Why are most socks not 100% cotton?

bjornb17 · Apr 24, 2011

Most socks you find at the store are like 70% cotton and then a mix of several other fibers, like rayon, polyester, nylon, etc. What is the reason for this? I can't imagine it being because of cost, because many other cheap clothes are 100% cotton.

StephenHero · Apr 24, 2011

elasticity

itbegins · Apr 24, 2011

Originally Posted by StephenHero

elasticity

+1. Some man-made fibres (i.e. polyester for instance) also help garments retain their original shape -- you'll notice in your cotton shirts, that the seams no longer run straight down the sides if you hold the shirt from the shoulders and let it hang.

phxlawstudent · Apr 24, 2011

They use it in the heel for strength. In the arch for elasticity. Probably in the top for elasticity too.

linkinwayne · Apr 24, 2011

Also, 100% cotton would fall apart a lot faster, though that's probably not the main reason

westinghouse · Apr 24, 2011

Will · Apr 24, 2011

Nylon is much less expensive than cotton. It also enables the natural fiber portion of the sock to be made to a lower density, using less cotton. That's why 100% natural fiber socks are usually about 20% more expensive than the with-nylon versions. The price is that nylon-added socks are not as comfortable.

intent · Apr 25, 2011

All cotton socks also lead to blisters, since cotton doesn't wick sweat.

Poindexter · Apr 25, 2011

Cotton wicks sweat moderately, but there are reasons for the other fibers. Bamboo wicks and deodorizes. Nylon and Polyester give stability to a garment that's under terrific stress. The stretchy stuff gives form and fitability.

Socks have a tough job. The manufacturers are trying to do de job. You can get 100% cotton socks if you look around enough, but you just might be happier with the mixed-breed WallyWorld socks.

wojt · May 17, 2013

I take 98% cotton 2% spandex are better choice than 80% cotton 20% poly?
Anyone has an opinion on these blends?

UnnamedPlayer · May 17, 2013

Viccel?

Zarium · May 17, 2013

Viccel is 100% cotton though. I can't comment on how they wear yet since they haven't arrived.

Hayward · May 17, 2013

Cotton is a terrible material for socks grenerally. Socks should be wool, or a wool blend.

teddieriley · May 17, 2013

Hayward said:
Cotton is a terrible material for socks grenerally. Socks should be wool, or a wool blend.

Not true.

CaymanS · May 17, 2013

Gold Toe OTC (over the calf) socks have been my go-to for a decade and I couldn't be happier. They are not pure cotton, but feel fantastic, and constrict the calf muscles a bit so as to improve blood flow, especially on flights. I can't recommend them enough.

Why are most socks not 100% cotton?

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Definitely full canvas only

Half canvas is fine

Really don't care

Depends on fabric

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