Q: I recently forgot to bring socks to the rink before a big game and had no choice but to skate barefoot. I have to say, I liked it better than I would have thought. What is your opinion on skating without socks?
– Kevin H., Elmsford, New York
A: Hockey players are very particular about their equipment. Some players use a cage with their helmet, while others prefer a clear mask. Some opt to wear their neck laceration protectors built into an undershirt, while others elect to wear a collar. Some choose a stick with high flex, while other players are partial to low flex. The point is: details matter.
Most players assign a high priority to the perfect skate fit. For some, the most comfortable option could be going au naturel. Sockless players argue this gives them a better feel for the skate and their edges and describe a sense of improved connection to the ice.
However, skipping socks on the ice can come with some risks:
• Blisters: When you don’t have socks to protect your feet, this increases the friction between your foot and the skate. Especially if the skates are new or do not fit properly, this results in a significant risk of blister formation.
• Infection: Without socks to absorb the moisture in the skate, infections, such as athlete’s foot, are more likely to develop.
• Calluses or pressure sores: In contrast to blisters that can form immediately because of excess friction, long-term skin problems may result from persistent rubbing and moisture exposure from barefoot skating over time.
• The Stink! Hockey bags and skates already produce quite the odor, but the smell that can come from skates that are routinely worn without socks is in another league.
What are the benefits of wearing socks?
• First, socks help your feet stay warm! There are some frigid ice rinks out there. Socks provide an extra layer of insulation to prevent tissue damage caused by cold injuries (e.g. frostbite).
• Socks are essential for moisture management. As feet become sweaty during play, socks will absorb the sweat to help keep the skin dry. A high-moisture environment encourages fungal growth, so wearing socks decreases the risk of athlete’s foot.
• Socks reduce the amount of friction produced between your skin and the leather inside the skate, thereby minimizing the risk of developing skin problems, such as blisters, pressure sores and calluses.
• Many of the socks designed for hockey players are now cut-resistant, containing Kevlar fibers that provide protection from skate lacerations.
Having addressed the risks of barefoot skating and the benefits provided by socks, I recognize that the advantages of barefoot skating experienced by some players may tempt you to give the sockless route a try.
Should you choose to do so, I recommend a few things. First, try it out in a low-pressure environment, such as a free skate or optional practice. If things are not going well, you can simply head to the locker room and put on some socks. Second, make sure you are wearing skates that are well broken in or have been baked at the skate shop for optimal fit. If you attempt to go sockless in a pair of new, stiff skates, you are very likely to develop painful blisters on your feet. Finally, be sure to air out and dry your skates after every skating session to prevent mold and bacterial growth and minimize odor.
My advice is to wear socks. The possible downsides of barefoot skating mentioned above outweigh the potential marginal benefits to skating performance. For those looking to replicate the sockless feel, I recommend trying some of the newer, very thin socks that are available at most skate shops or online hockey retailers.