The Best Diabetic Socks to Help Keep Your Feet Warm and Protected (2024)

The Best Diabetic Socks to Help Keep Your Feet Warm and Protected (1)

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For people with diabetes, choosing the perfect pair of socks means more than just grabbing the most colorful pair off the rack. “The right socks can help improve blood circulation in the feet, reduce the risk of irritation and foot injury, and help keep feet dry,” says Rita Kalyani, MD, an associate professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

As many as 50% of adults with diabetes experience a type of nerve damage called peripheral neuropathy. This can result in pain or tingling in your feet — or it can cause your feet to feel numb, so you might not even realize something is irritating your toes or that you have a blister or callus until it results in an infection or damage (if left untreated, sores can turn into foot ulcers). Diabetes can also cause the skin to become dry and cracked, and poor blood circulation makes it more difficult for infections and injuries to heal.

“For those who have peripheral vascular disease or nerve damage, it may be particularly helpful to see a podiatrist to have foot concerns addressed,” says Dr. Kalyani. Wearing socks that are designed to protect the feet of those with diabetes is also an important part of preventive care.

Look for these features when choosing the best diabetic socks for you:

  • A comfortable fit: Dr. Kalyani points out that there is a big difference between compression socks — which squeeze the lower leg to improve blood flow in people who have swelling in their feet or varicose veins — and diabetic socks, which should have a looser fit that doesn't restrict blood flow. “Since people with diabetes may have reduced blood circulation in their legs, it's important that socks are not too constricting,” she says. Diabetes socks should have a stretchable cuffs and should fit over your feet and toes without bunching up or gapping.
  • Moisture-wicking fabric: “For those at risk of foot infections, socks that are made of materials that keep moisture away can help the foot stay clean and dry,” says Dr. Kalyani. It’s also crucial to inspect your feet, then carefully wash and dry them (make sure you get between the toes!) every day.
  • A cushioned sole: Pressure on the bottom of the foot or the big toe can cause foot ulcers, so look for socks that have a little extra padding in these areas.

Here are nine great pairs to pull on:

Yomandamor Women's Breathable Diabetic Socks

The Best Diabetic Socks to Help Keep Your Feet Warm and Protected (2)

Yomandamor Women's Breathable Diabetic Socks

Thesesocks have a wide, stretchy band that will keep them up even when you work out, a seamless toe to prevent irritation and a padded sole.The delicate mesh detail makes them especially breathable.

This company with the giggly name makes bright colored socks in fun patterns for kids and adults, and their diabetes socks are the cutest ones we've seen. Reviewers love the soft material and non-binding cuff as much as the cheerful colors.

Creswell Sock Mills White Diabetic Crew Socks

The Best Diabetic Socks to Help Keep Your Feet Warm and Protected (4)

Creswell Sock Mills White Diabetic Crew Socks

For a basic pair of white diabetic socks with all the soft, seamless features you want, these are no-fuss at a great price.

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Hugh Ugoli Women's Loose Diabetic Ankle Socks

The Best Diabetic Socks to Help Keep Your Feet Warm and Protected (5)

Hugh Ugoli Women's Loose Diabetic Ankle Socks

Now 20% Off

These ankle socks are available in more than 20 eye-popping colors;themicromesh fabric lets your feet breathe whether you're working out or taking a long walk.

Dr. Scholl's Diabetic and Circulatory Health White Socks

The Best Diabetic Socks to Help Keep Your Feet Warm and Protected (6)

Dr. Scholl's Diabetic and Circulatory Health White Socks

Dr. Scholl's has beenthe go-to name for foot care for more than a century, and the companymakes this classic pair ofdiabetes socks in a moisture-wicking, antimicrobial material.

Dr. Segal's Diabetic Socks

The Best Diabetic Socks to Help Keep Your Feet Warm and Protected (7)

Dr. Segal's Diabetic Socks

These are so stylish, you can wear them with a cute skirt and sneakers. Plus, they're made with a breathable cotton blend and extra padding.

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Warrior Alpaca Socks Therapeutic Crew Alpaca Socks

The Best Diabetic Socks to Help Keep Your Feet Warm and Protected (8)

Warrior Alpaca Socks Therapeutic Crew Alpaca Socks

These socks, made of a luxe alpaca wool blend, are ultrasoft and comfy and have a wide ribbing to sit comfortably on your shins. They're alsoavailable in wide-calf sizes for a truly perfect fit.

Ortho Feet Extra Roomy Socks

The Best Diabetic Socks to Help Keep Your Feet Warm and Protected (9)

Ortho Feet Extra Roomy Socks

These have a wide fit, plus anti-bacterial andanti-odor features and a moisture-wicking system.

Facool Wide Ankle Diabetic Socks

The Best Diabetic Socks to Help Keep Your Feet Warm and Protected (10)

Facool Wide Ankle Diabetic Socks

If your feet run cold, these extra-thick socks will keep them nice and toasty. They're wider in the ankle, non-irritating and have a fully cushioned sole.

The Best Diabetic Socks to Help Keep Your Feet Warm and Protected (11)

Marisa Cohen

Deputy Editor

Marisa Cohen is an editor in the Hearst Lifestyle Group’s Health Newsroom, who has covered health, nutrition, parenting and culture for dozens of magazines and websites over the past two decades.

The Best Diabetic Socks to Help Keep Your Feet Warm and Protected (2024)

FAQs

The Best Diabetic Socks to Help Keep Your Feet Warm and Protected? ›

There are many different types of socks for people with diabetes. Generally, they're designed to minimize foot injuries and keep feet dry and warm.

Do diabetic socks keep your feet warm? ›

There are many different types of socks for people with diabetes. Generally, they're designed to minimize foot injuries and keep feet dry and warm.

What are the best type of socks for diabetics? ›

Moisture Wicking

Nerve damage can impact the body's ability to control foot moisture, and a damp environment can encourage infection, so consider socks made with moisture-wicking materials. Acrylic fibers can help keep your feet dry.

Should diabetics wear thin or thick socks? ›

Government sources recommend cotton and wool socks for diabetic patients to help keep feet dry. 4,5 They also reinforce the need to wear socks at all times. Many do not make specific fabric recommendations, but they do suggest that people avoid tight socks.

How do diabetics treat cold feet? ›

If your feet are cold, you may want to warm them. Keep aware that, unfortunately, if you have nerve damage, your feet may not be able feel heat properly and it is easy for you to burn them with hot water, hot water bottles, or heating pads. The best way to warm cold feet is to wear warm socks.

How can I keep my diabetic feet warm? ›

Fleece blankets hold in maximum heat, and some have a foot-pocket specifically to keep toes warm. Slippers. A pair of well-fitting, non-slip slippers with a thick rubber sole are a good way to keep feet warm year-round.

Should diabetics wear socks to bed at night? ›

Wear socks without seams. Avoid tight-fitting socks and garters. Wear socks in bed if your feet are cold at night. Do not use a hot water bottle or heating pad on your feet.

Why can't diabetics wear compression socks? ›

Contraindication: arterial insufficiency

There are certain conditions where people with diabetes should not wear compression. If you have been diagnosed with severe arterial insufficiency, a diabetic compression sock may not be the right treatment for you.

Should diabetics wear socks all the time? ›

Always wear socks and shoes, even indoors, to prevent injury. 5. Ask your provider about compression socks or stockings if you have venous insufficiency (for example, spider or varicose veins), swelling in your leg or foot, a history of deep venous thrombosis (a previous blood clot in the leg), or walk or stand a lot.

Can you wear diabetic socks all the time? ›

Most people are advised not to go barefoot and to wear diabetic socks daily. With frequent wear and washing, your socks may need special care. Most socks last around six months with proper care. To care for your socks, wash them in a mesh laundry bag and either let them air dry or dry on low heat.

Why should diabetics wear socks to bed? ›

Diabetic socks are specially designed to keep feet dry, decrease the risk of foot injury, and enhance blood circulation. They are a key part of foot care, which is an important aspect of diabetes management due to potential damage to the nervous and circulatory systems caused by high blood sugar levels.

Does CVS sell diabetic socks? ›

Yes, CVS delivers CVS Health Crew Comfort Socks for Diabetics, 2 Pairs to your home if available online.

What causes diabetics to lose their legs? ›

Diabetes is linked to two other conditions that raise the chances of foot amputation: peripheral artery disease (PAD) and diabetic neuropathy. PAD can narrow the arteries that carry blood to your legs and feet and make you more likely to get ulcers (open sores) and infections.

Can cold feet from diabetes be reversed? ›

No, diabetic neuropathy can't be reversed (but the symptoms can be treated).

How do I stop my feet from being cold? ›

You can take steps to treat your cold feet at home by:
  1. Wearing warm socks.
  2. Exercising regularly.
  3. Wearing compression socks or stockings.
  4. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet.
  5. Elevating your legs with a pillow when lying down.
  6. Staying hydrated and drinking water.
May 19, 2022

Why do diabetics get cold so easily? ›

Diabetes. Diabetes can cause kidney and circulation issues that make you feel cold. Without proper treatment, diabetes can also cause nerve damage that makes you feel cold, particularly in your feet. Type 2 diabetes may involve milder symptoms than type 1 diabetes.

Do diabetic socks help with cold feet? ›

Using warm (but not hot) water soaks. Applying a heating pad or warm pack to the feet, being careful not to burn the skin. Wearing diabetic socks, which are specifically designed to provide adequate warmth and support without constricting blood flow.

Can you wear diabetic socks if you are not diabetic? ›

In fact, you don't even have to have diabetes to benefit from them. But that all being said, not all diabetic socks are created equal. So if you're in the market for some socks that will help protect your feet from damage, you should make sure you know what to look for.

Why are diabetics only supposed to wear white socks? ›

White or light-colored socks can allow you to easily see if you're bleeding or have a draining wound on your foot. Seamless toes. Seams can irritate the skin, leading to blisters and wounds. Many diabetic socks don't contain seams or have nonirritating seams.

How do you keep your feet warm if you have neuropathy? ›

You should always wear socks and ensure that your feet stay warm. Make sure that you are always wearing clean socks so that you can avoid fungus and infection. Also, be sure that you wear shoes that fit correctly and can give you room to breathe.

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