Trainer socks and the choice between the models
Short answer: For trainers, most people choose between three lengths: the footie that stays hidden, the ankle style that just shows, and the sports sock with a cushioned sole. The choice mainly depends on how much you walk and which shoes you wear.
The footie
The footie ends below the edge of the shoe and stays hidden. It is mostly worn with low trainers and in summer, when many want a clean look without visible sock. In return, the size must be right and the heel needs grip, or it slips. See bamboo footies for men.
The ankle style
The ankle style reaches just above the ankle and stays in place in almost every trainer. It shows a little above the shoe, but it does not slip into the heel, and it protects the ankle from the shoe edge. For many it is the most useful everyday sock. See bamboo socks for men.
The sports sock
The sports sock has a cushioned sole that absorbs the most impact and usually reaches further up the leg. It is worn for long days on your feet, for training and for walks. The cushioning adds a softer layer between foot and sole. See bamboo sports socks for men.
How much you walk
If you take many steps, cushioning matters more than looks. A thin footie is fine for a short trip into town, but on a long day you feel the difference. Think about what your day looks like and choose accordingly. Many keep several styles in the drawer.
The shape of the shoe
A low trainer with a narrow opening suits footies well, while a trainer with a deep heel or high collar often calls for an ankle style. The sock should end where the shoe gives it something to hold on to. Try the sock in the shoes you wear most.
Sweat in closed shoes
Trainers breathe poorly, and moisture stays in the sock. A sock that moves moisture away from the skin can reduce odour. Change your socks daily and let your shoes dry for a day between wears. Read more in bamboo socks for sweaty and smelly feet.
For women
The same three lengths come in women's styles, and the choice follows the same rules about shoe edge, cushioning and how much you walk. See the sports socks in bamboo sports socks for women and the low styles in bamboo footies for women, where the range changes over time.
Colour
White socks are classic with white trainers and as sports socks, while black and grey hide dirt better and suit dark shoes. With footies, colour matters less, because they are not seen. With several pairs in one colour, matching is easier.
Washing and drying
Wash trainer socks at 40 degrees without fabric softener and let them air dry. Softener leaves a film on the fibres, and the tumble dryer wears on the elastic. Turn them inside out so the cushioned sole gets clean. Read more in the washing guide.
When to replace them
When the cushioning is pressed flat or the cuff no longer holds, it is time for new ones. Footies slip when the heel grip wears out, and sports socks lose their cushioning over time. Replace several pairs at once.
Frequently asked questions
Which style is most useful with trainers?
The ankle style. It stays in place in almost every trainer and works for most situations, including days when you walk a lot.
When does the sports sock make sense?
When you walk a lot or stand for many hours. The cushioned sole absorbs the most impact and adds a softer layer between foot and shoe.
Why do my trainers smell?
Because trainers breathe poorly and moisture stays in the sock and shoe. Change your socks daily and let your shoes dry for a day between wears.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
