Are you looking for the best no show socks money can buy in 2023? Look no further. You’re in the right place!
No show socks are a must-have for summer. They let you show some ankle and get that carefree “sockless” look without actually going barefoot.
I’ve been wearing no show socks regularly since 2014, and every year I try to find the best pair available.
You can use the table below to see all of the best no show socks brands for 2023, or keep scrolling for a full review of each pair:
| Brand & Model | Available Sizes | Price Per Pair | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Falke Invisible Step | S, M, L, XL, XXL | $20.99 | Arguably the best no show socks for any type of shoe |
| Boardroom Socks | S, L | $14 | Premium quality, Merino wool, made-in USA no shows |
| Invisasox | 7-14 | $6 | The best affordable loafer socks (full review here) |
| Sheec Active X | S, M, L, XL, XXL | $12 | Versatile no show sock available in 3 heights |
| Sheec Secret 2.0 | XS, S, M, L | $12 (use MODESTMAN for 15% off) | Ultra thin nylon no shows available in 3 heights |
| Bombas Cushioned No Show Socks | M, L | $10 - $12 | Cushioned footbed is comfy in sneakers |
| Bombas Low Cut | M, L | $13 | Perfect for boat shoes and loafers |
| Ninja Sox | S, M, L | $6 | Affordable, thicker no show socks |
| Smartwool Sneaker Cushion | M, L, XL | $15 - $18 | Great wool no shows for sneakers (but not loafers) |
| Stance Gamut II | S, M, L, XL | $10 | Higher cut no shows with light cushioning (good for sneakers) |
| Darn Tough Topless | M, L, XL | $16-19 | Wool, higher cut, durable (good for sneakers) |
But first, it’s worth asking…
Why wear no show socks?
We all want to go sockless when it’s hot out. It’s a laid back, cool look, and it feels refreshing.
With some shoes and in some climates, your feet will start sweating, blisters start forming and your feet start to smell. We know you want to keep your feet cool.
Sure, there are ways to combat this unpleasantness. You can avoid wearing the same shoes two days in a row, wash your feet each night, use shoe trees and odor-absorbing foot powder, etc.
But this is just treating the symptoms. The underlying problem is having your barefoot inside a canvas or leather shoe for hours at a time.
Even if your feet are immaculate and your shoes are pristine, going sockless can lead to sweat and odor.
Plus, let’s be honest: no matter how many times you see some model going sockless in double monks for a GQ photo shoot, wearing shoes without socks is often very uncomfortable.
It can even be painful and bad for your skin.
What NOT to do…
So what’s the stylish man to do when the weather turns hot? Wear the best no-show socks for men, of course!
But not just any old socks. You don’t want to look like this:
Instead, you’ll want to wear everyday no show socks. Also called loafer socks or shoe liners, they provide just enough coverage for your feet without being seen above your shoe line.
Unfortunately, the majority of no show socks leave something to be desired. They usually end up slipping off of your feet after just a few minutes of walking around.
Or they come up too high, which kind of defeats the purpose.
There are, however, some solid sockless solutions out there, and I’ve taken it upon myself to hunt them down and test them out.
The Best No-Show Socks for Men
I originally published this article a few years ago, and I update it every year to include new brands and remove any that have been dethroned or discontinued.
I’ve even looked at some non-sock options. For example, some people love these Pedag washable insoles, but for me they started slipping and bunching in my shoe after a few hours of wear.
What makes a great no show sock, you ask?
- Below ankle height
- Available in smaller and larger sizes
- Doesn’t slip off foot
- Retains shape after wearing/washing
Using the above criteria, the scientific method and complex statistical analysis, I was able to form some very clear conclusions and recommendations for you.
Are you excited yet? Let’s do this! Here are the best no-show socks for men, in no particular order.
Falke Invisible Step Socks
- Price per Pair = $21
- Luxury quality
- Super thin
These are some of my all time favorite no show socks. They’re super thin, but they never slip off my foot. Plus, they’ve held up wonderfully through many washer cycles.
These bad boys aren’t cheap. You can find them from $21 per pair on Amazon, which is expensive for a pair of invisible socks.
But, for many years, they were the best no show socks I could find, and they’re still my go-to recommendation for premium quality loafer liners.
They’re durable, which means they keep their shape after multiple wears and washes. They’re comfortable, and they stay on your feet throughout the day with the help of built-in rubber heel grips.
Typically, in most no-show socks, only a tiny sliver peeks out beyond the shoe line. However, these Falke socks are virtually invisible, even in loafers.
These are my #1 top pick for the best no show socks if you want a thin sock and can stomach the higher price tag.
Boardroom Socks No Shows
- Price per Pair = $14
- Merino wool blend
- Made in USA
Since its inception, Boardroom Socks has specialized in premium quality, American-made men’s dress socks. They’re one of TMM’s top picks for the best over-the-calf dress socks. So, it’s no surprise that Boardroom is one of my picks for the best no-show socks for men.
Now, Boardroom offers a Merino wool no show sock that’s right up there with Falke in terms of quality, look and feel.
Sold in 2-packs, these no shows are cut almost as low as Falk’s Invisible Step sock, and they’re very thin.
They have a no slip silicone heel and seamless toe design, but what really sets these socks apart is their material and construction quality.
A family business, Boardroom Socks has been knitting hosiery in their North Carolina factory for several generations, so they know a thing or two about socks!
Boardroom also offers free shipping and returns for U.S. customers.
These made-in-USA Merino wool-nylon blend no shows come in two sizes and colors. They're great for any kind of shoe (especially loafers).
Sheec Secret 2.0 Socks And Active X Socks
- Price per Pair = $12 (use code MODESTMAN for 15% off)
- Low, mid or high cut
- Great for loafers and boat shoes
These are my top recommendation for ultra low cut, ultra thin no show socks.
They’re some of the best socks for loafers and boat shoes, or any shoe that’s a bit tight on your foot.
Keep in mind, Sheec has two different types of no shows: Active X ($2.75/pair) and Secret 2.0 ($11/pair).
They’re both great, and they’re both available in low, mid and high cuts. You can buy individual cuts or a variety pack, which I recommend.
I love the Secret 2.0 model for its “barely there” feel and ability to disappear in any type of shoe (even low cut driving mocs and boat shoes).
These are right up there with Falke, in terms of quality and profile. Plus, if you hate feeling the seams of your socks around your feet, you’ll love these Sheec Secret 2.0 socks.
Of course, the Active X (which feels more like a traditional no-show sock) is also one of the best no-show socks for men.
These are some of the highest quality no show socks available. Use codes MODESTMAN or MODESTSOCKS for 15% off your order.
Bombas Low Cut No Show Socks
- Price per Pair = $10-12
- Super low cut
- Extra thin material
Bombas Low Cut No Show Socks are some of the lowest profile socks I’ve found to date, which makes them the best socks for boat shoes and other low cut loafers or mocs.
It’s not easy to make a truly invisible loafer sock that doesn’t slip off your foot when you walk around, but Bombas has done just that.
These are only offered in two sizes – M and L – but I found that the M size fits my size 7.5 (men’s U.S.) foot well.
This cotton-poly blend sock has a seamless toe design, so you won’t feel any bunching or pressure between your toes and the inside of your shoe.
If you want an ultra low cut sock to wear with boat shoes, loafers, espadrilles, etc., these are a great choice.
These *ultra* low cut socks from the Internet's favorite sock brand, Bombas, will be totally invisible in any type of shoe.
Bombas Cushioned No Show Socks
- Price per Pair = $11.70 (when purchased in an 8-pack)
- Thicker material
- Higher cut (great for
sneakers )
These cushioned no show socks from Bombas are made from a thicker cotton-synthetic blend and have extra padding on the footbed. They are the best no-show socks for men if you need a little more protection.
I’ve found that these socks are more comfy than their ultra thin brethren (think Sheec or
The higher cut and extra padding are just more comfortable, assuming you don’t need a super low cut sock to wear with, say, driving shoes.
The padded footbed also makes walking around more comfortable, assuming you like the extra support between you and the ground.
I tend to switch between this type of no show (high cut, cushioned) and thinner, lower profile versions depending on what type of shoe I’m wearing.
These cushioned no show socks have a higher cut and extra padding under the footbed - perfect for sneakers.
Smartwool Sneaker Cushion Socks
- Price per Pair = $15-18
- Thicker material
- Made in USA
Smartwool designed their Smartwool Sneaker Cushioned No Show Socks were designed to be worn with – you guessed it –
Available in three different sizes and made in the USA, these wool-nylon blend low profile socks are just as high quality as Smartwool’s more popular hiking socks.
Yes, they’re more expensive, mostly because they’re made from wool and manufactured in the United States. But I don’t think they’re overpriced (i.e., they’re worth it if you have the budget).
Plus, wool tends to reduce odors and handle moisture much better than cotton. Bottom line: these are some of my favorite no show socks for
Designed for sneakers (not loafers), these cushioned no shows offer extra padding and support.
Invisasox
- Price per Pair = $5.60
- Wide variety of sizes
- One year guarantee
Invisasox isn’t as high quality as some of these other best no-show socks for men. However, they’re more affordable and available in various sizes (shoe sizes 7-14 US).
Plus, they’re guaranteed to last for at least one year of regular wear, which is awesome.
Made from a spandex/cotton blend, these are very stretchy and very thin (almost see-through when stretched).
They’re also available in a range of practical colors that will match whatever shoe you’re wearing. I love this because it helps to blend your sock and shoe, which enhances the “invisible” effect.
Like the other no shows on this list,
I haven’t had any problems with these socks slipping off my feet throughout the day.
These are the best no show socks you can buy for less than $6 per pair.
Stance Gamut No Show Socks
- Price per Pair = $8-9
- Light cushion material
- Higher cut (bad for loafers)
I wanted to include these Stance no shows because they’re very durable and comfortable, as they’re more cushioned than many of the loafer liners you’ll find on this list.
But keep in mind: because they’re not as low cut as other brands, I can only wear them with certain shoes.
They’re great if you want to wear higher cut
But they’re definitely visible in lower cut shoes, like boat shoes, loafers and some types of
Don’t get me wrong – these are way better than regular ankle socks, but I’d prefer a true no show sock since these higher socks will be visible in most of my shoes.
That said, they are durable and comfortable. They’re thicker than the other loafer socks I tried, which is great if your shoes are kind of loose, and they keep their shape after multiple washes.
These offer more cushion than many loafer socks, and they're cut higher (i.e., great for sneakers, bad for loafers).
Ninja Sox 4.0
- Price per Pair = $5-6
- Thicker material
- Great for
sneakers
Ninja Sox are similar to Stance in that they’re thicker than other brands (like
However, they’re not quite as low-cut as the other best no-show socks for men on this list. But they are very comfortable and durable and stay on my feet all day.
They also have a bit of compression through across the arch of your foot, which is a nice detail that increases comfort.
Ninja Sox is a good choice if you don’t like the feel of super thin no-shows. Or if you need a thicker sock to make your shoe fit better.
A great budget pick for anyone who wants a thicker (and higher cut) no show sock.
The Best No Show Socks For Each Type of Shoe
If you’re wondering what the best no-show socks for men for almost any shoe style, I’ve got you covered:
What Are the Best Socks for Boat Shoes?
Honestly, boat shoes were meant to be worn without socks. These fully leather lined slip ons were designed to get wet (hence the name). They’re very comfy in bare feet once they’re broken in.
But, if you do want to wear socks with boat shoes, I recommend buying the low cut Sheec Secret 2.0 socks.
What Are the Best Men’s No-Show Socks for Loafers?
Since loafers tend to be low cut and fitted (they can’t be tightened, so you buy ’em tight and break ’em in over time), the best loafer socks are low cut and thin.
There are several no show socks on this list that meet this criteria, including: Bombas Low Cut, Sheec Secret 2.0 or Active (low cut), Falke Invisible Step and Invisasox.
These styles are also the best no-show socks for men’s dress shoes.
What Are the Best No-Show Athletic Socks for Sneakers ?
Compared to loafer socks, the best low-profile socks for
Smartwool Sneaker Cushion Socks and Bombas Cushioned Socks are my favorite no-shows for
Are There Any Truly Invisible Socks?
If you want some that just barely covers your toes and heel, try Sheec Secret 2.0 or Bombas Low Cut. either of these will be truly invisible in any type of men’s shoe.
What Are the Best No-Show Socks for Sweaty Feet?
Surprisingly, no-show socks comprised of wool or a wool blend are your best bet if you have sweaty feet. It’s because wool is moisture-wicking and helps keep your feet cool.
Smartwool no-show socks or Merino wool no-show socks from Bombas will help to wick away sweat.
FAQs About the Best No-Show Socks for Men
Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the best no-show socks for men:
Why do people where invisible socks?
People wear invisible socks because they like the sockless look but don’t want to wear their shoes with bare feet. Invisible socks also let your ankles breath, which helps keep you cool when it’s hot outside.
Are no show socks out of style in 2023?
No. The no sock look is timeless, just like blue jeans and white t-shirts.
What are the most comfortable no show socks?
The most comfortable no show socks are the ones that don’t slip off your heel as you walk around. This means you should buy socks in your size (not one size fits all).
All of the socks on our list have been tested for comfort and durability.
Why do my no show socks keep slipping off?
You no show socks keep slipping off because they don’t fit your foot. They’re probably too big or loose. Also, they may lack rubber grips inside the heel.
Does the color of no show sock matter?
Yes. Ideally, you want to wear no show socks are match your skin tone or the color of your shoes. This way, they’ll blend in for a truly invisible look.
How do you choose no show socks?
When it comes to choosing no show socks, keep three things in mind: cut, color and fit. Make sure your socks are actually invisible, make sure the color matches your skin and/or shoes, and make sure they don’t slip off your feet when you walk around.
What Are the Best No-Show Socks for Sweaty Feet
Surprisingly, no-show socks comprised of wool or a wool blend are your best bet if you have sweaty feet. It’s because wool is moisture-wicking and helps keep your feet cool. Smartwool no-show socks or Merino wool no-show socks from Bombas will help to wick away sweat.
Closing Thoughts on the Best No-Show Socks for Men
If you’re still with me, congrats: you now know exactly where to buy the best no-show socks for men that money can buy in 2023.
If you skipped to the end, you missed a great read and lots of laughs, but hey…no hard feelings.
Did I miss any of your favorite no show sock brands? Let me know in the comments section below!
Brock thank you. Saw your 2021 video regarding no show/”invisible” socks, and then found this written review from you for more details. This article was especially helpful with your pics showing how some low cuts really aren’t low enough cuts for driver mocs, or even some sneakers.
Followed your link for Sheec, and read up on their construction, including gel grips. Bought a pair of Sheecs mid-level secrets (3.0 now!), designed for smooth leather. Also, bought a trial kit of all 3 heights of Active-x for the rougher material sneakers. It made sense to have two types based on the material of the shoe. Also, your 15% MODESTMAN worked! Looking forward to checking your other reviews as needed. Take care.
Glad to hear that, Jim!
Thanks for the great, easy to follow, review… just ordered 6 pairs of the Sheec mid and high 3.0 – exactly what I was looking for! looks like they won’t take up excess space in the shoe, and no annoying seam around ankle! looking forward to trying them 🙂
I have to say I’m really disappointed with the Falke socks. I decided to buy some when Amazon had a $15 off $25 deal going because I’d never pay $13-14 for a single pair of socks. First of all, the sizing seems way off. I wear a 7.5-9 shoe depending on the brand, and the 8-9 Falke socks seem small. One of the 2 socks in the pack I got has a hole in it just from trying it on!
Thanks, Brock. Looking forward to trying the Falke. I currently wear the Bombas and Stance.. and yes, the Stance are a little higher so don’t work with all footwear. I’m not a fan of the Invisisox. Although they do stay on my feet, and the profile is good, they are very thin and EVERY pair i own has developed holes in the toes (oops didn’t mean to rhyme).
Bombas and Stance are solid! Sorry to hear Invisasox didn’t work out. They are super thin, so I could see why holes form (although I haven’t had that problem yet).
This is a great article, especially the breakdown by type of shoe. I’ve been thinking about no show socks as one category, but it makes more sense to use slightly different socks for different shoe types.
Have you tried Pair of Thieves no show socks? They’re relatively inexpensive and I’m a fan of their underwear so I’ve been thinking about checking out their socks too.
Yup, definitely makes sense to have different types, just like with crew or OTC socks. I haven’t tried PoT socks yet but love their boxer briefs. Will check those out, thanks!
I tried Pair of Thieves no show socks recently, and am not a fan. They are pretty thick, which some may like, but I prefer a slightly thinner no show. The main problem is that after a single cold wash and low heat dry cycle, they no longer stay on my feet, which is pretty unacceptable. The heel slips off a couple minutes after putting them on. I do not recommend them.
Hi Brock,
Good update. I agree with the Falke, and the Bombas on all accounts. In my opinion Bombas makes the very best low-cut sneaker, driver moc, boat shoe socks at an affordable price plus you can’t beat their humanitarian efforts. The Falkes super low no-shows are really great when you absolutely need a sock that doesn’t show and are well worth the cost.
I’m happy you took the Mack Weldon no-shows off the list. They are by far the worse no-show socks I’ve ever owned. So bad I struggled with whether to give them to Goodwill. However, I do like Mack Weldon low-cut tennis sock made with a dedicated R&L and I like the Mack Weldon over calf socks.
Something you missed for low-cut sneakers are the Copperfit sneaker sock. They will show a a little depending on height 0f your sneaker but they’re comfy and provide arch support. I really like wearing them to mow the lawn in my low-cut GBX slip-on hikers.
Another brand you missed is the Kane 00 and Kane 11 anklet socks which come in both wool or cotton. They’re not no shows but I like them with low-cut sneakers like converse all-stars.
Have a great almost post Covid-19 summer.
Thanks! And I agree, Mack Weldon socks are overrated. I don’t know why they’re so popular…they don’t stay on my feet at all.
Brock, thanks for the great review as always. What are the white sneakers you’re wearing in this article?
These guys – https://www.themodestman.com/koio-capri-review/
I’ve had trouble buying the correct size for my feet. What size liners or no show socks should I buy if I wear a size 12?
Probably a L or XL, but you should check the size chart for whatever brand you’re buying.
My favorite no show socks are Marcoliani and Feetures.
I like Feetures too, although they’re not super low cut (still good for some sneakers, though). Haven’t tried Marcoliani yet…
Have you reviewed Bombas no-shows? I wear no-shows practically all year long and have struggled finding ones that actually stay up on your feet and don’t end up in a puddle inside your shoe. I found Bombas and LOVED them! They are soft, come in a variety of colors, and actually stay up. You can order from the men’s or the women’s either one for even more color variety. (Even though they don’t show, I love having colorful ones. White, gray, black, and tan get boring very fast.) Bombas come in lightweight and cushioned both. The cushioned are too thick for my liking. I love the lightweight ones though. The only problem is that after awhile, they start getting holes in the toes. If they would make the lightweight socks with a reinforced toe, they would be fabulous! Anyway, just wondered if you had reviewed those. I wondered how they compare to the ones on your list here. Thanks!
I just added Bombas to the list after trying them out for the past few weeks. Good call!
Brock ,
I think this is great id just like you to expand you reach of the socks, perhaps a mini series if you will 25 best no shows including some of the brands mentioned in the above comments . 25 best ankle socks . 25 best crew . Lastly 25 best below and above knee for men. I have lots of ideas regarding the subject.
Thanks, Dyllon
Great review, $11/pair is quite expensive but worth a shot. Thanks for taking the time to put this together.
Again a very useful article. Though I don’t mind putting my bare feet into boat shoes, especially when driving to the beach, I would never do that with leather sneakers… (BTW, whatever GQ says, I believe double monks deserve nothing less than dress socks)
I am surprised about Falke´s positive review, as I have a real bad experience with their dress socks. I might give it another try then.
Most of my socks are Tommy Hilfiger´s. They’re among the best quality I’ve ever had. Only criticism is that their no-show socks are not 100% invisible on low-cut shoes. They’re fine with my Adidas Superstars but still visible with other sneakers like my grey Vans Era (which are very similar to the ones pictured in the article).
You wear a size SEVEN? 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂
Great review of no show socks, Brock. Congratulations! I wear US size 7.5 shoes. What size of Falke invisible shoeliners do you recommend I get?
Have you tried top brands for no show socks? For instance, Marcoliani, Bresciani or Dore Dore which is a french brand that I have heard make pretty good no show socks
Found this post after I recently tried Mack Weldon’s no show socks. So everyone knows, they are gargantuan. Not recommended for anyone below a size 9. Even then, they come up to just under the ankle which is not practical for, say, boat shoes or espadrilles. I would like to suggest Unsimply Stitched, which is the brand I’ve been using. They have fun designs, which some people might like. Personally, I’d rather just have solid-colored no-shows since most people aren’t going to see them anyway. I’m now going to buy a few of the brands you suggest here. Thanks for the help!
On the Stomper Joe’s, you mention you are a size 7 shoe, but the link to amazon’s site shows size small is for a US Shoe size 9.5-11. Did you use a size small in their socks (amazon’s size chart is incorrect)? Or did you go with an XS?
I got XS.
After reading this article I ordered some Women’s Small Stomper Joe’s from Amazon. I wear a size 7 men’s shoe. I walked up some steep hills to brunch, sauntered through a farmer’s market and did yard work for 2 hours – no slipping!
I normally opt for no socks but this will keep the funk at bay. Thanks Brock.
I’ll have to try those Falke no shows! While we’re on the topic of socks, what do you recommend for dress socks?
I’d personally suggest cotton socks, avoid thick training socks. Preferably up to your knees, matching either your shoes, pants or button shirt, though you can have different colors as long as they blend well, even patterns, but avoid “novelty”.
Hope to help :).
Have you tried Converse Chuck liners? If you have, what are your thoughts?
I haven’t. Are they available in small sizes? Do you like them?
Brock this is a great, thoroughl piece. No show socks are the best. Ankle socks shorten our legs and “no socks” make them look longer. A plus!
So it’s about appearances – like everything else in this century. smh! I could care less what others think: crewsox for me!!
So why are you reading an article about the best no show socks??
I prefer to go barefoot whenever possible, at home, backyard, park, beach, etc. and wearing flip flops or sandals for casual occasions. Guys aren’t as lucky as girls to wear sandals to work, so the no show socks are a great alternative to relax loafers or boat shoes. I have tried several brands including Bass, which have the rubber no-slip heels but the one-size-fits-all sock still slips off with my size 9 feet. Thanks for the advise on brands with sizes.
Maybe if guys keep wearing no show socks and bearing their ankles that will lead to freeing their feet and getting to wear sandals at work.
What is the sin of socks showing above your shoes
in this confounded century?? Are folks really that
vain in the 2010s?
I really don’t care how much sock is showing above
my shoe uppers: none, half an inch, or even eight
inches. It’s not a game changer or life changer for
me.
So…why are you reading a post about the best no show socks?
Brock:
Because I’m passing through and noticed how socks
get lower with each passing decade. I can’t believe
even 6-figure lawers want the sockless look with their
$200-per-hour Cole-Haans!
I agree that the sickles look had gone too far and isn’t appropriate with most dress shoes (aside from loafers worn casually), but no show socks definitely have a place in every man’s wardrobe. They make boat shoes, for example, so much more comfortable.
Just now seeing this. Surprised you didn’t have a good experience w/ the Pedags. I love mine. Owned ’em a few years now. Wash them regularly, dry them flat, never had a problem at all.
For some reason they won’t stay in place. Might be because I wear a smaller shoe. Love the idea but they didn’t work out for me.
How were the Stomper Joes in Sperrys?
Great for boat shoes! I’d say the Falke are a little better, but you can’t beat the Stomper Joe prices.
I often wear exactly the “never a good look” ankle socks, with shorts, but never white, I pair them depending on the colors of my outfits. With loafers, it depends sometimes I still wear them sometimes I’m just sockless, as with lighter shoes it’s much more feasible, plus any no-show socks would still show in such low cut shoes, so if I wear socks I do it with style and never pretend I don’t. That’s me, though and anyone is different.
About comfort and hygiene, if you pass me the compariso, if women can safely wear light shoes actually with no socks so can us. But yeah low cut socks can come handy with high top shoes and shorts.
Thanks for the breakdown of the no-show socks. The biggest thing is the socks staying on the heel or not slipping. Even with the heel grip patch applied there is still a chance of slipping down. Also I like to wash any socks in hot water over a cold wash. Hot water diminishes the heel tab grip. I still prefer not to wear any socks because of this on my canvas and all leather lace up footwear.
I actually really like Banana Republic’s version of loafer/no-show socks:
http://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=10865&vid=1&pid=555740012
They come in white, brown, and black and a couple of other colors and with the 40% off promtions they are always running, I think they are good for the price ($12.50 for 2 pairs full price). I’ve used them for everything to loafers, sneakers, and even lace-ups.
Just my two cents.
These seem great! I actually do like the no show socks look. There are some shoes that just don’t look as good if you can see socks poking out. Thanks for sharing!
I like everything about this post except for one single word: “never.” That’s what appears below the photo of a sneaker being worn with short ankle socks. The message is clear: ankle socks are for losers.
I suggest rethinking this.
What turns me off are lists of fashion dos and don’ts. I feel like I’m back around the Mean Girls in middle school, ready to freeze out anyone who commits a fashion faux pas. “OMG, can you believe he’s ankle socks. snigger.”
The only “never” in matter of style is to never wear anything you do not feel comfortable in, physically or emotionally.
And while I hate to play the short card here, I think I have to. As a matter of principle, there’s not much difference between prejudice against ankle socks (and the people who wear them) and prejudice against short men. I can say this because I am short.
In fact, the Mean Girls who would ridicule someone for wearing ankle socks are probably the same women who tell the world they’d never date anyone less than six feet tall.
Getting back to socks, what I see are a range of choices. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we commit the unpardonable sin of wearing socks with sandals. That’s who we are, and we’re not going to apologize or stop doing it because some fashionista in Manhattan hyperventilates at the very thought of it.
From my perspective in Portland, the sockless look is an East Coast style.
Whether you’re a sock-wearing sandal guy or a Manhattan sophisticate wearing bespoke brogues with so-show socks, what matters isn’t what’s on the list of fashion dos and don’ts but whether you are comfortable in your own skin.
Thanks for the thoughtful comment. I see your point, but I take issue with one part of it:
There’s an inherent difference between prejudice against ankle socks (or any supposed fashion faux pas) and short men – the fact that you can control your socks but not your height.
I would compare prejudice against short men to other types of prejudice against any other genetic factor, but not anything within someone’s control.
For what it’s worth, I don’t think you should stop doing anything that you like doing because someone else says to (or that they don’t like it). But it’s important to know the “rules” if you’re going to break them.
Also, I’d argue that understanding these little details (and getting them right) helps men feel more comfortable in their own skin.
I’ve only bought one brand of no-show socks and I haven’t found anything wrong with them, so I keep getting them. Brock, were these in your test group? http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ARHJTHG
Best pair I have yet to try are from Muji. Far superior and cost about $6 a pair…
No Smartwool? Comparable in price with the Falke. Thin, high-quality, no itch wool’s temperature regulating, naturally odor-resistant qualities make these a very compelling offering.
http://www.smartwool.com/socks-1/dress/mens-mens-no-show-socks-12.html
Looks good, and I like their hiking socks, but it was hard to find smaller sizes in stock.
Do you own a pair?
I’ll have to try those Falke socks out next summer. I have several pairs of Mack Weldons, and while I love them – I don’t think they’re making no shows anymore!
Josh | The Kentucky Gent
https://thekentuckygent.com
I wear loafer socks about six days a week in the summer and IMHO, J. Crew makes, hands down, the best loafer socks I’ve ever worn. You can get 2 pair for 6.50 at the Factory outlet, and as far as I can tell, they are the same quality as those at the regular store, which retail for 16.50 / 2. Tommy John loafer socks are a close second for me and are priced to J. Crew retail.
Hmm I’ll check them out. I’ve bought regular socks from JCF before and they fell apart on me.
I tried the JCF no-shows and found that they ran large. The sock was sticking out of the top of my boat shoes.
Liners (such as Falke or Stomper Joe) work best for me. Timberland (especially if one want khaki) are great because they have nonslip bottoms. Also, Converse and Sperry Topsider have a great selection of color “liners.” Try to match shoe color as much as possible since I like the appear sockless, but I am not. Summer means feet “sweat”, and the odor is hard to “get out” . . . much easier to wash noshow or foot liners.
Looks like the Stomper Joes are available in a few different colors, so you could match them more closely to the shoes you are going to wear.
Less likely to be seen that way.
Would probably use the “khaki” color with my Top Siders. (should either blend with my shoe, my skin tone, or both)
Could use grey for the shoes in this post’s example pics.
Great point. Black is probably not the best choice in most situations.
No NinjaSox? I loved them…until my wife discovered them and stole them.
First I’ve heard of them… thanks for the heads up!