Grip socks for football and rugby may not be brand new, but they remain one of the most talked-about pieces of kit. Some children won’t step onto the pitch without them, while others are perfectly happy in standard socks. So, are grip socks a passing trend, or are they genuinely worth considering for your child?
To find out, we turned to our grassroots community, professional network and, most importantly, parents and players themselves. Together we explored the big questions: Do grip socks actually improve performance? Why are some more expensive than others? And what should you be looking for when buying a pair for your child?
What makes Grip Socks different?
The clue is in the name. Grip socks feature silicone or rubber pads on the sole, designed to reduce slipping inside the boot. This means less painful rubbing and blistering, as well as greater stability, agility and power transfer during matches.
It’s not just children who value these benefits. Many professional players, including global stars such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, use grip socks underneath their official team socks. In fact, according to 2024 Premier League data, more than 70% of players now wear them.
Why do children use Grip Socks?
For years, many club socks supplied as part of kits were poorly fitting, thin or prone to slipping. This often led to blisters and a loss of grip on the ball - frustrating for players and parents alike.
Children quickly found their own solution by cutting team socks and wearing better-fitting socks underneath. Brands soon followed, creating pre-cut designs that fit snugly around the calf and help secure shin pads in place. Grip socks evolved from this need - and unlike some sporting fads, they look set to stay.
What do kids really think?
When we asked children aged 6–15 through our social media channels, the message was clear. Those who wear grip socks say they make a noticeable difference - more comfort, better stability and an added boost of confidence. Some love the feel so much they won’t play without them.
That said, not all children are convinced. A few find them too thick or too warm, reminding us that one size definitely doesn’t fit all. This highlights the importance of choosing carefully - not all grip socks are made equal.
What should parents look for?
Much like boots, not every pair of grip socks will suit every child. Here are the key things to consider:
- Sizing: One-size-fits-all options rarely deliver the best results. Choose a size as close to your child’s shoe size as possible so that the grips sit correctly under the foot.
- Grip thickness: Too thick, and socks can feel bulky; too thin and they won’t provide enough hold.
- Breathability: Look for socks with panels or a breathable mesh that allow air flow. Overheating feet are uncomfortable and distracting.
- Material quality: Cheaper fabrics often wear quickly or lose their grip pads after just a few washes.
Remember – more expensive doesn’t always mean better, but very cheap often means compromise.
The story behind Defiance Grip Socks
Our founder Emma knows this challenge first-hand. Like many parents, she watched her sons cut up team socks in search of something more practical. After months of research, she realised that children’s grip socks were either overpriced, poorly designed, or simply not durable enough.
Determined to find a better option, Emma worked alongside her children (often her toughest critics!) to develop grip socks that were functional, comfortable and parent-approved. After more than a year of testing, Defiance Grip Socks by Laceeze were launched – and they’ve since been embraced by children, parents and coaches alike.
If your child struggles with slipping boots, blisters or lack of stability, grip socks could make a real difference. They’re not essential for every player, but for many children they bring comfort, confidence and consistency on the pitch.
At Laceeze Defiance, our focus is always on providing kit that genuinely supports young athletes. Grip socks aren’t a magic fix, but when chosen well, they can help your child play at their best - and enjoy their sport that little bit more. If wearing grip socks helps them feel a bit more confident or gives them extra comfort then we think it’s worth your investment.
If you want to know more about why Emma thinks grip socks are a game changer for children’s sport then read her previous blog post.
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Has your child tried grip socks? Share your experiences with us on social media @laceezedefiance or drop us an email.
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