In the equestrian world, details are everything. From the grip of your saddle to the fit of your boots, riders need to know that every piece of their equipment has been fine tuned to support success. From joddy boots to elegant dressage boots, knowing how to pick the right pair of socks to complement your footwear can significantly improve your riding experience.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST SOCKS FOR HORSE RIDING
Riders may be inclined to grab any pair of tall socks before heading to the stables. However, investing in high-quality socks will offer you comfort, support, and performance benefits that will enhance your experience. As you look for the best pair of socks to wear with your boots, review the four main features to look for in horseback riding socks below:
- MOISTURE WICKING
A good riding sock should be made of materials that provide moisture-wicking. Sweaty feet can lead to blister issues, and blisters are the last thing you want popping up when you’re in the arena.
Wool blend socks that feature synthetic yarns are a good choice, as they offer greater breathability that reduces perspiration. The blend also reduces hay and grass seeds from sticking to your feet when feeding out.
- CUSHIONING AND PADDING
Long hours of training can take a toll on your feet, so you want to make sure that the socks you’re wearing have strategically placed padding to prevent blisters. The heel and the ball of the foot are areas that you’ll want to pay particular attention to. If you choose a sock with more support in those areas, you’ll reduce the amount of strain on your feet and have a more enjoyable riding experience.
- COMPRESSION SUPPORT
Compression can enhance circulation and keep your muscles from getting fatigued, meaning you can stay out on the ride longer without discomfort!
Socks that come up higher onto your calves are the preferred choice of equestrians, as they’ll offer the most coverage of the leg muscles, reducing friction between the leg, tall boots, and the saddle.
- DOUBLE-LAYER DESIGN
Instead of adding bulk and heat by double bagging your socks, look for socks featuring a double-layer design. These types of socks excel at eliminating the three main causes of blisters: excessive moisture, heat, and friction.
Since riding can produce a great deal of moisture, heat, and friction, a pair of socks that targets these main causes of blisters is a must. A great pair of double-layer socks will feature an inner sock that uses hydrophobic yarn that quickly wicks away moisture and cools your foot. It should also feature an outer layer that interacts with the inner layer to absorb friction before it can wear away at your skin.
The next time you’re thinking about picking up some gear for yourself or the rider in your life, choose Wrightsock for double-layer riding socks. We know what it takes to offer great comfort in the saddle and doing yard work.