While discussing sprinting, Usain Bolt is a name that first knocks the mind – a great representative and champion of Jamaica who had set the world record in 100 meters sprinting competition, covering the distance in just 9.85 seconds. Due to his fame and achievements, many athletes and commoners wonder whether he used to run in socks, as the socks can dramatically affect running speed.
Well, if you see the videos and photos of Usain Bolt’s sprinting competition, you will find that he doesn’t wear socks while taking part in sprinting. Neither is he deliberately practicing it, nor is he the trendsetter, but skipping socks is a common practice among sprinters. It’s not Usain Bolt; numerous world-famous sprinters wear their spikes (footwear having protruding spikes on the soles) without socks.
Let’s stick to this article to unfurl more detail on why sprinters don’t wear socks while running and why going sockless is beneficial for them.
Here I get started without further waiting!
Why Does Usain Bolt Don’t Wear Socks While Sprinting?
It is common for sprinters to wear spikes without socks because spikes already have a built-in sock liner, due to which sprinters avoid wearing socks. The world-famous sprinter Usain Bolt runs without wearing socks, but it does not mean that all sprinters are bound to this practice.
Wearing socks or going sockless is a personal choice of a runner; if any sprinters have blisters or fungus issues, they are supposed to wear their spikes with socks as socks are good for their feet’ health and help them in better performance. In addition, socks keep their feet safe and help them stay active for the next competition.
Socks or Sockless: What Is Better?
In sprinting, wearing socks or running without socks is a debatable discussion. Remember, it is not a general rule of thumb to wear spikes without socks because it is not the main factor that can significantly affect performance.
Many elite and professional sprinters skip their socks in competition because they think their feet will remain tight into the spikes without socks. If they don’t choose spikes for running, they may pick other specially designed shoes with a built-in sock mechanism, allowing them to go sockless.
Who Prefers To Wear Socks While Sprinting?
We all know not all humans have the same body type, nature, and characteristics; some athletes suffer more from sweating issues which leads to fungal infections and blistering, due to which they prefer to wear socks with spikes or other shoes.
Moreover, runners facing more friction burns try to wear socks to ensure their feet’ health, as the socks play the role of the extra protective layer over their feet.
Experts have not yet concluded whether sprinters should wear socks; hence, there is no one-line answer to this question. Some believe it is good to wear socks during running, while others believe it is okay to skip the socks if sprinters feel uneasy with them and have good foot health.
Running sockless, like Usain Bolt and many of his Olympic sprinting teammates, doesn’t guarantee that someone will be able to accomplish the same targets and goals on the track because (in addition to socks) natural talent and consistent training are far more significant.
What Kind Of Socks Do Sprinters Need To Choose?
As mentioned earlier, sprinters mostly won’t prefer wearing socks for various reasons, but some love wearing socks.
Let’s check out what type of socks fits best with spikes.
Tip 1: Thin Socks
Many world-recognized sprinters, such as Usain Bolt, don’t wear socks while running due to their comfort. Others may avoid socks due to the spikes’ inner structure. If you have an infection problem due to shoes, try to wear thin socks.
Many experts are now suggesting wearing socks, especially while training, because barefoot have a high chance of catching blisters, and other issues may also arise. Moreover, a top-quality pair of thin socks provide maximum comfort and keeps feet moist and sweat-free.
Tip 2: Always Pick Specially Designed Socks
The market is packed with various socks for professional players and athletes. Of all those socks, some are specially made for runners to provide comfort during running.
For example, sprinters can choose compression or oxygen intake socks (manufactured by some brands) as they are designed to absorb sweat to keep feet and legs warm, ultimately increasing blood circulation.
Pro Tip: Make Sure Socks Fits Properly
For long-distance running programs or marathons, a runner needs properly fitted shoes. A specially designed shoe named Spikes is suggested to make them comfortable. Spikes are biomechanically created for the ideal fit.
However, the sprinter may occasionally find a loose space in their spikes; therefore, injuries could occur. In that situation, socks are the ideal accessory to minimize the area and perfectly fit the spikes. Avoid the socks if your spikes are too tight on your feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Professional Sprinters Wear Socks?
Professional sprinters frequently choose to run without socks during competitions. It does not mean they completely avoid socks; they still wear them during training.
Do 100-Meter Runners Use Socks?
Some sprinters run without socks to ensure their feet fit in shoes as tightly as possible. Although running without socks while wearing spikes does not have any significant disadvantage. It could be bad for runners having excessive sweating issues because, without socks, there is nothing to absorb moisture or shield skin from abrasive inner-shoe stitching.
Is It Better to Go Sockless in Spikes?
It is not always necessary to wear spikes without socks. All that matters is that the spikes fit tightly in your feet, and there is no chance of slipping, pinching, or irritation. Wearing socks or not is the athlete’s personal choice.
Our Summary
Although it is seen that socks provide extra security against fungal infection and keep athletes safe from the hard inner surface of shoes; therefore, in most sports, athletes prefer wearing socks, but this is not always the case with sprinters.
Many sprinters, including Usain Bolt, run without socks due to the specialized structure of their spikes. These shoes do not require socks and provide a proper fit. So, wearing or going without socks for sprinting is wholly the athlete’s choice.