Who would ever think that the length of socks could be so complicated—and in particular calf socks! At least once a week, a customer will ask the question: what is the length of the classic calf sock? Does it cover the entire calf? Does it reach your knee? What is the difference between calf socks and ankle socks? Which part of the calf do they reach? Calf socks are one of the top-selling lengths.
Here is the skinny on of sock lengths:
Ankle or invisible socks suit lower cut shoes such as loafers and gym shoes. Like all sock styles, they are designed to protect the feet without showing above the shoe to give the impression you are not wearing socks at all. They look understated, yet add a nice finishing touch to your casual attire. More recently, the Invisible socks were introduced, and true to their name, you cannot see them at all, however, they serve the purpose of maximum comfort with a barefoot feel.
Calf-length socks are most popular with men, and generally go up to the mid part of the calf, providing added protection and warmth. Calf-length socks come in a variety of materials including merino wool, cotton, business light, and urban comfort. They keep your feet fresh after a long day at the office or a three-mile walk. Calf socks come in a variety of materials including Pima cotton, merino wool, and cotton blends. They are designed to keep away moisture and keep feet fresh.
Crew length socks come up a little further up your foot, reaching about six to eight inches up your leg to your calf muscles. This is a very popular length, especially for kids, as it protects feet and ankles from insect bites, blisters, and thorns, among other hazards in fields and playgrounds. Crew length socks are similar to quarter length socks and are a great way to keep your feet and ankles during the cooler months.
Knee-high socks are appealing to a certain type of stylish man, as the longer length allows for more opportunities for patterns, polka dots, vibrant colors, and fun designs. They are a fantastic way to show off your individuality and a unique accent to your outfit. Another great use for these knee-high socks is to provide an extra line inside longer boots and slacks in the winter for added comfort and protection from the cold.
Over-the-knee socks pass the knee and stretch up to the thigh offer versatility, protection, and style for women who enjoy wearing skirts and dresses and don’t always want to reach for stockings or tights. Bold prints and colors add real individuality while smooth, flattering colors add the perfect touch to any outfit or style.
Additionally, the over the calf sock is sometimes also known as the “knee sock,” because, unlike regular socks that usually rise just past the ankle, over the calf socks, as the name implies, cover the entire calf and go all the way up to the knee in some cases. Aesthetically, this makes over the calf socks an ideal fashion choice for outfits involving pants and suits, as it means that the wearer doesn’t have any concerns about stretching or movement breaking up the look of an outfit by showing off skin. From a reliability standpoint, this type of sock is also much better to wear as the height of the sock ensures that it has sufficient surface and traction to hold itself up, and not drop around the ankles the way regular socks may.
Fortunately for men and women, there is an abundance of sock lengths that take you to different heights on your leg. Quite often a sock drawer is filled with socks of several lengths allowing for styles to suit your comfort and needs.