Size ranges in socks

Short answer: Socks are sold in ranges of four to five numbers. If you sit in the middle, the fit is perfect. If you sit at the end, consider the next range.

Why ranges

A sock is stretchy and can therefore cover several shoe sizes. That keeps the number of product codes down and makes it easier to stock every size. The drawback is that the fit is only perfect in the middle.

What to do at the ends

If you are on the border between two ranges, choose the larger if you have a wide foot and the smaller if you have a narrow one. See bamboo socks for men.

What a sock that is too big does

It folds under the foot and slides into the heel. Both give blisters. A sock that is too small pulls across the instep. See bamboo socks for women and bamboo trainer socks for men.

Frequently asked questions

Do socks shrink

A little in the first wash. That is allowed for in the range.

What if my feet are different sizes

Choose by the larger foot. A slightly large sock beats one that is too small.

Can you wear socks outside the range

Briefly yes, but they slide or pull.