Sock sizes explained

Short answer: Socks are sold in ranges such as 36 to 40 or 41 to 45. If your shoe size is at the top of a range, you usually choose the next one up. That way the sock sits naturally on the foot instead of being stretched all day.

Why ranges and not single sizes

Knitted socks stretch, so one range covers several shoe sizes. The knit gives in both length and width and shapes itself to the foot. Selling socks in every single size would only create tiny differences. That is why almost all bamboo socks are sold in ranges rather than single sizes.

How to read a range

A range such as 36 to 40 means the sock is made to fit shoe sizes from 36 up to and including 40. In the middle of the range, the sock sits relaxed on the foot. At the bottom it is a little looser, and at the top it is stretched more. It is the stretched end that needs some thought.

On the border between two ranges

If your size is the top of a range, the sock is constantly stretched and loses its shape faster. The heel slips under the foot and the toe gets thin. So choose the next range up if you are on the border. Then you are at the bottom of the larger range, see bamboo socks for men and women.

Width counts too

Two people with the same shoe size may need different ranges if one has a wide foot or a high instep. A wide foot stretches the sock across and pulls it shorter lengthwise. If you have a wide foot and are near the top of a range, that is one more reason to go up, see bamboo socks for men.

Where the heel should sit

The heel is the easiest place to see if the range fits. If the heel sits right on your heel, the size is right. If it sits under the foot, the sock is too small. If it sits up behind the ankle with a fold, it is too big. Check the first time you wear a new pair.

When the sock is too big

A sock that is too big folds at the heel and toe. The fold rubs against the shoe, and that is where the sock wears through first. It can also slide down into the shoe during the day. If you are between two ranges and your size is at the bottom of the larger one, the smaller range is usually right.

Washing and size

Socks shrink only a little at 40 degrees, and that does not change which range to choose. Hotter washes can make a noticeable difference, mainly in length. Let socks air dry so the elastic in the cuff lasts longer too. Turn them inside out before washing.

Women and men in the same range

The ranges for women and men overlap, and a sock in a given range fits the same foot whatever the label says. So it makes most sense to choose by shoe size. When it comes to size, look at the range, not at whether the style is made for women or men.

Frequently asked questions

Are women's and men's ranges different

They overlap. Go by shoe size rather than by the label. A range is a range, and your foot decides which one fits best.

Do socks shrink after washing

Only slightly at 40 degrees. Hotter washes can make a noticeable difference, so stick to 40 degrees and air drying if you want to keep the size.

What if the sock is too big

Then it folds at the heel, and the fold wears through. Choose the smaller range next time, especially if your shoe size is at the bottom of the larger one.