Soccer players have always found ways to express themselves with their uniform looks. Trends always come and go. But why on earth do soccer players cut holes in their socks now?
Past weirdness
- Robbie Fowler and his nose strip during the 90’s.
- David Beckham’s head band with long hair during the early 2000’s.
- Tiny and mostly ineffective shin guards that everyone wears today.
Different types of cut holes
Let’s list out some of the different types of holes that are being cut in soccer player’s socks.
- The single hole cut on each sock.
- Two or more holes randomly cut on each sock.
- Funky patterns of little holes cut.
- Multiple cuts PLUS a sleeve underneath to hide the holes!
So, why on earth do soccer players cut holes in their socks now?
Polyester and calf muscles
It’s pretty common that players cut the tags off a brand new pair of socks several times over the course of a season. Brand new socks can be tight fitting.
Jude Bellingham was the first player noticed during the 2022 FIFA World Cup with cut up socks.
England’s socks are made up of 88% polyester. A couple of advantage of polyester are it doesn’t retain water and it’s good at keeping its shape.
Is there anything worse than droopy socks?
As for calf muscles, maybe players find those types of socks restrictive and cuts blood flow off that affects performance. It might also reduce cramps and injury.
Is there truth to any of this?
Dr. Raj Brar, doctor of physical therapy says “One way of medically reducing pressure on the calves is through using higher compression socks in between games, as a recovery measure.” He goes onto to say “that will increase circulation and reduce swelling to varying degrees based on the level of pressure of the sock. Besides, soccer players get more than enough through their calves to not worry about circulation and swelling pooling up.”
“Mom, where are the scissors?!”
Not so fast. There is no reason to be cutting holes in your socks thinking you’ll achieve a competitive advantage. The most you’ll get out of it could be some added comfort and a cool new style on the field.
Leave the socks be.
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