The Best Men’s Socks
Whether you're trying to stay warm or add a little flair to your business attire, there's a perfect pair of socks to fit your needs. Back in the day, men's socks were blandly uniform and utilitarian, leaving much to be desired in the way of style and personalization. Nowadays, however, there are almost as many sock options as there are shoe options. With all of this variety, finding the right pair for you can feel daunting. To help you decide, we've put together this list of the best men's socks on the block.
What To Look For
Whether you’re looking for knee-highs, no-shows, or hiking socks, there are a few common qualities that any good pair of socks should have. When conducting our research for this piece, we narrowed down our main considerations to comfort, elasticity retention, and durability. With this in mind, we felt that Adidas’ athletic crew socks were the cream of the crop. These socks utilize top-notch moisture-wicking and extra cushioning in the arches to create a versatile wearing experience ideal for any occasion. On the flip side, if you’re looking for something a little more stylish, we highly recommend Amazon Essentials’ patterned socks. Amazon Essentials went above and beyond in crafting a fashionable and varied selection of men’s socks that look as great as they feel. Read on to discover more about the rest of our top picks.
Adidas Athletic Crew Socks, 6-Pack
High and dry
All day we dreamt about socks, and we couldn’t be more pleased with these athletic crews from Adidas. With meticulously designed arch compression and top-shelf moisture-wicking fabric, these socks are a slam dunk for work, play, and everything in between. We’re big fans of the polyester-spandex fabric blend that offers just the right amount of elasticity and support where you need it most. What’s more, Adidas offers a slick selection of color options, making it easy to mix and match.
Pros:
- The extra cushioning under your arches will keep you well-supported during long days on your feet.
- The durable fabric blend tends not to pill after multiple cycles in the wash.
Cons:
- If you have shorter legs, be aware that these socks might ride up close to your knees.
Nike Ankle Training Socks, 3-Pack
Off to the races
Nobody wants stinky feet after a long workout. These ankle-length training socks from Nike feature optimized sweat-wicking technology that nips foot odor in the bud. We also appreciate the high-friction cotton fabric that prevents shoe slippage while you’re exercising. Not to mention, the terry sole is a prime feature that comes in clutch when it comes to impact absorption.
Pros:
- These socks offer the superior arch support you need for lengthy workout sessions.
- We love that they tend to keep their shape after months of wear and tear.
Cons:
- They might be a bit tight for men with wider feet.
Vans Classic Super No-Show Socks, 3-Pack
If you’re a low-top sneaker aficionado, these no-show socks from Vans should be right up your alley. These socks provide all the support and comfort of high socks without riding all the way up the leg. Ideal for sneaker heads and skaters, these socks are available in a wide array of color options and designs. Plus, it’s hard to argue with the more than reasonable asking price on offer here.
Pros:
- Despite the super low-cut design, these socks offer much more arch support than you might expect.
- The reliable elastic welt keeps your socks in place throughout the day.
Cons:
- The sizing may run a bit large.
Amazon Essentials Patterned Socks, 5-Pack
Fresh and funky
Finding a way to breathe some life into your office attire can feel like a tall order. Thankfully, these fun patterned socks from Amazon Essentials are here to help you stand out from the pack. Amazon Essentials offers a cavalcade of cool design options and colors that can help make your day at the office feel a little more cheery and a little less dreary. We also appreciate that Amazon Essentials didn’t put style over substance in these socks, which is evidenced by these the top-notch elasticity retention of these socks.
Pros:
- With so many designs and colors to choose from, you’re bound to find at least one pair that’s perfect for you.
- The reinforced heel and toe patches promote comfort throughout the day.
Cons:
- As a thinner dress sock, these probably won’t have as long of a lifespan as comparably priced athletic socks.
Time May Tell Merino Wool Socks
Cozy toes
If your feet are cold, your whole body starts to get chilly. Luckily, you can keep your toes feeling cozy with Time May Tell’s hiking socks. These socks utilize a winning fabric blend made up of merino wool, nylon, polyester, and spandex, offering just the right amount of warmth and elasticity. Perfect for outdoor excursions, the moisture-wicking fabric works to keep your feet feeling warm and dry no matter the climate.
Pros:
- When it comes to sizing, there shouldn’t be any surprises here. We appreciate how accurately and true-to-size these socks tend to fit.
- There’s a good bit of arch compression that’ll keep you feeling supported during outdoor activities.
Cons:
- We do wish that these socks were offered in a wider variety of color options.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I get rid of my socks?
There are a few telltale signs that should alert you to a sock past its prime. If they’re starting to lose their elasticity, pill after a wash cycle, or are developing holes, you’ll know it’s probably time to pick up a few more pairs.
What’s the difference between dress socks and athletic socks?
Dress socks are traditionally thinner and softer, while athletic socks are bulkier and a bit more durable. Both types have their place in any well-rounded wardrobe.
About the Author
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