Crew socks are a type of thick, comfortable and versatile stockings you can pull up to your calf. They’re warm and can protect you from bugs, plants, and dirt. They’re also ideal for cooler weather, sporting activities and all forms of casual events.
In this guide, we’re going to answer the question “what are crew socks?” We’re also going to discuss the benefits of wearing crew socks, their features and what makes them different from other types of socks.
What Are Crew Socks?
Crew socks are stockings that reach your calf or mid-calf. Most of them come in warm and stretchy materials. They also have elasticized or ribbed tops that keep them in place when you move around.
Although crew socks originated as basic sporting socks for rowing crews in universities for practice and races, it has become a staple in most people’s wardrobe. You can pair them with sneakers, heels, loafers and other forms of footwear.
The most common materials for crew socks are usually spandex, cotton, nylon and polyester because they are durable, stretchy and breathable.
What Are the Differences between Crew Socks and Regular Socks?
The major difference between regular and crew socks is that regular socks can come in any standard length from ankle to knee-high.
On the other hand, crew socks are often mid-calf length. While they’re often not as long as knee-high socks, they’re also not as short as ankle socks.
Benefits of Wearing Crew Socks
One of the things that sets crew socks apart from other types of stockings is its versatility but that’s not its only benefit. You can check out some of the other benefits of wearing crew socks below.
Compression and Blood Circulation
Athletic crew socks are a category of crew socks you can wear to apply pressure on the calf, legs and feet to enhance blood circulation. This type of socks can also reduce pain, swelling and muscle vibration.
Athletic crew stockings also work as compression socks and can help the blood in your body circulate properly and return to your heart.
Another benefit of compression is that it can stabilize your muscles. This is very important if you get micro-traumas during high impact activities because of vibration.
Versatility
One of the most winning qualities of crew socks is their versatility. Having a pair of crew socks is like having an accessory that goes with virtually every style from business to grunge. They also come in several patterns, colors and materials.
Comfort and Temperature Regulation
Crew socks are usually created with materials that can trap in heat, keep you warm and absorb moisture. That's why crew socks are an all time favorite during cold seasons.
Some high quality crew socks also come with padding at different parts of your foot to lessen impact during athletic or active movement. This padding can also protect your joints and prevent injury during repetitive movements.
Style
Athletic wear like crew socks are becoming more and more popular in fashion. This is because you can wear this type of stockings everyday. You can also wear them as a means of self-expression or to show personal style.
What Are Crew Socks Used For?
Now that you know the benefits of crew socks, it’s time to discuss what most people use them for.
Gifts
You may want to consider crew socks if you're looking for a gift for your friends, coworkers and family members. This is because they’re available in almost every retail store. They’re also budget friendly and you can easily get a matching pair with your loved ones. Another bonus is that some companies allow personal customization for a little price to match the taste of the person you’re gifting the socks to.
Military Wear
Crew socks became popular because of naval activities and regulations. While many things have changed over the years, crew socks still remain a part of military regulation wear, especially for naval officers.
Athletics
Crew socks are great for athletics because they give you extra support and protection during active workout. Some of them have different degrees of compression which can provide additional support for your legs, boost circulation and help you manage varicose veins.
Tips for Choosing the Best Crew Socks
Getting the right pair of crew socks is not an easy feat. That's why we've added the section below to make buying crew socks easy for you.
Material Matters
The functionality and comfortability of a pair of crew socks depend on its material. However, crew socks come in a lot of different fabrics, so how do you determine which one is good?
Generally, there are three types of good materials for crew socks and they are blend fabrics, cotton, and merino wool.
Cotton crew socks are usually breathable, soft and comfortable. They are also great for everyday wear and can help you keep your feet warm.
Merino wool is thick and provides extra warmth. Just like cotton, it’s breathable, soft and absorbs moisture. It’s great for outdoor activities and cold weather.
Blend fabric on the other hand is a blend of different fabrics like synthetic fiber and cotton, spandex or polyester. These blends are often stretchy, soft and durable. They’re often great with shape retention but may not regulate temperature as much as cotton and merino stockings.
Fit Is Important
You need to pay attention to fitting when you’re getting a pair of crew socks for maximum comfort.
Crew socks are not a one size fits all product even though many people think they are. That’s why you need to check the size, stretch and elasticity of a product before you buy it.
For size, check out the size chart of the brand you’re buying from. For elasticity, check out the materials the brand has listed for the crew socks.
Watch out for Special Features
Nothing makes a pair of crew socks better than special features that improve performance and comfort. Some of these features are arch support, moisture-wicking and reinforced heel and toe.
Crew socks with arch support can provide cushioning for your feet if you’re very active or have foot pain. Reinforced heel and toe on the other hand improve durability. This is because your heel and toe are where you experience the most wear and tear.
Match Your Style
Socks are accessories and to properly use them, they need to be in your style. So, if you’re going to buy a pair, think of how well they work with what you already have in your wardrobe. If you buy a design that you can't wear with anything else, you may end up not wearing it more than once or twice.
Look into the Brand
Some brands are popular for creating the best athletic wear and socks on the market. So, choosing to buy from one of them can help you get quality crew socks and elevate your style. Some of these brands are Hywell, Uniqlo, Lululemon, Bombas, and Hugo Boss.
Conclusion
At this point, you should know the benefits of crew socks, what they are and what you should know to buy one. However, the key takeaway here is that durability and comfortability is the most important feature crew stockings should have. It’s also better for you to physically test out the socks if you don’t know your size.
If you’re looking for the best shoes to go with your crew stocks, you can contact us here.
FAQs
Why do people call them crew socks?
People call them crew socks because in the 20th century, crew socks used to be popular in universities with rowing crews.
What are crew socks good for?
Crew socks are very versatile which means they are good for casual, athletic and corporate wear. They can also keep you safe from scratches and dirt while you walk around or do sport.
Which type of socks are the best?
There's no definition for "best socks". What matters is that the stockings are durable, comfortable and able to stand long-term wear.
What are the best socks to wear with sneakers?
The best socks to wear with sneakers are ankle, or crew socks depending on your personal preference.
How high should crew socks go?
Crew socks should stretch above your ankles to the underside of your calf muscles. Some crew socks can go higher if they’re very stretchy but they shouldn’t be knee-length.
