Dri Fit Cushioned Socks Good for Diabetics

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Verywell / Sabrina Jiang

Foot problems are common among those with diabetes. Over time, diabetes can lead to neuropathy, or nerve damage, which can cause tingling, pain, or numbing in the feet. Diabetes can also restrict blood flow to the feet, which can make it hard for wounds and sores to heal. To combat these painful side effects, people with diabetes seek out specific kinds of socks that minimize irritation and promote circulation.

When looking for the right pair of socks, materials like elastic bands, compressive textiles, and tight socks should be avoided. People with diabetes will also want to opt for socks that are soft, comfortable, and minimally irritating. Restricted blood flow to the feet can make it hard for wounds and sores to heal, so you'll want to avoid socks that can cause skin damage.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) specifically recommends socks with no seams (seams can be irritating, and can also restrict blood flow) that are comfortably padded.

Robert H. Eckel, M.D., an endocrinologist who previously practiced at the University of Colorado Hospital, says that to further reduce the risk of infection, it is also important to keep the feet clean and dry. Look for socks that are breathable and moisture-wicking—and if a pair of socks promises to cut down on bacteria, even better. Finally, look for socks that insulate the feet from extreme changes in temperature. Socks that are warm and insulated will keep the feet comfortable while encouraging circulation.

Here are the best diabetic socks on the market today.

Our Top Picks

Crafted from a soft-stretch textile blend that comfortably fits the foot.

Designed to keep the feet comfortable, dry, and odor-free.

Soft-stretch, non-binding top, and free-flow moisture management.

Comes in a finely ribbed design that leaves them looking like a standard dress sock.

Designed to offer a cozy, secure fit that won't restrict or pinch the leg.

Equipped with plenty of built-in padding that contours to the feet.

The socks should stay dry, fresh, and odor-free after hours of wear.

Boast a non-binding top that offers a relaxed, comfortable fit.

Their loose-fitting top makes them easy to slip on.

Dr. Scholl's Women's Diabetic Ankle Socks are crafted from a soft-stretch textile blend that comfortably fits the foot without restricting circulation. The non-binding top offers the wearer a cozy fit that doesn't pinch the leg, and they come equipped with a pull-on closure that makes them easier to slip on.

Each pair of Dr. Scholl's Women's Diabetic Ankle Socks is primarily made of polyester, a soft fabric that is both breathable and minimally irritating. The textile blend promises to wick away moisture so that the feet remain dry, fresh, and odor-free throughout wear. Dr. Scholl's Women's Diabetic Ankle Socks also boast a smooth toe seam and cushioned sole, both of which promise to cut down on irritation and render the socks comfortable enough to wear all day long.

Dr. Scholl's Men's Premium Diabetic Socks are designed to be stretchy, flexible, and comfortable. The socks are crafted from a soft-stretch textile blend, which offers a cozy fit without restricting circulation. The band at the top of each sock is non-binding (and therefore circulation-friendly), and comes equipped with a pull-on closure that makes the socks easy to slip into.

Dr. Scholl's Men's Premium Diabetic Socks are crafted primarily from polyester, a soft, lightweight, and breathable textile that promises to wick away moisture during wear. Each pair is designed to keep the feet comfortable, dry, and odor-free for hours on end, cutting down on irritation while also minimizing the spread of bacteria. Dr. Scholl's Men's Premium Diabetic Socks also boast a smooth toe area and a cushioned sole, both of which are designed to maximize comfort.

Crafted primarily from cotton, Falari's Diabetic Socks are incredibly soft and cozy. These loose-fitting socks promise to cover the feet comfortably, without restricting circulation. The non-binding top is designed to reinforce this promise of comfort. Instead of fitting the foot too tightly, these socks offer the foot plenty of cushioned support—without sacrificing breathability.

Falari's Diabetic Socks are available in three discreet, versatile shades: black, gray, and white. Although they are designed with comfort and circulation in mind, they come with a seam along the toes.

EMEM Apparel's Diabetic Dress Crew Socks come in a finely ribbed design that leaves them looking like a standard dress sock, but they have all the comfortable features you'd expect to find in a sock designed for someone with diabetes. Each pair of EMEM Apparel's Diabetic Dress Crew Socks is crafted from cotton, polyester, and spandex, a textile blend that is comfortable, breathable, and sleek in appearance. The fabric blend is designed to be non-binding, so it won't restrict circulation.

EMEM Apparel's Diabetic Dress Crew Socks are designed with comfort and convenience in mind. The socks have a seamless toe, which provides comfort while cutting down on irritation. EMEM Apparel's Diabetic Dress Crew Socks promise to hold their shape and color, wash after wash, so you won't have to worry about replacing them frequently. Each pair is available in five versatile, discreet neutrals—white, black, navy, brown, and beige—all of which are fit for the workplace.

Many diabetes-friendly socks are crafted from cotton or polyester, but TeeHee's Viscose Diabetic Sports Socks are made from bamboo yarn, a textile that's soft, smooth, and comfortable. While some loose-fitting socks may fall down during use, TeeHee's Viscose Diabetic Sports Socks promise to stay firmly in place. Their non-binding top is designed to offer a cozy, secure fit that won't restrict circulation or pinch the leg.

In addition to being seamless, TeeHee's Viscose Diabetic Sports Socks offer plenty of space in the toe and heel. This roomy fit—coupled with a cushioned sole—provides plenty of comfort during physical activity.

OrthoSleeve's Wellness Socks look like a standard pair of no-show socks, but they're crafted with diabetes in mind. Each pair has a relaxed, non-binding fit, and is designed to offer extra space in the heels and toes, providing additional comfort for those who prefer a roomier sock.

Each pair of OrthoSleeve's Wellness Socks is made from a nano-bamboo charcoal textile, which promises to be soft, durable, and comfortable for people with sensitive skin. The textile blend also promises to wick away moisture, so the socks will remain dry and odor-free during wear. The socks are equipped with plenty of built-in padding that contours to the feet, offering comfort and alleviating pressure. The seamless design further cuts down on irritation, making OrthoSleeve's Wellness Socks one of the coziest options around.

Yomandamor's Cotton Diabetic Socks are flexible, comfortable, and super lightweight. Each pair is crafted from a cotton elastane blend and rendered in mesh, so the socks aren't just soft and cozy—they're also incredibly breathable.

Yomandamor's Cotton Diabetic Socks have a cushioned sole that promises to alleviate pressure. A reinforced heel and toe help the socks stay durable, wear after wear. The result is a sock that's cozy without feeling constricting, and lightweight without feeling flimsy.

Yomandamor's Bamboo Diabetic Socks are stretchy and flexible, despite being as thick and cozy as an ordinary pair of socks. This makes them an excellent choice for those who crave protection and insulation, but not at the expense of comfort or elasticity. Each pair of Yomandamor Bamboo Diabetic Socks is crafted from a combination of soft bamboo and stretchy elastane. The textile blend is rendered in a micromesh fabric, which wicks away moisture, keeping the feet fresh and dry throughout wear.

Yomandamor's Bamboo Diabetic Socks have a non-binding top that offers a relaxed, comfortable fit. The upper part of the sock is crafted from a looser weave than the lower part, offering the leg flexibility and room to breathe. The sock's seamless design further cuts down on irritation, minimizing pressure on the foot and risk of skin damage.

Creswell Sock Mills' Diabetic Socks are both comfortable and flexible. Their loose-fitting top makes them easy to slip on, and also ensures that wearers get the non-binding fit they're looking for. Each pair is crafted primarily from soft cotton, which promises to provide comfort and minimize irritation.

Though Creswell Sock Mills' Diabetic Socks are already loose-fitting, they promise to retain their shape and slight elasticity over time—wash after wash and wear after wear. Each pack of Creswell Sock Mills' Diabetic Socks comes with 12 pairs, making them an excellent option to buy in bulk.

Final Verdict

Dr. Scholl's Women's Diabetic Ankle Socks (view at Amazon) and Men's Premium Diabetic Socks (view at Amazon) are excellent options for those looking for a diabetes-friendly sock that covers all their bases. The socks are comfortable, flexible, and easy to slip on—plus, they promise to remain dry and fresh throughout use. If maximum comfort is your focus, Creswell Sock Mills' Diabetic Socks (view at Amazon) are flexible, and minimally irritating.

What to Look for in Diabetic Socks

Comfort

When experiencing poor circulation and neuropathy, the goal should be to keep feet dry, comfortable, and protected. According to Robert H. Eckel, M.D., an endocrinologist who previously practiced at the University of Colorado Hospital, "Make sure socks and shoes do not fit tightly or rub. If the feeling is reduced in the feet, pressure can cause sores or inflammation that can result in opened wounds and infection." Because a general side effect of diabetes is excessive or decreased sweating, Dr. Eckel also suggests looking for cotton socks without seams so your feet can breathe.

Fit

Diabetes can restrict blood flow to the feet, so socks with compression features should be avoided. Instead, look for a pair with a looser, non-binding fit, which will prevent any further circulation restriction. Some pairs have extra room in the toes and heel areas, which is a great option if your feet are particularly sensitive in those areas.

Warmth

If keeping your toes warm is your number one priority, look for a wool-based pair. Because diabetes can restrict blood flow to the feet, you'll want to look for a pair that provides warmth without any added compression.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How can I prevent and alleviate neuropathy in the feet?

  Along with seamless socks and sturdy shoes, Deena Adimoolam, M.D., a spokesperson for the Endocrine Society, says that with good diabetes control, neuropathy can be prevented via taking prescribed diabetes medications and focusing on a healthy lifestyle. People with diabetes should make regular foot exams a top priority. "The most important step in diabetes foot care is performing daily foot exams. Examine your feet daily with a mirror to be aware of any cuts, calluses, etc. If your feet are dry, make sure to moisturize them daily to prevent skin breakdown or breakage. Also, avoid cutting nails too deep, which can lead to cuts and infection."

• How often should diabetic socks be worn?

  The whole point of finding the right shoe or pair of socks when you have diabetic neuropathy or poor circulation is to protect the feet. But how often should these items be worn? According to Alex Kor, M.D., a podiatrist practicing in Lebanon, Indiana, your feet don't know the difference between a slab on concrete outside and your unswept dining room floor. "I tell patients that they should not do any prolonged walking, climbing, or standing in their home without a good supportive shoe or sandal. As much as possible patients should wear shoes with socks in the home."

What the Experts Say

"Make sure socks and shoes do not fit tightly or rub. If the feeling is reduced in the feet, pressure can cause sores or inflammation that can result in opened wounds and infection." —Robert H. Eckel, M.D., an endocrinologist who previously practiced at the University of Colorado Hospital

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As a health writer, Janae Price understands the importance of a knowledgeable and honest review. When there are so many different opinions out there, it's great to have a concise answer that cuts through all the junk online. Every product in this piece has been thoroughly researched and sourced by professionals with potential user needs in mind.

Dri Fit Cushioned Socks Good for Diabetics

Source: https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-diabetic-socks-4580537

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