You might not think about them all that often, but socks are some of the most important items in your closet. You (should) wear them every day and they’re responsible for separating your stinky, sweaty feet from those gorgeous white sneakers you recently purchased. This important role they play in your wardrobe and the usage they get warrants them as something you ought to splash your cash on every so often.
Apart from their important functional role, socks can become an accessory. Like any accessory, socks can be a great way to show off your personality to those around you. Are you that clean-cut American Psycho-esque banker? Or your offices’ resident larrikin? Well, your socks are one way to suggest to others which you might be.
Once you’ve figured that out, you’re ready to check out our list of the best sock brands for men.
Bonobos
Bonobos priorities everyday comfort in their clothing and their socks hold true, to this ethos. Made from a selection of high-quality materials, Bonobos socks will get you through the workweek and into the weekend in the utmost comfort.
Rhone
Men's premium activewear specialist Rhone has socks to suit such occasions. With just an ankle sock design on their books, Rhone's are made for active individuals. With strategic paddings, superior heel grips and anti-odour technology, they're a must for anyone with an active lifestyle.
Outerknown
Professional surfer Kelly Slater's own brand of clothing, Outerknown strives to create sustainable and ethical products that do wonders for the planet and its oceans. That mantra is even applied to socks, with Outerknown's offering – made in collaboration with sustainable sock maker Arvin Goods – being available in various colours and rocking a padded footbed.
Frank & Oak
Frank & Oak believe that the current trends of the fashion industry as a whole are unstainable and unethical. To combat this, they offer products that are ethically responsible and environmentally sustainable.
Hugo Boss
The famous German label, Hugo Boss is famous for its minimalistic, clean-cut looks that embodies Germany’s culture as a whole. Their socks are no different and are made to the highest standards.
Entireworld
Entireworld is. a relatively fresh clothing brand serving up the basics for prices that won't break the bank. The sock range comprises striped and block-colour options in multiple colours and made from organic cotton. A simple essential done in a simple way that is simply great.
Taylor Stitch
San Francisco-based Taylor Stitch has made it its mission from the outset to offer up a collection of staple pieces, made from responsibly-sourced materials and put together in ethical ways. The brand's sock collection is made to last, offering comfort, timeless style and durability. Moisture-wicking and anti-microbial properties are also present across the board.
American Giant
Nobody likes it when they get holes in their socks, either to find your toes poking out or your heel rubbing on your shoe. That shouldn't be the case with American Giant's socks. Made in the USA from a specially-made fabric, they get a cushioned footbed and a good dosage of stretch for all-day comfort.
O.N.S Clothing/Druthers
US clothing company O.N.S. is another that is committed to giving guys well-made and thoughtfully curated essentials for everyday wear. It's with this in mind that it stocks Druthers in its online store. Another NYC-based brand, Druthers fashions its socks out of recycled yarns in ethical factories around the world.
Ted Baker
Started in Glasgow, Ted Baker originally made shirts and has grown to offer everything a man could need. Their socks feature the brand’s iconic patterns and are of high quality.
Happy Socks
Since 2008, Happy Socks has been making flashy, exciting socks for everyone. Their ultimate aim is to make people happier in their everyday lives. Not only do they look great, Happy Socks are some of the comfiest socks you’ll find.
Jos. A. Bank
Well known in the US for its range of both off-the-rack and custom-made suits, Jos. A. Bank is no stranger to sartorial style, whether it be for formal events or the corporate world. It's no secret that guys like to have some fun with their socks within these areas, and Jos. A. Bank's collection of fun pictures and patterns is more than happy to oblige.
Pantherella
Since 1937, Pantherella has been making high-quality socks for men. They use a range of materials and are available in both subdued and bold patterns. They have an almost invisible, hand-linked toe seams for unparalleled comfort.
J. Crew
J. Crew makes classic clothing items with a twist, their socks are no different. Available in a range of lengths, materials, and patterns J. Crew socks should be your go-to for this essential staple.
Chup
Founded in Japan, Chup focus on making the best socks possible and boy do they deliver. For the last few decades, they have made a name for themselves in the sock world.
Anonymous Ism
Anonymous Ism creates socks from unique materials and patterns with a distinct focus on quality. Their take on socks is very modern and also focuses heavily on comfort.
Charles Tyrwhitt
For decades, Charles Tyrwhitt has been making great business shirts. After broadening their range, they now also offer socks, perfect for any corporate hotshot.
Marcoliani
Marcoliani is based in Milan and pays homage to the traditional sock making techniques in combination with modern designs. They use only the finest fabrics and quality control.
Off-White
Luxury streetwear brand Off-White is the brainchild of Louis Vuitton creative director Virgil Abloh. The sought-after label's sock collection is perhaps better-suited to casual office workers than the more corporate type, but make a great addition to a laidback weekend look.
Corgi
Made in chilly Wales, Corgi socks are some of the warmest and most comfortable around. Available in a range of cotton, wool and cashmere blends, Corgi socks will have a pair to suit your needs. They even have a Royal Warrant.
Hackett
Hackett, a Saville Row tailor, isn’t the first brand you think of when it comes to socks but their attention to detail and focus on quality renders them a good proposition for your next pair of favourite socks.
Reiss
Reiss is a British brand that seems to be at the height of style at the moment. Their socks are crafted for comfort and designed for style.
Saturdays NYC
Started by a group of friends in New York City that all shared a passion for surfing, coffee, and art culture, Saturdays NYC is now a brand that embodies those passions. Their socks are minimalistic and ultra-comfortable.
Paul Smith
Famous for his iconic stripes design, Paul Smith has a range of socks that a sophisticated yet flashy. As will all Paul Smith products, they’re made to the highest standards.
New & Lingwood
A gentleman’s outfitter, New & Lingwood is a traditional British menswear outfitter with a twist of modernity. They have an enormous range of socks to suit any style.
London Sock Company
Built on the belief that great socks can inspire confidence, London Sock Co. helps people be the best version of themselves through quality made socks and quintessential English design.
Boohoo Man
For the man who wants simple clothing that really won't have your accountant worried, turn to Boohoo Man. The British brand has multiple sock styles, from invisible to full-length crew, in a range of colours, prints and patterns.