Five Plus One is our weekly series of buyer’s guides. We pick a specific category and dig up five great options along with one that’s a little outside the norm.
Pulling on a nice pair of socks is one of life’s simple pleasures: whether it is a pair of thick boot socks in the winter or light loafer socks in the spring. Today we’re exploring linen socks — perfect to pair with loafers, dress shoes, vulcanized sneaks like Converse, or even casual bluchers.
Want to learn about high-end socks? Check out The Three Tiers of Socks: Entry, Mid, and End Level
1) American Trench: Luxury Dress Socks in Linen and Cotton
American Trench is known for making elevated basics, and while Luxury Dress Socks made from linen are a touch more extravagant than what you may consider “basic” they certainly fit the profile of what AT does best. These socks are made from an Italian blend of 52%/25%/20%/3% linen/cotton/nylon/spandex giving the comfort and breathability of linen with the durability of synthetics.
Available for $30 from American Trench.
2) Fog Linen Works: Linen Socks
Fog Linen Works‘ Linen Socks are an excellent option from just about every angle. They’re made from 90% linen with 10% nylon for durability, and feature a loose weave for comfort.
Available for $26 from Folk.
3) Ichi Antiquites: Linen Rib Socks
If you’re interested in linen socks but still prefer the classic ribbed sock design, then you’ll want to take a look at these Linen Rib Socks from Ichi Antiquites. Made in Japan from a 93%/7% linen/poly blend, these are your traditional mid-calf rib socks and are available in four beautiful hues.
Available for $27 from Namu.
4) RoToTo: Ribbed Ankle Socks
RoToTo is one of the biggest names in high-end socks, so it should come as no surprise that they have some top-notch linen options. These Ribbed Ankle Socks are made in Japan from a 54%/38%/6%/1%/1% linen/cotton/nylon/polyester/polyurethane blend, and with their great colorways and mild texture, they would make for some fantastic dress socks.
Available for ¥2310 (~$16USD) from Sun House.
5) Paul Smith: Striped Linen-Blend Socks
Paul Smith is a designer right on the periphery of what we usually cover here at Heddels, and we’re fortunate enough to be able to cover their Striped Linen-Blend Socks this week.
Made from a 52%/30%/18% linen/cotton/polyadmide blend, these socks are the perfect pair of everyday socks with the added benefit of being made from linen.
Available for £27 (~$29USD) from Mr. Porter.
Plus One – Wa-Modern: Tabi Socks
Tabi-style socks are becoming more and more common, and Wa-Modern‘s version is one of the best out there. These pairs are made in Japan from 22%/52%/26% linen/cotton/synthetic blend, and while we’d love to see them made with even higher linen content these are still one compelling pair of foot warmers.
Available for $22 from Kiriko.