Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 16, 2025

Predictive Measurement for Windlass Change in Length and Selected Treatment Outcomes in Chronic Plantar Fasciitis
Published on: March 1, 2024
Cushioning Performance of Specialized Running Socks for Enhanced Shock Absorption and Reduced Plantar Pressure
Xia Zhou1, Pui-Ling Li1, Kit-Lun Yick1
1School of Fashion and Textiles, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.
None:
Running socks play an important role in alleviating foot impact and preventing foot injuries. Despite the variety of commercial options, their cushioning effectiveness is not well understood. This study examines three different types of running socks made of bio-based and synthetic textiles. Material testing includes compression, tensile, and shock absorption, while wear tests assess plantar loading in 10 adult recreational runners on a treadmill. Results show that specialized running socks offer superior shock absorption compared to regular running socks, largely due to fabric thickness and weight. Socks made of high-performance bio-composite fibers significantly reduced maximum peak pressure and impulse in the great toe (p < 0.05) and first metatarsal head (p < 0.05) during running. Additionally, ground contact time in the forefoot (p < 0.05) area was significantly lower with specialized running socks. Compared to regular running socks, five-toed running socks can reduce the pressure load on the forefoot area. These findings can guide the design of specialized sockwear for better foot protection and improved sports performance.
More Related Videos
06:35Using Gold-standard Gait Analysis Methods to Assess Experience Effects on Lower-limb Mechanics During Moderate High-heeled Jogging and Running
Published on: September 14, 2017
05:52Lower-Limb Biomechanical Characteristics Associated with Unplanned Gait Termination Under Different Walking Speeds
Published on: August 25, 2020
Related Concept Videos
Muscles of the Leg that Move the Foot and Toes
Anterior Compartment
The anterior compartment includes muscles that contribute to the dorsiflexion of the foot. This compartment houses the tibialis anterior, extensor hallucis longus, and extensor digitorum longus muscles....
Pulse Assessment Sites
Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Peripheral Arterial Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Evaluation