Deadlifts are an excellent exercise for improving power, strength, and total body mass, but they can come with a minor complication at times, and that’s scraped shins. A primary goal in successful deadlifts is keeping the bar close to the body, however, that can be problematic for shin health.
A popular method for preventing shin friction for deadlifts is to wear deadlift socks. Deadlift socks are long and cover the full lower leg to prevent the knurling of the barbell from scraping the shin and causing them to potentially bleed. This helps keep things sanitary for both the lifter’s body and the gym they’re lifting in.
In this article, we compare some of the market’s top deadlift socks and discuss why we like each. Whether you’re just starting your lifting journey or you’re a weathered gym rat, a pair of deadlift socks can be a great tool for preventing shin scraps while deadlifting.
Editor’s Pick
Premium Lifting Socks
Pros
- Performance aiding blend
- Great for protecting the lower
- Useful for light pressure application
Cons
- Only one pair per pack
These high performing sock are fantastic for lifters and active athletes in need of compression and lower leg protection.
Also Consider
High Performance Socks
Pros
- Arch and ankle support
- Breathable material
- Stretchable and formfitting
These performance socks are great deadlift sock options for lifters and sport athletes.
Most Creative
Seriously Creative Socks
Pros
- Aesthetic and fun sock
- Protects shins from knurling
- Lighter weight material for breathability
Cons
- Design might not be for everyone
These playful and creative socks are perfect for the avid lifter that wants protection and a fun sock.
Best Protection
Extra Material to Prevent Scraping
Pros
- Ventilation at the top
- MOXY custom designed sock
- Heavier frontal material
Cons
- Slightly more expensive
These socks are fantastic for deadlifts and provide ample shin protection from barbell knurling.
How We Picked
When selecting our favorite deadlift socks we looked at two key characteristics to help rank accordingly. First, we assess the socks functionality and if they’re designed to last for more than a few sessions. Second, we looked at the aesthetics of the socks — after all, look good, feel good, lift good!
1. Functionality and Durability
Functionality aspects of a deadlift sock that we consider are the materials its created with and special designed features. Since this sock is made to be longer and resist friction it needs materials that can withstand a barbell dragging up and down them.
Generally, blends with spandex will be better for deadlifting, as this material stretches well and hugs the leg well and it’s slightly more resistant to friction compared to materials like cotton. In addition, great deadlift socks will have thicker material on the front portion of the sock to resist the barbell from scraping the shins and promote durability.
Another few aspects of functionality that we consider are compression and support. A lot of athletic focused socks will provide light compression to support warmth and blood flow, which can be key for performance. Additionally, we look at things arch support since most will be wearing these socks during weight bearing movements.
2. Aesthetics
This consideration is completely personal, but if you’re choosing to wear long socks, then likely you want them to look good. Whether you like simplistic and solid colors or aesthetic and graphic focused socks considering their appearance is at least something that should be explored.
Wrapping Up
Deadlift socks can be worn by both serious strength athletes or recreational lifters with a ton of benefit. Protecting the shins from getting scraped is important for health purposes, but also sanitation reasons!