Why Footballers at the World Cup Take to the Field in Holed Socks
The World Cup offers plenty of goals, emotions, and unexpected outcomes. But there's another detail that catches viewers' eyes: many footballers take to the field in socks with holes cut into them. Why do they do this?
Leroy Sané shoots at goal in the World Cup match between Germany and Curaçao. June 14, 2026. The cut holes in his socks are clearly visible. Photo: Leslie Plaza Johnson / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The trend of holed socks, as reported by The Athletic, emerged at least eight years ago and has only gained popularity since then. Sometimes several players from the same team take to the field with identically cut socks, as if it's part of the kit design. In reality, most of these holes are made by the footballers themselves before matches.
The reason is usually very simple — comfort. Modern football socks are typically made from polyester. This material holds its shape well, doesn't absorb moisture as much, and withstands heavy loads. But there's a downside: the fabric can fit quite tightly around the leg.
Neymar's socks with characteristic cut holes during the 2018 World Cup match between Brazil and Switzerland. June 17, 2018. Photo: Matthew Ashton — AMA / Getty Images
Some footballers believe that overly tight socks create pressure on their calf muscles. To relieve this sensation, they cut several small holes in the fabric. In their opinion, this reduces muscle tension, improves blood circulation, and helps prevent cramps during a match.
Beyond physical comfort, psychology also plays a role. Athletes traditionally pay close attention to minor details that can affect their confidence.
Former West Ham United forward Frank Nouble explained this with a simple formula in an interview back in 2023: "Look good — feel good. Feel good — play better. The main thing is to be as comfortable as possible on the field."
Therefore, many footballers are willing to experiment with their gear in search of additional comfort.
What Doctors Say About the Holes
However, there is currently no scientific evidence that holes in socks actually help improve players' physical condition. Studies do not confirm a reduction in injury risk or improved blood circulation due to such a practice.
Moreover, from a medical standpoint, compression socks, which fit tightly around the leg, are often used to improve blood circulation. They help reduce swelling and aid recovery after exertion. Therefore, the claim that loosening socks improves blood circulation seems debatable.
Australian footballer Mathew Leckie in a match against the USA at the 2026 World Cup. The cut holes in his socks are clearly visible. June 19, 2026. Photo: MB Media/Getty Images
Manufacturers of sports equipment also state that modern socks are designed with the needs of professional athletes in mind. New materials allow for a combination of durability and elasticity, and the sock design includes special zones for cushioning, ventilation, and compression.
At the same time, some brands do indeed make socks tighter so that they hold their shape better and logos remain clearly visible. Perhaps this is why some footballers feel discomfort and try to solve the problem with scissors.
Not everyone in the football world believes in the effectiveness of this approach. Former England and Manchester United defender Gary Neville has repeatedly expressed doubts about the necessity of cutting socks. In his opinion, professional footballers have access to custom-fitted equipment, so if desired, they can obtain socks of the correct size without additional modifications.
Despite the skepticism of specialists, holed socks continue to be a part of modern football. As long as footballers believe that such a small detail helps them perform better on the field, the trend of socks with holes is unlikely to disappear soon.