The use of diabetic socks is important to deal with foot issues often experienced by diabetic patients. However, between cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, the latter is considered better than the former. This is because the cotton socks are not very durable and lose their strength and grip very soon while the synthetic socks are strong, moisture-wicking, and provide perfect fit.
Let us go through their features in detail to settle the debate about cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks.
Cotton vs. Synthetic Diabetic Socks: What Do We Know?
When it comes to choosing suitable socks for people with diabetes, one must go through the features of the cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks to choose the right socks. The following section provides detailed information on cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks which can help you choose suitable socks for yourself or your loved ones:
Cotton Socks for Diabetics
Between the cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, the cotton socks are one of the widely used options when it comes to diabetic socks. However, these come with certain merits and demerits which include the following:
Advantages
The cotton ones come with the following advantages:
● High Breathability
Being a mesh-like material, cotton is known for its high breathability. This high permeability property enables the air to pass easily through the diabetic socks and thus keep the feet cool. These are also great options for summer.
● Softness and Comfort
Among the cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, the cotton socks are comfortable to wear on longer days as they are extremely soft. As cotton socks are gentler, people with sensitive feet often choose these over socks made up of other materials.
● Hypoallergenic Properties
Wearing cotton socks also reduces your chances of getting allergic reactions as the material used for their construction is completely natural.
Disadvantages
After the comparison of the cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, it is found that the socks prepared with 100% cotton are not very good for those dealing with diabetes. Here’s why:
● Lack of Moisture-Wicking Property
Despite being very soft and comfortable, the cotton socks lack the necessary moisture-wicking properties. This means that if you are wearing diabetic socks which are made up of pure cotton, the sweat between your digits and on your feet will be absorbed by the socks.
However, as the cotton socks do not dry out very quickly, they will remain damp and moist. As a result, the longer this moisture stays in your socks, the higher the chances of getting foot problems such as bacterial or fungal infections.
● Less Durability
Being a softer material, cotton is not very strong and durable. Hence, among the cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, the products prepared by using cotton as a construction material also have less durability as compared to synthetic blends.
● Higher Chances of Foot Injuries
Between cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, the former ones are relatively thinner and are more affected by everyday wear. Therefore, the edges of the cotton socks often lose their strength easily and the risk of getting skin irritation, rubbing, sores, or blisters increases.
● Looser Fit
For proper foot care, your diabetic socks must fit your feet and legs. The pressure applied by the socks should not be too little or too much as high pressure restricts blood flow and results in poor circulation. On the other hand, wearing socks that are too loose does not hug the pressure points correctly and thus is unable to reduce foot swelling. In the case of cotton socks, the fit often does not last so the socks keep falling down and lose their shape easily.
Synthetic Diabetic Socks
Apart from natural fibers, many other fabrics and synthetic materials are employed for the construction of diabetic socks. These have the following advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages
Wearing these has been associated with the following benefits:
● Effectiveness in Wicking Moisture Away
Using diabetic socks made with synthetic materials is efficient when it comes to wicking moisture away. As a result, they keep your feet dry as they quickly absorb sweat which is then dried soon thus improving overall foot health. In addition, foot odors are also prevented. When you have dry feet, these automatically reduce the risk of infections.
The various materials used for the fabrication of synthetic diabetic socks include the following:
● Rayon
● Nylon
● Acrylic
● Merino wool
These materials are blended with 60% cotton to manufacture diabetic socks. In some cases, to further increase the durability of the product, the cotton content can be decreased further. As diabetic socks made up of all of these materials are good, the choice of socks comes down to everyone’s personal preference.
● Long-Lasting Nature
As the nylon, rayon, or acrylic socks blended with some percentage of cotton become more durable, these are not as affected by daily wear and tear as the cotton ones are. Consequently, these socks last longer and usually do not need replacement before the recommended period of 6 months.
● Improved Foot Health
As the synthetic materials are more slippery, donning socks made up of such fibers is smoother. These do not rub constantly with your digits which is a common issue while wearing cotton socks. That’s why, these are effective in keeping your feet protected.
● Perfect Fit
Synthetic materials, unlike natural fibers such as cotton, tend to stay in shape for longer and do not become too loose easily. Even after daily washing, these fibers shrink back to their original size and retain their elasticity. This feature also brings down the overall cost of diabetic socks as replacements will be needed less frequently. As a result, socks made up of synthetic fibers are better as they give you healthy feet at an affordable cost.
Disadvantages
The following things should be considered while buying synthetic diabetic socks:
● Less Breathability
Despite all the benefits associated with synthetic materials, these are not as breathable as cotton. This is problematic for people who have sensitive feet or are dealing with foot diseases.
Cotton vs. Synthetic Diabetic Socks: Comparative Analysis
To understand the difference between cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, let us draw a comprehensive comparison of the two in the following table:
| Features | Cotton Socks | Synthetic Socks |
| Moisture-Wicking Property | ✔ | ✔ |
| Breathability | High | Moderate |
| Strength | Low | High |
| Grip on the Legs | Strong but becomes looser | Strong |
| Shape Retention | Do not last longer | For longer period |
| Durability | Low | High |
| Hypoallergic Properties | ✔ | ✔ |
| Chances of Skin Irritation | Low | High |
Diabetic Socks at Health Supply 770: Products and Specifications
Diabetic patients are often recommended to use diabetic socks for the management of the symptoms associated with diabetic neuropathy. Both cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks are available in diabetic socks in addition to some nylon ones. The Health Supply 770 offers a wide range of diabetic socks. The following are some of the top brands of diabetic socks in the US that deliver quality at the best prices:
SensiFoot Knee-High Mild Compression Diabetic Socks Large, Black
Price: $32.88
Product Details
SensiFoot knee-high compression socks are perfect for use by both men and women as the product covers different size ranges for both if you are looking for a unisex product to replace diabetic socks. Their mild non-constricting gradient pressure provides protection against wrinkles, sliding, as well as bunching.
The foot area in the SensiFoot diabetic socks is densely cushioned to minimize friction. Apart from diabetics, these diabetic socks are also helpful for those struggling with arthritis.
SIMCANNS Simcan Comfort Diabetic Socks Small Navy, Pack Of 2
Price: $11.88
Product Details
SIMCANNS Simcan Comfort diabetic socks come in a pack of two. These are effective in enhancing the blood circulation in the feet and, therefore, are preferred by those who have swollen legs. Apart from diabetics, the SIMCANNS diabetic socks is also good for those who suffer from leg fatigue due to poor circulation. Moreover, the product is also ideal for promoting recovery after exercise. These also provide good arch support and are excellent for those dealing with issues due to nerve damage.
The SIMCANNS Comfort diabetic socks are excellent for everyday wear as they keep your feet warm and comfortable. Among cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, these diabetic socks are also often recommended by healthcare professionals because of their quality as well as cost-effectiveness. So if you want to replace diabetic socks, this is the right product for you.
SensiFoot Knee-High Mild Diabetic Compression Socks Medium, Black
Price: $31.88
Product Details
SensiFoot knee-high mild compression socks are moisture-wicking padded acrylic socks that work by keeping feet dry as well as cool all day long. Among cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, these are one of the best items as the construction material is also non-irritant and completely smooth so the chances of getting redness or rubbing from these diabetic socks is extremely low.
In addition, the SensiFoot diabetic socks apply minimum pressure on the sensitive skin. This way, the chances of blisters are effectively avoided. Their antimicrobial material is also efficient in preventing a bacterial or fungal infection. As a result, unpleasant foot odor is not caused. Like other cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, the SensiFoot diabetic socks are perfect for use by both men and women.
SmartKnit Seamless Crew Diabetic Socks with X-STATIC Latex-Free Materials, Black, Large
Price: $31.88
Product Details
SmartKnit seamless crew diabetic socks are latex-free products that are made using super stretchy material. The core-spun yarn hugs your feet and legs perfectly giving a comfortable feel. Its seamless toes further reduce the pressure around the toes. The SmartKnit diabetic socks, among other cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, are also available in mini-crew, crew, as well as over-the-calf versions.
Men’s Diabetic Sock Size 10 – 13, White
Price: $63.88
Product Details
Among cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, Men’s diabetic socks are one of the best options for the prevention of irritation as well as pressure on the feet. Their neuropathy padding helps protect injuries and traumas to the feet area as it effectively absorbs moisture, pressure, and shock. The seamless design near the toes provides extra comfort while the product allows proper airflow to the feet.
SensiFoot Crew Length Mild Compression Diabetic Sock Medium, White
Price: $31.88
Product Details
BSN Jobst SensiFoot crew mild compression diabetic socks cover up to mid-calf and are ideal for those suffering from diabetic neuropathy. Their non-constricting gradient pressure is mild on the skin.
In addition, among the cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, the BSN Jobst SensiFoot diabetic socks also protect the wearer against sliding, bunching, or being hurt by hard objects. This is achieved due to the extra padding and extra cushioning these diabetic socks have near the foot, heel, and toe areas. Moreover, the BSN Jobst SensiFoot products are also suitable for patients who suffer from arthritis who already use them and want to replace diabetic socks.
*Note: The prices of the diabetic socks mentioned in the article are taken from the Health Supply 770 website. These may vary depending on the vendor.
The cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks mentioned in this article, along with many other medical supplies, can be purchased from Health Supply 770, a reliable name when it comes to medical products. They have a 30-day money-back guarantee and provide your products to you in the shortest possible time. Click the links given in the article to check the wide range of diabetic socks on the website.
Bottom Line
People living with diabetes are always in search of diabetic-friendly socks that can manage the symptoms associated with diabetic neuropathy. But choosing the right socks becomes difficult as there are so many options in the market. In this regard, both cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks are available which differ from each other at many levels.
Conclusively, it can be suggested that among the cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, the synthetic socks are superior to the cotton ones as their unique benefits make them long-lasting, more comfortable, and cost-effective. However, the choice between cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks narrows down to everyone’s personal preference.
While buying the products of your choice from cotton vs. synthetic diabetic socks, reliable vendors like Health Supply 770 should be approached as they not only ensure the provision of quality products but also offer satisfactory services. So check out their website and replace diabetic socks today.
PhD Scholar (Pharmaceutics), MPhil (Pharmaceutics), Pharm D, B. Sc.
Uzma Zafar is a dedicated and highly motivated pharmaceutical professional currently pursuing her PhD in Pharmaceutics at the Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab. With a comprehensive academic and research background, Uzma has consistently excelled in her studies, securing first division throughout her educational journey.
Uzma’s passion for the pharmaceutical field is evident from her active engagement during her Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) program, where she not only mastered industrial techniques and clinical case studies but also delved into marketing strategies and management skills.
