Choosing the Right Men’s Socks

Men’s socks are often ignored or assumed to be an afterthought, but they change the fit and comfort of your shoes and can provide a pop of color or a subtle fashion statement. With a few simple decisions, you can get the most from your socks—from the fit to the material, and even what they’ll look like on your feet.

The first major decision comes down to length, with seven main styles available. The most versatile men’s socks are crew, which cover from the ankle to mid-ankle, and can be worn with everything from jeans to sneakers. They are also the least likely to win any fashion contests, but they’re functionally perfect for everyday wear, work and exercise.

Next is the ankle sock, which is hidden by low-cut shoes and fits snugly around the ankle bone to prevent chafing. These are perfect for casual wear, and can be worn under shorts or cuffed pant legs, with fun colors and subtle branding. They are also the best choice for wearing sneakers, as they keep your heels and ankles from rubbing against the back of the shoe.

For running and other workouts, athletic socks are the way to go. They can have specific cushioning for abrasion or compression, and might feature ribbing around the foot or calf to help with ventilation. men’s bamboo socks