It’s time for another sustainable fashion guide! This time, I’m showcasing the best sustainable socks in my sock drawer, as well as the best socks brands operating in a fair and eco-friendly way here in the UK.
I love a good pair of comfy socks that last and last, and even more so when they come from brands who ensure their workers are treated and paid fairly. The cherry on top is when they use eco-friendly materials, while still making them as comfy as can be.
Unlike shoes, socks are a relatively easy item of clothing to make. It’s why there’s so many brands out there making ethical socks – but this list will showcase my favourites, both in terms of design, materials, and ethics.
What To Look For In Sustainable Socks
When it comes to finding socks that have positive credentials, I recommend looking for the following:
- Transparent supply chains. It’s good to know who is making your socks, and that they are being treated well and paid a living wage. After all, people make up one third of the ‘people, planet, profit’ mantra!
- Sustainable materials. In my guide to sustainable fabrics, I shared 15 different textiles I consider better for the planet (and much, much better than polyester, which is the fashion industry’s #1 textile). For socks, I recommend organic cotton, recycled cotton, and low-impact cashmere in particular. You may also find these materials are mixed with polyester – this actually helps to reinforce the sock, and increase its longevity. However, it is possible to find socks made from wholly natural materials.
- Slow production. Nobody needs a new pair of socks every week, which is why I recommend buying your socks from small brands that work against the fast fashion business model.
- Circular design. Socks are a fantastic example of a garment that can be made from just one material, so I recommend choosing socks made from a mono-material. This means that they have a much higher chance of being recycled at the end of their life, rather than sent to landfill.
What’s In My Sustainable Sock Drawer…
My Mary Jane Socks
Last year, I had the pleasure of designing my very own pair of socks with local sock maker Peper Harow. I settled on designing the perfect pair of Mary Jane socks, which I had desperately been looking for to wear with my Mary Jane shoes.
These socks are not only the perfect length and weight to be worn on Mary Janes, they’re also beautifully soft, and made in an eco-friendly way. Read more about the design process →
Organic Cotton Sports Socks
When it comes to working out, I’m quite picky over my socks. I want socks that will allow my feet to breathe (especially when I’m running!) but they also can’t rub. My organic cotton sports socks from Organic Basics have been a steadfast choice for pretty much every workout I’ve done in the past five years (with the exception of yoga!)
Locally-Made Bed Socks
Finally, let’s talk bed socks. I was actually first introduced to Peper Harow when I tried their sumptuous bed socks back in 2022. Since then, I have only bought my socks from them! I’ve been lucky enough to tour their factory, work with them on a special curation of my favourite styles* from their range, and design my very own Mary Jane socks with them too!
11 Of The Best Sustainable Socks Brands
Alongside these three, there are lots of other great ethical brands making socks out there. Here are my favourites:
Critically Endangered Socks: Range of socks that protect endangered species around the world.
Denim Star: The perfect accompaniment to jeans, these denim-blue socks are made with organic cotton.
Kind Socks: Sustainable GOTS-certified organic cotton unisex socks made in bright, happy colours.
Le Bon Shoppe: L.A.-based brand creating retro socks in pops of colour, manufactured in Korea.
Leiho: Smiley-face socks that support homeless charities.
Organic Basics*: Organic cotton sports socks and everyday socks made to last.
Peper Harow*: Luxury socks made under one roof in West Sussex, England. 20% off: BESMA
Stand4: Donating one pair of socks to homeless shelters for every pair bought.
Swedish Stockings: Socks and pop socks all made from sustainable and recycled materials.
Thought: Consciously made socks made in a range of sustainable fabrics and designs.
Untouched World*: Cosy socks from the world’s first sustainable fashion brand recognised by the UN.
What do you look for in your socks? Let me know below!
