Different Types of Socks You Should Know October 04 2021, 0 Comments
Socks are truly having a moment in the spotlight. Right now, custom socks are trending once again, and for good reason. Custom printed socks are fashionable and versatile. Brightly colored socks that go with loafers or over-the-knee volleyball sports socks make a bold statement but must also be comfortable enough for everyday wear. Learn more about how to wear all different types of stylish and sports socks for every occasion.
Styles
- Socks that go with loafers
Socks that go with loafers can be casual or formal. It is not uncommon to see a dad or two wearing tube socks with loafers, like The Dude. However, custom socks paired with loafers can also feature business logos that make workwear fun.
- Ankle-length socks
Ankle-length socks have a variety of purposes. Some people prefer no-show socks that sit right below the ankle to eliminate the look of socks altogether. Others use ankle socks for sportswear to provide maximum airflow to legs while working out or running.
- Quarter-length socks
Quarter-length socks hit just above the ankle and are usually reserved for compression sports socks. Quarter socks add stability at the ankles and can be helpful in sports practice and conditioning.
- Crew-length socks
Crew-length socks are also very versatile. Crews can be made from lace or fishnet and worn with high heels or boots to create an intense statement that is also fun. Crews can also be thicker and worn with casual tennis shoes for a lazy Saturday running errands.
- Mid-calf length socks
Mid-calf length socks are classically referred to as business or trouser socks. Custom printed socks that are thinner can peek out from under trousers, or a suit leg, giving a cheeky surprise for anyone who catches a glimpse.
- Calf-length socks
Calf-length socks are also referred to as knee-highs and are often made of nylon hosiery but also come in other materials. They hit right at the knee but do not go over the cap. Calf-length socks are just as preferable as mid-calf socks when styling business formal or casual wear for a day look.
- Knee-length socks
Knee-length socks are as popular in sportswear as they are in fashion. Knee-length socks have inspired school girl fashion trends with pleated skirts. Complete the outfit with buckled boots or demure tennies. Knee-length socks are also a favorite for fan fashion. Many game-goers use knee-length socks in custom colors to show team spirit.
- Thigh-high socks
Thigh-high socks are often made from elastic-based materials and are meant to stretch up above the knee and stay on their own or be stationed with a support strap. Thigh-high socks can make for warm and cozy weekend wear on the couch or a sassy night out on the town.

Sports Socks
- Football socks
Football socks are often worn under the knees for compression, support, and comfort. Football socks must be made from top wicking material since games are often played during inclement weather with no change breaks.
- Baseball socks
Baseball socks are designed for rugged field play during hot seasons. These socks should be moisture-wicking and lightweight, with plenty of stretch but the ability to stay up over the course of a game. Baseball socks need to stay pulled up to the knee so that stirrups can be worn over top, if that is the team’s preference.
- Stirrup socks
Stirrup socks come in a few variations. They can come as a stirrup only and be fitted over a sanitary sock. Or, stirrup socks can be more of an all-in-one stirrup sock, and the sock and stirrup are joined together. Since there is much standing in baseball, both baseball socks and stirrups must offer ample compression for players.
- Hockey socks
Hockey socks are a little different from traditional socks. There are skate socks that are more like the socks you may be familiar with that go on your feet underneath ice skates. However, hockey socks are more expansive than traditional socks, run mid-thigh, and often attach to a jockstrap or other protective undergarments.
- Volleyball socks
Volleyball socks are an over-the-knee sock that offers compression and zoned cushioning for hard jumps. Much like baseball, there is ample time for standing, so compression is integral for players to keep blood flowing. Socks must fit tightly above the knee without being too restrictive to accommodate knee pads that will fit over top.
- Soccer socks
Often referred to as calf or just knee-length socks, soccer socks are high-performance socks. Soccer is an active sport that involves tense spurts of running and jogging in between. Soccer socks are made with compression zones with high wicking materials that ensure feet won’t slide while practicing fancy footwork to secure a goal.
