Choosing Socks? Know What to Consider

Jan 12, 2025 by Susan Rosenbluth

By S Levin

If you think the only decision in selecting socks was the bright colors and patterns, you are mistaken (although this still is a key consideration). Socks have become lifestyle-aligned accessories. They come in various lengths, materials, comfort, and design.

There are a few differences that allow you to make an informed decision:

Length – When choosing socks how high is an essential decision to make. Socks range from being virtually invisible when your shoes are on (no-show socks) to knee highs (or over-the-calf socks (ending just below the kneecap). In-between lengths include ankle socks (also called ‘quarter’, casual, or shorty height) and the popular crew socks that go to around mid-calf.

Material – Traditionally socks were either cotton or synthetic polyester. Cotton tends to be the least expensive, but they are not odor-resistant (think high school locker room). Cotton is not wicking this means it does not pull moisture away from the skin so your feet won’t stay dry. Cotton is strong but soft, retains heat, and stretches easily. Polyester keeps colors vibrant for a long time and dries quickly, but is not breathable, or as comfortable. A more expensive option is merino wool is known for its durability, moisture-wicking, and odor-eliminating properties. It tends to be soft fine and smooth.  Merino wool is wrinkle-resistant, and stretchy but holds its shape.

Comfort – There are socks with and without padding. The added cushioning reduces the impact on your feet and provides warmth. No-cushion socks are light, tight, and breathable (often selected by runners). Cushioned socks are designed for protection, targeting the toe, heel, and sole (the amount of cushioning varies based on the intended use).

Weight – Socks come in four basic weights heavyweight, midweight, lightweight, and ultralight. The thinner fabric allows for ventilation, making these the most breathable sock weights. Lightweight are typically used as formal ‘dress’ and everyday socks, midweight socks are comfortable for year-round wear, and heavyweight thick and warm made for extreme conditions.

Style is a Personal Choice

When considering a sock purchase, begin by determining what you will be doing while wearing it. Is it sports-related, or an everyday sock (which are typically referred to as lifestyle socks)? Runners typically prefer tight, light, and breathable socks while outdoor winter enthusiasts select socks that provide warmth and protect their calves.

We tried Darn Tough Socks, a high-end manufacturer of socks for some with crazy patterns. Their socks are made in Vermont and come with an Unconditional Lifetime Guarantee. They have a large selection of styles and can be purchased either online or in stores.

What we liked most about Darn Tough Socks (in addition to their name) is that they eliminated the guesswork about selecting socks, making it a science. Darn Tough treats socks like a topic worthy of research, and takes nothing for granted. On their website, they carefully explain the advantages and disadvantages of different types of socks, even including a guide for sock sizing.

Darn Tough sells socks in every conceivable style, color, pattern, and use. We tried their lifestyle socks. They were comfortable, with light padding on the sole. The material was soft and supportive. Over time, the padding flattened but continued to provide a welcome buffer between feet and shoe.

What more can we say about socks, except that Darn Tough Socks come with a Warranty – ‘If these aren’t the longest lasting socks you’ve ever owned, you can return them to us for another pair.’  We found their confidence endearing, it made them stand out.

History – Ric Cabot left a publishing job to work alongside his father Marc at Cabot Hosiery Mills in Northfield, Vermont. Ric was the third generation working in the sock business, he started on the knitting floor, and worked his way to become a co-owner, opening a new Mill in Northfield, Vermont. As manufacturing jobs moved offshore they doubled down, knitting premium, longer-lasting socks backed by the industry’s first Lifetime Guarantee.

At the Vermont City Marathon in 2004, they handed out 3,500 pairs backed by a promise: if you can wear out our socks, we’ll replace them for free. That was 20 years ago, Darn Tough Socks still produces high-quality socks with a warrantee – they stand behind each pair.

Feet Forward

Darn Tough Socks changed the way we thought of socks. Selecting the correct socks can improve performance and comfort. Your socks should match your activities and provide cushioning (in addition to coming in bright colors with bold patterns.) Socks can make a fashion statement, but more importantly, they should protect your feet.

Darn Tough Socks are darn good, so you can put your best foot forward.