why do footballers cut holes in their socks

Footballers cut holes in their socks primarily to reduce pressure on their calf muscles. Football socks are designed to provide compression, which helps with circulation and muscle support, but can sometimes be too tight, restricting movement and causing discomfort. By cutting holes, players relieve tension on the calf muscles, allowing for better mobility , improved blood flow , and reduced muscle cramping during matches. This also enhances breathability and ventilation, helping players stay comfortable and perform at their best. Top players like Jude Bellingham, Kyle Walker, and Bukayo Saka have been noted for this practice, which is both a performance optimization and a comfort measure.