What to look for in good socks

Short answer: In good socks, look for a soft fabric, a fit that sits calmly, flat seams at the toe and a cuff that does not squeeze. Read the composition on the label, and choose a length that suits your shoes. Here is a simple checklist to go by.

The fabric against the skin

Socks sit close to the skin all day, so the fabric matters a lot. Look at bamboo socks, where the fabric is viscose from bamboo, which many find soft and smooth. That is a personal experience, though, so feel for yourself, and choose the fabric that feels pleasant for you.

The composition on the label

The label shows which fibres the socks consist of. Many socks contain a small share of elastane, so they can stretch and fit well. Read the label, so you know what you are buying, and check whether the blend suits what you will use the socks for, for example everyday, work or longer walks.

The fit

A good sock sits calmly without squeezing and without folding under the foot. The heel should sit where your heel is, and the toe should have a little room. If they are too big, they can fold and rub, and if they are too small, they can press, so try another size if needed.

The seams at the toe

The seam at the toe is a place where many people feel rubbing. Look for flat seams that do not lie like an edge under the toes. Feel with your finger inside the sock before you buy. A smooth seam makes a big difference when you are in shoes all day.

The cuff and the leg

The cuff should hold the sock in place without leaving marks on the leg. If it is too tight, it can press, and if it is too loose, the sock slips down. Check also the leg and length, so it suits your shoes and does not peek out if you would rather it did not.

Thickness and cushioning

The thickness decides how warm and soft the socks feel in the shoe. Thin socks suit shoes with little room, while thicker socks can be nice when it is cold. If you are on your feet for long days, a slightly thicker sock can feel good, but try your way forward.

Care and durability

Follow the care label, wash the socks in a laundry bag, and dry them in the air, and they keep their shape for longer. Keep them together in pairs, and switch between several pairs, so the wear is shared. That way you get more out of them, whichever quality you have chosen.

Longer styles and other clothes

If you wear long sleeves, you can happily use longer socks to get a consistent, calm feeling all day. Look at long sleeve models and socks for men, so you can put together what suits you. Choose the ones you actually wear, and start with a few pairs.

In short, good socks

Good socks have a soft fabric, a fit that sits calmly, flat seams at the toe and a cuff that does not squeeze. Read the label, try them on and follow the care label. That gives you socks that feel pleasant and keep their shape for a long time.

Frequently asked questions

What should I look for in good socks?

Look for soft fabric, a calm fit, flat seams at the toe and a cuff that does not squeeze. Read the composition on the label too.

How do I find the right size?

The sock should sit calmly without folding or squeezing. The heel should sit where your heel is, and the toe should have a little room.

How do I look after them?

Follow the care label, wash them in a laundry bag and dry them in the air. Switch between several pairs, so the wear is shared.

See our range of bamboo socks for women.