Many World Cup players were spotted wearing torn socks on the field.
This “phenomenon” isn’t unique to this year’s World Cup.
If you pay attention to the players’ socks at this year’s World Cup matches, or those from previous years, you might be puzzled by how unkempt they look. Some players even look like they’re wearing socks that resemble a messy pile of holes.
The craze for players cutting holes in the back of their socks isn’t new (it’s been going on for at least eight years), but it shows no signs of being just a passing fad, as anyone who watched Australia’s loss to the United States last Friday (June 19th) can attest. During that match, many Australian players appeared to pull out scissors to adjust their kits.
Leroy Sane (Germany national team) is one of many World Cup players who regularly cut holes in their socks.
But why do they do this, and what are the benefits, if any? The Athletic will explain it all.
Why do players cut holes in their socks?
First of all, it’s a matter of comfort.
Modern football socks are made from polyester, a fabric that holds its shape well and isn’t very water-repellent, but it can be tight and uncomfortable.
Some players believe that cutting holes in those socks can reduce pressure on the calves, thereby increasing blood flow to the area and reducing the risk of cramps and injuries. This gives them more freedom and comfort, helping them perform better.
That’s the (unofficial) ‘science’ reason, but there are also benefits in terms of players expressing their individuality, and the psychological benefits that may follow.
Former West Ham United striker Frank Nouble told The Athletic in 2023: “You look good, you feel comfortable, you play well. The most important thing is always to feel as comfortable as possible on the pitch.”
There are examples of athletes in other sports doing similar things. Fast bowlers in cricket sometimes cut holes in their boots so their toes can stick out, preventing them from rubbing against the toe box when their feet land on the grass, but this seems more common in football than any other sport.
What do medical experts say about cutting holes in socks?
Dr. Raj Brar, from 3CB Performance, told Tifo Football in 2023 that there is no medical evidence to support cutting holes in socks as a preventative measure.
He said: “One medical way to reduce pressure on the calves, which is the complete opposite of cutting holes in them, is to use higher-pressure compression socks in between games as a recovery measure.”
“That will improve blood circulation and reduce swelling to varying degrees depending on the level of pressure (tightness) of the socks. Also, soccer players have already used their calves enough so they don’t need to worry about blood circulation and swelling buildup.”
Former Hummel CEO, Allan Vad Nielsen, said: “Some brands weave their socks very tightly to highlight the logo, which can lead to an over-fitting that some players find uncomfortable. But more advanced materials like polypropylene offer better durability and consistency.”
“New technologies have allowed for the creation of better cushioning zones in the ankle and compression areas that improve blood flow, reducing the risk of injury and enhancing performance. Additionally, mesh panels are now used in soccer socks to improve heat control and ventilation, keeping feet dry and cool.”
Does anyone doubt the existence of holey socks?
Many do. Former England and Manchester United defender Gary Neville questioned the necessity of players having to cut their socks on the Stick to Football podcast in 2024.
He said: “They have around 400 pairs of shoes, they have everything custom-made to their measurements. I don’t believe Nike or their kit sponsor wouldn’t make them a pair of socks that’s a little bigger.”
In lower leagues, there are other concerns.
At Northwood, currently playing in the Combined Counties League Premier Division North (the fifth tier of the non-professional football league system), socks have become a contentious and costly issue.
Northwood club secretary Alan Evans told The Athletic in 2023 that he had asked players to pay for their own socks because of this.
