In football, players are always looking for ways to improve their performance and protect their health during the match. One of the interesting habits that many people do not know is why do footballers cut holes in their socks. Although it may seem like a strange action, in fact, this brings many benefits such as reducing pressure on the calves, preventing cramps, and helping to improve comfort for players when moving quickly on the field. Let’s learn more about this issue with Bestsoccertips.com through the article below!
Why do footballers cut holes in their socks?
From the perspective of medical experts, this is more beneficial than harmful to the players.
Accordingly, most players have swollen calves due to long-term training. Usually, before each match, they will be given new socks from the sponsor. Soccer socks are made of nylon – a super-tight material that takes time to stretch.
For those with swollen calf muscles, wearing a new, tight pair of socks will cause discomfort, reduce blood circulation and the ability of the muscles to breathe. Therefore, some players have cut holes in their socks to create comfort and increase blood circulation.
Not only that, the holes in the socks help release tension in the legs, limit muscle problems or cramps, which often occur when there is a lack of oxygen supply to the muscles; thereby minimizing the risk of injury and improving performance on the field.
In hot weather, the holes in the socks play a role in air circulation, reducing heat in the legs. If players don’t wear socks because they are too hot, their skin will blister and become infected when exposed to other players.
Another reason for cutting holes in socks is for advertising. The World Cup is one of the biggest sporting events in the world, attracting thousands of people. Kit manufacturers also take this opportunity to promote their products by giving away kits to famous players.
However, football players are not allowed to advertise their products publicly on the pitch (other than official sponsors). So they will wear sponsored socks inside, cleverly cutting holes in the outer socks to show part of the brand name.
This is not necessarily allowed, but for the right amount of money, some players are willing to take the risk.
Previously, the England team was fined £53,000 by FIFA after Dele Alli, Raheem Sterling and Eric Dier wore socks with the image of the TruSox brand (not one of the tournament’s sponsors) in the 2018 World Cup Quarter-finals.
When did the practice of cutting holes in socks first appear?
The practice of cutting holes in socks has been around for about 10 years and has gradually become a common practice not only among professional players but also among amateur players. In the past, most players wore two pairs of socks during the entire match to provide comfort and protect their feet from strong impacts and friction. The first pair of socks was worn high above the ankle or mid-shin, with a firm bottom to protect the foot from direct friction with the shoe, while also keeping the socks from sliding down during the match. The second pair of socks, longer and worn on the outside, could reach up to the knee, protecting the entire leg from external impacts.
Wearing two pairs of socks not only reduces friction between the socks and shoes, but also increases comfort, as it helps to minimize scratches and rubbing between layers of socks. However, with tight and cramped socks, many players feel uncomfortable, especially when playing for a long time. Therefore, to reduce pressure on the body and create comfort, players have started cutting holes in one of their socks, usually the outer sock. This helps reduce blisters caused by tight socks, prevents skin irritation and creates space for the calf muscles to move more comfortably.
In addition to reducing pressure on the feet and improving comfort, cutting holes also helps increase grip inside the shoe, helping players move more flexibly and easily throughout the match. In particular, these holes also help improve air circulation, reduce heat and humidity during long matches, especially in hot weather conditions. Therefore, this habit not only brings comfort and foot protection but also helps players play better in all conditions.
FIFA warns players for socks with holes
FIFA is not happy with players cutting holes in their socks because this action violates the sportswear regulations that the organization requires. One notable case is that of Valencia midfielder Ezequiel Garay. During a match, Garay was warned by the referee and asked to leave the field to change socks when the referee noticed that his socks showed signs of not being in accordance with the sportswear regulations. The socks that Garay wore had holes cut into them, which FIFA said could reduce the uniformity of the playing kit and affect the image of the match.
Not only Garay, FIFA has warned and punished a number of other players for similar behavior, even though these players cut holes in their socks with the aim of improving comfort and reducing pressure on the feet. However, FIFA insists that all players must comply with the kit regulations, including not changing the design of socks or other related equipment during a match without the approval of the organization. The international football governing body is concerned that small changes in equipment could lead to safety issues or create inconsistencies in matches, thereby affecting the quality and professionalism of the sport.
Although some players have cut holes in their socks to reduce pressure on muscles or to improve comfort during matches, FIFA remains committed to maintaining the kit regulations to ensure fairness and safety for all players. Players found to be in breach of this regulation may be subject to disciplinary action, including warnings or fines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, why do footballers cut holes in their socks is an interesting question but there is a clear reason behind it. Players do this to reduce pressure on their muscles, improve blood circulation and keep their feet comfortable during the match. Although it may violate FIFA’s clothing regulations, this habit has become part of helping players maintain high performance and protect their bodies during the match.
See also: Why do soccer players walk out with kids?
