The blend in a bamboo sock

Short answer: Bamboo viscose moves moisture faster than cotton and smells later. Wool holds the warmth even when damp. Synthetics last longest.

Bamboo viscose

Takes moisture from the skin and passes it on to the air. That keeps the foot dry, which matters more for comfort than thickness does. It also smells later than cotton.

Cotton

Absorbs well but releases moisture slowly. The foot gets wet and stays that way. For a sedentary day that is fine, for an active day less so. See bamboo socks for men.

Blends

Most socks are blends with a little elastane to hold the shape and a little polyamide at heel and toe for durability. That is a sensible combination. See bamboo socks for women and bamboo trainer socks for men.

Frequently asked questions

How much elastane should there be

Two to five percent is enough to keep the sock up.

Is one hundred percent bamboo best

No. Without elastane the sock loses its shape quickly.

What about wool

Wool is warmest, but bamboo viscose is cooler and better for closed shoes.