks aren’t going to cut it.
Because these boots will extend well past your ankle, you need to look for over-the-calf socks.
Also, by wearing longer socks, you will add a layer of protection between your boots and your lower leg.
2.) Moisture evaporation: Wet socks are unacceptable when you’re working out in the field or engaging in physical activity. They’re uncomfortable and feel gross.
You need a pair of socks with complete moisture evaporation because wet feet can result in unpleasant-smelling boots, uncomfortable blisters, and even pruning.
Double-layer socks with an inner layer made to wick away moisture are a better choice than others for keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
3.) Friction absorption: Choose a pair of socks with friction absorption to prevent blisters while you are working or involved in any kind of physical activity.
4.) Temperature control: It is a feature that every pair of tactical socks should possess. You don’t want your feet to be too warm or cold while you’re exercising or hiking.
Your feet will be protected from the cold and the heat by socks with moisture-wicking and friction-reducing features, ensuring that you are as comfortable as possible.
5.) Comfort: One of the most important characteristics of tactical boot socks is comfort.
The cushioning in the footbed adds to the comfort. Padding at the instep keeps laces and boot tongues from snagging.
Toes that are seamless help avoid rubbing on this pressure point, which can lead to blister formation.
6.) Quality: Even if they are a little more expensive, pick the highest quality socks you can afford.
They are probably more enduring and will last you longer.
What are military socks?
It is an overlooked component, however we don’t realise its importance unless our feet suffer.
A pair of good socks assist in avoiding the serious threats of blisters, soreness, and peeling skin that can be extremely painful.
Best socks for tactical boots
1.) Thorlos MCB Combat Boot Socks
- Features Thorlo legendary padding in the heel and forefoot
- Padding is clinically shown to reduce blisters, moisture, pain, and pressure. Constructed with exclusiveThor-Lon fibers for superior softness, resilience, durability, and moisture wicking for drier, better feeling feet.
- Fibers are chosen for performance and durability resulting in a sock that wears for years. Spandex top holds in place all day
- Cushioned shin, arch, and instep protects against abrasion and boot pressure and proves a better fit. Low profile toe seam wont rub or irritate feet
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Even when worn during combat and field training scenarios, these combat boot socks from Thorlo help maintain the health of your feet.
Clinical testing has demonstrated that their socks lessen foot pain, blisters, and moisture.
They have padding in the heel and ball of the foot to make movement easier and to protect your feet.
The cushioning on the shins, instep, and arch provides additional protection against the pressure your boots put on your feet.
Having moisture-wicking qualities keeps feet dry.
2.) Fox River Wick Dry Military Mid-calf Socks
- Quick-dry fibers make washing a simple task, superb fit minimizes bunching and blistering
- Removes any moisture build up which reduces hot spots and friction that causes blisters
- Way to be confident about sock odor, embedded fiber like silver or copper or with a micropolymer silane technology which slows wear and reduces odor in the s
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A thickly padded foot and a padded instep provide comfort. The socks are made durable and long-lasting by having reinforced heels and toes, which reduces the possibility of wear-related holes.
Blisters and irritation are less likely to develop because the toe seam is flat and smooth.
By drawing moisture away from your feet, these socks can keep them dry and minimize odor.
There are also vented panels that let air flow to your feet. They are suitable for wearing in hot weather as a result.
3.) Darn Tough Tactical Cushion Sock
- Performance Fit: No slipping, no bunching, and no blisters. True Seamless: Undetectable seam fusion for an ultrasmooth, invisible feel.
- Fine Gauge Knitting: Unprecedented durability and our unique put it on, forget its on feel.
- Fast Action Wicking: Pulls moisture away from skin. Fast drying
- Merino Wool: The ultimate fiber for breathability and comfort in all conditions.
- Still made in Vermont, USA. Still unconditionally guaranteed for li
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They use Merino wool that is sourced sustainably and offer an unrestricted lifetime guarantee.
The performance fit ensures they won’t slip or bunch, and they are mid-calf in length. Additionally, there is a lower chance of uncomfortable blisters because they are seamless.
Thanks to Merino wool’s natural antimicrobial properties, your feet won’t smell bad and there are no chances of fungal infections too. Additionally, it helps dry out your feet by removing moisture.
4.) Under Armour Tactical Boot Socks
- Shoe Size: Men 8-12; Women: 9-12
- The technology behind Under Armours diverse product assortment for men, women and youth is complex, but the program for reaping the benefits is simple: wear HeatGear when its hot, ColdGear when its cold, and AllSeasonGear between the extrem
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The footbed is partially cushioned, providing support and comfort without adding excessive thickness.
In order to prevent feet from growing tired, they also have support for the arch built into them. Because the toes are seamless, rubbing, discomfort, and blisters are reduced.
By wicking away moisture, they keep your feet dry and prevent bacterial growth that causes bad odors.
FAQs-
Is cotton a good fabric for socks used in tactical boots?
Avoid even thinking about a 100% cotton product if you’re looking for combat boot socks.
You’ll just be walking around with wet, sweaty feet because cotton can’t wick moisture away like wool or synthetic materials can.
That’s a great way to develop blisters and promote the growth of bacteria.
There are other beneficial fabrics that can be used as sock materials, especially in military and tactical boots.
What are the best socks for tactical boots?
Even with the most comfortable boots in the world, foot problems can still result from improperly fitting or subpar socks.
These include athlete’s foot and blisters. This can be avoided by wearing socks that are seamless, cushioned, and moisture-wicking.
You can either go for synthetic socks, wool socks. But the best sock fabric option would be cotton blended with synthetic fabrics so that you receive the best of both fabrics.
Conclusion
Wearing regular socks with tactical boots is not a good option as we have mentioned above. You need special socks that are suited to provide comfort and safety in specific types of footwears.
I know we rarely think about socks when we think of foot care.
But it is an important aspect that should not be neglected as it plays an important role in benefitting you against discomfort and injuries.
