Sock Materials and Fabrics
The fibre a sock is knitted from sets its warmth, breathability, stretch and durability. This hub explains the natural, synthetic and stretch fibres used across our range so you can match the material to the season and the use.
Natural fibres
Cotton
The everyday sock fibre -- soft, breathable and easy to wash.
What it is
Cotton is a soft, absorbent natural fibre that makes a comfortable, breathable sock for daily wear.
Why it matters
It suits everyday and casual socks, though on its own it holds moisture, so it is often blended with synthetics for sport.
Merino Wool
Fine wool that regulates temperature and resists odour.
What it is
Merino is a soft, fine-fibre wool that insulates when cold, breathes when warm and naturally resists odour.
Why it matters
It is the premium fibre for hiking, ski and year-round socks because it manages temperature and stays fresh for longer.
Wool
Warm, resilient natural fibre for cold-weather and outdoor socks.
What it is
Standard wool is a warm, durable natural fibre that traps heat and cushions the foot.
Why it matters
It suits winter and boot socks where warmth is the priority, and is often blended for softness and stretch.
Bamboo
A soft, breathable regenerated fibre with natural moisture control.
What it is
Bamboo viscose is a smooth, soft fibre made from bamboo pulp, with good breathability and moisture handling.
Why it matters
It suits those wanting a silky, cool sock with natural freshness, and is a popular soft alternative to cotton.
Synthetic and performance
Polyester
A durable synthetic that wicks moisture and dries fast.
What it is
Polyester is a strong, quick-drying synthetic fibre that moves moisture away from the skin.
Why it matters
It is a core sport-sock fibre, blended with cotton or wool to add durability and speed up drying.
Nylon
A tough synthetic that adds strength and abrasion resistance.
What it is
Nylon, also called polyamide, is a hard-wearing synthetic that resists abrasion and holds shape.
Why it matters
A small amount of nylon in the blend dramatically increases a sock's durability at heel and toe.
Coolmax
An engineered polyester built to move sweat and cool the foot.
What it is
Coolmax is a branded polyester fibre with a shaped cross-section that pulls moisture to the surface to evaporate.
Why it matters
It keeps feet drier and cooler in sport and summer socks, reducing the damp that causes blisters.
Stretch and recycled
Elastane
The stretch fibre that gives socks their hold and recovery.
What it is
Elastane, also known as Lycra or spandex, is a highly elastic fibre knitted in small amounts for stretch and recovery.
Why it matters
It is what lets a sock hug the foot, stay up and spring back into shape after wear and washing.
Synthetic and performance
Polyamide Blend
Nylon combined with natural fibres for strength without stiffness.
What it is
A polyamide blend mixes nylon with cotton, wool or bamboo to add resilience while keeping the sock soft.
Why it matters
It is the most common way to make a natural-fibre sock last, balancing comfort and durability.
Stretch and recycled
Recycled Fibres
Reclaimed polyester and nylon that cut the demand for new raw materials.
What it is
Recycled fibres are spun from reclaimed plastic or textile waste and knitted in place of virgin synthetics.
Why it matters
They perform on a par with new fibres for wicking and durability while lowering the environmental footprint.
Frequently asked questions
Are merino wool socks better than cotton?
Merino regulates temperature, wicks moisture and resists odour far better than cotton, making it the stronger choice for sport, hiking and all-day wear, though cotton remains comfortable and affordable for casual use.
Why do socks contain elastane?
Elastane is a stretch fibre knitted in small amounts to give socks their hold and recovery, letting them hug the foot, stay up and spring back into shape after washing.
What does nylon add to a sock?
Nylon adds strength and abrasion resistance, so even a small percentage in the blend dramatically increases a sock's durability at the heel and toe where wear is highest.