Why are World Cup players cutting holes in their socks?

Something is missing from this World Cup. There are no goals, drama or stories — there's no shortage of that. What we should focus on are the players' socks, which are, to be blunt, a complete disaster of holes. The trend of cutting holes in the back of socks isn't new (it's been going on for at least eight years), but it shows no sign of being a fad, as anyone who watched Australia's defeat to the United States last Friday can attest. In this game, many Australians seemed to have taken the scissors and cut off their socks. But why do they do this and what is the benefit, if any? Athletic explains everything.

Primarily, it's about comfort. The modern football sock is made from polyester, a material that holds its shape and doesn't retain much water, but can be tight and restrictive. Some players believe that cutting holes in these socks can reduce pressure on the calves, increasing blood flow to the area and decreasing the risk of cramps and injuries. This, consequently, would give them more freedom and comfort, allowing them to perform better. That's the 'scientific' (unofficial) reason, but there is also the benefit of players expressing their individuality, and the psychological benefits that can bring.

Former West Ham striker Frank Nouble told Athletic in 2023: "You feel good, and you play well. It's always about being as comfortable as possible on the pitch." There are examples of other athletes doing similar things—cricket players, for example, sometimes cut holes in their boots to allow their toes to protrude, preventing them from rubbing against the end of the boot when landing on the turf—but it appears to be more common in football than in any other sport.


Dr. Raj Brar of 3CB Performance told Tifo Football in 2023 that there is no medical evidence to support cutting holes in socks as a preventative measure. “A medical way to reduce pressure on the calves is the opposite of cutting holes in them, using high-pressure compression socks between games as a recovery method,” he said. "This will increase circulation and reduce swelling to varying degrees depending on the level of pressure (tightness) of the sock. Additionally, footballers have enough activity not to worry about circulation and swelling."

Former Hummel CEO Allan Vad Nielsen commented: "Some brands weave their socks very tightly to improve the visibility and clarity of their logos, which can result in a fit that some players find uncomfortable. But more advanced materials, such as polypropylene, offer better consistency and durability. New technologies have enabled better padding zones at the ankles and compression zones that provide better blood transport, reducing the risk of injury and improving performance. Additionally, inserts mesh fabrics are now used in football socks to improve heat control and ventilation, keeping feet dry and cool.”

Very true. Former England and Manchester United defender Gary Neville doubted the need for players to cut up their socks on his Stick to Football podcast in 2024. “They have around 400 pairs of boots, all made to measure,” he said. “I’m not buying that Nike or a sponsor won’t make a pair ofsocks a little bigger.” Further down the football pyramid, there are different concerns. At Northwood, which is now in the Combined Counties League Premier Division North (fifth tier of the non-professional league), socks have become a contentious and expensive topic. Club secretary Alan Evans told the Athletic in 2023 that he made players pay for their own socks.