Different Types of Socks for Men and Women

Shubham Anil Jain
Sr. Consultant
Cent Edge Solutions LLP, Bangalore, India
Email: shubhamajain125@gmail.com

Introduction:
An article of clothing which is being worn on the foot that can even has the ability to extend to the ankle and calf is known as sock. Many people thinks that all the socks are the same. But is this truth? Well, here is the aspect: there are various types of socks are which are suitable for different occasions and shoe types. Also, it is seen that, it may found very easy to opt the right pair of socks, but actually it might not be. In order to select the correct pair of socks, it is required that you must be aware about all the different types of socks and their features. Many people tends to make the mistake of selecting any random socks and wearing them but, socks are the one thing which simply offers your feet with good protection. These socks are also found to be very important in your life as they control the moisture content and the temperature and even give you a comfort in your daily life.

Different Types of Socks for Men and Women:

There are many different types of socks available in the market, depending upon length, style, end use, etc. which are being explained below:

1. Half Socks:
When it comes to these types of socks, they are generally a rare style of socks which simply cover only the toes to the arch of the foot, which means only half of the foot, therefore it is called as “half socks”. They are particularly worn when one need to protect the toes, and are basically worn with therapeutic gel to treat toe conditions, or simply to put some cushioning for dance shoes.

2. Ankle Socks:
These types of socks are a best pair of socks which is to be worn with shoes that consist of low cut like sneakers or ankle boots. They are generally found to be a bit more casual than invisible socks as these socks are somewhat visible. However, ankle socks are perfectly suitable for occasions where you are ok to show up a little bit of socks but do not want socks which are generally too bulky on your feet. Ankle socks simply tends to cover just above your feet till your ankles and are found as fairly minimal than most of the other socks.

3. No-Show / Invisible Socks:
No-show socks or invisible socks, as the name itself highlights that these socks, once worn, will not be found visible. These socks particularly sit low on the foot and are basically created in such a way that they tend to hide toes and heels while remaining invisible specifically behind the shoe. They are superb choice for dress shoes and casual shoes of all the different types. They also give an enough protection and keep the foot particularly from rubbing while also keeping your feet dry. So overall, these socks will also provide a comfortable experience.

4. Crew Socks:
It is generally also called mid-calf socks, these crew-length sock has the ability to extend correctly between your knee and ankle. These are a superb alternative for those who are thinking what to wear with hiking boots, or simply with high-top sneakers where the shoes itself is above you’re ankle level. So, in this case it allows your crew socks to protect your legs particularly from high shoes.

5. Athletic Socks:
These types of socks are particularly developed for specified activities which are based on the shoes you wear them with. The important characteristics of these athletic socks are that it helps to improve the performance by providing stability, comfort, moisture wicking, and breathability. Many of the sock materials are used when talking about athletic socks hence one need to confirm which one you need for your comfort. If one is choosing the cotton athletic socks, they are perfect for cushioning and comfort, whereas wool athletic socks tends to offer the breathability and support.

6. Funky Socks / Fashion Socks / Stylish Socks:
With the name itself it suggests that, they are having the fun patterns designs and cool colorful colors, these socks are the great option to add a little touch of personality to your style. They are particularly available in the market in all kinds of colors, patterns, and materials, so one can easily find the perfect option to match your style. Also, they’re a good way to show off your individual preference as well as taste.

7. Quarter-Length Socks:
These types of socks particularly come up a usually bit higher than ankle socks. They also offer a good coverage of the legs to protect the heel particularly from blisters and rubbing, and they’re also the option for performance socks and in many cases such as running or sports since the extra length helps them stay in place. They are another sock which is being considered casual, however, as per the material; they can also develop a great professional sock to wear with full-coverage dress shoes.

8. Transparent Socks:
As the name itself suggests that, it is transparent in nature. These socks are a good way to enhance a taste of your personality to your outfit. It is almost found to be transparent and cannot be seen, also will have some of the fun as well as small pattern design. They are generally very eye-catching and distinct, and they can really make a good fashion statement.

9. Anti-Slip Socks / Grip Socks:
These types of socks are off course very unique in that they have particularly rubber on the foot soles to create friction. These types of stylish socks generally come with a built-in grip which helps to prevent one from slips and falls on slippery surfaces, when it comes to sports socks and work socks this is very much important. Either you’re grinding the pavement or dancing the dance floor, anti-slip socks are the great way to keep your feet firmly strong.

10. Ribbed Socks:
These types of socks simply have ridges or raised lines which are running along them. The specialty of these ribbed designs is that it helps the socks keep in place and avoid slip down to the ankle. These Ribbed socks can be manufactured from different types of materials, which include cotton, wool, and synthetic fibres. This socks are majorly elastic than other types of socks and generally have a good textured appearance.

11. Full Knee Socks:

Full knee length socks are used by men and women, basically under their boots, at the time of winters. They simply work as a cushion and tend to put an extra layer, generally to keep the feet warm. These kinds of knee-high socks are used prominently in the flying and hospitality industries such as a part of the uniforms. When it comes to the ski socks and athletic socks which have generally been used for snowboarding, soccer, football, baseball, and golf are basically of this type. These kinds of socks are a great option to match with running shoes or boots.

Conclusion:
Now that you know that there different types of socks available in the market and the sock care tips it is now simpler to purchase all the different styles and take care of them for a long time. Different types of socks in your wardrobe will also allow you to match your socks for many occasions accordingly. So, it is suggested to go for alternatives which are found to be soft and keep your feet comfortable at your work place.

References:

16 Types Of Socks: Every Cut Explained & How To Wear Them https://sheecsocks.com/blogs/being-chic/types-of-socks
Jul 20, 2021, 13 Types of Socks: Explore Different Sock Heights and Materials https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-socks
August 5, 2022, Complete List Of Different Types Of Socks (With Photos) 2023 https://www.soxwow.com/different-types-of-socks/
16 Nov 2023, 10 Types Of Socks: Exploring The Variety https://www.cotstyle.com/blogs/cotstyle-fashion/types-of-socks
Dr. Michael Darder, April 13, 2022, Types of Socks: The Comprehensive List https://www.comradsocks.com/blogs/journal/types-of-socks-the-comprehensive-list

FAQs:

Q1. What is generally long sock are called?
Ans: It is normally called as over-the-Knee socks.

Q2. Is it ok to sleep with socks?
Ans: It may found as risky, if the socks are too tight, it may disrupt circulation, or if they’re developed from non-breathable material, it can cause overheating or moisture buildup.

Q3. What kind of socks are more suitable for feet?
Ans: Socks which are made of moisture-wicking materials like polyester, nylon, and wool, which are most suitable and effective at keeping sweaty feet dry, cool, and comfortable which helps to reduce sweat and keep your feet dry.

Q4. Which is the classic type of socks?
Ans: Crew socks are generally recognized as one of the most classic sock types on the market.

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Mazharul Islam Kiron

Founder & Editor of Textile Learner. He is a Textile Consultant, Blogger & Entrepreneur. He is working as a textile consultant in several local and international companies. He is also a contributor of Wikipedia.