Merino Wool vs. Cotton: The Best Diabetic Socks (2024)

Many people choose to wear merino wool socks as a personal preference over cotton and synthetic materials. While everyone can benefit from the natural qualities of merino wool, for people living with diabetes, wearing merino wool socks can play a particularly important role in their overall foot health.

You may be wondering: What are the benefits of compression socks for people with diabetes?

If you're living with diabetes, you could run a higher risk of experiencing foot-related injuries as a result of poor circulation and peripheral neuropathy, a condition that causes a loss of feeling in the feet. Therefore, paying special attention to toe seams, materials, and cushioning can make a huge difference when buying the best diabetic socks for women and men.


Why You Should Avoid Cotton Diabetic Socks

Have you ever heard someone rave about how much they love their therapeutic cotton socks? We haven’t, either. More often than not, people wear cotton socks simply because they’re widely available and affordable. And while we certainly understand the allure of buying a multi-pack of cotton socks on sale at the drugstore, the risk-to-reward ratio just doesn’t add up for those living with diabetes. To put it plainly, cotton socks are not the best socks for diabetics.

Reasons to Steer Clear of Cotton Socks:

Cotton traps moisture and can keep feet damp. We all know cotton is great at absorbing moisture—that's why we prefer it for bath towels. However, cotton doesn't dry quickly and instead tends to stay damp. This is especially bad for feet. Damp socks inside shoes can easilycause irritation and be abrasive to your toes and feet, leading to blisters, odor, and ongoing foot-related ailments.

Cotton socks often fail the fit test. A good diabetic sock should conform to the foot and leg comfortably without losing shape. Cotton socks are often made using only cotton and nylon and, as a result, tend to slide down and lose shape after a few hours of wear. Loose fabric and wrinkles rubbing against the skin can be irritating, causing unintended minor injuries that add up to big problems down the road.

Why You’ll Love Merino Wool Diabetic Socks

The best diabetic socks are hands down merino wool socks. Unlike cotton, merino wool offers incredible natural features that help protect sensitive feet across every climate.Practicinggood diabetic foot careis much easier with the unique properties of merino wool diabetic socks.

Reasons to Choose Merino Wool Socks:

Merino wool is naturally thermoregulating. Like a well-insulated house, it keeps your feet at an ideal temperature in both cool and warm conditions. Merino wool manages moisture by absorbing and evaporating constantly, creating a breathable, comfortable environment for your feet and toes.

The perfect temperature means drier feet. Dry, comfortable conditions around the foot help to minimize hot spots, blisters, and bacterial growth, which is paramount to diabetic foot health.

Merino wool is naturally resilient. The natural crimp in wool gives wool yarn resilience and loft that provides protection for the foot.

Stretch and recovery when you need it most. Our merino wool diabetic socks are blended with a touch of bamboo rayon for softness and breathability, as well as spandex for the ideal amount of stretch and recovery.


    The Sockwell Difference

    As a company that’s focused on designing therapeutic socks to help you feel better in style, we’ve taken extra care to ensure our merino wool diabetic socks keep your feet healthy throughout the day. When you purchase a pair of Sockwell Diabetic-Friendly/Relaxed Fit socks, you’ll always find the unique benefits of merino wool, plus:

    • Spandex throughout sock for a snappy, non-bunching fit
    • Relaxed fit leg
    • Non-binding footbed
    • Non-irritating seamless toe closure
    • Cushioned sole

    No bunching. No tight tops. No irritating toe seams. Just the perfect, all-day fit for happy, healthy feet.

    Shop Sockwell Merino Wool Diabetic Socks.

    Common Questions About Diabetic Socks

    You probably have some lingering questions aboutmerino wool and finding socks for diabetic women and men. We definitely have answers.


    What Are Diabetic Socks Made Of?

    Diabetic socks can be made from many types of fibers. We recommend merino wool for a variety of reasons, including its natural thermoregulating and moisturecontrol properties. Merino wool simply offers a wider range of benefits that allow it to outperform cotton or synthetic fibers.

    Do Merino Wool Socks Itch More Than Other Socks?

    Our custom yarn blend features ultra-fine merino wool that will not itch. We also blend our merino wool socks with a touch of bamboo rayon for additional softness. You will find that our merino wool socksstayperfectly comfortable all day.

    Who Should NotWear Diabetic Socks?

    Good news: Sockwell Relaxed Fit/Diabetic Friendly socks are friendly for everyone. Our diabetic socks are carefully crafted to support sensitive feet with features like non-binding tops, extra cushion across the soles, and seamless toe closures.

    Everyone will find these socksto be incredibly comfortable and luxurious. Our diabetic-friendly socks are also known as having a “relaxed fit” and double as the perfect stay-at-home sock choice for sensitive and healthy feet alike.


    Are Diabetic Socks Worth It?

    Call us biased, but we think investing just a little more into what you put on your feet will go a long way. In addition to making you feel better, high-quality socks are designed to last longer.

    So, what are the best compression socks for diabetics? Glad you asked.

    Shop Sockwell Merino Wool Diabetic Socks.

    Merino Wool vs. Cotton: The Best Diabetic Socks (2024)

    FAQs

    Merino Wool vs. Cotton: The Best Diabetic Socks? ›

    Merino wool is one of the best choices due to its natural anti-bacterial properties and excellent moisture management capabilities, while cotton is a softer option that works well for people who are prone to blisters or soreness from friction between their skin and their sock material.

    What is the best fabric for diabetic socks? ›

    She recommends socks with cotton or wool because these fibers are “breathable,” but she notes that the sock fabric should include some acrylic or other synthetic for its wicking action. She also notes the importance of keeping feet dry to prevent fungal growth.

    Should diabetics wear cotton or wool socks? ›

    The best diabetic socks are hands down merino wool socks. Unlike cotton, merino wool offers incredible natural features that help protect sensitive feet across every climate. Practicing good diabetic foot care is much easier with the unique properties of merino wool diabetic socks.

    Is it better to have wool or cotton socks? ›

    Cotton socks are lightweight and breathable, ideal for casual wear and warm weather activities, while socks made from wool are more durable, provide warmth and are moisture-wicking, and odor resistance, making them the best hiking socks for frigid weather and outdoor adventures.

    What's better, cotton or merino wool? ›

    Is wool more durable than cotton? In terms of durability, wool again takes the cake: Bent back and forth repeatedly, a strand of polyester or cotton fiber will snap in approximately 3,000 iterations. By comparison, Merino Wool is more than six-times as durable, breaking once bent roughly 20,000 times over.

    What are the best socks for diabetics? ›

    People living with diabetes need to be gentle with their feet. Look for socks made with soft fibers like bamboo or wool. These yarns won't rub against the skin, and they can help prevent friction that causes blisters.

    What type of socks are best for neuropathy? ›

    Often you'll see both diabetic and compressive stockings listed as ideal for neuropathy, which can feel confusing. However, the reason for that is simple: They're both designed to feature smooth fabrics, prevent rubbing, and promote overall foot health.

    What are proper diabetic socks? ›

    DIABETIC-FRIENDLY SOCKS FOR MEN & WOMEN
    • Extra Roomy Coolmax® Seam‑free Trainer Socks. ...
    • Extra Roomy Luxury Bamboo Seam‑free Socks. ...
    • Extra Roomy Women's Cotton‑rich Seam‑free Patterned Socks. ...
    • Coolmax® Seam‑free Trainer Socks. ...
    • Extra Roomy Cotton‑rich Softhold® Seam‑free Socks. ...
    • Fuller Fitting Socks.

    Why do diabetics wear white cotton socks? ›

    “Don't let anything go unnoticed. If you notice a wound or feel a tingling sensation or numbness in your foot, it definitely needs attention,” says Dr. Gremillion. “Diabetics should wear white socks so that if you have an infection, you will see the drainage on your socks.”

    Should diabetics wear loose or tight socks? ›

    Choosing socks that fit properly is crucial for individuals with diabetic feet. Socks that are too tight can restrict blood flow, while loose-fitting socks can cause friction and lead to blisters. Ensure the socks provide a comfortable and snug fit without constricting the feet.

    Is 100% merino wool good for socks? ›

    Merino Wool makes the best socks, and it does its best work when it's strategically combined with materials that support its (few) weaknesses. Summing it all up: You don't need 100% Merino Wool socks. But you do need high quality Merino Wool socks.

    Why are merino wool socks better? ›

    The benefits of Merino Wool are that it's naturally odor resistant, moisture wicking, and thermoregulating. Unlike cotton socks, wearing wool socks is better for foot health because the material combats odors and insulates even after it gets wet.

    What is the healthiest material for socks? ›

    Cotton is a popular choice for socks as it is soft, breathable, and comfortable. It is also hypoallergenic, making it suitable for children with sensitive skin. Cotton socks can absorb moisture and help keep the feet dry, making them a great option for everyday wear.

    What is a disadvantage of using merino wool? ›

    One of the biggest disadvantages is that it is more expensive than synthetic materials. Merino wool is also more difficult to care for as it is more sensitive to heat, moisture and friction. The extraction of the material is also a constant focus of attention.

    Is there anything better than merino wool? ›

    Cashmere is warmer and softer than merino, but less durable, making cashmere the preferred textile for casual wear, while merino is the preferred wool for activewear. Warmer: Cashmere can be seven to eight times warmer than merino wool. Softer: Cashmere has a higher loft, which makes it softer.

    How many days can you wear merino wool socks? ›

    That depends on how long you wear them per use, the activity, climate, and your own comfort level with re-wearing clothing. I've found washing them after 2-3 full days of wear to be a good balance. That said, I have some friends who've worn them upwards of a month.

    What are Dr Scholl's diabetic socks made of? ›

    Scholl's Diabetes & Circulatory crew socks. Available in a convenient 6 pair value pack, the men's socks are made with soft spun polyester yarn and feature a non binding stay-up morpul top for a relaxed fit. Expertly designed for everyone from diabetics and those with circulation concerns to those with sensitive skin.

    Should diabetics wear thick socks? ›

    Many people with diabetes don't need compression socks. But, if they are recommended, putting them on first thing in the morning before even getting out of bed is a key factor. “Put compression socks on when your legs are elevated, because the blood has already circulated down your legs.”

    Why can't diabetics wear compression socks? ›

    Although people living with diabetes may experience circulation problems, many compression socks carry warnings that they are not suitable for people with diabetes. As these socks may restrict blood flow, they could further impede the healing process.

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