The material of a bamboo sock, words on the label

Short answer: Bamboo socks are made from viscose from bamboo, often blended with other fibres such as elastane and polyamide that add shape and durability. The label lists the materials in percentages, and the order shows which fibre there is most of. Here we explain the words you will meet so you can read the label calmly.

Why the label is worth reading

The label is the one honest statement of what the sock is made of, and it tells you more than the picture on the packet. You can see whether the sock is a single fibre or a blend and how it should be washed. Take a moment for it before you put socks in the basket. It makes comparing much easier.

What bamboo socks are made of

Bamboo socks are not made from raw bamboo but from viscose from bamboo. The fibres of the plant are processed into a soft yarn that can be spun and knitted like other textile fibres. That is why the label often says viscose, sometimes with bamboo in brackets. See our socks for men for examples.

Viscose and bamboo, what is the difference

Bamboo is the raw material, while viscose is the finished yarn. The label usually uses the technical word viscose, because that is the rule for textiles. Bamboo may appear in brackets or in the product name. Notice whether other fibres are listed beside it, since they change how the sock feels.

Elastane and polyamide

Elastane is the thread that gives the sock stretch, so it hugs the foot and returns to shape. Polyamide, also called nylon, makes the yarn stronger and more hard wearing. Both usually appear in small shares on the label, and they help keep the sock in place through a whole day.

Cotton and other fibres

Some socks also contain cotton, wool or other fibres alongside viscose. Cotton gives a dry, familiar feel, while wool adds warmth. Read the whole composition and choose the blend that suits the season and your shoes. If only a single fibre is listed, the sock is often more delicate in use.

Percentages and order

The numbers on the label show the share of each fibre and add up to one hundred. The fibre listed first makes up the most. That lets you see quickly whether viscose from bamboo is the main material and how much elastane is mixed in. Compare labels from different socks and you will feel how the blend changes the fit.

The care symbols

The care symbols show how the sock can be washed and what temperature it tolerates. Follow them, and feel free to wash the socks with your bamboo boxer briefs so the colours stay even. A gentle wash at low heat is often best, and fabric softener can make fibres less soft. Tumble dryers and strong sun can wear on the elastic.

When the label does not tell the whole story

The label shows the material, but not how the sock feels on the foot. Thickness, seams and fit you have to feel for yourself, so try them at home. The same thinking applies to the rest of the wardrobe. If you also want something with long sleeves for autumn, take a look at our long sleeve models.

Frequently asked questions

Are bamboo socks made from pure bamboo?

No, they are made from viscose from bamboo, often blended with, for example, elastane and polyamide. The exact composition is on the label and can differ from model to model.

Why does the label say viscose and not bamboo?

Viscose is the technical name for the yarn, whichever plant the fibres come from. Bamboo is the raw material and may appear in brackets or in the product name.

What does elastane do in a sock?

Elastane gives stretch, so the sock hugs the foot and returns to shape after use. Usually only a small share of it is in the sock.