The cushioning properties of athletic socks: an impact testing perspective
Tim Blackmore1, David Jessop, Stewart Bruce-Low
1School of Exercise Science, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, Australia.
Clinical Biomechanics (Bristol, Avon)
|July 25, 2013
Summary
Athletic socks can reduce impact forces on the lower extremity by 6-20%. Sock thickness is significantly correlated with reduced impact force, time to peak impact, and loading rate, indicating cushioning properties.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
- Materials Science
Background:
- The injury prevention potential of athletic socks in attenuating impact forces on the lower extremity remains unestablished.
- Sock/shoe units aim to reduce impact severity, but the sock's independent contribution requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the effect of athletic socks and sock/shoe units on peak impact force.
- To analyze the influence of socks on time to peak impact force and loading rate.
- To evaluate impact force attenuation using an established impact testing methodology.
Main Methods:
- An impact testing system with a gravity-driven vertical impact striker (8.5kg) was utilized.
- A load cell (10,000Hz) recorded impact data.
- Specimens were impacted at a controlled height (0.05m) and velocity (0.99m·s(-1)).
Main Results:
- All tested socks reduced peak impact force by 6% to 20% compared to a no-sock control.
- Significant correlations (r=.62 to .72) were found between sock thickness and impact force parameters.
- Sock thickness influenced peak impact force, time to peak impact force, and loading rate.
Conclusions:
- Athletic socks possess inherent cushioning properties under impact testing conditions.
- Sock thickness is a key factor in mitigating impact forces on the lower extremity.
- Findings support the role of socks in reducing impact severity.
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