Men wear athletic socks when they have to take their kids to little league and when they have to do the yard work. Whenever there is even the possibility of sweat the athletic sock is a must. Men are simple and straightforward when it comes to their socks: it either matches their dress shoe or helps their shoes from smelling.

Women, of course, are slightly more complicated when it comes to their socks. Though the athletic sock is still an integral part of the dresser, it is not one of only two necessary styles. From hosiery to booties to toe socks to socks “just for fun,” women will inevitably amass an entire drawer full of socks that appear to serve no special purpose beyond what a normal sock could easily satisfy.

But the athletic sock is still necessary. Just like men, women wear these socks in places like the gym, around the house and the dry cleaner while running errands. What was once designed as a simple white socks used only for extreme activity and sweat has become an important part of day to day life. It has become the equivalent of the “casual shirt” when it comes to socks. Rather than having a sock to match every occasion, athletic socks are worn as the comfortable alternative when nice socks are not required.

The athletic sock has become especially versatile with adaptations such as the ankle sock and different colors. In this way socks have become easier to integrate into an outfit.

Athletic Socks is a post from: Socks.ie