The Best Crew Socks for Men
No matter where you roam, the trusty crew sock is an essential present in top drawers across the nation. Crew socks are built to breathe and offer protection from the elements at the same time, providing length usually somewhere below the mid-calf. While traditionally a cotton creation, crew socks tout countless blends that specialize in everything from perspiration protection, compression, or odor elimination. Our top crew socks will cradle your arch and soothe your lower leg better than your current selection while boasting styles much more modern than your grandfather's pairs of old.
Dickies Dri-tech Crew Socks
Fit every foot
When it comes to controlling moisture, Dickies’ Dri-tech has a sharp edge over the competition. This crew sock is a cotton blend consisting of nylon, spandex, and polyester. These flexible additives will reduce foot fatigue thanks to the tight arch support, while overall elasticity makes the sock much more durable. If you think that this tight hold will restrict airflow, think again. This footwear features ribbed airflow channels from shin to toes that cut down on smell and moisture, giving you a more relaxing fit no matter how long you’re on your feet.
Pros:
- Retain heat very well in cold conditions
- Over 25 styles to choose from
- Extra reinforcement in the toe section
Cons:
- They may shed with rough use or abrasive skin
Hanes FreshIQ Crew Socks
Say sayonara to smell
If you’re looking for a pair of socks that can keep up with a rigorous routine, FreshIQ by Hanes is the choice for you. To start, we’ll be the first to admit that these black and white stock socks aren’t catwalk material by any means. Instead, FreshIQ focuses on wicking away sweat with an even split between breathable polyester and comfortable cotton. The discrete seams have an exceptionally tiny footprint that won’t irritate skin or come unraveled after a handful of washes. Overall, FreshIQ is a great replacement for all activities where sweat never ceases and heavier work boots are part of the uniform.
Pros:
- Extra sole padding for a relaxing fit
- Available in black or white twelve pack
- High quality for the price
Cons:
- Will not accommodate big and tall sizes
Fruit of the Loom Dual Defense Crew Socks
Comfort that doesn't compromise
The Dual Defense crew socks by Fruit of the Loom are built to last through countless workdays or outdoor adventures, no matter how rough the journey. While other crew socks are more versatile for casual comfort, this footwear is fully polyester. This is ideal for hotter climates or particularly rigorous activities because of its water-resistant properties. Polyester on its own is not the best at wicking moisture. Still, thanks to the patented Dual Defense technology, you can get the best of both fabric worlds without having to compromise on durability. All in all, this Fruit of the Loom pack will resist sweat stains, encourage evaporation, and remain hole-free for longer than your average sock.
Pros:
- Heels and toes are spun with extra layers of fabric
- Will not shed fabric or lint over time
- It runs true to size
Cons:
- These socks may come unraveled faster than cotton blends
Zeke Pattern Dress Crew Socks
The stylish sock selection
Showing off at formal get-togethers doesn’t have to depend on fancy suits or expensive accessories. Zeke’s crew socks are the perfect fit for formal attire requiring an injection of extra pizzaz. This purchase will instantly make your feet look the part. Available in six variations, this option is available in a medley of both standard patterns and eye-catching designs. If you’re prepping for a business presentation and don’t want to come off too loud, the polka dot, stripes, or argyle options will suit your needs. However, when it’s time to get down to business on the dance floor, strut your stuff with wacky throwback patterns or mustache-colored prints that will certainly turn heads.
Pros:
- Spandex and polyester combination
- Twelve individual designs per pack
- Go well with dress pants and khakis alike
Cons:
- The socks are quite thin and offer little warmth
Dickies Heavyweight Compression Crew Socks
Toe to calf protection
Working outside in harsh weather is usually tolerable up until the point that your toes start to turn into popsicles. The Dickies heavyweight compression crew socks are built for individuals that work on their feet for long periods of time. This particular blend is two-thirds cotton and one-third polyester, meaning warmth and breathability take center stage. We’re a huge fan of Dickies’ decision to reinforce every square inch of the sole and weave in spandex to add compression to the arch, ankle, and top of the sock.
Pros:
- Reinforced pressure points
- Available in black, white, and grey
- Thicker cotton for high impact regions of the foot
- A great option for big and tall sizing
Cons:
- The socks are somewhat slippery before the first couple of washes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal shoe size for crew socks?
Crew socks are one of the most universal styles available today. While there is no rule against wearing these garments with any footwear, they can be much more useful for specific shoes. In particular, crew socks are often worn with hiking or work boots. Boat, running, and dress shoes are commonly paired with a crew-length sock as well. Both boating and running can benefit from the extra padding and warmth of crew socks, while suits and dress pants are almost always paired with the longer, more formal cut we all know and love.
What are the origins of crew socks?
While socks have been around for countless generations, the specific term crew in the English language is a fairly recent development. The specific length of sock in question is universal across a wide variety of jobs and settings, from office work to manual labor. As such, the term ‘crew’ may have been a catch-all term for bulk sock purchases in the armed forces. Specifically, over half a century ago, the United States Navy popularized this sock length because it suited the needs of both administrator and sailor in most environments.
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