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Like it or not, there comes a time in everyone’s life when socks become one of the most thrilling gifts a person can receive. Typically this transformation occurs sometime in early adulthood, when the desperation for basic necessities far outweighs the want for some extravagant gift.
While you can rest easy knowing that your socks will be received with sincere enthusiasm, it doesn’t make the task of shopping for them any more exciting. But that’s because you’ve been shopping for socks the wrong way — if done properly, you’ll find it a rewarding and stimulating retail experience.
That’s because when we talk about gifting socks we don’t mean the generic Hanes 12-pack. Rather, the socks you gift should speak to the individual you’re shopping for, their specific tastes, interests and hobbies. Once you have those narrowed down you’ll find yourself faced with a wealth of fabrics, patterns and stylish brands — these can run the gamut of Gap to Gucci — to choose from and the seemingly impossible will occur: you’re overwhelmed by socks.
In order to make the process of shopping for gift-able socks manageable, but not boring, we’ve gathered 14 of the best pairs currently on the market, all suited to a range of situations and sartorial sensibilities. So whether your guy is a Deadhead with an affinity for tie-dye or could use a little help reigning in his sweaty feet, we’ve got you covered.
One pair of rocking socks not a good enough gift for you? Try Swedish essentials brand CDLP’s premium 5-pack, instead. Woven from a bamboo-polyamide blend (and let’s not forget the touch of elastic for that much-need snap), these stockings feel cool to the touch thanks to natural anti-bacterial properties.
Rototo’s pattern-forward Leopard Crew Socks are the type of thing few would buy on their own but all would love to receive as a gift. With a bold, on-trend style and Japanese-made linked-toe-seam construction, he’ll never want to take them off.
Online Ceramics tee sold out? Dead & Company tickets a touch out of your budget? Anonymous Ism, in their infinite and cosmic wisdom, has a suitable alternative in the Scatter Dye Crew Socks, a pair of trippy, recycled yarn socks that real ‘stocks and socks heads have been raving about since they burst on the scene a few years back. They’re thick, robust and dyed to wavy perfection.
CHUP’s festive Fair Isle Socks are specifically knit on stocking frame knitting machines, which mimic the movements of hand-knitting for an authentically cozy blend of wool, nylon, polyurethane and rayon.
Not every shoe and outfit is conducive to a pair of socks, and sometimes they can detract rather than add to the outfit. But instead of going sans sock altogether (ew), opt for a pair of no-show socks like Corgi’s cable knit version. Your feet will remain nice and protected while the sock remains completely hidden. So if you’re feeling a little frisky, go ahead and flash some ankle.
Add a little pizzazz to your regular rotation of sneakers with American Trench’s retro-inspired socks. They bring the perfect touch of vintage to an outfit.
When you think of DTC-brand Parachute, you probably think of their luxurious bedding, but they make a damn fine sock, too. The 100% cotton chunky knit socks are a surefire way to keep tootsies warm and toasty: they’re perfectly slouchy and totally lounge-worthy.
Crafted from a heavyweight (and itch-free) Australian merino wool, L.L.Bean’s Ragg Socks are the perfect pair for padding around in, making those hard-to-function winter mornings slightly more bearable.
Socks and underwear are the two pieces of dress we replace most often. It can take only a few years of consistent wear for socks to develop holes in the toes and heels, but Darn Tough uses high-quality merino wool and a unique fine gauge knitting technique to make all their socks extra durable. The best part? If you do get a hole in one, just send it back and they’ll replace it for you.
On Running’s swift socks are made with a polyamide and elastane blend of technical mesh, making them ideal for keeping your feet fresh and comfortable event through the most grueling of runs and workouts.
Nike’s crew socks will forever be a staple, thanks to their simple design featuring that iconic swoosh, favored for their ability to lean either athletic or casual. Remember to pull ’em up high and draw attention to those stems of yours.
A timeless herringbone stitch and classic dress sock style make PRL’s Trouser Socks perfect for the dapper dude, with a touch of Polo Bear fun to keep things interesting and not plain-socks-as-a-gift boring.
We've put in the work researching, reviewing and rounding up all the shirts, jackets, shoes and accessories you'll need this season, whether it's for yourself of for gifting purposes. Sign up here for weekly style inspo direct to your inbox.
