Socks

Sock is an item of clothing worn on the feet. The foot is among the heaviest producers of sweat in the body, as it is able to produce over 1 US pint (0.47 l) of perspiration per day.

Socks help to absorb this sweat and draw it to areas where air can evaporate the perspiration. In cold environments, socks decrease the risk of frostbite. Its name is derived from the loose-fitting slipper, called a soccus in Latin, worn by Roman comic actors.

History

12th-century cotton sock, found in Egypt. The knitter of this sock started work at the toe and then worked up towards the leg.

The heel was made last and then attached to loops formed while knitting the leg. This practice allowed the heel to be easily replaced when it wore out.

Socks have evolved over the centuries from the earliest models which were made from animal skins gathered up and tied around the ankles.

In the 8th century BC, the Ancient Greeks wore socks from matted animal hair for warmth. The Romans also wrapped their feet with leather or woven fabrics.

By the 5th century AD, socks called “puttees” were worn by holy people in Europe to symbolise purity. By 1000 AD, socks became a symbol of wealth among the nobility.

From the 16th century onwards, an ornamental design on the ankle or side of a sock has been called a clock.

The invention of a knitting machine in 1589 meant that socks could be knitted six times faster than by hand.

Nonetheless, knitting machines and hand knitters worked side by side until 1800.   The next revolution in sock production was the introduction of nylon in 1938.

Until then socks were commonly made from silk, cotton and wool. Nylon was the start of blending two or more yarns in the production of socks, a process that still continues.

In the 8th century, Ancient Greeks wore socks made from animal hair

Ancient Egyptians knitted socks as far back as the 8th century

By 1000AD, socks because a sign of nobility

Cloth was tied around the foot and lower leg during the middle ages and was held up by garter belts

1589, William Lee invented a weaving/knitting machine, creating an easy way for socks to be manufactured quickly

Using the knitting machine, socks were able to be produced 6 times faster than by hand

Prior to the incorporation of nylon into socks, they were primarily made of cotton or wool

“Socks” are derived from the Latin word “soccus” which means light covering of the foot

Old socks are used to make hand puppets