Philosockphy: Sock of the Month – Which Material is Best for Socks?

 

A sock’s job is simple: keep your toes warm and, in some cases, dry. But we think the way it looks can sometimes be just as important as how it feels on our feet! That’s why we’re introducing Philosockphy, our monthly series where we take a deeper look into all things sock related—from which material is best for socks to why socks are even necessary in the first place! Here’s our first topic...

What makes a good pair of socks

A good pair of socks makes all the difference, whether you're wearing them in your running shoes or under a suit. There are a variety of factors to consider when buying socks, such as length and thickness. You want thin socks if you're wearing them with dress shoes; thicker ones are great to wear with sneakers because they provide extra cushioning. Cotton pairs offer breathability, while wool and cashmere can keep feet warm in cold weather. A sock subscription service can be a great gift idea and they often offer different fabrics each month so you get something new every season!

How are cotton socks made?

Cotton socks are usually made from cotton fibers that are spun into yarn and knitted or woven into fabric. Cotton is a natural, renewable resource and has excellent breathability which means it will keep your feet cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The downside is that cotton socks will wear out faster than a wool or cashmere sock because cotton fibers don't have as much stretch to them. Cotton socks also take more time to dry so if you want to avoid wet, smelly feet, then this could be an issue.

Wool Socks vs. Cashmere Socks

The best sock material depends on what you're looking for. If you're looking for style, then cashmere socks are perfect. However, they're not as durable or warm as wool socks. Wool socks are a great choice if you want something that's both warm and durable. They also come in a variety of colors and designs! Cashmere socks are definitely cool to wear, but they won't last long against everyday wear and tear.

The Verdict on Wool vs. Cashmere

Wool socks are always a popular choice, with their cozy warmth and soft texture. However, wool can be itchy and heavy, especially in the summer. Cashmere, on the other hand, is much lighter and softer than wool. If you're looking for a sock that feels more like your favorite sweater than a hiking boot, cashmere may be your answer. But beware: cashmere will pill if you don't take care of them properly (i.e., by hand-washing). Cashmere also tends to cost significantly more than wool socks—around $40 per pair vs. around $10 per pair respectively—so be sure to factor in price when deciding what's best for you!

Is it worth it to buy expensive socks

There's no denying that cashmere socks are luxurious, soft, and warm. The problem with cashmere socks is that they can be expensive and you may not want to wear them too often because they'll wear out quickly. So if you don't want to break the bank or wear your cashmere socks every day, it may be worth it to buy a cheaper pair of wool or cotton socks. Even if they're not as luxurious, they'll still keep your feet warm and comfortable while lasting much longer.