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Anyone who does the family laundry may dread sorting and matching socks, but they truly are a wardrobe essential. The best socks for kids are durable, affordable, and fit comfortably to protect feet from irritation, blisters, and sweat while keeping them warm and cozy. Since there are so many options on the market, we asked parents and medical experts, including Meghan Schlitt, MD, and Mark K. Mendeszoon, DPM, for recommendations and advice on selecting socks for kids. We then researched socks in a variety of styles, prices, and materials, looking for high-quality options that stay securely on small feet. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Best No-Show: Best Crew: Best Knee-High: Best for Sports: Best Breathable: Most Comfortable: Best Durability: In This Article Our Picks How We Selected Our Experts What to Look for FAQ Why Trust Verywell Family Pros Seamless toe Arch support Won't bunch up Cons Pricier than others Limited sizes Bombas socks may feel like a splurge, but once you try them, you’ll get why they’re so popular. They are durable, comfortable, and have fabulous features. Made from a blend of cotton, polyester, Spandex, and nylon, they’re soft, not itchy, and machine-washable.The cushioned footbeds are great for active kids or long days at school, and the seamless toe design means there are no annoying bumps. Dr. Schlitt buys these socks for her kids, and one of her favorite features is their “Stay Up Technology,” which helps socks contour to feet and ankles to keep them securely in place all day without slipping down. This is an especially nice feature for young kids, babies, or anyone who runs around in just socks. In addition, the unique honeycomb-shaped arch support helps cradle the foot for additional comfort. Appropriate for nearly any activity, Bombas socks come in several patterns and colors, ranging from interesting designs to neutrals. This eight-pack is available in one youth size that fits kids 9T through 3Y. If you need something smaller, the brand offers toddler-sized socks, and for older kiddos, go with adult women’s sizing. While more expensive than other options, we truly think they are worth the investment—plus, for every pair purchased, the company donates a pair of socks. Pros Easy to match Affordable multi-pack Durable Cons Produce lots of lint Only available in neutral colors Families with growing kids will appreciate this cost-effective option for stocking your little one’s sock drawer. There’s a lot to like about these Amazon Essentials socks, including how soft and stretchy they are, making it easy for kiddos to pull them on and off by themselves.The crew-cut socks have a smooth toe seam, so there’s no chance of irritation, and the cushioned soles provide comfort and support. Available in five different sizes, it’s easy to find the right fit for your kid. While some kids may want more exciting color options, the two neutral colorways make laundry sorting quite easy. Speaking of laundry, though these machine-washable socks are quite fluffy, they may produce a lot of lint when they’re first washed.Do note that if you’re buying these for multiple kiddos, there are no size designations on the socks, which could pose a challenge if pairing different sizes. Pros Stay-put heel grips Lightweight Won’t show with most shoes Cons Only one size Pricey Billed as “the best-looking socks no one will ever know you’re wearing,” these Bombas no-show socks won't slip down and cause frustration thanks to the heel grips.The fine-gauge knit is lightweight and comfortable, and the seamless toe prevents irritation. These socks are made to be worn with casual shoes—sneakers or slip-ons—so if you’re looking for lots of coverage or warmth, you may want to explore other options. Besides the cost, the only drawback of these socks is the “one size fits all” sizing. They are designed to fit kids aged 5 to 11 years old, but as caregivers know, kiddos can sprout up quickly. If your kid needs a bigger size, try sizing up to the smallest size of the women’s no-show socks. The 11 Best Thermal Underwear to Keep Kids Cozy in Winter Pros Affordable multi-pack Unisex design Four color options Cons Black socks may leave behind fuzz Ankle socks are especially great for warmer weather because they protect feet without being too hot. If you live in a warm climate or have very active kids, this affordable 14-pack is an easy way to stock up on these everyday socks. Made from a cotton blend, these unisex socks have reinforced toes and heels, as well as toe seams to avoid blisters or rubbing. Available in five sizes and four colors, it’s easy to find a great fit for your kid. The solid neutrals make for easy sock matching, while the colored options will need specific matches within the pairs. The socks may leave fuzz behind during the first few wears, so consider washing them a few times before wearing them. Pros Multi-pack contains 12 pairs Two color options Easy to match Cons Hanes branding on the toe Listed as boys' socks Made to reach anywhere between the ankle and the calf, crew socks are quite versatile and great for everyday use. These socks from Hanes are soft, comfortable, and affordable, as the reasonably priced multi-pack comes with 12 pairs. Available in three sizes and two colors, they’re super easy to match after laundry day, since each sock in the pack is the same. Though billed as boys’ socks, there’s no reason the style isn’t unisex. They’re available in toddler through youth sizes. Pros Two variety pack options Made in the USA Stylish Cons Take up more storage space Knee-high socks are a great addition to a sock drawer. They keep legs warm with shorts or skirts, and they can also be used as athletic socks. Available in three sizes, these unisex Jefferies knee-high socks reach or cover a kiddo’s knees. They are extra long, which means they take up more room in the sock drawer. The simple and stylish socks are white with three colorful stripes around the top. Choose between a classic or rainbow pack, depending on your kid’s preferred colors. Made in the USA, these soft socks are fully cushioned and have a smooth toe seam so they won’t bother your kiddo’s feet. Pros Sweat-wicking Room to fit shin guards Left and right socks are marked Cons Three-packs not available in all colors For sporty kids, these multi-sport socks are a great addition to a uniform. Available in 10 common team colors, it’s easy to stock up and avoid the game-day scramble of looking for clean socks. All the colors are available in two packs, and some are available in three packs.We like that these versatile socks are great for basketball, football, soccer, and most other sports. They’re also stretchy enough to fit shin guards underneath. Thanks to the moisture-wicking blend of nylon and spandex, they will help keep feet dry during games. Plus, the heels are cushioned to prevent blisters. There’s an “L” or “R” printed on each sock to help little ones put them on the correct feet. Pros Moisture-wicking Arch support Reinforced heels and toes Cons Prominent branding Breathable socks fit the needs of sporty (or just sweaty) kids. Made from a blend of polyester, spandex, and nylon, these socks are specifically designed to wick away sweat from your kiddo’s feet, leaving their feet cool and comfortable. The socks also feature built-in arch support and reinforced toes and heels. This six-pack is a great option for long days of sports, camp, or just everyday activities.Available in two sizes, the socks are unisex, although they may be listed as boys’ socks on some sites. If your kid is picky about logos, note that there is prominent Under Armour branding on both the top of the foot and the back of the leg. Pros Patterns and solid colors available Seamless Cons Sizing runs big Primary is known for its simple styles in bright colors, and these socks are no exception. Each three-pack includes three fun patterns: stripes, solid, and stars. These socks are seamless, so there’s no spot that’ll irritate your kiddo’s feet, and the cotton blend will also keep them comfortable. These crew socks are available in four sizes. They do tend to run big, so you might want to consider sizing down if your kid is in between sizes. Helpfully, the heels are color-coded by size, so if you’re buying socks for multiple kids, it’ll be easy to find the right match on laundry day. Pros Contour to the foot for a snug fit Seamless toe Cushioning Cons Pricey Limited colors While these socks are an investment, they also have a long shelf life. These durable socks have Bombas socks’ signature clever features: seamless toes, honeycomb-shaped arch support, airflow venting, and lots of cushioning. Plus, they contour to your kid’s feet so they stay up all day. To ensure the best fit, there are designated socks for each foot. (Bonus: The socks have an “L” or “R” on them, which can help kids learn left from right.)Though they’re more expensive than other options, if you’re looking for high-quality, long-lasting socks in neutral colors, they're worth it. As with all Bombas, your purchase does good—the company donates a pair of socks for every pair purchased. Pros Grip covers full sole Multiple color options Comfortable padded heel tab Cons Some colors not available in all sizes Price varies based on size and color Non-slip socks are a smart option for kids of all ages, from early walkers to fast-moving toddlers to active kiddos. We love that the grip dots on these extend from the toe to the heel, helping to prevent your kid from sliding across wooden floors or down slippery steps. The padded heel tabs pull double duty: They prevent blisters and help your kid pull them on and off all by themselves. Plus, there’s strong elastic at the ankle to keep the socks from slipping down. These socks come in either a six- or 12-pack and are available in numerous color options, from bright rainbow hues to soft pastels. The sizing runs from newborn all the way up to 10 years old, so pricing will vary based on size, color, and the number of socks purchased. Pros Non-skid grips Multiple style options Affordable 12-pack Cons No grips on heel or toe Babies are like magicians, making one or two socks disappear when you least expect it. As such, it’s helpful to find an affordable option, so it’s not a tragedy when your baby kicks one off from their stroller. These baby socks are made from a super-soft cotton and spandex blend that holds up well in the wash and provides plenty of ventilation for little feet. Available in a wide range of sizes, these socks have grippers on the soles to provide some extra traction for new walkers. The multi-packs offer a wide variety of patterns and colors, including solids, stripes, and even cute vehicle patterns. The Best Baby Socks to Keep Those Tiny Feet Cozy and Protected Pros Two loops on each sock Non-skid grips Seamless toe Cons Pull loops may bother some kids Enter the “I can do it myself!” phase armed with these toddler-friendly socks that save time and energy, so both you and your kiddo can get out the door faster. Loops on either side of the sock help toddler hands pull the sock up, making it a more independent process. The loops are made with reinforced stitching to withstand little fingers tugging on them repeatedly. The non-skid grips on the sock bottoms help prevent your rambunctious toddler from taking a spill, while the cotton blend is soft on sensitive feet. Each set comes with four pairs of socks, and you can choose between fun characters and patterns. The 16 Best Toddler Shoes of 2024 for Small Feet on the Move, Tested and Reviewed Pros Cute styles and patterns Five-pack Soft combed cotton Cons No plain styles For kids who like a little flair in their wardrobe, go for these super-soft combed cotton socks. Styles include stars, snakes, dragons, and more. None of the five pairs in each pack are the same, so be prepared to match specific socks once laundry day arrives (or your kiddo can mix and match!). Available in four sizes, these socks are a nice pick for kids who like to wear fun clothes and accessories. Pros Cushioned heel and toe Size written on bottom of each sock Breathable mesh top Cons No bright color options Cushioned athletic socks are great for everyday tween wear. The cushioned heel and toe are super comfy and won’t bother their feet, while the breathable mesh on the top of the sock helps banish stinky tween feet. Thanks to the polyester and spandex blend, these are stretchy and durable enough for active, growing kids. Available in two sizes and three color varieties, each sock has a size callout on the bottom, which is helpful if you’ve got siblings with the same socks. Pros Non-skid grippers Size printed on sock bottom Patterned and plain color options Cons Sizes only go up to 24 months Thin yet durable, these breathable mesh socks won’t overheat your baby or cause irritation. These have non-skid grippers on the bottom to help keep your kid safe and upright. Even better, the grippers feature the sock size, which is helpful when sorting laundry or knowing when it’s time to size up to the next pair. When pulled up, these socks come to mid-calf on most babies to keep them cozy and covered. These Fruit of the Loom socks are available in three sizes, but they don’t go beyond size 24 months. The 15 Best Baby Walking Shoes for Their First Steps, Tested by Verywell Family Pros Thermal fabric generates heat and wicks moisture Knee-high style Cons May be too warm for some climates For kids who love adventure in the outdoors, these thick boot socks are key to keeping them warm in colder weather. No matter how insulated their boots are, it’s always helpful to have a thick sock to protect toes and keep feet toasty. These Lands’ End boot socks are made from thermal fabric, which generates heat by absorbing and wicking away moisture from the feet. Thanks to the ribbed cuffs, the socks won’t slide down in your kid’s boot. And unlike some wool socks that are itchy, these are soft and comfy.To find the best fit among the brand's four sizes, use the handy sizing chart based on their shoe size. Pros Three-pack Odor-resistant merino wool Reinforced toe and heel Cons Too thick for some shoes These wool socks are made just for kids and are great for a day outdoors, a long hike, or any other adventure. The merino wool blend has all the benefits of regular wool, but it's machine washable and not itchy. Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant and wicks away moisture, which is especially helpful for families who like outdoor adventures.Available in a three-pack, these socks come in six muted colors. If your kid plans to wear them with casual shoes rather than boots, keep in mind that these socks are thick. The 10 Best Kids' Hiking Shoes to Explore the Great Outdoors Pros Itch-free merino wool Cushioning on front calf and bottom of foot Breathable fabric Cons Different retailers have different colors and sizes available The key to a long day of skiing is the right gear. Focus on keeping extremities like toes and fingers warm so your kids will last longer on the slopes. These Smartwool socks are made from merino wool, an ideal fabric for skiing since it’s itch-free, breathable, and will wick sweat away from feet, so they stay dry and comfortable. The light cushioning on the bottom of the foot and the front of the calf is helpful for kids who may not be used to the feel of rigid ski boots. While they are on the pricier side, suitable ski socks are worth the investment. They are also machine washable, so they’re easy to keep clean. Pros Good for kids with sensory needs Assorted colors Cons No plain colors For some kids with sensory needs, a sock seam can be enough to bother them for the whole day or banish the idea of socks altogether. Thankfully, seamless socks exist, eliminating that pesky feeling around the toes. These socks are soft, stretchy, and comfortable, and the body of each sock blends into the toe without a bumpy seam. Each five-pack comes with colorful striped socks in an assortment of hues. We began our research into the best socks for children by talking to parents and experts, including a pediatrician and a podiatrist, who provided valuable insights into what to look for in socks for kids of all ages, as well as the specific needs of children's feet. With this information in mind, we evaluated dozens of top-rated socks and popular options available on the market. We looked for socks that are safe for children, comfortable, made with high-quality materials, and reasonably priced. Our list of the best socks for kids includes options that are appropriate for a broad range of activities and feature a variety of styles. We also took personal preferences and budgets into consideration. What helps kids with stinky feet? To prevent overpowering foot odors, kids should wash and dry their feet thoroughly every day, says Dr. Schlitt. “Switch shoes out and avoid wearing the same shoes every day. There are also some disinfectant sprays available, or families can wash their feet with antibacterial soap.” Moisture-wicking socks are great for kids with sweaty feet and can help prevent undesirable odors from becoming a part of the shoe. Machine washability is also important so socks can be easily cleaned and disinfected. Do quality socks make a difference? Socks are a staple in a kid’s wardrobe, so it’s important that they are durable and well-made. However, they should also be affordable; socks are easily lost and often need to be replaced, so they’re not worth busting your budget over. How much do quality socks for kids cost? There’s a wide range of prices for kids' socks, ranging from $54 for the Bombas Youth Calf Socks 8 Pack to $10 for the Hanes Cushioned Crew Socks 12-Pack. Choose what works for your needs, budget, and child. If they are constantly losing socks, you’ll want to choose a cheaper option, but for older kids or particular needs, pricier socks can be worth it. Do socks have BPA? In 2022, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH), a California-based activist group, found amounts of bisphenol A (BPA) higher than the state’s allowed levels in over 100 brands of socks, including Hanes, Jefferies, Fruit of the Loom, and Adidas.BPA is used as an additive in synthetic materials like polyester and spandex. BPA is a known endocrine disrupter; in children, it may interfere with nervous system development, affect behavioral development, and lead to obesity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) asserts more research is needed to confirm the adverse health effects of BPA, and the science of BPA absorption through the skin is not settled.No sock recalls have been made in connection with BPA levels. If you prefer to avoid polyester and spandex as a safety precaution, look for options made with only natural fibers. Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who's experienced in covering food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of a 12-year-old son, a 9-year-old son, and a 5-year-old daughter. Maya’s kids are all super active, and the number of socks in her laundry is insane. She has transitioned her sons to all black or white socks, but her daughter loves all kinds of colorful socks. Maya has one rule about socks: You cannot wear them outdoors without shoes.:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Best-Socks-for-Kids-VWF-tout-3d3c5756fc6e4262b2d6e0d9057e5588.jpg "Keep Their Tootsies Warm With the 20 Best Socks for Kids of 2024 (1)")
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Best Boot Socks
Lands’ End Thermaskin Socks
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Smartwool Kid's Ski Racer Sock
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