Over-the-calf socks are an essential item to any man’s formal wardrobe. With the ability to stay up throughout the day, you never need to worry about adjustments or how they look.
But here’s the deal:
There are very few well-made over-the-calf socks available from reputable brands. So today, we wanted to round up a few that showcase good craftsmanship, comfort, and high-quality fabrics.
Comparison
Here is a tabular comparison of the key differences between each of the socks:
| Sock | Material | Sizes | Country of Origin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boardroom Socks Over-the-Calf Socks | 67% Merino Wool, 30% Nylon, 3% Spandex | 8-12, 13-16 | United States |
| Gold Toe Metropolitan Over-The-Calf Dress Socks | 100% Nylon | 6 to 12.5 | China |
| Bombas Dress Knee High Socks | 77% Cotton, 18% Polyester, 3% Nylon, 2% Spandex | 6 to 9, 9.5 to 13, 13.5 to 16 | Imported |
| Kane11 Men’s Montauk Over-the-Calf Socks | 57% Supima Cotton, 36% Nylon, 3% Polyester, 4% Spandex | 7 to 14 (Individual) | United States |
| Pierre Henry Over-the-Calf Dress Socks | 86% Cotton, 10% Nylon, 4% Elastane | 7 to 11, 12 to 16 | Ecuador |
| Jos. A. Bank Dress Compression Socks | 95% Nylon, 5% Spandex | 8 to 12 | Imported |
| Suitsupply Knee High Socks | 100% Cotton | 6 to 9, 10 to 13 | Italy |
| Lands’ End Over-the-Calf Dress Socks | 49% Nylon, 48% Cotton, 3% Spandex | 8 to 11, 11.5 to 13, 13 to 14 | China |
1. Best Overall: Boardroom Socks Over-the-Calf Socks
Material: Merino Wool or Pima Cotton | Sizes: 8-12, 13-16 | Country of Origin: United States
When it comes to men’s formal dress socks, there is no better name in the market right now than Boardroom Socks. Made in North Carolina, these socks will feel great and look nice.
Available in both merino wool and Pima cotton, along with several colors and patterns, you should have no problem finding the perfect pair of socks to complement your formal attire. We especially like Boardroom Socks because they pay careful attention to detail. The socks have a reinforced toe and heel pocket to provide greater durability along with a flat toe seam for added comfort – they truly showcase fine American craftsmanship.
Related: Boardroom Socks Review
2. Affordable: Gold Toe Metropolitan Over-The-Calf Dress Socks
Material: 100% Nylon | Sizes: 6 to 12.5 | Country of Origin: China
Since 1919, Gold Toe has made formal apparel that men can depend on. Their Metropolitan Over-the-Calf Dress Socks are a great value pick for men still climbing the corporate ladder or those that simply watch their expenses closely. Made from a 100% nylon fabric, these socks are naturally moisture-wicking and intensely durable – providing unmatched value.
The socks themselves are thinner but still feature reinforced fabric in the areas where it counts. Additionally, you can pick them up in a few standard colors, including black, brown, and navy.
There are some compromises given the lower price of about $17.50 for a three-pack. Most notable is that these socks are only available in one size and are made in China.
3. Breathable: Bombas Dress Knee High Socks
Material: 77% Cotton, 18% Polyester, 3% Nylon, 2% Spandex | Sizes: 6 to 9, 9.5 to 13, 13.5 to 16 | Country of Origin: Imported
Founded in 2013, New York, NY-based Bombas shot to stardom with their kind-hearted mission of donating one sock to a homeless shelter for every one sock purchased. To date, they have donated a staggering 50 million items to those in need (source).
While their social causes are remarkable, their products are equally impressive. The Men’s Ribbed Dress Knee High Socks are a perfect choice if you like breathable and comfortable cotton-based socks. These airy socks provide a comfortable feel thanks to their reliance on a lightweight knit. For details, you’ll enjoy the flat toe seams along with the mild arch compression.
4. Best Fit: Kane11 Men’s Montauk Over-the-Calf Socks
Material: 57% Supima Cotton, 36% Nylon, 3% Polyester, 4% Spandex | Sizes: 7 to 14 (Individual) | Country of Origin: United States
One of the downsides to buying socks is that they are only available in wide size ranges. But what if you’re between sock sizes? Should you size up and have a baggy sock? Or should you size down and wear one that is too tight in hopes that it’ll stretch out? Well, Kane11 has you covered. By making socks for specific sizes, you can enjoy a pair that’ll fit perfectly.
While the Montauk Over-the-Calf socks feature individual sizes, they will feel quite comfortable when wearing them. They’re made from Supima cotton, the highest grade cotton available. In addition, the socks have been paired with a cushioned sole and lay-flat seams for next-level comfort. If you’re picky about how your socks fit, give these a closer look.
5. Patterned: Pierre Henry Over-the-Calf Dress Socks
Material: 86% Cotton, 10% Nylon, 4% Elastane | Sizes: 7 to 11, 12 to 16 | Country of Origin: Ecuador
Boston-based Pierre Henry was founded in 2013 with the mission to “set the example for effective and socially-conscious manufacturing.” In adhering to their mission, Pierre Henry ensures humane working conditions and shares 15% of their profits with their factory works – pretty cool.
Specializing in over-the-calf socks, Pierre Henry offers one of the widest ranges of patterns available. So whether you want a pair of dress socks with USA flags, stripes, argyle, or a simple polka dot, you should find a pair that’ll demonstrate your unique sense of style.
Available in three and nine packs, they are also perfect for gift giving.
6. For Travel: Jos. A. Bank Dress Compression Socks
Material: 95% Nylon, 5% Spandex | Sizes: 8 to 12 | Country of Origin: Imported
When traveling via air, swelling in the legs can be a problem – especially on cross-continental flights. Compression socks are effective in preventing swelling by helping to push blood throughout the lower extremities. So if you have a trip coming up on the calendar, consider buying these dress compression socks by Jos. A. Bank.
These socks have a moderate amount of compression that’ll help to increase comfort while flying. Furthermore, the socks are also presentable, so you don’t have to worry about changing them once you land. Instead, you can confidently head straight to the meeting while still looking nice.
7. Cotton: Suitsupply Knee High Socks
Material: 100% Cotton | Sizes: 6 to 9, 10 to 13 | Country of Origin: Italy
Founded in 2000, Amsterdam-based Suitsupply makes, you guessed it, suits and other formal wear for men. But one accessory of theirs that caught our eye was their 100% cotton over-the-calf dress socks. With soft and breathable knitting, these cotton socks will feel super comfortable when sliding them on. But don’t worry about them stretching out; the soft lycra cuff will keep them up all day long.
8. Lands’ End Over-the-Calf Dress Socks
Material: 49% Nylon, 48% Cotton, 3% Spandex | Sizes: 8 to 11, 11.5 to 13, 13 to 14 | Country of Origin: China
Lands’ End does a tremendous job at making so many wardrobe staples that feature quality fabrics at affordable prices. These over-the-calf rib socks are another soft cotton and polyester blended sock that showcases durable and breathable qualities. With reinforcement in both the heel and toe, they should last quite some time. They are available in various standard colors and priced at just under $10 per sock, and deliver unmatched value.