Good Support: The Best Arch Support Socks
If you exercise a lot or are on your feet all day, you may experience foot pain at some point.
Some of this pain comes from strain on the arch, including the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that supports it.
Having support for their arches can benefit people who deal with aching feet.
The right shoes can make a big difference, but did you know that socks are important too?
The right gear may help reduce strain and pain. However, we don’t often think about socks since we don’t always see them.
If you’re serious about reducing foot pain, then check out our choice of best arch support socks.
Criteria
There are lots of socks out there designed for sports use, but they don’t always provide that key arch support your feet need.
Arch support socks use a compression band around the midfoot. They can’t truly reshape your foot or keep lifting the plantar arch the way a shoe insert does, but many people find the snug fit comfortable.
The arch helps absorb impact. In some adults the arch flattens over time, a condition known as fallen arches.
Most people with flat feet have no pain and need no treatment, according to MedlinePlus. If flat feet do hurt, an orthotic arch support in the shoe is the usual first step.
Also, having sweaty feet doesn’t make for a comfortable day so you’ll need socks that absorb moisture.
Socks are best seen as an add-on for comfort rather than a treatment. For heel pain from plantar fasciitis, stretching and supportive shoes or inserts come first.
Buttons & Pleats Support Socks
Buttons & Pleats plantar fasciitis socks are some of the best arch support socks you can get.
Many active people like them for running or working out.
In fact, these socks don’t just give much-needed arch support.
They add light compression around the arch and ankle.
Some users say they feel less foot fatigue, though research on compression socks for recovery is mixed.
Although it hugs your foot, it still has flexibility so you can move your feet around as normal without feeling restricted.
The socks are toe-less, lightweight, and are designed to absorb moisture and to keep your feet feeling cool and comfortable.
You can wear these on their own or under regular socks to give you that added arch support.
The maker also says the fabric resists odor.
The arch support socks aren’t just for athletes. This is perfect for everyday wear and traveling too. The socks come in sizes small to x-large and are unisex.
Buttons & Pleats have a handy size guide available to help you find the one that’s right for you.
Reviews for Buttons & Pleats arch support socks are generally positive.
Some people with flat feet or long shifts on their feet say the socks ease their aches. Results vary.
Pros & Cons
These socks are very sturdy and should last a long time without losing its elasticity. They can even be washed in the washing machine.
These socks are toe-less, which may not be to everyone’s liking. The toes are sensitive and don’t always need the same compression as other parts of the foot.
Reviewers love these socks! It’s been suggested to go by size of the arch of your foot rather than your shoe size to determine which is best for you.
This will make sure you have adequate support and can make all the difference.
Check the current listing for the brand’s return policy.
Conclusion
Shoes can help a lot, but don’t ignore the need for supportive socks.
Buttons and Pleats socks offer light arch compression and a comfortable fit.
They work best together with supportive shoes and, if needed, shoe inserts and stretching.
If foot or heel pain lasts more than a few weeks, see a doctor or podiatrist.
Sources
- Flat Feet, MedlinePlus
- Plantar Fasciitis and Bone Spurs, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo)
