Eight Best Dress Socks For Men: Durable, Stylish Pairs at Every Budget in 2020

Today’s less-than-riveting topic: The best dress socks in the world for men.

It’s true that sock talk isn’t the sexiest thing, but it definitely needs to happen. Especially if you’re slogging off to work or a formal event in subpar socks that sprout new holes every month.

It’s more cost-effective over time to shell out a bit more for the best dress socks for men, especially in terms of durability and comfort, than it is to forever stock up on cheapies.

Since they’re the foot sheaths you’ll likely be wearing the most, you’ll want to prioritize pairs that are comfortable and breathable while also incorporating odor-fighting and sweat-wicking properties.

Whether you find yourself reaching for work-boot socks or something to don under your finest Oxfords when duty calls, there’s something in this list for every professional.

Now go. Do not be gentle when you enter that business casual night. Instead, arm yourself with eight of the best men’s dress socks ever.

Right. Remember to never make socks boring again.

What you need to know 

The best dress socks for men not only need to withstand the demands of your daily routine, but they also need to be—you guessed it—comfortable. Mack Weldon’s Silver Extended crew dress sock is at the top of my list because it has a focus on comfort as well as its ability to wick moisture away.

And when it comes to trusty, cozy dress socks for men that are easy on the wallet, look no further than the longtime staple, Goldtoe’s Harrington Crew Socks.

Why they’re great: Mack Weldon takes something quite basic—the dress sock—and elevates it to something… well, still basic. But the New York brand’s Silver Extended Crew Dress Socks are constructed with a level of quality and durability that’s woefully hard to come by in this category.

Beyond that, they’ve got a cushioned foot bed, reinforced cuffs that don’t budge and anti-odor properties that’ll keep your feet fresh all day long.

Who they’re forThese handsome crew socks are suitable for anyone. However, they will be especially appreciated by those who spend a lot of time on their feet and wear dress socks daily.

Flaws are not a deal-breaker: You’ve got some variety in terms of colors and patterns, but the addition of a few more staple solids and muted patterns would help round out more conservative closets.

Material: 85% Cotton, 10% Ionic+ Silver, 4% Nylon, 1% Elastic | Sizes Available: | Colors Available: 7

Why they’re great: These cotton men’s dress socks from ISTO are called “Cotton Socks.” And you know what, I respect that. The Portugal-based brand prioritizes transparent manufacturing practices, sustainability, and—most importantly—comfort.

This soft, breathable sock is exactly what you need. And they’re going to last a long, long time.

Who they’re for: Whether your workplace or happy hour is formal, casual, business-casual, or whatever-the-hell-else-casual, your feet will feel right at home in these socks.

Flaws are not a deal breaker: ISTO’s Cotton Socks come in every core solid color you’d look to for any buttoned-up occasion—but they’re all solids and they’re all relatively conservative.

These are some of the best dress socks for men; but if you’d like to inject a bit of personality into your ensemble, you’ll have better luck elsewhere.

Material70% Organic Cotton, 28 % Recycled Polyester, 2% Elastane | Sizes Available: S–XL | Colors Available: 4

Why they’re greatClosed, based in Hamburg, Germany has a long history in denim. And a damn fine pair of jeans you’ll still find among its virtual racks.

My friend, today’s topic is the best dress cufflinks for men. And this part, in particular, is about the European brand’s Logo Socks, which are equal parts bold and conservative in the best ways possible.

Who they’re for: The stylish nonconformist who doesn’t skimp on comfort, durability, or style.

Flaws are not deal-breakers: If I had to guess, the giant “CLOSED” billboard running up the length of the sock isn’t for everyone. But if you’re reading this section, what appeals to everyone probably isn’t your style anyway.

Material85% Organic Cotton 13% Polyamide 2% Elastane | Sizes Available: M–L | Colors Available: 2

Why they’re greatAre you looking for something more substantial? Form&Thread Triple Twists mid-weight cotton dress socks for men are heavy enough to keep your feet toasty in the winter and breathable enough to wear during the warmer months.

Wear a pair of warmer colored socks with a wool suit for a textured, warm look.

Who they’re for: You could easily wear any of Form&Thread’s three colorways with a pair of chinos or jeans, but they’re also a good fit for business-casual and cocktail-attire occasions.

Flaws are not deal breakers: You can certainly get away with wearing these socks during spring and summer, but the triple-twisted yarn is best suited for fall and winter both in terms of style (they’ll double as boot socks all day) and comfort.

Material86 % Cotton, 13 % Polyamide, 1 % Elastane | Sizes Available: 6–12 | Colors Available: 3

Why they’re great: London Sock Co.’s Designer Collection Box is a can’t-miss gift for any discerning man in your life. In it: 15 pairs of the brand’s breathable cotton men’s dress socks in 15 interesting colors and designs.

Who they’re forThe Designer Collection Box is a great way to add color, variety, and interest to your wardrobe.

There may be flaws in the product, but that does not mean it is defective: You’re working with a lot of socks here. Whether you’re gifting this thing or getting it for yourself, you’ll want to make sure there’s an actual need before going all-in like this.

Material75% Scottish Lisle cotton, 24% Polyamide and 1% Elastane | Sizes Available: S–L | Colors Available: 15

Why they’re greatYou’re familiar with Goldtoe. You know that your grandfather wears these. Your father wears them. And if you haven’t had the distinct, old-school pleasure of wearing them yourself, this [dramatic pause] It’s your time. The American brand has produced its iconic, durable, and breathable dress sock since 1934.

Who they’re for: If you’re looking for a basic, comfortable, traditional, budget-friendly, over-the-calf sock, Goldtoe’s quality can’t be beat for the price.

Flaws are not deal breakersRemember the bit about your grandfather and father? I wasn’t kidding… they definitely have a pair or two.

And although the brand has done some compelling rebranding throughout the years, you’re probably not going to get past Goldtoe’s old-school stigma if you’re a label- and status-conscious guy. If you’re the rest of us, though, all you care about is getting the best dress socks for men for a good price.

Material78% Cotton, 19% Polyester, 3% Spandex | Sizes Available: 6–12.5 | Colors Available: Dozens

Why they’re great: Designed to take a beating—be it from foot odor, wear-and-tear, or being on your feet all day—Falke’s Airport Socks are some of the most comfortable workhorses your feet are likely to have the pleasure of experiencing.

These men’s calf-length socks have a cotton and merino blend for breathability. Available in 16 colors.

Who they’re for: There’s not a single business-casual, semi-casual, or formal scenario I can think of where these durable, versatile socks won’t fit right in. Who are these socks for? You. You.

There are flaws, but they do not mean that the product is defective: Though the majority of Falke’s nearly 1,000 Amazon reviews are glowing, a handful of buyers have said their Airport Socks weren’t able to justify their price point.

Material60% Virgin Wool 23% Cotton 15% Polyamide 2% Elastane | Sizes Available: 6.5–15 | Colors Available: 16

Why they’re great: Loro Piana’s cashmere-and-silk socks are the footwear equivalent of a day at the spa. This pair of best dress socks is made from a luxurious blend of silk and cashmere. The ribbing and extra length ensure that these men’s dress socks won’t pinch or fall as you bob and weave your way throughout the day.

Who they’re forIt’s definitely not Goldtoe up there. That’s neither good nor bad, of course. All I’m saying is that this is a decidedly niche pair of socks catered toward the quality- and comfort-obsessed gentleman who has everything and for whom money is no concern.

Flaws are not a deal-breaker: If you’re buying a pair of men’s dress socks for over $200 without batting an eye, we’re likely beyond the flaw conversation.

Material: 70% Cashmere, 30% Silk | Sizes Available: M–L | Colors Available: 2

Considerations to Make When Purchasing the Best Dress Socks For Men

Targeted comfort

Best dress socks for men must take into account the needs of each individual. They should be comfortable. Prioritize features such as targeted compression around the arch, reinforced heels and feet, and sweat-wicking and odor-fighting materials.

Material Composition

Cotton and cotton-blends are the most breathable and comfortable materials to use for dress socks. And though you’ll find plenty of excellent cotton options out there, the unparalleled performance of merino wool makes it one of the best materials out there for socks.

Even if the socks you’re considering buying contain a small percentage of merino wool, it’ll go a long way in regulating the temperature of your feet, wicking away sweat, and providing outstanding breathability.

Color

For everyday socks, you can use almost any design and color. Men’s dress socks, however, can be a bit trickier. Don’t get me wrong—I highly encourage you to show your personality and challenge sartorial norms.

But if we’re keeping things traditional here (and today, we are), it’s best to stick with solids like black and navy, for example, and subtle patterns otherwise.

How We Decided 

I am a fashion and grooming journalist at FashionBeans. In this role, I research, test and compare the products which make a man a man. If it can be worn, carried, or used in a way that elevates your look and feel, I’m into it.

In this review I have combed over reliable sources, customer reviews and technical features. I also looked at my own dress sock closet to see what is the best.

After comparing more than 50 pairs, the resulting eight are what I’m calling the best of the best. My key considerations are:

TypeWhen I put together this list, i made sure to include products that were versatile and had universal workplace functionality. The list is full of socks for all occasions, including colorful designs and pairs with conservative over-the calf socks.

Customer ReviewsI combed through dozens and dozens of reviews to find both positives and negatives before listing different perspectives in this list of best dress socks for guys.

PriceYou need to be able to afford the dress socks you want, and the price should also make sense in your financial situation. With the selection of incredible pairs on the market today, there’s no need to overpay for anything. When choosing my top picks, I made sure to keep this in mind.     

Why should you trust us?

Kelly Larson is a shining example of expertise when it comes to interpreting the essence of style. He has a prolific 12-year tenure in the fashion and grooming industry, and his insights are not just words on a page—they are a compass for those seeking guidance in a sea of trends.

Witness his detailing of the best men’s slippers and the best face products for men.

To compile this list of the best dress socks for men, Kelly did the hard yards so you don’t have to, sifting through a myriad of industry and reviewer information and also using his trial-and-error learnings to inform the content.

Final Verdict

Dress socks are essential for any profession. They need to be comfortable and durable. They also need to be breathable, sweat-wicking and anti-odor. Yes, that’s a lot.

My top eight picks of the best dress socks for guys aren’t able to live up to these standards. Especially not my top overall pair—Mack Weldon’s Silver Extended Crew Dress Sock.