Yarn for workout socks

redheadrachel · 08-04-2008, 10:43 PM

What's the best yarn to make socks I can work out in?

Crycket · 08-05-2008, 05:19 AM

Hmm good questions...I would think something that has a cotton content in them...like

http://www.knitpicks.com/Risata+Sock...YD5420169.html

brittyknits · 08-05-2008, 05:21 AM

Lionbrand Cotton-ease.

redheadrachel · 08-05-2008, 05:49 AM

I had originally thought cotton, but do you think it will still absorb? Maybe because it's a cotton/wool blend it'll work? Also, I don't want HEAVY socks, but do you think something like a DK weight would be good for cushiony, or is thin the way to go?

I realize it may be preference, but I want some input!

Thanks for your help so far!

ETA: I just saw that Vickie Howell's athletic sock pattern uses Cascade Fixation, which is DK and nearly all cotton with a bit of elastic. Seems the way to go! Thanks, everyone

Perhaps KP Shine Sport? No elastic, but I wonder if I knit the whole thing in K2P2 rib it'd be good...? We might have to try it out!

Crycket · 08-05-2008, 07:56 AM

You don't want to go 100% cotton...apparently....

Something to do with them wearing out faster...

If it were me...I don't want thick socks for working out...because once my feet overheat...that is it...I think wool would be a bit too warm...but again...that is just imo

I think a cotton/elastic/nylon assortment should work ok....

What kind of working out are you doing?

Slim · 08-05-2008, 12:36 PM

I wouldn't use cotton because cotton holds water (sweat) and makes my feet all prune-y. In a hiking or running sock, cotton often causes blisters. My favorite active-wear socks are Smartwool, hands down, so I would go with a wool blend if it were me.

brittyknits · 08-05-2008, 01:00 PM

It's not so much about cotton wearing out faster, as that it has no give, no natural elasticity. And I guess the answer also has something to do with what kind of working out you're thinking of. . .

Sunshine's Mom · 08-05-2008, 02:26 PM

I wouldn't use KPs Shine Sport. There is no give in the yarn at all. I've made 2 pairs of ankle socks with it and although they're comfortable, they are a bit thick in sneakers. If you do give it a try make the length of the foot longer than you normally would. For example, I'm a size 7 and can usually knit the foot 7 inches and decrease for the toe and it's perfect. But in this yarn, I had to knit 9" before the toe decrease and they fit perfectly. Just and FYI.

Mirl56 · 08-05-2008, 02:32 PM

I'd suggest a bamboo/wool blend - panda wool is one. The bamboo gives it antibacterial properties and wool will absorb moisture and keep skin dry.
http://www.straw.com/cpy/yarns/pandawool-card.html

Plantgoddess+ · 08-06-2008, 01:31 AM

I have made about a half dozen pair of socks using Elann Esprit, which is identical to Cascade Fixation, but generally less expensive. The elastic makes them stay up well and I wear them in my hiking boots and gardening shoes. I throw them in the wash and then air dry them and they seem to be holding up quite well and are comfortable. I hate socks that slide down and bag around my ankles.