Socks without tight elastic

Short answer: Look for a wide rib knitted cuff rather than a narrow elastic. It keeps the sock up without marking the leg.

Why the mark appears

A narrow elastic gathers all the pressure onto a few millimetres of skin. The pressure presses the skin in and locally restricts blood flow. That is why there is a groove when you take the sock off.

What to look for

Three to five centimetres of rib knit that stretches evenly all the way round. It holds just as well and spreads the pressure over more skin. See bamboo socks for women.

Who it matters most for

For those whose legs swell in the afternoon, for sensitive skin and for anyone sitting for many hours. See bamboo socks for men and bamboo compression socks.

Frequently asked questions

Do they fall down

No, if the rib is dense enough. Width is not the same as looseness.

Are they called anything particular

Often socks without elastic or with a soft top.

Can you cut the elastic

No, the cuff would fray. Choose a different style instead.