Running Gear II: My Running Socks

I was looking around for articles on running socks when I came across one in the runner's world: Sock Options. It started like this : "Let's face it, most of us don't put a lot of thought into the socks we wear. Yet nothing ruins a run faster than blisters, which are caused by moist feet and friction. " I agreed with this statement 100% simply because I am a victim of wet socks during last year Sheares Bridge Run & Army Half Marathon 04. I came back with bleeding toes on both feet (my second toes which is a bit longer than my big toes) and blisters. You might wonder: Why bleedings on my second toes? I was wearing a reebok cotton socks (80% cotton 20% spandex) for the run. I made a terrible mistake also by pouring water over my head and body in a way which caused water to flow down to my socks. My socks absorbed the water and my feet was soaked. The base of the socks sticked to the sole of my shoe and when i run, my feet went forward in the shoe and the wet socks pulled my skin under and away from my toe nails. as a result the skin under my toes bleeded after 10km............ I went for long run with the same kind of socks after my SBR & AHM. My socks was wet and soaked my feet. I decided to get a more proper running socks. It was until Standchart Marathon 04 that I found the socks i wanted. I got myself 2 pairs of New Balance CoolMax socks and never look back. My feet were never wet ever since and I believe I can do better for this year SBR & AHM. ******************* Current Running Socks ************** Brand: New Balance Model: Elite running series CoolMax Composition: 75% Cool Max 25% Others (forgot liao) Date of purchase: 3 Dec 2004 (SC Marathon Expo) Comments: This is considered as cushioned running socks. It is thicker than other NB models. ******************* NEW Running Socks ************** Brand: New Balance Model: Elite running Reflective Night Vision CoolMax Composition: 75% Cool Max 22% nylon 3% lycra Spandex Date of purchase: 29 Jun 2005 (OSIM Asian triathlon 05 Expo) Comments: This is thinner than my current one. Will use this for this year SBR & AHM. **************************************************** Before I end, here are the guidelines suggested from the Runner's World article on Running Socks: "Don't buy 100 percent cotton socks. Choose those made from synthetics or a blend of synthetics and cotton. Synthetics such as acrylic and CoolMax® disperse blister-causing perspiration and keep your feet drier and cooler. Watch out for toe seams--they're one of the biggest cause of blisters. Consider socks that are padded in high-impact areas, like the heel and toe, especially if you have a heavy footstrike or are prone to blisters in these areas. Pick out socks that have a tighter weave in the middle of the foot. This provides support and helps prevent slippage. Make sure you buy the correct size. This prevents bunching and slipping and, thus, blisters." And my additional one: Never pour water over your head or body during a long run without learning how to do it correctly your training (correctly means without getting your socks wet). Happy running. Cheers....................