Promotes healthy circulation - ideal for diabetics, frequent flyers or general well-being.

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Reynard Stafford
5 years ago
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1 Developed through years of research into podiatry health and made to the highest standards using natural and bioactive fibres - LifeSocks represents a whole new level of quality and comfort. This is the premium sock choice. Promotes healthy circulation - ideal for diabetics, frequent flyers or general well-being.

2 Lifestyle PLUS High stretch, non-restrictive double cuff for easy slide on, minimal compression and maximum stretch Unique* double-density cushion padding for added protection Individual shaping for left and right foot Alignment points for correct positioning Seamless toe closure for ridge-free comfort Everyday Multipurpose Midweight Anatomical cushioning strategically placed throughout for added protection and comfort Y heel for an improved, wrinkle-free fit and pressure point reduction Flex panel for ergonomic shaping Ribs and mesh panels to aid airflow and to regulate moisture and temperature control Mesh panels for increased flexibility COMPOSITION: 55% Merino Wool 30% Nylon 8% Elastic 7% Seacell Active Diabetes ~ Arthritis ~ Oedema ~ Flying ~ Arch Pain

Base PLUS Women Dress/Casual Work/Everyday Lightweight High stretch top for minimal compression Unique* double-density cushion padding for added protection Individual shaping for left and right foot

3 Base PLUS Women Dress/Casual Work/Everyday Lightweight High stretch top for minimal compression Unique* double-density cushion padding for added protection Individual shaping for left and right foot Alignment points for correct positioning Seamless toe closure for ridge-free comfort Anatomical cushioning strategically placed throughout for added protection and comfort Y heel for an improved, wrinkle-free fit Ribs and mesh panels for moisture and temperature control COMPOSITION: 60% Merino Wool 15% Nylon 9% Elastic 16% Seacell Active Diabetes ~ Arthritis ~ Oedema ~ Flying ~ Arch Pain

Airborne PLUS High stretch top for minimal compression Unique* double-density cushion padding for added protection Individual shaping for left and right foot Alignment points for correct positioning

4 Airborne PLUS High stretch top for minimal compression Unique* double-density cushion padding for added protection Individual shaping for left and right foot Alignment points for correct positioning Seamless toe closure for ridge-free comfort Sport/Leisure Outdoor Midweight Anatomical cushioning strategically placed throughout for added protection and comfort Flex panel for ergonomic shaping Y heel for an improved, wrinkle-free fit Ribs and mesh panels for moisture and temperature control Mesh panels for increased flexibility COMPOSITION: 58% Merino Wool 22% Nylon 9% Elastic 11% Seacell Active Diabetes ~ Arthritis ~ Oedema ~ Flying ~ Arch Pain

Airborne Lite Minimal compression top Unique* double-density cushion padding for added protection Individual shaping for left and right foot Alignment

wrinkle-free fit Anatomical cushioning strategically placed throughout for added protection and comfort Ribs and mesh panels for moisture and temperature

5 Airborne Lite Minimal compression top Unique* double-density cushion padding for added protection Individual shaping for left and right foot Alignment points for correct positioning Seamless toe closure for ridge-free comfort Sport Leisure Midweight Flex panel for ergonomic shaping Y heel for an improved, wrinkle-free fit Anatomical cushioning strategically placed throughout for added protection and comfort Ribs and mesh panels for moisture and temperature control Mesh panels for increased flexibility COMPOSITION: 60% Merino Wool 20% Nylon 8% Elastic 12% Seacell Active Diabetes ~ Arthritis ~ Oedema ~ Flying ~ Arch Pain

Base PLUS Men High stretch top for minimal compression Unique* double-density cushion padding for added protection Individual shaping for left and right foot Alignment points for correct positioning

6 Base PLUS Men High stretch top for minimal compression Unique* double-density cushion padding for added protection Individual shaping for left and right foot Alignment points for correct positioning Dress/Casual Work/Everyday Lightweight Y heel for an improved, wrinkle-free fit Anatomical cushioning strategically placed throughout for added protection and comfort Ribs and mesh panels for moisture and temperature control Seamless toe closure for ridge-free comfort COMPOSITION: 57% Merino Wool 19% Nylon 9% Elastic 15% Seacell Active Diabetes ~ Arthritis ~ Oedema ~ Flying ~ Arch Pain

Protective PLUS High stretch top for minimal compression Unique* double-density cushion padding for added protection Individual shaping for left and right foot Alignment points for correct

7 Protective PLUS High stretch top for minimal compression Unique* double-density cushion padding for added protection Individual shaping for left and right foot Alignment points for correct positioning Work Adventure Outdoor Anatomical cushioning strategically placed throughout for added protection and comfort Ribs and mesh panels for moisture and temperature control Reinforced heel and toe for durability Smooth toe closure for comfort COMPOSITION: 60% Merino Wool 30% Nylon 10% Elastic Diabetes ~ Arthritis ~ Oedema ~ Flying ~ Arch Pain

8 Design and features

Benefits LifeSocks have an important role of being the interface between the skin and the abrasive compressive, shear and frictional forces of the inner shoe.

9 Benefits LifeSocks have an important role of being the interface between the skin and the abrasive compressive, shear and frictional forces of the inner shoe. These socks assist in injury avoidance, provide protection from mechanical, chemical and thermal trauma. LifeSocks are comfortable to wear and offer long lasting comfort and foot protection. Merino is nature at its best. It is a fine, natural, renewable fibre with outstanding insulating abilities. The unique alpine environment in which Merino thrive is renowned for producing exceptionally high quality fibre, superior in its softness, strength and durability. Entwined within the thread of the Merino yarn is Seacell Active. A cellulose, seaweed and silver based fibre. While the merino fibres are working to insulate the foot, the soft and highly absorbent Seacell Active fibre help to regulate moisture and hydrate the skin. Seacell Active benefits: Skin compatible Anti-microbial Bacteriostatic Anti-fungal Anti-inflammatory Hypo-allergenic Odour inhibiting Environmentally friendly Safe, stable, and permanent in action, even after frequent washing Merino benefits: A natural, healthy alternative to synthetic fibres Superior softness and comfort Warmth without weight Odour resistance An ability to breathe Temperature and moisture management Strength and durability Extra resilience for impact protection Our trademark Elastic Support System (ESS ) locks the sock onto the foot and the lower leg with minimal compression, providing support particularly under the arch of the foot. By fitting snugly to the skin, this sock works to maintain regular skin temperature. Elasticity is defined as the ability of a stretch fibre to return to its original size. In the therapeutic sock we employ only the highest quality elastics available to provide stretch and recovery.

10 The therapeutic sock There is a frequent call for people with diabetes to be wearing safe socks that will play a role in the prevention of the development of diabetes-related foot complications. The New Zealand Sock Company s Therapeutic LifeSocks have an important role of being the interface between the skin and the abrasive compressive, shear and frictional forces in the inner of the shoe. These socks assist in injury avoidance, provide protection from mechanical, chemical and thermal trauma and take a lead role in protection and prevention of traumatic events that may render the foot vulnerable to ulceration. Many features of the LifeSock mean that is very comfortable and friendly to wear. The design team have worked closely with podiatrists and specialists to identify foot problems and how best to accommodate these problems. The most important point on our list of criteria was to prevent breaches to the skin and keep skin intact. LifeSocks play an important role in protecting the foot inside the shoe. The innovative design combined with the selection of superior natural yarns provides the ultimate in foot comfort and protection for people with diabetes and other medical conditions. We will discuss each feature of the sock and how it can benefit the consumer. The goal is to prevent breaches in skin integrity and keep skin intact, thus preventing the sequale of complications arising from breaches in skin integrity. Frequent checks of the foot are important to detect problems early.

Merino wool provides warmth at a constant temperature, combating the effects of sweating and fluid accumulation and cooling capabilities, when required.

11 Thermal Regulation Of particular importance is the role of temperature control and protection from thermal insult in diabetic foot health. Merino wool is the best natural fibre at regulating temperature and is particularly well known for its thermal properties. Merino wool provides warmth at a constant temperature, combating the effects of sweating and fluid accumulation and cooling capabilities, when required. Maintenance of skin temperature and prevention of temperature fluctuations to the feet prevents chilling and thermal insult. An even regular temperature will also reduce the risk of chilblain formation or vascoconstriction of the extremities. This can occur because the body short-circuits blood flow to preserve heat for the vital organs during time of temperature fluctuation. Merino wool is the best natural fibre at regulating temperature and is particularly well known for its thermal properties. The mesh panels in the upper part of the sock and the ribs knitted into the sole of the sock also open up the sock to breathe and enhance air flow. This feature in conjunction with Merino wool also assists in temperature regulation. The close snug fit of the sock due to the ESS system also enhances the Thermal regulation. All these features combined and working together make Therapeutic LifeSocks one of the best for thermal regulation.

12 Moisture Management The breathability of merino wool assists airflow to the foot and prevents excess body fluid accumulation. The ability of the sock to control moisture plays an important role in blister prevention and callus formation, both portals for bacteria invasion. This is of particular relevance to people with diabetes, as they require a sock that can warm the foot and maintain a stable temperature for long periods of the day and retain moisture to keep the skin well hydrated. The added lanolin properties within the merino wool fibre provide additional emollient action and the added moisture retention assists in the prevention of skin dryness and cracking or splitting, particularly of concern in people with diabetes. Frequently, if left undetected, the breech in skin integrity becomes the pivotal event that leads to the sequelae of acute infection, ulceration and amputation. When blisters are prevented, so too are the catastrophic sequelae. It is important for people with diabetes to exercise safely. SeaCell is highly absorbent and is used to anticipate and support the absorption of excessive fluid accumulation in the foot. SeaCell Active fibres work to absorb and retain the moisture, creating an optimal moisture environment. This leads to the issue of hydrating. With the merino and SeaCell Active providing an optimal moisture environment, the superficial epithelial cells (the last layer of skin cells on the sole of the foot) absorbs the excess, it also regulates that moisture and any dry skin cells can be re-moistened, similar to applying an emollient to the skin. The balancing between too much moisture and not enough is a fine line and this is where natural Merino wool and Seaweed do so well in helping keep this balance of local absorption better than a synthetic product. Sweat glands in a foot with diabetes can be erratic in their production of sweat or they can produce little or no sweat at all drying the skin of feet out and thus making the skin prone to cracks -portals for bacteria. Therapeutic LifeSocks are able to assist with this problem by controlling moisture so the foot is in a dry enough environment to help prevent blisters but whilst also being able to release some moisture back into the skin to help nourish the skin of the foot. LifeSocks natural moisture management properties help prevent breaches in skin integrity

13 Antibacterial and odour control Bacteria live in the moisture of sweat, skin and other organic material in the region. The combination of heat, moisture, and sooth continuous fibre structures, such as those of synthetics that absorb liquid moisture and create an environment suitable for bacteria growth. As a result this bacteria causes an unpleasant odour and is un-hygenic, this is why synthetic socks tend to smell after one wear. Merino wool is well known for its wear-ability without having to be washed as frequently as synthetics. The moisture absorption properties and the rough cuticle layer of cells surrounding the fibre make Merino wool highly undesirable for bacteria growth. SeaCell Active is a seaweed based fibre and is a natural selection to inhibit bacteria and fungal growth, promoting a hygienic clean environment for the foot. SeaCell Active fibre, works to provide increased absorption coupled with antimicrobial properties that will discourage skin contamination in a warm, moist environment. Less bacterial and fungal growth means less odour. Non toxic silver ions which are contained within the SeaCell fibre play a key role inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi and therefore reducing odour. Merino knitted with SeaCell Active in LifeSocks provide a safe clean environment for the foot. Therapeutic LifeSocks leave your feet feeling fresh and clean.

Protection Due to the changing structure of a person s foot affected by Diabetes, new and abnormal bony prominences develop, often the skin covering these bony prominences is thin and delicate and

Changes in bone and muscle structure also mean that a person can change they way they walk, thus increasing pressure on parts of the foot, sometimes on areas of the foot that are not normally used to

14 Protection Due to the changing structure of a person s foot affected by Diabetes, new and abnormal bony prominences develop, often the skin covering these bony prominences is thin and delicate and not designed to take pressure or friction forces. It is important that we pre empt these changes and that the sock can still keep protecting the areas most at risk to developing abrasions. Changes in bone and muscle structure also mean that a person can change they way they walk, thus increasing pressure on parts of the foot, sometimes on areas of the foot that are not normally used to the force of pressure. These changes also mean their shoes might not fit them properly any more and so increased friction from the shoes on the delicately covered bony prominences can result in abrasions taking considerable time to heal. Loop pile cushioning providing comfort and protection for the foot. A common deformity is retraction of the lessor toes,where the toes are drawn upwards causing the exposed joints covered in delicate skin to rub on the top of the shoe. To protect this area, the entire toe pocket is cushioned, the cushioning is carried past the seamless toe closure to provide a slightly larger area of cushioning to accommodate for structural changes in this part of the foot. The cushioning is also extended underneath the toes past the metatarsal heads which is where most impact is placed when walking. This part of the foot is subject to shear, friction and downward forces all of which place this area of the foot under immense stress, as a result the area is prone to calluses which can crack when dry and let bacteria in. The unique U shaped double density cushioned pad on top of the foot protects dorsal bony Prominences from downward shoe pressure. This U shaped pad is built up so it absorbs some of the pressure from the shoe and therefore helping to reduce the pressure on the boney promince and also deflect the pressure off the Dorsalis Pedis Artery, the main artery feeding the foot. The cushioned heel pocket extends slightly above the shoe line to protect the back of the heel from harsh rubbing in this area. The area around the ball of the foot is also cushioned as bunions often develop in this area, unprotected bunions can rub against the inner of the shoe causing abrasions which must be prevented.

Comfortable and friendly to wear The inclusion of the high stretch top and ridge free toe seams were perhaps two of the most important features that people already look for when purchasing a sock for

15 Comfortable and friendly to wear The inclusion of the high stretch top and ridge free toe seams were perhaps two of the most important features that people already look for when purchasing a sock for a person with diabetes. The ridge free toe seam means no harsh seam to rub across the top of the toes, rubbing can cause blisters and breaches in the skin which we want to avoid, therefore it is important to have a seam free sock. The high stretch top means that the sock is easy to pull onto the foot. This is important for those who lack flexibility and mobility who have difficulty reaching down to pull a sock on. This high stretch top also won t leave uncomfortable compression marks on the leg and will accommodate for ankles and legs of all shapes and sizes most importantly without riding down and bunching inside the shoe. Your feet will enjoy the experience of wearing natural Therapeutic LifeSocks. Above all the technical features and benefits, the sock had to feel soft and natural, so consumers would want to wear them and enjoy the experience. This is why pure Merino Wool was used as the dominant fibre in LifeSocks. The micron, staple length and twist factor play an important role in yarn softness so considerable research was carried out on these factors to get the best Merino yarn for this sock. Therefore a soft prickle free fabric was created in the form of the LifeSocks range. The inclusion of SeaCell Active further enhanced the beautiful soft handle of the yarn. Beautifully soft Merino wool is pricklefree and harmonious with our skin

Conforming to the foot Feet affected by diabetes often become deformed, such deformities include retraction of the lessor toes where the toes are drawn upwards making the joints vulnerable to forces

The arch can flatten or fall out, and the region on top of the foot can also change exposing bony prominences to downward pressure from shoes.

16 Conforming to the foot Feet affected by diabetes often become deformed, such deformities include retraction of the lessor toes where the toes are drawn upwards making the joints vulnerable to forces from the top of the shoes creating blisters. Also the ball of the foot can change in shape and protrude out from the foot exposing it to shear forces from the side of the shoe. The arch can flatten or fall out, and the region on top of the foot can also change exposing bony prominences to downward pressure from shoes. With this range of deformaties, the sock must be able to stretch around boney prominences and conform to the shape of the individuals foot whether it be deformed or relatively normal. This is achieved in a number of ways. Mesh is used not only for breathability and airflow but also for its ability to stretch. Mesh is knitted into the cushioning surrounding the ball of the foot so the ball is still protecting by the loop pile cushioning from friction and shear forces but the mesh also allows this part of the sock to stretch around a protruding boney prominence should it need to. Forth is reason, mesh is also knitted through the arch and over the top of the foot. SeaCell has the ability to conform to any shape. As it absorbs the fluid, it will increase its capacity to adapt to the specific shape of the foot. The SeaCell yarn will yield to forces and not fight against pre-determined shapes and this is important as the sock yields to external force and conforms rather than fighting to retain its shape. The high stretch top combined with the ESS system, the Y heel and the left and right toe shaping ensures a close, snug fitting sock that will stay in place and won t bunch. Bunching of the sock or excess fabric within a shoe can rub on the skin and cause breaches in the skin integrity. LifeSocks have 4 sizes across each style within the range so the perfect fit can be achieved (with the exception of the men s and women s specific styles where there are 3 sizes per style).

Diabetes is a serious disease that can develop from lack of insulin production in the body or due to

Page 1 The Diabetic Foot Definition Diabetes is a serious disease that can develop from lack of insulin production in the body or due to the inability of the body's insulin to perform its normal everyday