In recent years, the practice of footballers cutting holes in their socks has become a widespread phenomenon that has piqued the curiosity of many fans.
People are now exploring why Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka of the England national team have been seen sporting socks with holes during the European Championship (Euros), while Luke Shaw opts for shorter socks and Kyle Walker prefers thigh-highs.
The English players have adopted different sock styles during the Euros.
While the England team is provided with white Nike socks, consisting of shorter socks with a longer layer covering the upper leg, the players have showcased different sock preferences throughout their journey to the final.
Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, and Conor Gallagher have often been seen cutting holes in their socks before matches, seemingly to alleviate pressure on the calf muscles during gameplay.
This has become a common sight in the English Premier League, and Bellingham even cut holes in his socks while playing for Real Madrid.
Why do footballers cut holes in socks?
Reducing calf pressure
One of the primary reasons footballers cut holes in their socks is to alleviate pressure on their calves.
Football socks are designed to be tight to provide support and improve circulation. However, for some players, this tightness can cause discomfort, especially in the calves, where the muscles are heavily used during a game.
By cutting holes in the socks, players can relieve some of this pressure, allowing for better blood flow and reducing the risk of cramping and muscle fatigue.
Preventing blisters
Blisters are a common issue for footballers, who spend a lot of time running, turning, and stopping abruptly.
These movements can cause friction between the socks and the skin, leading to painful blisters.
By cutting holes in their socks, players can reduce this friction, particularly in areas prone to blistering, such as the heels and toes.
Footballers’ various choices in wearing socks
Harry Kane and Kyle Walker opt for thigh-high socks that conceal their knees during matches. Walker’s socks even extend so high that they closely hug the thigh during intense matches like the one between England and the Netherlands.
On the other hand, Declan Rice and Phil Foden choose an intermediate style, often opting for mid-calf socks.
Ollie Watkins, who scored the decisive late goal to send England to the Euros final, also prefers thigh-high socks.
Football socks have become a two-part accessory in recent years. Most high-level players wear socks that reach above the calf and cover the knees.
Some players prefer socks that sit closer to the ankle, such as Luke Shaw and Jack Grealish.
Shaw’s sock style may also align with the rationale behind Bellingham and Saka cutting holes in their socks, aiming to prevent cramping during matches by not constricting the upper calf muscles.