What is so special about Diabetic Socks ?

Diabetic Socks are basically just socks which are made with the diabetics in mind, with features that a diabetic would need. Diabetics typically need to pay more attention to their foot as diabetic neuropathy usually renders diabetics unable to feel festering foot injuries. In addition, within 3 years of a first amputation, up to 50% of these patients have a second either new same side or contralateral amputation. (click here to read about a medical research on recommendation of sockwear for diabetics)

So what is so special about diabetic socks ?  If you 'googled' diabetic socks today, you will find a wide range of diabetic socks from all different types of manufacturers from USD 2 per pair of socks to about USD 70 per pair.  So what makes a sock diabetic friendly ?


There are some characteristics which typically makes a sock diabetic friendly:

• Seamless Toe
• Non-binding
• Extremely Comfortable

Basically, any socks which meet the minimum criteria above can be called a diabetic socks.  (There's really no guideline in what makes a sock diabetic friendly.)

Another area to look at is the cushioning or padding of the socks, especially for patients who are at risk for ulcer development because of decreased pressure sensation. Therefore having thick padding or cushioning would help to reduce that from happening.

Another feature which a number of diabetic socks have is the ability to keep the feet dry.  Moisture in the socks sometimes will cause bilsters to formed from friction and is a big watch out for a diabetic.  Therefore a number of diabetic socks advertise features like ' CoolMaX', 'Superior Wicking' etc. (Wicking is the ability of a sock/material to pull moisture away from the surface.)


Some of the diabetic socks as well have anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, odour-free properties etc.  You should choose your socks considering the type of environment where you wear your socks (weather, humidity etc), and also for what purpose.


Often, I am asked, can a normal pair of socks be used instead of diabetic socks for diabetic patients.  To me, the answer is yes, as long as it does not cause bilsters, does not retain moisture and keep the feet dry, does not cause constrictions/restrictions etc and protect your feet and most importantly it is extremely comfortable.  In another words, the socks should have all the features which a pair of diabetic socks should have.


Another guideline that I often used, is the certification by the APMA - Seal of Acceptance.  (American Podiatric Medical Association.)  Click here for the list of products with the Seal of Acceptance for Diabetics.


My personal recommendation among the range of diabetic socks would be the Reflexa Diabetic Socks.  The reason of my recommendation is not because it is the most expensive in our shop, but because once I found this sock for my Dad, I stopped looking for other socks. 

Reflexa socks is on the list of products with the Seal of Acceptance from APMA for Diabetics.  They have also won the 1st Rehabilation Product in the Conference of Diabetico Expo in Germany in 2010.


Their unique features besides Non Binding & Seamless Toe is the special material used called Celliant which actually helps to increase blood oxygen levels and helps to retain heat which would then keep your feet warm.  Celliant has been clincially proven to relieve pain, promote quicker healing, heighten athletic performance and help to regulate body temperature.  Try a pair of Reflexa socks to see.  (Diabetic Thin is more suited for our Asia warmer climate while Diabetic has thicker padding.) It helps my dad previously swollen feet and I hope it helps you or your family.

Click here to shop for all ranges of diabetic socks in our shop.