Athlete’s foot (Tinea pedis) is an infection caused by a fungus that makes the feet itchy and scaly. According to the National Institutes of Health, up to 10% of the population might be affected by infections affecting the toe clefts, and anyone can get athlete’s foot. While there are athlete's foot treatments, prevention is always the best defense. One of the top prevention methods is to wear good quality socks with moisture-wicking properties that keep your feet dry.
Kodal Copper Infused Athletic Low Cut Socks are among the best socks for athlete's foot — they effectively wick away moisture and 20% of the sock is made of copper yarn, which combats fungus and staves off odors.
While anyone can contract athlete’s foot, the NIH says men are more likely to get it than women. There also are other factors that increase your likelihood of getting athlete’s foot.
Preventing athlete’s foot requires some decision-making and, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says, might involve changing some of your habits.
If you have athlete’s foot, you will likely feel itchy and uncomfortable, but since there are many infections with similar symptoms, it can be tricky to self-diagnose. Athlete's foot symptoms may include the following:
Copper is not only recyclable, but it destroys fungi and bacteria. Some socks include copper yarn, which works with wicking materials to fight bacteria and fungus while keeping the foot dry.
Bamboo is an ultrasoft material that naturally contains an antimicrobial. Like common wicking materials such as Merino wool, bamboo wicks away moisture and keeps your feet dry and clean. It is also an eco-friendly material that makes for an incredibly comfortable and soft sock.
Wicking socks eliminate moisture before it can make your socks damp and prone to bacteria and fungus. Merino wool socks are wicking socks that are popular with athletes, but other materials like bamboo and copper can also wick away moisture.
Compression socks are recommended for those worried about athlete’s foot. These socks are woven with tighter fabrics that restrict the blood flow to the foot. More blood flows back to the heart rather than sitting in the foot. Many compression socks are made with antimicrobial metals such as copper or silver.
Fortunately, wicking socks and compression socks come in any size. Think about what activities you might need specialty socks for. If you are prone to getting athlete’s foot, it might be wise to change both your athletic and everyday socks for extra protection.
You can generally get a few pairs for $10-$30. Some bigger name brands and specialty socks could cost that same price for just one pair.
A. Athlete's foot is an infection caused by fungi that live on our skin, hair and nails called dermatophytes. When conditions are warm and moist, these fungi can grow out of control and cause the symptoms associated with athlete's foot.
A. Yes, it is. Athlete's foot can be passed on to someone through contact with the infected person or from coming into contact with contaminated surfaces such as gym towels, shoes and floors. Wearing socks to bed is a great idea if you sleep with another person to help prevent transmission.
A. Yes, it can spread to other parts of the body, especially if you scratch the infected parts of your foot (this will get the fungus under your nails).
A. No, but it is very easy to treat.
A. There are a number of ways to treat athlete's foot, including antibacterial soaps, sprays, creams and powders that can be purchased over the counter at a drugstore. With a severe infection, you may need to consult a doctor for prescription-strength treatments.
Kodal Copper Infused Athletic Low-Cut Socks
What you need to know: These are cotton socks with copper yarn that wick away moisture and fight off bacteria and fungi.
What you’ll love: Fungus-fighting copper yarn makes up 20% of the socks. They are unisex and come in multiple colors and sizes. These socks will reduce symptoms such as foot odor and itchy feet.
What you should consider: The sizing can be hard to get right since they are unisex and come in only two sizes.
Bamboo Sports B No Show Bamboo Workout Socks
What you need to know: These 100% bamboo socks are soft and wick away sweat better than most cotton socks.
What you’ll love: Bamboo socks also fight off bacteria and fungi. These have tons of buying options, including size, color and number of socks per pack. Bamboo is eco-friendly and recyclable.
What you should consider: Some people report that bamboo socks tend to tear or rip faster than other materials.
Iseasoo Copper Compression Socks
What you need to know: These socks improve circulation while keeping moisture and sweat from soaking your socks and feet.
What you’ll love: These are tightfitting socks that still feel comfortable. They are great for sports including running and cycling. They include copper fibers woven throughout the socks.
What you should consider: It is difficult to find out what percent of the socks are made of copper yarn.
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Stephen Morin writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
