# Foot-stiffening socks could improve running and walking efficiency New research suggests specialized socks reduce metabolic energy expenditure during exercise. - **Source:** [New Scientist – Health](https://www.newscientist.com/subject/health) - **Published:** 2026-11-04 - **Topic:** [health](https://brifing.si/c/health) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/e469454f-9d8e-42e5-a9a7-e89424bd51d5 ## Innovative Sock Design Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed socks featuring three 1-millimetre wide bands knitted around the ball of the foot. These bands apply 24 times more pressure than standard athletic socks. The design aims to stiffen the foot, mimicking evolutionary traits that assisted human bipedalism over millions of years. ## Metabolic Energy Savings In a study involving 12 healthy adults, the socks reduced metabolic expenditure in 10 participants by 2 per cent compared to control socks. Researchers equate this energy saving to the metabolic benefit an average person would experience by losing 2 kilograms of body weight, potentially enhancing overall walking and running endurance. ## Mechanism of Action The socks function by allowing the ankle and its associated muscles to push off at a slower velocity. This reduction in speed requires less muscle activation and metabolic energy, leading to more economical muscle contractions. Unlike stiffened shoe inserts, this design permits the toes to flex and the arch to recoil freely. ## Performance Projections Owen Beck, one of the developers, estimates that these socks could improve marathon performance by 1 to 2 minutes. He expressed hope that elite athletes might utilize this technology during the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. The socks are designed to help users walk faster or sweat less for the same effort. ## Previous Research Context While the concept that a stiffer foot reduces metabolic cost is long-standing, previous attempts using shoes with stiffened midsoles or inserts failed. Thomas Püschel of the University of Oxford notes that those earlier designs hindered necessary foot movement at the end of a step, whereas these socks maintain essential natural flexibility. ## Commercialization and Future The research team has already entered into a sponsored research agreement with the footwear company New Balance to commercialize the product. Beyond elite sports, the developers suggest the socks could eventually benefit individuals whose feet have lost structural integrity or shape, such as those experiencing the natural effects of old age. ## Scientific Skepticism Despite the promising initial results, experts urge caution regarding real-world applications. Thomas Püschel warns that alternative explanations for the findings cannot be ruled out, such as the placebo effect or participants subconsciously altering their gait. He describes the study as a promising first demonstration rather than definitive proof of daily utility. ## Study Methodology The study measured VO2 max, representing the maximum oxygen the body absorbs during high-intensity exercise, to calculate metabolic expenditure. Participants walked on a treadmill for 5 minutes wearing both the test socks and control socks. This controlled environment allowed researchers to isolate the specific impact of the foot-stiffening bands on energy. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.newscientist.com/article/2597125-feet-stiffening-socks-could-help-you-run-further-for-longer/?utm_campaign=RSS|NSNS&utm_content=health&utm_medium=RSS&utm_source=NSNS — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._