A good pair of socks for work boots is one way to add protection to your feet when on the job. The idea of wearing work boots sockless or wearing a bad pair of socks is a bad idea as blisters are pure torture and can become infected.
Blisters are caused by repeated friction between your foot and the inside of your work boot. If you suffer from excessive foot perspiration, fungal infections can ensue, and if your sock doesn’t completely cover the skin inside your boot, abrasions may follow.
If you wear steel-toe work boots for your profession, inadequate socks can also cause trauma to the toenail due to rubbing.
Socks serve many purposes. They protect your feet within the work boot and contribute considerably to your on-the-job foot comfort. Other benefits include keeping feet warm or cool, wicking away moisture, arch support, and cushioning. So, socks are an important part of work gear.
We made a general selection of work socks to test based on material, design, manufacturer’s reputation, and customer reviews. We then invited a couple dozen professionals that wear work boots daily to test out our choices of socks directly during work.
Our pros overwhelmingly selected the Drymax® Over the Calf Work Boot Socks as their top overall choice. This was because these breathable socks quickly and efficiently absorb foot perspiration and the seamless sock design includes foot padding for support, shock absorption, and comfort.
| Work Socks | Material | Sizes | Features | Wash and care |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drymax® | Acrylic, nylon, polyester or wool, spandex | Small through XX-Large | Moisture-wicking, Combats odors, Thermal temperature regulation, Good stay-up fit, Padding for all-day wear | No info |
| Hunt Classic | 73% Merino wool, 26% Nylon and 1% elastane | Medium to X-L | Maximum cushioning, Flat seam design | Machine washable |
| Carhartt’s | Acrylic, wool, spandex, and nylon | Medium to X-Large | Six colors options, Ribbed cuffs, Ankle vents, Reinforced soles, Thickly Cushioned, Thermal insulation, Moisture-wicking | Machine washable |
| Physix Gear Compression | 70% nylon, 30% spandex | Small – XXLarge | Breathable, Moisture-wicking, 12 color choices, Elasticized cuffs | Hand wash |
| Onke Heavy Cotton Cushion | 37% polyester, 60% Indian cotton, 1% spandex, and 2% nylon | 10-13, 13-15 | Extra-thick Cushioning, Reinforced heel and toe areas, elasticized top, Arch compression, Sold in convenient ten-packs | Machine washable |
| Joulli® Triple Stripe | 85% cotton, 10% nylon, and 5 % elastane | 6 through 12 | No-slip, Sold in multi-packs | Hand wash |
The Reviews
Best Overall Over the Calf Work Boot Socks
1.) Drymax® Over the Calf Work Boot Socks
- Padded Toe - Protects Toes
- 50% Olefin, 35% Polyester, 8% Nylon, 7% Elastane
- Made in US
- Dual Layer Moisture Removal System.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Manufacturer Drymax has a well-earned reputation when it comes to producing socks for outdoor extremes and these work boot socks are equally as efficacious when it comes to protecting your feet.
Made with two layers of fabric, the outer layer is produced in 100% olefin which will quickly and efficiently absorb foot perspiration from your foot and dry it. The seamless sock design includes a thin layer of solid foot padding for support, shock absorption, and comfort.
Produced in a combination of fibers such as acrylic, nylon, polyester, or wool, spandex is integrated into the sock fabric meaning that it remains up on the leg comfortably while still allowing for breathability. Sold in sizes small through XX-Large and available in black or white/gray.
Pros
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- Moisture-wicking
- Combats odors
- Thermal temperature regulation
- Good stay-up fit
- Padding for all-day wear
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Cons
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- Only two color options
- Check sizing carefully
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Best Wool Over the Calf Work Boot Socks
2.) Hunt Classic Over the Calf Boot Socks
Made with heavy cushioning for all day comfort, these over-the-calf boot socks are produced in 73% Merino wool, 26% Nylon, and 1% elastane for a stretchy snug fit. The sock design features a flat seam for comfort and the maximum amount of cushioning imaginable.
Produced in the United States, they provide both arch support and ankle support. Sold in sizes Medium through XL. They are machine washable. The Merino wool assures temperature control and moisture-wicking properties.
Pros
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- 73% Merino wool
- Machine washable
- Maximum cushioning
- Flat seam design
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Cons
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- One color
- Expensive
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Best Cold Weather Over the Calf Work Boot Socks
3.) Carhartt’s Work Boot Sock for Cold Weather
- Cushioned, moisture-wicking crew sock featuring ribbed cuff and reinforced sole
- Ankle vents to reduce bulk
- Fights odor
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Carhartt produces this work boot sock for colder climates so that feet will have extra protection. Made above all to keep feet warm regardless of the weather, they are produced in a blend of acrylic, wool, spandex, and nylon. The amount of the various fibers used in the socks can differ based on color.
An appealing over-the-calf sock with a completely cushioned sock bottom, they are machine washable. Reinforced soles and ribbed cuffs ensure increased durability and sufficient elasticity to stay up on the leg together.
Moisture-wicking is a priority, so Carhartt uses FastDry technology. Integrated ankle vents reduce bulkiness. The fabric blend of wool and acrylic offers super thermal insulation.
Pros
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- Six colors options
- Ribbed cuffs
- Ankle vents
- Reinforced soles
- Thickly Cushioned
- Thermal insulation
- Moisture-wicking
- Machine washable
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Cons
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- More expensive
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Best Compression Over the Calf Work Boot Socks
4.) Physix Gear Compression Over the Calf Socks
- STYLE AND CONFIDENCE ON YOUR LEGS Finally! A Durable Compression Sock designed to last, without compromising quality or Comfort.
- BECAUSE PUSHING YOURSELF THAT EXTRA MILE MATTERS! Get your legs properly geared up for work, play, and everything in between! Great for day and night use, and perfect for those who are on their feet most of the time.
- TAKE YOUR GAME TO THE NEXT LEVEL Comfortable material and careful construction.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
As an Amazon top-seller, these compression OTC socks have more than 48,000 five-star votes. Manufactured in a blend of nylon and spandex, they guarantee breathability and moisture-wicking properties.
The cuffs are elasticized to keep socks in place and the design features a graduated 20-30mm/Hg compression.
Seams are double-stitched, and the manufacturer offers a no-risk purchase guarantee. Sold in a dozen colors they are manufactured in sizes Small to XX-Large. Great for extremely hot weather, too. Should be hand washed. Unisex sizing.
Pros
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- Support without blocking circulation
- Breathable
- Moisture-wicking
- 12 color choices
- Elasticized cuffs
- Affordable
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Cons
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- May lose efficacy with washing
- Some quality control issues
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Best Cushioned Over The Calf Work Boot Socks
5.) Onke Heavy Cotton Cushion Work Socks
- Premium Materials:Superior cotton and polyester blend,Use spandex and nylon knitting to deliver a snug fit and retain shape even after repeated washings.
- Soft & Comfy:Full cushioning for ultimate support in any work boot or shoe.It helps you avoid blisters during your heavy duty work or daily activities.
- Moisture Control:The advanced technical fibers wick away sweat and moisture.Moisture wicking properties to keep smell fresh and feet dry and breathable.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Manufacturer Onke has produced a cotton sock that distinguishes itself because not all cotton work boot socks wick away perspiration moisture.
Made in a blend of 37% polyester, 60% Indian cotton, 1% spandex, and 2% nylon, they are four-season year-round socks. Sold in sizes 10 through 15, they only come in black and white.
The nylon and spandex included in the knit make for a comfortably snug fit. These socks also retain their shape despite lots of washings.
The blend of fibers affords moisture-wicking keeping feet dry and odor-free. A nylon knit has been integrated to reinforce heavily stressed areas. The amount of stretch together with an elasticized top keeps socks firmly in place on your leg.
Pros
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- Cushioning extra-thick
- Reinforced heel and toe areas
- Stay up elasticized top
- Arch compression
- Machine washable
- Sold in convenient ten-packs
- Budget-friendly
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Cons
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- Only two color options
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Best Budget Over the Calf Work Boot Socks
6.) Joulli® Triple Stripe Over the Calf Work Boot Socks
- Fit Shoe Size: Mens 6-12, Womens 7-13. Approximate leg length is 11 (28cm)
- Non-slip – Knee High socks with high elastic bands at the top of socks will hold them stay in place and make you feel comfortable for all day wear!
- Comfortable and Durable - Tube Socks with high quality cotton make you feel comfortable. Moisture wicking material will help keep your feet cool and dry. Comfortable stretch for all day wear.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Manufactured by Joulli in breathable cotton, these are your typically styled white athletic over-the-calf socks featuring three colorful stripes at the sock top.
The fabric blend is 85% cotton, 10% nylon, and 5 % elastane. These are non-slip, stretch knee socks with elastic bands at the top that fit sizes 6 through 12, but are unisex, so women can wear them too.
Made in high-quality cotton with moisture-wicking capabilities to keep your feet dry and cool throughout the workday. Sold as single pairs or in packages of two or three, they should be hand washed.
Pros
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- Quality cotton blend
- Sold in multiple packs
- Budget pricing
- No-slip stretch socks
- Moisture-wicking
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Cons
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- Only in white
- Need to be hand washed
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The Importance of Work Socks and What to Look for
Socks that don’t offer breathability and some amount of cushioning should be avoided when looking for the best work sock.
Socks also come in varying heights, beginning with no-show socks all the way to over-the-calf socks or knee socks. The characteristics that you may want to evaluate when purchasing are:
1.) Breathability
Fabric choice will determine how breathable socks are. Your feet should not overheat or sweat excessively. You also don’t want smelly feet. Ventilation and airflow capabilities should be a priority.
2.) Comfort
If you experience foot pain, you’ll be miserable. How long do you need to stand at work? Soft materials and padding can increase comfort, and above all avoid itchiness and irritation.
3.) Fabric
There are multiple fabric blends and some will offer specific benefits. Cotton, polyester, spandex, and nylon, or any combination can improve breathability and flexibility. Acrylic has the capability for managing perspiration. Wool also assures breathability and thermal regulation.
4.) Moisture-wicking
This can be a deal-breaker for many. Inside work boots, feet will sweat. Moisture-wicking increases breathability and comfort. Sweaty feet usually mean damp smelly socks.
Socks without moisture-wicking will not afford breathability as they cling to feet. Sweat can add friction during movement causing blisters.
Moisture-wicking should move moisture outward from the skin. Polyester, cotton, and nylon all afford some degree of breathability and air circulation. Perspiration will dissipate passing through the sock.
5.) Odor Resistance
Odor control is important for working in hot weather. Many socks have antibacterial or antimicrobial treatments to prevent odors from forming. They also contribute to overall foot hygiene.
The Benefits of wearing Over the Calf Socks
If you wear work boots, over-the-calf socks are an optimal choice for a variety of reasons. This sock length protects the entire boot area and protects from lots of ailments as well as increasing comfort.
1.) Blistering
Blistering is the most common foot ailment, due to unwanted rubbing or friction within a shoe or boot. Once a blister has formed you can only wait for it to heal.
They are painful and irritating and can become dangerously infected. Continuous rubbing of the heel or shin, or near the ball of your fit is the way to end up with blisters. A good pair of over-the-calf socks can prevent blisters from forming.
2.) Perspiration
Excessive perspiration for professionals involved in manual labor is a given, and one of the principal causes of blisters and abrasions along with rubbing is moisture and moisture-soaked socks.
Good moisture-wicking capabilities in a work sock can help keep perspiration at bay regardless of your chosen work boot and the amount of physical labor you do.
3.) Compression
One of the great medical advantages of over-the-calf socks is that they can be worn as compression wear. For those that need circulatory support, for example, those suffering from diabetes, these socks can help with health problems and in avoiding foot ulcers common to diabetics.
Compression socks are of benefit in supporting joints and muscles, treating venous maladies, lowering the risk of blood clots, reducing swelling, increasing stamina, and generally improving comfort.
4.) Style
Apart from being the ideal sock when wearing trousers and shoes in case pants roll up some, this style of sock also has more traction to stay up on the leg during wear, so they won’t be bunched up around your ankles.
Conclusion
If you wear high-cut work shoes or work boots, over-the-calf socks are a great choice for increased foot protection and increased foot comfort during long work shifts. This is one investment you’ll be satisfied you made.
