If you've spent any time on the mats lately, you know that picking up a pair of gen 2 daedo socks has become pretty much mandatory for anyone looking to compete seriously. It's funny how a piece of footwear that looks a bit like a futuristic slipper can be the difference between standing on the podium or going home wondering why your best roundhouse kick didn't register. If you're still rocking the old Gen 1s or, heaven forbid, trying to borrow a pair at the staging area, it might be time to look at what actually changed with the second generation.
Electronic scoring—or PSS (Protective Scoring System)—has totally changed Taekwondo, and Daedo has been right at the center of that shift. While the first iteration of their e-foot protectors did the job, they had some gaps that drove athletes and coaches crazy. The move to the gen 2 daedo socks wasn't just a cosmetic update; it was a response to the way the sport was evolving and the need for much more precise scoring.
What's actually different about the Gen 2?
The biggest thing you'll notice right away is the sensor count. The original socks had sensors, sure, but they were mostly focused on the top of the foot and the instep. That was fine for basic kicks, but it left a lot to be desired when things got technical. With the gen 2 daedo socks, they've bumped the sensor count up to eleven.
Now, you might think, "Do I really need four more sensors?" The answer is a resounding yes if you like scoring points on turning kicks. The Gen 2 version added sensors to the heel and the sides of the foot. This was a game-changer for anyone who favors back kicks or those tricky hook kicks that barely graze the head protector. Before the Gen 2s, you could land a perfect spinning back kick, but if the sensor didn't make direct contact with the trunk protector's "sweet spot," the scoreboard stayed dark. The increased coverage on the Gen 2 makes the system much more "sensitive" in the right way.
The fit and the feel on the mat
Let's talk about how these things actually feel when you're moving. One of the most common complaints about the older models was that they felt a bit stiff, almost like you were wearing a light cast. The gen 2 daedo socks have a slightly more ergonomic design. They've used a bit more spandex and breathable mesh, which helps with the "bunching" issue that used to happen around the ankle.
However, a word of advice: they still run small. If you're right on the edge of a size, almost everyone I know suggests sizing up. There is nothing worse than being mid-sparring match and feeling your toes getting crushed because the elastic is too tight. Plus, if they're too tight, the fabric over the sensors stretches thin, which can actually lead to the sensors wearing out faster.
The grip on the bottom is also worth mentioning. Daedo kept the open-toe and open-heel design because, let's be honest, you need that skin-to-mat contact for traction. The last thing you want is to slip while throwing a high kick. The gen 2 daedo socks balance the electronic components with the need for a natural feel, so you don't feel like you're losing your balance when you pivot.
Why the upgrade matters for competition
If you're heading to a WT-sanctioned event, you probably don't have much of a choice. Most high-level tournaments have fully transitioned to the Gen 2 system. The reason is pretty simple: fairness. The Gen 2 system, which includes the updated trunk protectors (hogus), is designed to communicate more effectively with these specific socks.
It's not just about the sensors in the socks, though. It's about how they talk to the hogu. The gen 2 daedo socks use a specific frequency and magnetic sensor setup that filters out "junk" hits. You know those accidental bumps or light taps that shouldn't score? The Gen 2 system is much better at distinguishing between a legitimate strike with power and a simple brush of the foot. As an athlete, this means you have to be more precise, but it also means you won't get robbed as often when you actually land a solid shot.
Taking care of your sensors
Here is where a lot of people mess up. These aren't just regular socks; they're essentially wearable pieces of hardware. You can't just throw your gen 2 daedo socks into a hot wash with your sweaty dobok and hope for the best. If you do that, you're basically asking for the sensors to fail.
To keep them working, you really should be hand-washing them. Use some cool water and a tiny bit of mild detergent. When it comes to drying, stay far away from the dryer. The heat can warp the internal components and ruin the magnets. Just hang them up or lay them flat. I know it's a bit of a pain, especially when you're tired after training, but considering what these things cost, it's worth the extra five minutes of effort.
Also, try to avoid walking around the venue in them without shoes. The sensors are tucked inside the fabric, but they aren't invincible. Stepping on a stray pebble or even just the friction of walking on concrete can damage the sensitive parts. Most people I see at tournaments wear slides over their gen 2 daedo socks until the moment they step onto the mat. It's a good habit to get into.
Are they worth the price tag?
I'll be honest: these things aren't cheap. For a pair of socks, the price can feel a bit steep. But in the context of Taekwondo gear, they're an essential investment. If you're serious about sparring, you need to train with the same gear you're going to use in a fight.
The way you kick changes slightly when you know exactly where the sensors are. You start to realize that you don't need to kick harder to score; you need to kick smarter. Training in gen 2 daedo socks allows you to calibrate your distance and your foot positioning. You'll start to see that "sweet spot" in your mind's eye.
The compatibility question
One question that pops up a lot is whether you can use Gen 1 socks with a Gen 2 hogu. The short answer is: technically, yes, they might register, but you're putting yourself at a massive disadvantage. You'll be missing out on those extra sensor points, and the signal might not be as reliable. If the tournament is using Gen 2 equipment, you want the gen 2 daedo socks to match.
It's also worth checking with your coach or the tournament packet. Some local or regional tournaments might still be using older gear to save on costs, but the shift toward Gen 2 is pretty much complete at this point.
Final thoughts on the mat
At the end of the day, Taekwondo is still about technique, speed, and spirit. No piece of gear is going to turn a bad fighter into a champion overnight. However, the gen 2 daedo socks definitely level the playing field. They take a lot of the "luck" out of the electronic scoring system and put the control back into the hands—or rather, the feet—of the athlete.
If you're still on the fence, just ask anyone who's had a winning kick fail to register because their old socks didn't have a heel sensor. They'll tell you exactly why the upgrade is worth it. It's all about peace of mind. When you're in the ring, the last thing you want to be thinking about is whether your gear is working. You want to be thinking about your opponent and your next move. With a solid pair of gen 2 daedo socks, you can focus on the fight and let the electronics handle the rest.