Choosing a grip sock that suits YOUR personal needs is not easy.
There are so many variables to consider:
- Sport
- Age
- Climate
- Position
- Level
- Surface
- Your Weaknesses
- Your Strengths
- What You Need
- Budget
So this is why we're here to help you choose your next grip sock.
You can either take the GRIP SOCK QUIZ right now OR you can read through why each variable is so important to your needs and then take the GRIP SOCK QUIZ.
What You Need to Consider
Sport
The sport you play will impact the kind of grip sock you need. Different sports have different intensity, surfaces, weather, movement patterns, stud choices, fatigue levels, and endless other micro-variables that will impact on the correct grip socks for you.
Depending if you're a junior or academy player, or an adult player will inform the certain grip socks you should choose. Some grip socks have more accurate sizing for your feet and it is something to consider if you're between the age of 13-20 years old where you're body is growing, and biomechanics constantly changing.
Climate
Your environment, particularly the climate will drastically change the grip pad type, material, and fit you need for your grip socks. In Tropical or Mixed climates you need grip pads that still work in wet weather, or when you're sweaty. If you live in an Arid climate, often you need grip socks that have great breathability and potentially different grip pads.
Depending on the sport you play and the position you fit in the team will mean you'll want a slightly different material, weight, or fit of grip sock. For example, we find wingers and full-backs, those covering large distances need speed and stability. However, central defenders and goalkeepers are looking for help with agility and grip. Keep in my mind your position and sport when selecting your grip sock.
Level
If you play Academy or Pro level, of course you want to invest in the best grip socks available to you. Your life revolves around performance and finding that 1%. However, if you play Sunday League or more casual games, then you have a wider range of grip sock options for the performance level you currently excel at.
Surface
Much like selecting the correct stud type - SG, FG, AG - the grip sock you choose depends on the surface you play on most. We've found that the difference between Grass and Turf, combined with your stud choice, can heavily impact the grip sock you need. Often turf players need a more comfortable and durable sock, as it can have higher levels of friction and force placed through the grip sock. Playing on a grass surface means players need lightness and stability, as grass pitches often get wet. Choose wisely.
Weaknesses
World class players are 100% aware of their weaknesses. You must understand them closely to ensure your choosing the correct grip sock. Players that lack Speed & Agility might want a sock that offers stability and grip. However, if you lack Power & Strength you might want a sock that fits you better and offers better energy transfer between sock and boot (e.g Apex PRO 3.0)
Strengths
Equally, your strengths can determine the choice you make. Some players are already very quick, with excellent Speed & Agility, so choose a sock that is durable as you're more likely to wear out your socks faster. Similar to players with great Endurance & Energy, you'll want a sock that provides stability and grip to help improve your acceleration.
Your Needs
Every athlete is different. Some look for grip, some look for acceleration, some look for socks that will last 38 games all season long, and some want comfort. You need to know what you need before you buy. The more clarity you have on your athletic, biomechincal, anatomical needs - the better choice you'll make.
Budget
Obviously very important - grip socks vary greatly in cost - so choosing one within your budget is also vital. Generally the more expensive the grip sock, the more science, tech, material innovation, and quality you'll get (but there are exceptions). Make sure your budget matches your level, needs, and strengths.
