What Do We Want? Better Socks!

A statement sock for every two-footed gent on your list

By The Editors
December 21, 2015 9:00 am

There are some gifting axioms that will always hold true.

Send Dad to the garage. Send Mom to the masseuse. And if they’ve got two feet and you don’t know what to get ‘em, send socks.

Everybody likes new socks. They’re comfy. Free of holes. Yet to pill. And given the rise of the statement sock in recent years, they can actually kick some serious stocking-stuffing ass.

So here’s a look at six standout sock brands for every guy on your holiday list.

For the One Who’s in Line for The Force Awakens Right Now
Stance Socks

The official sock partner of the NBA, Stance hucks more collections than we care to count of smartly patterned and printed socks, including a distinctive Star Wars line that will allow him to strike back at the empire every time he laces up his shoes. Send ‘em soon so your pal can pair with his lightsaber when he goes to see The Force Awakens.

For the Stuffer that Keeps on Stuffing
Sock Drawer Takeover by Nice Laundry

Nice Laundry built their foot-warming empire on the “sock drawer makeover” — aka 18 new pairs of socks at the handsome price of $99. New to their offerings: a subscription model that’ll net your amigos seven new pairs of socks every quarter.

For the Sock Snob
Soxiety x Michael Bastian

A premium sock for the guy who always wants the best, these Italian-made numbers from Soxiety and Michael Bastian are an uber-comfortable blend of cashmere and merino wool. Classy but functional, and the red-and-grey colorway is perfect for the Boston sports fan in your life (or the Yankees fan who can take a joke).

For the Running Man
Brooks Running

Specifically designed for the guy who takes pounding pavement seriously, these low-cuts feature moisture-wicking fabric, a mesh top stitched to allow better airflow, and a design that reduces the risk of blisters. Your pal will thank you when his dogs stay cool and dry on his next 10k.

For the One Whose Tie Matches His Socks
Hook & Albert

We know the accessories dons at H&A best for their dapper ties, pocket squares and lapel decorum, but they also peddle a nicely curated line of socks that pair well with all the above. Our advice: get him one pair of socks, one tie and one pocket square — don’t match the patterns, but make sure there’s a dominant color present across the board.

For the Do-Gooding Gymgoer
Bombas

Applying the “buy one, give one” model of charitable startups like Warby Parker and Toms, Bombas donates one pair of socks to someone in need (interestingly, “the number one most requested item at homeless shelters”) for every pair they sell. Doesn’t hurt that their athletic socks are high-performing, moisture-wicking and easy on the eyes.

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