How to choose sock size by shoe size

Short answer: Socks are sold in ranges that cover two to three shoe sizes. If you are on the border between two ranges, choose the larger one, because a sock that is too short wears out faster and feels tighter as the day goes on.

How to read the ranges

A size is usually given as a span, for example 40 to 44. Your shoe size should ideally sit in the middle of the span, not at the edge. In the middle, the heel sits correctly and the toes have room without folds. At the edge, you notice sooner if the sock is slightly short or long.

Why socks that are too small wear out fastest

If the sock is too short, the toe is pulled flat and the material is stretched all day. That is where holes appear first, often at the big toe and heel. The heel also slides under the foot, so the sock shifts in the shoe. Read more in how to avoid holes in your socks.

Why socks that are too big do not work either

A sock that is too big folds inside the shoe, and the folds cause pressure and rubbing. You notice it most on long days in closed shoes, when the foot moves a lot. The heel ends up above the ankle instead of on the heel. So simply choosing the largest size every time is no solution.

Shoe sizes vary too

Your shoe size can differ by one or two numbers between brands and models. Use the size you most often wear in ordinary shoes when choosing socks. If your feet are slightly different sizes, go by the larger foot. That is the one that decides whether the sock sits well all day long.

For large feet

If you are above the largest standard range, there are models in larger spans. A sock that fits in length lasts much better than one constantly stretched over the toes. The heel sits where it should and the leg stays up. See the range in all bamboo socks for men, with the span shown for each model.

For women

Women's models have their own ranges, which often start lower and have a narrower span. That gives a better fit for slimmer feet, where a men's model easily becomes too wide at the heel. If you are on the border, the same advice applies, choose the larger range. See the models in all bamboo socks for women.

Length and width of the leg

Besides foot length, the leg of the sock affects how well it fits. A leg that is too tight can leave marks, while one that is too loose slides down. Bamboo viscose with a little elastane gives a soft leg that stays up without pinching. If you have wide calves, choose models described as soft or comfort.

After washing

If socks are washed hot or tumble dried, they shrink and effectively become a size smaller. Wash at 40 degrees and let them air dry. That way they keep both their length and elasticity, and the range on the pack still fits after many washes. More tips are in the washing guide.

When you buy several pairs

Once you have found a range that fits, it is easy to buy several pairs of the same model. Identical socks are also easier to pair after washing, and a pair that loses its partner can still be used. Rotate between several pairs during the week, so each pair gets a rest between wears.