Sock lengths explained and which suits your shoes

Short answer: There are four usable lengths. A footie below the ankle bone, an ankle sock just above the shoe, a regular length up the calf and a knee sock. The shoe decides which is right, not the season.

Footie for low shoes

A footie ends below the ankle bone and is not visible above the shoe. It is right for loafers, low trainers and shoes where you do not want to see the sock. In return it rolls down most easily, because there is the least fabric to hold on. See bamboo footies for men and bamboo footies for women.

Ankle sock for trainers

The ankle sock ends just above the shoe edge and stays put better than a footie. It is the most used length for trainers and low shoes all year. See bamboo trainer socks for men and bamboo trainer socks for women.

Regular length for everything else

A sock covering the ankle and going some way up the calf is the only length that works in boots and work shoes. The edge does not roll down into the shoe, and there is no bare skin between sock and trouser hem when you sit down. See all bamboo socks for men.

Knee sock when it is needed

Knee length is used for boots, for cold and for support stockings. It is the only length where the elastic over the calf matters, because it has to hold without constricting. See bamboo support stockings.

Frequently asked questions

Which sock length suits trainers?

An ankle sock ending just above the shoe edge. It barely shows and does not roll down the way a footie does.

Why do my footies roll down?

Because there is very little fabric to hold on. A model with a grip edge at the heel stays put.

Can you wear short socks in boots?

No. The edge chafes against the shaft and disappears into the shoe before long.