What type of sock should you buy?

Let's step into the vast world of socks for a moment. 

They come in all sorts of shapes, colours, and sizes, to meet all sorts of different needs - socks for diabetics, socks for sensitive skin, socks for dry skin, socks for arthritis... and finally 'normal socks' or 'essential socks for work or school'. 

As far as sustainable sock shopping goes, it's safe to assume most people won't buy second-hand socks because it's almost like intimates. You want them new and fresh, and that's totally reasonable. 

So then how do you shop sustainable on socks?

With the material they're made from - and if the company has a socio-environmental priority. 

You're probably very familiar with cotton or synthetic socks: they're generally the go-to for essentials socks for kids and school and work. They're affordable, but they don't always last. You'll probably poke a hole through them with your big toe sooner than later, and maybe the heel wears out with that marathon you do around the living room during calls. And then you're back to buying another pack of 5 cotton socks for a couple of quid. 

So, how do we get around that? How do we find socks that last, that do good for the environment, and don't cost a fortune? 

Let's compare different sock materials together. 

Today, we'll look at cotton socks, synthetic fibre socks, merino wool socks, cashmere socks, and bamboo socks. We're going to see what their natural properties are (if they've got them), how much these socks cost, how durable they are and whether they disturb the environment during their growth or production. 

Let's have a look first at natural properties. Are natural socks better than synthetic socks? 

• Bamboo: Bamboo fibres are naturally soft, hypoallergenic, and offer antibacterial properties thanks to their 'Bamboo Kun' characteristic. Bamboo socks offer excellent moisture-wicking features and breathability, keeping feet dry and odour-free (that's great for summer and wetter months).

• Cotton: Cotton is soft, fairly breathable, and widely available. It's hypoallergenic but may retain moisture, potentially causing dampness and odour (so you need to change them very often in the summer months or completely forgo them).

• Synthetic fibres: Polyester, nylon, and acrylic socks are synthetic materials that can be durable, lightweight, and quick-drying. But they lack the breathability and moisture-wicking features found in natural fibres. 

• Merino Wool: Merino wool is soft, insulating, and naturally moisture-wicking. It's great for the winter months. Merino wool socks regulate temperature well and are odour-resistant.

• Cashmere: Cashmere is known for its luxurious softness, warmth, and lightweight nature. As socks, they provide excellent insulation but require delicate care, so perhaps they're not great as everyday socks.

Let's check out money: how much do different socks cost? 

• Bamboo: Bamboo socks are typically priced in the mid to high range due to their sustainable production and unique properties.

• Cotton: Cotton socks are widely available and tend to be pretty affordable (of course, more luxurious variants like organic cotton and Egyptian cotton socks will be a tad more expensive). 

• Synthetic Fibres: The cost of socks made from synthetic fibres varies, but they are generally affordable.

• Merino Wool: Merino wool socks are usually more expensive due to the high-quality wool and additional insulation benefits.

• Cashmere: Cashmere socks are considered a luxury item and are more expensive.

Let's dabble into comfort: what type of sock is most comfortable?

• Bamboo: Bamboo socks offer a luxurious and soft feel against the skin, with excellent breathability and moisture-wicking properties. If they're hand-linked and seamless at the toe, you can bet they're even more soft! (We can vouch that it's like walking on clouds) 

• Cotton: Cotton socks are generally comfortable, soft, and breathable.

• SyntheticFibres: Synthetic fibre socks vary in comfort, but they often provide durability and moisture-wicking capabilities.

• Merino Wool: Merino wool socks can be comfy without becoming itchy thanks to their moisture-wicking and insulation properties. 

• Cashmere: Cashmere socks are incredibly soft and provide luxurious comfort.

What type of sock is most durable? 

• Bamboo: Bamboo socks are known for their durability, as bamboo fibres are strong and resilient.

• Cotton: Cotton socks are generally durable and can withstand regular wear and washing.

• Synthetic Fibres: Synthetic fibre socks are often durable and can maintain their shape and performance over time. These socks don't usually shrink, stretch or wrinkle. 

• Merino Wool: Merino wool socks are typically durable but may require more delicate care to maintain their longevity.

• Cashmere: Cashmere socks are delicate and may require extra care. They are not as durable as other materials.

Can socks be good for the environment? 

• Bamboo: Bamboo socks have a low environmental impact as bamboo is a highly sustainable and rapidly renewable resource that requires minimal water and no pesticides. It also nourishes the soil that it grows in. 

• Cotton: Conventional cotton production involves high water consumption and pesticide use, impacting the environment. Organic cotton is a more sustainable option (but proportionately more expensive). 

• Synthetic Fibres: Polyester and other synthetic fibres are derived from petrochemicals, leaving a negative environmental impact.

• Merino Wool: Merino wool is a natural fibre, but its environmental impact depends on the farming practices and processing methods used.

• Cashmere: Cashmere production can have a high environmental impact due to the grazing needs of cashmere goats and the energy-intensive production process.

For comfort, durability, affordability, and environmental impact...