Do we actually need to wear socks? How does wearing socks help us? They can barely even be seen. However, socks are important because they absorb perspiration produced by the feet. It is better to wear socks make from cotton or wool because they can absorb the perspiration. If you wear totally synthetic socks, they are not absorbent and there are greater chances of getting athlete's foot or other fungal infection with them.



Socks can be made from a wide variety of materials, natural or synthetic, or blends. All these materials feel different on the feet and even look different. Forget about the ?dress? socks, which are more expensive. Daily use socks are often sold in packs of five, very cheap, but if you suffer from an infection in the feet because of them, the money saved is of no consequence.

It is important that you do not compromise of quality even if you have to pay a bit more. Did you know socks have a long history, going through the ages? Similar to under garments, socks were among the early items of clothing worn by mankind. Probably people needed to keep their feet warm in cold weather and also to protect their feet.

The older versions were probably made from animal skins which were tied around the ankles. As far back as the 8th century B.C. the Greeks made socks from matted animal hair, providing warmth and comfort to their feel. These were some of the precursors of modern socks. It was in 1859 that after the advent of the knitting machine that socks similar to the ones we know came into being and use.

Circular knitting machines make the socks as we are used to wearing them. Most modern socks are made on that machine and are manufactured in bulk. The newer socks come in a great variety of styles and are made of various materials.

Some socks are also used for medical reasons. People who suffer from as Plantar Fasciitis can wear socks which give arch support and also provide relief from this painful condition. The manufacturers of these socks hold that they help in controlling the pain and are an inexpensive alternative as well.

Socks come in all types and varieties: thin, thick, wool, cotton, long, short, funny, medical and don't forget the special kid's socks with cartoon characters, or socks for teens which are funky. You are spoilt for choice when you go to buy socks and they make great gifts as well for all occasions.

As we get older, however, it is vital to wear the right footwear and take good care of your feet, which may tend to develop problems with age. That is why it is necessary to wear the proper socks with the correct shoes.