Jan 08, 2025

Your Guide to Different Types of Socks

Crew length, no-show, sports, ankle, winter—there are many different types of socks available in the market. Which socks to wear with different footwear: loafers, sports shoes, etc.? Which socks to wear to the office, gym, etc.? Which socks to wear in summer and winter?

Choosing the right socks to wear is important not just according to the function but because they are a part of the outfit that is visible to everyone. They may be a small part of your whole outfit but an important one. Your Guide to Different Types of Socks

In this article, we’ll show you the different types of socks based on length and where and how to wear them.

No-show socks

As the name suggests, No-show socks are socks that only cover the toes and heel part of the feet, and sometimes even the top part of the feet. These socks are designed in such a way that they are invisible outside the shoes. These come in 2-3 variants in which the coverage of the feet varies. They have a silicon grip on the heel part to prevent slipping.

No-show socks go well with low-top shoes like loafers, sneakers, boat shoes, and slip-on shoes. They can be worn with ankle-length and short bottoms like shorts, chinos, and cropped trousers. They are good for casual outfits but may not look good with formal outfits.

Ankle-length socks

Ankle-length socks are a sweet spot between no-show and crew-length socks, touching the ankle. These socks cover your feet to the ankle and are one of the most common socks types. They are visible, unlike the no-show socks.

Ankle-length socks can be worn with low-top shoes and ankle boots. Since they are visible, they are more appropriate for casual occasions. These socks can also be worn for light sports activities. They serve the purpose of wearing socks while giving a casual look.

Crew-length socks

Crew-length socks are one of the most commonly found socks in the stores. The length of these socks goes up to the beginning of the calf.

Crew-length socks are good to wear with high-top shoes, hiking boots, and other shoes that go above the ankle. These are good for formal, casual, and sports. These socks can be worn for running, hiking, etc. They can also be worn every day, especially in winter, to keep your feet warm. They come in different materials, like cotton, terry cotton, etc.

Calf-length socks

Calf-length socks are longer than crew-length socks and go up to the calf. These socks come in different lengths—midcalf, calf, and over the calf. Midcalf ones go halfway up to the calf and over the calf go up to the knees.

Calf-length socks are mostly worn with formal wear and uniforms, sportswear, and to keep legs warm during the winter. They are good for those who wear suits and formal suits every day.

Knee-length socks

Knee-length socks are commonly worn to keep legs warm in the winter. The length of these socks goes above the knee. They can also be used as leg warmers, as they are long enough to cover most of the leg part.

Knee-length socks are generally worn with casual outfits or as everyday wear. Women can style knee-length with skirts and shorts to keep themselves warm during winter.

Thigh-high socks

Generally worn for warmth or fashion, thigh-high socks go up to the middle of the thigh. These socks have an elastic band or garter belt on top so that the socks don’t slip down.

Thigh-high socks are also worn for some winter sports.

Some more types of socks

Compression socks

Compression socks are used to improve blood flow and reduce pain and swelling in the legs. These socks are tighter than regular socks and come in different lengths and sizes. These are especially beneficial for those who have varicose veins.

Winter socks

Winter socks are like regular socks, which are made of a different material that is warm. The material used to make these socks is wool and terry cotton. They keep your feet warm in winter and come in different lengths.

Check out our fury socks for women

Grip socks

Grip socks are socks with a rubber layer on the sole to prevent slipping. These socks are used in sports like football and rugby, where foot stability is very important. Other than sports, these socks can also be worn to do pilates, yoga, and trampolining.

How do I find the right socks?

There are a few things that you need to consider when choosing socks for yourself.

Material: The fabric of the socks should be breathable and lightweight. Breathable socks help in keeping the feet dry and odour-free. Natural fabrics like cotton and bamboo are more breathable than synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester.
Socks length: The length and fit of the socks should be proper. The length of the socks depends upon the type of footwear and outfit you’re wearing. The fit of the socks should be snug and comfortable.
Cushioning and support: If you are an athlete, your socks should have a level of cushioning and sometimes even compression to make it comfortable to play.