Putin delivering the Judo chop ... in socks

Ever noticed how Vladimir Putin (yes, the Russian president/prime minister) wears socks on this famous photo in a judo uniform? To be sure, the socks are white and match the judogi but Judo is one of those rare sports, like swimming, that is done without socks.

And on the second photo, he is not even wearing a uniform. Again, the blue socks match his all around blue clothes.