There’s A Very Gross Reason To Stop Going Sockless

Mankles have long divided opinion. The advocates, pointing to celebrities and dapper Riviera types, argue that a bare ankle is a stylish way to creative a visual break (and get some ventilation) to the lower half of your body. For the naysayers, it’s at best a bit pointless and at worst – without invisible socks – downright smelly. Now, it seems the latter camp may have the trump argument. The College of Podiatry reports that it has seen an increase in fungal infections amongst 18-25-year-old men – especially for those who opt to go sockless. “The average feet sweat about half a pint a day,” said podiatrist Emma Stephenson told the BBC. “Too much moisture and warmth can lead to fungal infections such as athlete’s foot.” The condition dries and flakes up the skin between toes and on the soles and no, you don’t want it. “One of the worst incidents I’ve seen is a 19-year-old man who worked in a car wash. He had very sweaty feet and trench foot.” Google it. We dare you. Still, that doesn’t mean the sock-shy have to risk their health. Invisible socks – the kind that are cut off below the ankle and cannot be seen when in-shoe – grant your hooves the necessary protection while displaying your ankles in all their fleshy, knobbly glory. And just think, a couple of quid will save your feet from crusting over into oblivion. The choice is yours …but naysayers, put a sock in it.