The Best Knee-High Socks

Knee-high socks are a fun and fashionable accessory for all ages. Since they go over the calves, they don't have a tendency to roll down, and they help add some serious warmth. You might also use them to add a pop of color and elegance beneath a dress or skirt. From bright, funky patterns to understated, chic solids, knee-high socks come in many varieties. Because they’re so versatile, they can be used to add an eye-catching new dimension to your favorite outfit. To help you find your next pair, we’ve compiled some of the best knee-high socks on the market.

LA Active Knee-High Grip Socks

Stuck on you

These socks offer grippy soles that ensure your child won't slip.
Best Overall

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Active kids love running around, and these grippy socks help them keep their balance on slippery tiles or hardwood floors. The extra strong grip pattern covers the entire sole of the sock, with extra rubber nubs on the heels and balls of the feet. Because the socks are stretchy, they’re very comfortable and won’t leave elastic marks on your child’s skin. They’re also built to last, and they’ll stretch to fit growing kids. The sizes range from six months to nine years, so whether your child is crawling or running, these socks will ensure that they won’t take a tumble.

Pros:

  • Soles are covered in non-slip grippers for balance
  • Thick and flexible fibers stretch to fit growing feet
  • Made from breathable cotton that’s great year-round

Cons:

  • Offered in children’s sizes only

Chalier Over-the-Knee High Socks for Women

Stocking feet

Add elegance and charm to any outfit with these over-the-knee socks.
Best For Women

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Add a new dimension to your favorite outfits with these comfortable and chic over-the-knee socks. They’re available in both neutral solids and colorful stripes, so you can easily match them to whatever you’re wearing. The extra length makes them perfect for pairing them with short skirts and dresses when you want to add a bold and stylish edge. You can also layer them over tights or underneath longer skirts, dresses, and even pants for added warmth. And since the cozy poly-cotton blend has great elasticity, you can wear them all day without getting uncomfortable.

Pros:

  • Stylish and versatile
  • Highly elastic and durable
  • Made from a soft and breathable cotton polyester blend

Cons:

  • The ribbed cuff is not very long, so the socks may roll slightly

CozyWay Knee-High Socks for Newborns, Infants, and Toddlers

Baby steps

Keep your baby's feet toasty with these adorable ruffled socks.
Best For Newborns

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Keep your baby’s feet warm and stylish with these ruffled knee-high socks. The wave pattern and ruffly cuff are very cute, and they go great with dresses and booties. The combed cotton blend is quite soft, and the socks are stretchy enough that they won’t constrict sensitive ankles. Because the fabric is moderately thick, these socks are perfect for year-round wear. And each pack comes with five pairs of socks, so your little girl will be ready to dress up for any occasion that comes her way.

Pros:

  • Made from a soft cotton blend that’s gentle on babies’ delicate skin
  • Double-weave knit for durability with an eye-catching ruffle
  • Stretchy elastic is comfortable around the ankles and legs

Cons:

  • Not machine-washable; it is recommended to hand-wash the socks cold and hang them to dry

Tom & Mary Women’s Knee-High Combed Cotton Socks

Go team

Show off your sporty side with these striped socks.
Best Athletic

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If you’re eager to show off some team spirit, there are few better choices than these striped athletic knee-high socks. The elastic top provides a great grip that keeps the socks from sliding down your leg, so you can wear them all day worry-free. And because they’re made from a blend of combed cotton and polyester, the socks are very durable and also very soft. They’re breathable enough for indoor and outdoor activities, so you’ll be comfortable — not to mention fashionable — whether you’re playing a game of soccer or spending a day in the office.

Pros:

  • Comes in a variety pack with four pairs
  • Elastic top ensures they’ll stay put without rolling down
  • Made from a combed cotton blend that is softer than standard cotton

Cons:

  • Although they’ll stretch to fit different leg shapes, they’re designed for women’s shoe sizes 5-9

Sumona Women’s Fancy Patterned Knee-High Socks

Big and bold

Take a walk on the wild side with these colorful accessories.
Best Novelty

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Brightly patterned socks are a great way to show off your personality, and this variety pack includes six pairs so that you’ll always be able to match your mood. Whether you favor traditional argyle or novelty patterns like stars or rainbows, there is a pair for you. The polyester material holds color well, which makes these socks exceptionally vibrant. They’re stretchy enough to fit a wide range of foot and leg sizes, too, and they’ll stay up easily without leaving uncomfortable marks on your calves.

Pros:

  • Comes in a variety pack so that you can showcase your unique style
  • Stretches for a comfortable fit all day long
  • Fits women’s shoe sizes 4-10

Cons:

  • Made from polyester, which is soft and durable but less breathable than cotton

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best materials for knee-high socks?

Cotton is a great all-around material for socks, because it is breathable, absorbs sweat and moisture, and dries quickly. Polyester is very resilient and long-lasting, does not shrink, and holds bright dyes and colors well, but because it is not as breathable, it can cause your feet to overheat. If you’re looking for extra warmth, natural wool socks are the way to go.

How should I wash my socks?

Because socks are exposed to moisture and bacteria on your feet while you wear them, it’s important to clean them thoroughly in between uses. Because they’re delicate, either hand-wash them or zip them into a mesh laundry bag to prevent snags in the washing machine. Avoid drying socks on high heat to protect the elastic fibers, or better yet, hang them dry to maximize their longevity.

About the Author

Madeleine is always on the lookout for new styles, so you can usually find her perusing Pinterest and Instagram for inspiration. She treats herself to the occasional splurge on nice shoes, but she also loves bargain-hunting at the thrift store. She's developed quite the eye for fashion through the years, and now she wants to share her expertise with anyone looking to give their wardrobe an upgrade.

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