Fact: Diabetic sock buyers are very well educated and will pay a premium for technology that works. The diabetic foot is prone to infection and subsequent amputation due to poor blood flow and bacterial imbalances. Therefore, the product must perform and present clear and concise product knowledge. What a Diabetic/Wellness sock should do? Enhance blood flow - this will allow the body to rejuvenate and protect the foot from infection, while increasing foot health and overall stamina. Have a loose fitting shin with even amounts of tension - this will ensure that there won't be any pressure points that will restrict blood. The even tension (graduated) will help to prevent slouching. Have a light compression arch support feature - keeps the sock in place (protection from blisters), while allowing for a loose fit throughout the rest of the foot (i.e. loose toe bed). Moisture management - anything that absorbs water will act as a wet rag that will pickle the skin and make it soft and susceptible to damage. The wet sock will stick to the soft skin (chamois effect) and will transfer any friction created by the shoe directly to the soft wet skin. When skin is wet, it is also more prone to the effects of the cold. COTTON IS BAD!!!! It is a plant that absorbs a lot of water (proven at great length by both the Canadian and U.S. Military) Be made from a plastic based fibre - Plastic does not absorb and doesn't break down. Polypropylene fibres are excellent for moisture management (mentioned above), as well as its ability to not break down into an open sore. For instance, cotton fluff in the toes etc. is a common byproduct from wearing cotton socks. This fluff will stick to the wound and irritate it further, cotton also will absorb the blood etc., which will cause it to stick and rip when taking the sock off. (I.e. cotton fluff.) Polypropylene won't stick; therefore it will slide and diffuse the effects of friction on the skin. Have as much stretch as possible this will ensure a secure fit that won't loose its shape. It will also make it easier to pull the sock over sores (that are common to the diabetic). Color Fastness - A fiber that is dyed (i.e. all cotton and acrylic) will bleed the dye over time. The dye is forced onto the outer layers of the fiber with the use of chemicals that can irritate the skin and especially open sores. Most Polypropylene fibres are not dyed; therefore it has a high colour fastness rating (the colour won't fade). Blister protection - Blister's are the enemy! The sock must be designed to slip, which diffuses the effects of friction. There is more detailed information on the Veba blister protection system in the Glossary and Technical terms section. Padding in sole and toe area - The padding will ensure comfort and diffuse pressure points in these areas. The toe box of the shoe can create pressure points on the toes (especially for those with bunions etc.). Therefore it is important to provide padding for the toe joints as well as the sole of the foot. Antimicrobial protection - will protect the foot from bacteria and infection. Most specialists agree that Silver is the best type being offered in the market today. Be seamless - Traditional toe seams can create pressure points, which lead to blisters, therefore a seamless toe is very important. There should NOT be a seam in the cuff, since this will create a pressure point and inhibit blood flow.