The Importance of Proper Socks for Plus Size Individuals
Finding the right pair of socks can be a challenge for anyone, but especially so for plus size and obese individuals. With extra weight comes increased friction, moisture, and wear on socks. Having an improper sock fit leads to discomfort and foot issues like blisters, fungal infections, and poor circulation.
Thankfully, the sock industry has evolved with demand, and there are now many options catered specifically for a larger calf, ankle, and foot. Wearing properly fitting socks provides much needed support and protection for fat people.
Choose Socks With Compression and Extra Cushioning
Compression socks promote good blood flow and provide needed pressure on the feet and calves of larger bodies. The gradient compression helps combat issues like varicose veins, ankle swelling, and tired, achy legs from excess weight. Compression also helps to wick away moisture and prevent friction issues.
Additionally, fat people need extra cushioning in their socks for shock absorption and comfort. With more weight pounding the ground with every step, having proper cushioning lessens the impact. Thick padded socks also fill space better for a smooth fit in shoes.
Get Socks That Stay Up
One of the biggest complaints plus size individuals have about socks is that they do not stay up for long. As calves and ankles increase in size, elastic bands stretch out. Choosing compression level socks or those with reinforced bands can combat slipping.
There are also snug fitting sock styles like knee highs that have silicone grip dots on the inside to prevent sliding. These not only stay up better but also do not constrict legs to an uncomfortable degree.
Moisture Wicking Fabrics Keep Feet Cooler and Drier
Excess weight makes bodies prone to heavy sweating, especially feet encased in shoes all day. Having moisture wicking fabrics like polyester blends and wool in socks helps pull sweat away. These fabrics also let feet breathe better than cottons do.
Well ventilated shoes are also a must for obese individuals. The combination of moisture wicking socks and breathable shoes keeps feet cool, dry and blister free in the heat and humidity.
Get Properly Sized Socks For a Good Fit
Just like shoes that are sized to fit every foot width and length, socks need to be appropriate for fatter feet. When socks are too tight, issues flare up like cramping, poor circulation, and skin irritation.
Brands making wide calf, ankle and foot socks allow for a more customized, comfortable fit for obese people. Consulting specific size charts helps take the guesswork out of sock shopping.
Additionally, some plus size sock brands offer different levels of compression. So extra large legs that still swell significantly can get looser compression than slimmer obese legs prone to less swelling.
Choose Socks Meant to Handle Heavy Duty Wear
From reinforced toes and heels to tightly woven fabrics, socks made for bigger bodies handle more wear than standard socks. With extra weight and friction, these socks have extra reinforcement.
It is crucial to replace mass produced socks frequently with heavy use. But thick, cushioned plus size socks hold up better over time with less thinning and holes before needing a replacement.
Find Socks in Colors and Patterns That Match Personal Style
Just because someone is overweight does not mean they do not want fun socks to express themselves. Thankfully brands understand this and offer plus size socks in vast color selections and joyful patterns.
Fat people socks come in solids ranging from neutrals to bright tones. For added flair, patterns like polka dots, stripes, florals and animal prints decorate plus size socks. Now big legs can step out in style and confidence.
Try Diabetic Style Socks For Extra Foot Care
Individuals carrying excess weight put themselves at increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Even without a diagnosis of diabetes, obese people deal with foot problems and nerve sensitivity.
Diabetic socks provide pampering foot care without a prescription. Features like seamless toes, padded zones and circulation boosting compression keep sensitive plus size feet happy.
Look for Socks Designed to Accommodate Lymphedema
Lymphedema causes severe, irregular swelling in limbs from fluid buildup. While not exclusive to obese individuals, the condition frequently impacts plus size people.
Sock brands are answering the call for accommodating larger lymphedema affected limbs. These machine washable socks have adjustable zippers or velcro fasteners for putting on and taking off. The custom fit ensures all-day comfort.
Consider Medical Grade Compression Socks
For extreme swelling and circulatory issues, medical grade compression socks bring relief without needing a prescription. They apply 30-40mmHg of gradient pressure for proper blood flow and edema reduction.
Many options suitable for the plus size demographic come in wide calf sizes. Brands also offer lighter compression socks in the 15-20mmHg range for milder obesity related foot and leg troubles.
Invest in Proper Socks to Keep Plus Size Feet Healthy and Comfortable
As the obesity epidemic continues rising, clothing designers respond by accommodating larger bodies. Sock manufacturers prove no exception with an array of plus size offerings.
By taking time finding the correct sock fit, materials, and compression levels, fat people keep their feet happy. Protect feet from issues stemming from excess weight by taking proper foot care.
FAQs
Why do fat people need special socks?
Extra body weight leads to more friction, moisture, and wear on regular socks. Fat people socks have features like compression, cushioning, grip dots, reinforced fabrics and wide calf sizes to accommodate larger and swollen legs and feet comfortably.
What compression level is best for obese individuals?
Light compression around 15-20mmHg works well for mild obesity swelling and foot fatigue. For more severe vascular issues, edema and poor circulation, graduation compression levels up to 30-40mmHg bring relief. Consulting a doctor helps determine personal ideal compression sock level.
Do plus size socks cost more than regular socks?
Sometimes yes, because they require more design, fabric and reinforcement to accommodate larger limbs. But many brands now carry affordable options catered toward the plus size demographic as demand increases.
Where can I find cute socks in size extra large?
Many brands like SIGVARIS, Dr. Scholl's, SB SOX, and Zspirit Carry plus size sock selections in fun colors and patterns. Major retailers like Amazon, Walgreens and Walmart also label wide calf and foot size offerings for convenient shopping.
Should obese individuals wear diabetic socks?
The extra cushioning and seamless toes make diabetic socks suitable for sensitive obese feet prone to skin irritation and neuropathy discomfort. They provide essential foot care whether individuals have an actual diabetes diagnosis or not.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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