Are Heated Socks Safe?
Reports of heated sock explosions are becoming more common, and a major reason for this is the danger posed by the lithium-ion batteries that power them. When a lithium-ion battery overheats, it can enter a process known as thermal runaway.
This occurs when the battery’s internal temperature rises uncontrollably, causing a chain reaction inside the battery itself. The chemicals inside the battery, many of which are highly flammable, react to the heat, and as a result, the battery temperature skyrockets.
The battery continues to heat up rapidly, often reaching temperatures over 1832ºF in a matter of seconds. The resulting explosions are abrupt, making it impossible for wearers to remove the socks from their bare skin in time. This overwhelming and rapid surge of heat has left users with horrific third-degree burns.
Heated Socks Explosion Reports on the Rise
There have been several cases of heated socks burning and injuring unsuspecting consumers.
On December 12, 2024, Tyler Morris from Trimont, Minnesota, suffered second and third-degree burns when a rechargeable iHEAT heated insole he had purchased on Amazon exploded inside his boot. The insole was not turned on, but it still overheated and caused a sharp pain in Tyler’s right foot, followed by intense heat and white smoke coming from his boot.
Tyler quickly removed his boot, but half of his sock was already burned. He later learned he was the third person that week to be injured by similar incidents with the same type of insoles. Tyler was told he might need skin grafts.
Also, a case report released in December 2024, described a 43-year-old man who sustained a full-thickness burn on his left lower leg after wearing lithium-ion battery-powered heated socks while skiing for four hours. He was diagnosed with a partial-thickness burn and later developed a full-body rash, requiring a change in his medication. It took 15 weeks for the burn to fully heal, and the injury was serious enough that he needed surgery to remove dead skin and tissue.
Second and third-degree burns don’t just cause intense physical pain; they can also leave permanent scars, require long-term treatment, and render daily tasks nearly impossible. When the burns happen on your feet, the impact is even worse. Walking, standing, and performing basic activities like driving, working, or caring for your family can become overwhelming challenges.
If you or someone you love has been harmed by heated socks, the team at Meshbesher & Spence is here for you. Since 1961, we’ve been here for people whose lives have been turned upside down by preventable injuries. Get in touch with our lawyers today by contacting us online or calling (612) 339-9121.
