Are you in need of a new pair of riding socks?
All right, does it even make sense to buy a pair of somewhat pricy riding socks to ride in, when you already have plenty of normal socks to wear? The short answer is: “yes, it does”. There are many differences between a pair of riding socks and a pair of regular everyday socks; the riding socks have many important qualities and functions, that normal socks do not. Learn more about what makes the riding socks an indispensable piece of riding equipment,
Why you should buy a pair of riding socks
If you want to protect your shoes, your riding breeches, the horses coat, the saddle and your feet, it is necessary with a pair of good riding socks, because they reduces the wear and tear that happens, when you are not wearing a pair of appropriate socks. It may sound like a lot, but nevertheless, the point of wearing riding socks in general is exactly to protect and to insulate. A pair of riding boots worn without a pair of riding socks will easily give you both blister and gnawing wounds. Furthermore, they might end up smelling bad and sweaty. A pair of really good riding socks also have the ability to protect your calf muscles from injuries while riding.
Will a pair of riding socks improve my riding?
It can make a noticeable difference in your riding, when you wear a pair of good riding socks. Not least, your will add comfort to your riding, and you will most likely find, that your legs are not as easily tired, because of the reduced friction against the horse’s side compared to when you are riding in your everyday, shorter socks. Those riding socks, that can make a difference for the blood circulation in your legs, can minimize the likelihood of muscle injuries in your legs while also decreasing the restitution needed. If you are using your feet and legs a lot, the riding socks with build-in compression - exactly like the ones that are used for running and hiking - are just what you need.
How to choose the right pair of riding socks
When you are looking for a pair of new riding socks, there are several things, you need to take into account. First and foremost, you need to decide what kind of size you need, which length you prefer and whether or not there are some special qualities and functions, you need for you riding as well as the daily work with the horse. Comfort is of the essence too, and in this regard your need to take the material into account, as well as the design itself - make sure that there are no bothersome stitches or other annoyances.
Short or long riding socks?
Whether or not your riding socks should be short or long is mostly a matter of which of the two you feel more comfortable in and what kind of riding boots you chose to wear. If you like to wear a pair of short riding boots, the knee-long riding socks would be the better choice. While the shorter riding sock would be a good choice for the long boots or chaps. Make sure that the shorter socks still have enough length to reach over the edge of your breeches, and that the fit is good and tight - also when you are pressing your heels down.
Summer or winter riding socks?
There is a noticeable difference between the socks you need in the summertime and those that are for winter. Obviously, there is a difference in the weather, wind and temperatures, and therefore different requirement for the socks - especially, if you are riding outdoor. Even if you are wearing the long boots, it can be a good choice to wear long, heavy socks for protection and insulation in the winter. In the summertime, however, you want to wear slim, thinner socks, that provides you with the necessary protection, and are both breathable and ventilating at the same time.
Wool riding socks
The natural material wool is by far the material, that has the most advantages when it is cold out, and, of course, these advantages applies to wool riding socks as well. Wool has some qualities, that makes it a very good fabric for riding wear. First and foremost, wool is insulation and will keep your feet warm in the winter. Second, the material is sweat and moisture wicking, and will thereby keep your feet and legs dry while working. A pair of woolen rising socks will provide you with the ultimate comfort for winter - both in design and material. Riding socks made out of wool is as supportive as they are flexible, they are breathable, and they are warm.
Great flexibility
When you are riding, it is necessary to have a pair of socks that is both flexible and supportive at the same time - especially around the ankles.
Riding socks - no matter if they are for winter or summer use - must fit your foot. If the socks are loose, you will risk folds that can cause chafing. A pair of functional riding socks is a must-have to secure the good ride and the highest possible comfort.
Size and fit
A pair of riding socks of the right size is a necessity for the good ride. You need to make sure, that the length of the foot of the sock matches the length of your foot. Furthermore, you need a pair that has a tight fit around the feet and toes, but not so tight that it inhibits the blood circulation.
Of course, every model comes with a size guide that you can use to make sure that you are buying the perfect pair.
Design and colors
There is a great variety in the market supply of riding socks, which has its advantages; you have a lot to choose from in design and colors, any you can easily find something that matches your personal style and your other riding gear perfectly. The better you manage to match the riding socks, you are investing in, to you existing wardrobe, the more joy they will bring you. The will both look and feel good in the complete outfit.