Custom non-slip socks are comfortable, one-size-fits-all socks that can be outfitted with your PMS matched rubber grips on the bottom for added slip resistance. Whether you’re looking for grip socks to keep you on your feet in the gym, yoga studio, or trampoline park, we can help. Our grip socks are knitted with high quality yarn and then outfitted with custom non-slip grips that can be imprinted with your logo, design or messaging. We offer a number of different color options for the grips and can make your grip socks custom to fit any style and need.
During phase one, two commercially available non slip socks and a brand of compression stocking were tested for their ability to resist slips on a flat surface using the wet pendulum friction test (commonly known as the Pendulum Friction Test). This testing method is preferred by healthcare professionals because it allows comparison between products without consideration of product characterization details such as sizing or materials.
Results of the wet pendulum testing indicated that neither the non slip socks nor the compression stocking were significantly better or worse than bare feet in terms of relative slip resistance. However, there was substantial variation within the sock products tested. This was likely due to the size of the sock and the fact that foot anatomy, biomechanics and skin characteristics differ between individuals. Moreover, the relative performance of these foot conditions in relation to bare feet is further influenced by fluid contamination such as blood, urine or saliva.
The wet pendulum testing result also showed that the non slip sock products tested had lower slip resistance than bare feet when tested on hospital grade vinyl. The reason for this is that the tread pattern on the sock products resulted in a series of raised peaks and troughs when adhered to the floor. The pliant nature of participant feet means that during the ‘kick’ phase of the test, force is applied at only the point of contact with the raised portion of the sock and not to the troughs which would reduce the overall slip resistance of these sock samples.
The relatively poorer performance of the non-slip socks in this study compared with bare feet and a pair of shoes could have clinical implications for older hospital patients. Previous studies have associated mobilisation in footwear other than shoes, such as sandals and socks, with an increased risk of falls. Thus, the marginal improvement in slip resistance observed for these socks compared to a pair of well-fitting compression stockings may not be clinically significant for some groups of older patients with complex medical needs. Consequently, further work is required to evaluate the effectiveness of these types of products in wet conditions on a range of surfaces to determine if this type of sock can effectively assist with managing falls risks in aged care facilities.