The Chemistry of Nike Socks

Introduction

Nike socks are a clothing item developed for either athletic performance, or pure comfort. The reason I chose Nike socks to be my chemistry of ... is because of the role they play in my life. I wear nike socks everyday along with most kids.

Composition of ...

    • 49% Dri-fit
    • 45% Polyester:
      • C6H4(COOH)2
      • Mole: 166.13 g/mol
    • 4% Nylon:
      • n HOOC-(CH2)4-COOH + nH2N-(CH2)6-NH2 → [-OC-(CH2)4-CO-NH-(CH2)6-NH-] n + 2n H2O
      • Mole: 226.32 g/mol
    • 2% Spandex

Main Chemicals, Compounds, Components

Nike Dri-Fit socks are made of four different materials that are Dri-Fit, Polyester, Nylon, and Spandex. The main two components to the socks are polyester and nike’s trademark Dri-Fit material. Polyester is used for its absorbing properties and cushioning. The Dri-Fit material is used for its quality of taking in sweat or liquid and pushing it out away from the skin.

Chemistry's Role

Polyester is a man made material that is used in many clothing items for it’s durability and strength. The specific kind of polyester is Terephthalic acid which is also used in making plastic bottles and other plastic material. It is made of carbons oxygens and hydrogens linking in a hexagonal shape. Dri-Fit is a trademarked material that Nike produces thats main advantage is that it pushes the sweat from the body away from the skin so that it can evaporate and keep you dry.

Background Research

The socks are made from the four materials previously stated; spandex, nylon, polyester, and Dri-Fit. The materials are sewn together in a specific arrangement to allow the sock to stretch and move while remaining to be comfortable. There are over 30 million tonnes of terephthalic acid in the world today due to the demand it has for its many uses. The Dri-fit material is Nikes trademarked material so the exact composition is hard to get a hold of.

Resources

About the Author

Sy D’Ambrosia is a junior at Billings Senior High School with aspirations to attend college at MSU Bozeman. He is a 3 year varsity athlete and is passionate in maintaining his academics.