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When you think of basketball, the first thing that comes to mind is likely the players’ flashy moves and high-flying dunks.
But what you may not know is that one of the essential tools in a basketball player’s arsenal is their socks.
That’s right – socks! And specifically, double socks.
So why do basketball players wear double socks? Basketball players wear double socks because:
- It gives protection against blisters
- It helps prevent ankle injuries
- It protects the heel bone (Calcaneus)
- It gives extra protection for their joints while running, jumping, and landing.
- It reduces friction between sock and shoe
- It gives them stylish looks
- It can help break-in (stretch) new shoes
Keep reading to find out all the details!
Contents
What Does Wearing Double Socks Mean?
“Wearing double socks” is popular in basketball circles. While the exact origin of the term is unknown, it describes a player wearing two pairs of socks.
This is to help create a snug fit around the foot, which can help prevent blisters and other issues.
In addition, the extra layer of socks can help to absorb sweat and keep the feet dry.
While not everyone is a fan of double socks, many players swear by them, such as James Harden and Steph Curry.
So, if you’re looking for a way to prevent blisters and keep your feet dry, you might want to consider giving double socks a try.
Why Do Basketball Players Wear Double Socks?
The most common reason basketball players wear double socks is because it helps in preventing various injuries and bad feet conditions – blisters, ankle sprains, and joint inflammations.
Besides, it significantly prevents friction between the feet and the shoes.
How Do Double Socks Work?
The inner sock acts as a buffer, absorbing some of the force before it reaches the foot. The outer sock helps to keep the foot in place and prevents blisters and other types of irritation.
Whether you’re running up and down the court, leaping for a rebound, or cutting sharply to make a move, your feet are taking a beating. That’s why many players wear two pairs of socks when they hit the hardwood.
The extra layer of fabric helps cushion your feet and absorb some of the impacts.
It also helps keep your feet dry, reducing the risk of blisters and other foot problems.
In addition, don’t miss my article related to NBA players wearing mouthguards and also see if it’s acceptable to play wearing glasses.
What Are the Benefits of Wearing Double Socks?
There are many benefits to wearing double socks when playing basketball. Some of the key benefits include:
Protection Against Blisters
When playing basketball, your feet constantly move and rub against your shoes.
This friction can cause blisters, which can be both painful and debilitating.
By wearing two pairs of socks, you create a buffer between your skin and your shoes. This reduces friction and helps to prevent blisters from forming.
In addition, double socks can help to keep your feet dry. When your feet are wet, they’re more susceptible to blisters.
Added Support To Prevent Ankle Injuries
When you play basketball, the last thing you want to do is roll your ankle.
Unfortunately, it’s a common injury that can sideline you for weeks or even months.
Wearing double socks can help prevent injuries by providing support for your ankles. In addition, the extra layer of fabric helps distribute the impact of your movements more evenly, and the added compression helps stabilize your joints.
As a result, double socks can reduce your risk of ankle sprains and other common basketball injuries. So if you’re serious about playing the game, be sure to invest in a good pair of double socks.
In addition, a lot of players wear arm or knee sleeves – for the purpose of protection, including a lot of Asian NBA stars.
Protection for Their Calcaneus
The calcaneus, or heel bone, is the most prominent bone in the foot and bears most of our body weight when we stand.
As a result, this bone is particularly susceptible to injury, especially for basketball players who are constantly jumping and landing on their feet.
For example, stress fractures are a common type of calcaneus injury resulting from a repetitive impact on the heel bone.
One way to help protect the calcaneus is to wear double socks. By wearing two socks at once, you create a layer of padding between the foot and the shoe, helping protect the bone from stress.
Less Friction Between Sock & Shoe
Although it may seem counterintuitive, wearing two pairs of socks can help to reduce friction between the sock and the shoe. Friction causes blisters, which can be painful and disruptive to gameplay.
According to Sulzberger, a scientist who studied blisters on 54 United States military personnel, a moist shoe environment increases skin friction, whereas drier skin has less friction.
Double socks help keep the foot dry, which reduces friction and the risk of blisters.
Stylish Look
Don’t make the common mistake of overlooking the most valuable components of a player’s wardobe: socks. That’s right, and socks can make or break a player’s look.
And when it comes to socks, there’s nothing more stylish than doubling up. Whether it’s two different colors or different patterns, rocking double socks is a surefire way to turn heads on the court.
Can Help To Break in New Shoes
The good news is that there’s an easy way to break in new shoes using double socks. First, put on a pair of thick socks, followed by your new shoes. Then, put on a second pair of socks over the top.
You can even try a combination of rubber shoe insoles, wool socks, and double layers of socks (or other clothing) to stretch out your new shoes.
The extra layer of socks will help stretch out the material of the shoes to conform to your feet better. Wear them at your desk or even for a light jog. Within a few days, your new shoes will be good to go.
Why Do Basketball Players Wear Long Socks?
Long socks became popular in the NBA in the ’20s when teams like the Boston Celtics started wearing them as a fashion statement.
The trend continues today, with many players choosing to rock long socks as part of their on-court look.
If you’re a scrappy player who dives for loose balls like Patrick Beverly, long socks can help protect your shins from scratches and cuts. They can also keep your legs warm during those cold winter games.
There is also the argument that long socks look more stylish than their shorter counterparts.
So there you have it: a few compelling reasons basketball players wear double socks.
Whether you’re looking for protection from blisters and injuries or want to add a bit of style to your game, double socks are a must-have for any basketball player.
What Makes a Sock Good for Basketball?
When it comes to playing basketball, having the right socks can make all the difference. They need to be comfortable, breathable, and supportive to help you perform your best.
Sweat-wicking material
The material is also essential – you want something that will wick away sweat and keep your feet cool during intense games.
Some of the best materials for this include wool, long-staple (unique) cotton, and synthetic blends. Wool is better for cold weather, while cotton and synthetic blends are better for warmer weather.
Fit & Comfort
It’s also important to find socks that fit well. A good rule of thumb is to buy socks that are one size larger than your shoe size. This will ensure a comfortable, snug fit.
Arch Support
If you’re looking for a pair of socks that will help you perform your best on the court, choose a pair with arch support. This will help to reduce fatigue and support your vital joints and bones while you play.
Aesthetics
And of course, they should look good too – there’s nothing worse than feeling like you’re stuck in a goofy pair of socks! So choose a fun color or pattern that will make you feel confident and stylish on the court.
What Causes Blisters? (Will Wearing 2 Socks Prevent Them?)
A blister is a small pocket of fluid that forms between the upper layers of skin.
The most common cause of blisters is friction, such as when your shoes rub against your feet or grip a tool too tightly.
When the upper layers of skin are damaged, fluid leaks from the blood vessels and collects in the space between the layers of skin.
Blisters are most commonly caused by repetitive impact on the feet or wearing ill-fitting shoes for basketball players.
How Can I Prevent Blisters on my Feet?
The best way to prevent blisters is by wearing socks that absorb moisture, drying feet before play, choosing shoes that fit properly, and avoiding popping blisters.
Second, take precautions when playing. When you know you’ll be on the court for awhile, take the time to tape any areas that are prone to blisters. This will create a barrier between your skin and your shoe.
Lastly, players should make sure their feet are dry before putting on their shoes. This can be accomplished by using talcum powder or cornstarch to absorb any sweat or moisture.
If you do get a blister, it is important to avoid further damage by keeping the area clean and covered.
Heres a video that goes into how you can prevent blisters on your feet:
What Socks Does LeBron (and Other NBA Players) Wear?
Specifically, he uses the Nike NBA NikeGrip Power Crew” socks
Most NBA players have an endorsement deal with a company, and as a result, they tend to wear that brand on the court.
Nike’s designers developed two socks for its collaboration with the NBA.: an ultra-cushioned and lightweight pair made from NikeGrip yarns and a thick Power Crew sock.
The first provides extra grip when playing basketball on tough courts or carpeted floors; it also features zoned cushioning, which protects against injuries. These socks have ventilated spaces to facilitate airflow through your feet as a cherry on top.
Why do NBA players like LeBron James and Kevin Durant choose this sock? The fabric contains some pretty high-tech materials that provide an incredible amount of support for such a thin layer.
The ultra polyester fibers provide cushioning without adding bulk, while the zoned arch protection helps prevent pain and fatigue over time. Plus, the snug fit ensures that the socks stay in place without being too restrictive.
What is the best way to prevent blisters?
The best way to prevent blisters is by wearing socks that absorb moisture, drying feet before play, choosing shoes that fit properly, and avoiding popping blisters.
Second, take precautions when playing. When you know you’ll be on the court for a while, take the time to tape any areas that are prone to blisters. This will create a barrier between your skin and your shoe.
Lastly, players should make sure their feet are dry before putting on their shoes. This can be accomplished by using talcum powder or cornstarch to absorb any sweat or moisture.
If you do get a blister, it is important to avoid further damage by keeping the area clean and covered.
Do Double Socks Help Prevent Injuries?
There is some evidence to suggest that wearing two socks can help prevent injuries.
A Military Medicine Study found that double-sock wearers had a lower incidence of blisters than those who only wore a single sock.