Your socks slide down into the shoe all day

Short answer: A sock slides when the leg is too short or the elastic is tired. Choose a length that clears the calf muscle and replace socks that have lost their grip.

Why they slide

A sock is held up by friction against the skin and by the elastic in the leg. If the leg is so short that the edge sits on the widest part of the calf, it gets pushed down with every step. If the elastic is tired, length does not help.

Choose length to suit the leg

The edge should sit either below the calf muscle or well above it, never on the widest part. With heavy calves choose a taller leg. With slim legs choose a more tightly knitted style. See bamboo socks for men.

The shoe plays a part

A low shoe with a smooth lining tugs at the sock with every step. Footies with a silicone edge at the heel stay put, while a plain low sock rolls down. See bamboo footies for men and bamboo footies for women.

When the sock should go

If you can stretch the leg and it does not pull back, the elastane has broken down. Nothing improves after that, whatever the style or shoe. See bamboo socks for women.

Frequently asked questions

Does washing cold help

Yes. Hot washing and hot drying are the most common reason a sock leg goes slack.

Are tennis socks better

Often yes, because the leg is taller and the elastic wider.

Why does only one sock slide

Often because the legs differ slightly in size, or because one shoe has a smoother lining.