If you experience poor circulation and neuropathy, the goal should be to keep your feet dry, comfortable, and protected. “Make sure socks and shoes do not fit tightly or rub,” says Robert H. Eckel, MD, an endocrinologist who previously practiced at the University of Colorado Hospital. “If feeling is reduced in the feet, pressure can cause sores or inflammation that can result in opened wounds and infection.” 

Many socks for people with diabetes also feature seamless toes, which can boost the overall comfort of the socks while preventing the types of injuries Dr. Eckel refers to. Socks that rub against your skin or cause repeated friction in an area of your foot leave you vulnerable to wounds.  

“Diabetic socks should be seamless [because] a seam can irritate the skin, leading to potential injury, ulceration, and infection,” says Dr. Nodelman.

Diabetes can restrict blood flow to the feet, so it's best to avoid any socks that are compressing your feet too much.

“Generally speaking, the socks should not be tight-fitting because this could potentially impair circulation in the foot,” explains Dr. Nodelman. “Some compression is probably acceptable to help keep swelling at bay, but if there is any concern [about poor blood flow into the foot], you should be evaluated by a specialist first to determine what the safest level of compression would be.”

To err on the safe side, look for a pair with a loose, non-binding fit, which will prevent any further circulation restriction. Look for pairs with extra room in the toe and heel areas, which can provide some extra protection for your feet. Be wary of socks with tight bands around the calves, though, warns Dr. McEneaney. “[You don’t want] a tight band at the top that can prevent the fluid from your ankles from being able to travel up your leg.”

Although cotton is always a popular choice for footwear, socks made from 100 percent cotton are often not the best choice for diabetics. Full cotton socks absorb moisture rather than wick it away, so they can leave your feet damp, chilled, and prone to bacterial growth. 

Dr. Pinker recommends socks made at least partly from a synthetic fabric, like polyester, acrylic, lycra, or spandex, adding that some very well-designed diabetic socks contain antimicrobial qualities to further ward off bacteria.

“Socks made from softer materials are the most popular for diabetics,” says Dr. Nodelman. “Materials like bamboo fiber can be helpful because it’s soft and can reduce irritation against the skin.”

For those who suffer from poor circulation in their feet, finding socks that provide warmth and comfort is key. One way to ensure your feet will be warm is by choosing a moisture-wicking fabric since damp socks will inevitably lead to cold feet (and possibly other problems, as well).

“Moisture-wicking properties are important for keeping the foot dry. A drier foot is less likely to develop an athlete's foot infection, which disrupts the skin's ability to act as a barrier to infection,” says Dr. Nodelman.