SOCKS FOR THE OUTDOOR ADVENTURER

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SOCKS

Moisture-wicking socks will absorb perspiration and help your feet stay dry. Buying quality socks is a good investment because the loosely wound yarn in a lower quality sock will wear out more quickly. Do not store your socks in your boots overnight as the socks and boots will not be able to dry. Have a second pair of socks and change them every few hours. Tie your socks to your backpack so that they can dry in the open air.

Extending the Life of Your Socks

If your socks have given up and your soles are getting thin, make a new insole with sheets of birch bark. To replace or add to the soles of the socks you can use some soft grass, the fluff from milkweed seeds, or the fluff from cattails in the fall and winter. Milkweed seeds and cattail fluff are excellent insulators which should be replaced at regular intervals. "From garments that monitor vital signs and activity to fabrics that change color or texture based on environmental conditions, these innovative … smart textiles are being designed to improve energy efficiency, comfort and safety.”  TextileWorld.com July/August Issue, Page 30