How does the knitting structure affect the breathability of flat-knitted socks

In the sock manufacturing industry, flat-knitted socks are widely favored for their unique knitting structure and excellent performance. As one of the important indicators for evaluating the comfort of socks, breathability is closely related to its knitting structure.

Knitting structure type and its breathability characteristics
The knitting structure of flat-knitted socks mainly includes three basic types: plain, twill and satin. Each structure shows different characteristics in terms of breathability.
Plain structure: Flat-knitted socks with plain structure, whose weft and warp are tightly interwoven to form a relatively dense fabric. Although this structure has good wear resistance and elasticity, and is suitable for occasions with high strength and durability requirements, its tight interweaving method limits the penetration of gas and moisture, resulting in relatively low breathability.
Twill structure: Flat-knitted socks with twill structure adopt an oblique interweaving method to form an oblique channel and an open structure. This design provides superior breathability compared to the plain structure, allowing gas and moisture to flow more smoothly between fibers. Twill structure socks usually have better softness and comfort, suitable for daily wear and light exercise.
Satin structure: Satin-structured plain socks have larger gaps between the weft and warp threads, forming a more open structure. This design provides abundant channels and pores, allowing gas and moisture to pass more easily, thereby achieving optimal breathability. However, satin-structured socks may be slightly inferior to plain and twill structures in terms of wear resistance and elasticity.

Mechanism of the influence of weaving structure on breathability
The mechanism of the influence of weaving structure on the breathability of plain socks is mainly reflected in the following aspects:
Pore size and distribution: Different weaving structures have significant differences in the size and distribution of pores formed between the weft and warp threads. The presence of pores provides channels for air circulation, allowing effective gas exchange between the inside of the socks and the external environment. Generally speaking, the larger the pores and the more evenly distributed they are, the better the breathability.
Fiber arrangement and interweaving: The weaving structure determines the arrangement and interweaving of the sock fibers. In plain weave structures, the fibers are closely arranged and interweaved more times, resulting in smaller pores; while in twill and satin structures, the fibers are relatively loosely arranged, the number of interweavings is reduced, and the pores are larger. This difference directly affects the breathability of socks.
Fabric thickness and tightness: The weaving structure also affects the thickness and tightness of socks. Plain weave socks are usually thicker and tighter, with poorer breathability; while twill and satin weave socks are relatively thinner and looser, with better breathability. However, socks that are too thin may lack sufficient warmth and wear resistance, so comprehensive considerations are required in practical applications.