Monotone x GQ
We recently sat down with the GQ fashion team to talk all things socks. Turns out they are as much into socks as we are, and we couldn't agree with them more that ‘socks are the unsung heroes of almost every outfit.’ We got into materials, knit and fit to see what works and what doesn’t when it comes to comfort for your feet. Read on to find out what makes a good sock and why it matters.
What makes a good sock?
“A good sock should be comfortable and durable,” says Rik van Donk, founder of Sydney-based label Monotone, whose socks are knit by artisans in Japan’s Nara Prefecture. “In practice this means that the sock keeps your feet dry and warm (on cold days), or dry and feeling fresh (on warm days). How effectively it does this depends on the materials, the knit and the shape.”
“Natural materials (think wool, linen, silk, cotton) are preferred as they have advantageous properties like thermal insulation, moisture wicking and odour resistance that all help keep your feet comfortable, compared to synthetic materials. So the higher the percentage of natural materials, the better your sock will perform. A small percentage of synthetic fibres is often added for strength.”
"A good pair of socks can be the difference between blisters and the successful breaking in of new boots or shoes."
“The better your socks fit, the more comfortable they’ll be and the longer they will last. Choose a size that is closest to your foot size, and look for a deep, L-shaped heel as this will follow the shape of your foot most closely and will prevent material bunching up; this way you avoid friction which can lead to blisters and will wear out your socks quicker. A ribbed knit also helps shape the sock to your foot and will create a snug fit, thanks to its natural elasticity.”
“Slightly thicker socks can be more comfortable as they provide extra cushioning which can reduce foot fatigue—make sure they fit your shoes, and opt for an open, breathable knit that keeps your feet well ventilated.”
How long do socks last for?
This depends on the quality of the sock. Good socks should get you over a year of regular washing and wear, whereas socks made from low-quality materials will quickly start to resemble Swiss cheese after a few months. The average person will spend around a third of their life wearing shoes, and that can only mean the same, if not more, for socks (including wandering around the house), so they’re worth investing in.
“A good pair of socks with the right fit, worn regularly, should last for a year at least,” explains van Donk. “An ill-fitting pair of socks can wear out quicker due to friction from movement. Likewise if you wear them a lot indoors without shoes, slides or slippers, they will wear quicker.”
"Getting a good pair of socks is one of life's little pleasures"
“Washing plays a role too—socks containing a high percentage of synthetic materials need to be washed more frequently, and the detergent can cause them to wear and the elastane to fail. Socks made from natural materials like wool and hemp need less washing due to their moisture-wicking and antibacterial properties—they’ll last a couple of wears simply by air-drying them overnight. For long-lasting socks, look for socks from natural materials with a good fit.”
What material of socks is best?
The answer to that comes down to how you’re planning on using them. Cotton socks are your go-to's for everyday wear, but as cotton is incredibly absorbent, we wouldn’t recommend using them for regular exercise, as the sweat tends to…linger. Wool is the unsung hero of sock materials. With natural thermoregulation wool socks can keep you cool in the summer, and warm in the winter, plus they make an excellent hiking sock. There’s really no "best material" when it comes to socks, but make sure you’re choosing the right material for your intended use.
“Socks can be made from any material,” echoes van Donk. “However we prefer working with natural materials for their superior properties. Wool is great at keeping your feet warm and dry, thanks to its excellent thermal insulation and its hygroscopic and hydrophobic fibres, which allows them to draw moisture to their centre and leave the surface dry.”
“Silk likewise is a wonderful thermal insulator when worn in close contact as you do with socks, and it is exceedingly comfortable. Again, great for cooler days. We love hemp as it is superb at moisture wicking, very durable as well as antibacterial, which means it’ll keep your feet cool, dry and free from odours. Ideal for warmer days. Cotton is very comfortable and easy, which makes it a great choice for everyday socks. In our thicker, breathable cotton knit they are wonderful for cooler days, and when mixed with other materials like our cotton and washi (Japanese paper) blend, it makes for a great lightweight sock with excellent moisture wicking, perfect for warmer weather.”
Read the full GQ article here.
