Buying socks, for most people, is easy. You just pick which color you like and you’re done. But, little do many people know that socks also come in various shapes and sizes, making shopping a bit more confusing over time too.
Socks aren’t just made for fashion. They also exist to serve as extra protection to keep blisters and other foot issues at bay caused by walking in your shoes for too long. And believe it or not, apart from that, socks also help with regulating the body’s temperature, which is why finding the right pair is crucial. But, for starters, how will you know that it’s the right one for you?
In case you find yourself lost in the middle of a mall or shop, buying a pair of socks, here are some things to help you know if it’s the right one for you or not.
Know the Occasion
If you’re buying a pair of socks, one of the things you need to consider is the occasion you’re going to. You see, socks come in various designs. While fashion has no limits, some occasions still might require you to wear a good and appropriate pair of socks to not ruin your outfit.
If the occasion requires you to wear dress shoes, it’s not ideal to wear white socks unless the host requires you to. It’s also a no-no to wear solid black socks with brown shoes, depending on the occasion. Sometimes, brightly colored socks with playful prints aren’t always fit for formal attire.
That said, before you buy a pair of socks, think about the occasion first, especially if the host requires you to follow a dress code. This way, your socks won’t’ break your whole outfit.
Consider the Season
Aside from design, socks are also made of different materials. And these materials help you regulate your temperature depending on the season.
Wool, for instance, helps keep your feet warm and dry during winter. On the other hand, cotton, known for its breathability properties, keeps your feet fresh and cool during warmer months. It’s so easy to be enticed with a sock’s design. But because not all of them are created equal, before you proceed in buying socks in bulk just because you like their design, think twice and consider the season when you’re planning to wear them. This way, you won’t regret your purchase.
Think About Where You’ll Pair it With
Socks also have various styles. There are those that will only cover your ankles, there are those that are high enough to cover your knees, etc. And you can’t just pair them with just any pair of shoes you have. This is because some socks were actually made for specific shoe designs. For instance, you can’t wear stilettos and pair them with sports socks.
So, before you purchase a pair of socks, consider the type of shoe you’re planning to pair it with. This way, you can get the right design and protection that you need.
Check the Size Chart
Shopping for socks is also like shopping for shoes. Even if most socks aren’t specifically sized like shoes, they still vary in size and you still need to check them to get the right fit for you. A pair of socks’ size usually range from extra small to extra extra extra large.
For American men, extra small socks are for those who have 3 ½” to 5” shoe sizes. Small is for those sized 5 to 6 ½”, the medium is for those with feet size 7 – 8”, large is for 8 ½” to 10”, extra-large is for 10 ½” to 11 ½” feet size, and extra extra large are for those who are size 12 to 13 ½”. If your feet are between sizes 14 and 15 ½”, you’ll need extra-extra-large socks.
Meanwhile, American women’s size is different. If you’re a woman who is size 5” – 6”, you only need extra small socks. Small is for those who are size 6 ½” to 8”, the medium is for 8 ½” to 9 ½”, large is for 10” to 12”, and extra large is for 13” to 14”, and extra extra large is for 15”.
Usually, brands don’t have XXXL socks for women. But if your feet need bigger socks, you’ll probably need to resort to men’s socks.
Your socks play a vital role not just in completing your look. They’re also important as they protect your feet from blisters and harsh temperatures. Thus, getting the right fit and quality is crucial.