The Best Men's Socks 2022 | Over The Calf Sock Round-Up (OTC Socks)

[@gentlemansgazette]

Thanks for the mention! We just added a XXL size. And you are right, they will not last forever. I think you might even be able to get a pair of socks in mostly Nylon and Polyester that actually outlasts an all cotton sock. Especially as finer socks generally use thinner threads. For example a very fine, thin silk sock costs more than cotton and will likely last not as long, but it provide a more vibrant look and wears comfortably. That being said, a sock made of all cotton, will be more comfortable to wear than a poly or nylon blend sock, not only because the seams are flatter but your feet will sweat less because all cotton socks wear much cooler than poly or nylon blends. I think that is often an aspect not discussed in sock reviews.

[@ricardomontoya8542]

Finally. I feel like not enough people talk about socks. A new pair of nice socks makes me happy.

[@ejm6122]

Agreed, you know back when I was like 17 or 18 and I had my very first job... my grandmother told me of the importance of building a strong first impression for the workplace. She said, as I begin to build my finances I would want to spend my money's on the detailed pieces of a wardrobe. Hosiery. Mens socks, your belt, your footwear. I have been building a strong first impressionist wardrobe & it has helped creating a brand that most people know me by.

[@tomhaywood8619]

I totally agree. I wore black nylon otcs all of the time for work. They were extremely soft and comfortable.

[@beardds]

I second Dapper Classics. Good stuff, and it's a small business. Every delivery includes a thank you note from the owner. I enjoy your videos, Jon - keep it up!

[@max2grant]

Jon- I recommend you try Falke next Their OTC line changed my sock life Matt

[@Sport214]

This is excellent. A few years ago, a friend asked what I was doing for the weekend, and I said that I had to shop for socks. They thought I was. Ring silky, but I was very serious. A great pair of socks makes all the difference! Thank you so much for this segment.

[@geoffreyb1764]

Thanks Jon - informative as ever! I personally prefer Mazarin, Turnbull & Asser, Gammarelli, Corgi and Pantherella. Mazarin in particular have a very large selection and will last forever with proper care.

[@TheGothicHangman]

For some time symbolically I’ve felt the need to purge my old sock for all new ones. Wanting to have an all new experience walking into the future leaving those old threads behind. Now I do remember when Gold Toe was great, maybe they are hit and miss now a days. Wanting that greater experience and comfort I’ve decided up two 4-Packs of Bombas Multi-Colored Calf Socks! Very excited to start fresh, I was also gifted a pair of Falke Shadow socks, they feel no existent on my feet. Thanks for your video, I may look into some of these other makers very soon.

[@loki2240]

[@rolle820]

+ on Falke. I have a couple of the classic airport model in wool. Best socks I own. Had them for three years of regular wear and still holds up well, material and elastic.

[@LawGPT]

I have tried many socks over the years. Pantherella Merino OTC socks are the best of the bunch, IMO.

[@alexnw6050]

My first pair of OTC socks were Pierre Henry, they're fine, but they pilled quickly. Dapper threads was my second purchase, and I really like them. I really enjoy my fort belvedere socks, but my absolute favorite are my hanger project socks - they feel just a bit finer than even the fort belvedere socks, I highly recommend them. Though to be honest both have worn great and I find myself going back to both regularly.

[@Brandon-wo2tz]

Love hearing you talk about socks - they look fantastic. Can you do another video on OTC socks?

[@shawn3476]

me too ..what are your fav otc dress sox? mine are black nylon otc sheers....ultra

[@Brandon-wo2tz]

@@shawn3476 I love gold toe OTC socks, any socks that look hot pulled up

[@Brandon-wo2tz]

I could listen to you talk about OTC socks all day Man ! I'm glad there are guys out there into socks. They are a cool thing to talk about, I'm glad we have the same interest in them.

[@michaelciccone2194]

I like my black nylon socks with Edmond loafers ×patent leather shoes

[@michaelciccone2194]

@@ceesan5605 just bought 3 shiny suits from mensusa.com

[@michaelciccone2194]

@@ceesan5605 black blue and gray...they look terrific..from same company, getting a pair of black moc loafers. Looking forward for delivery.

[@mistergalaxy53]

You issa freak.

[@shawn3476]

you on IG?

[@rustyshackleford17]

The absolute best pair of socks I own were some no-name merino socks I picked up at an army surplus store. Thick, cushy, stays up all day. After a decade of use, they look as good as the day I bought them. I'm not exactly sure what brand they are since I threw out the sleeve and there is zero branding on them. Best $5 I ever spent. Other than that, Darn Tough makes the best. I haven't found anything that'll last as long as they do.

[@gregbredenko2290]

If anyone knows socks, it's dudes that have to do 10+ mile humps with a 100lb pack on! Good socks are like a lifeline

[@claytonberg721]

This is good info. I've been wondering if boardroom socks were any good. I may try a pair now.

[@travisreese7229]

My Ft. Belvedere's changed my universe. I'm curious about Kirby Allison next.

[@travisreese7229]

@@ttindall8609 they are incredibly durable and lightweight. Strong, never move all day, feel like angel wings.

[@Aggnog]

Which material did you get or recommend in general? I am wondering if the wool is thin/cool enough for the warmer months.

[@justinjeffers7031]

agreed, Jon. OTC is 100% the way to go. Also agreed that Dapper Classics and especially Fort Belvedere are great purveyors. I'd also like to turn your eyes to Mes Chausettes Rouges - they stock a few great brands like Mazarin and Gammarelli.

[@genegjr]

yes OTC is 100% the way to go I always wear the Mazarin brand they have the best OTC socks out there they stay up and I like my socks up just below the knee also and they wash well

[@kongmw]

helpful as always Jon! Boardroom socks have been on my radar since your interview with their founder on the pod.

[@trvlr1173]

You are 100% correct about Gold Toe socks. When they were made here in the US, they were the best out there. Over the calf, black, Gold Toe Metropolitans were my go to socks at the time. Since the manufacturing was sent to china, the quality, fit and fabric has diminished.

[@LawGPT]

Absolutely accurate. Gold Toe socks are nearly useless now.

[@The_Kavalier]

Glad I'm not the only one! Thank you for sharing guys!

[@loki2240]

Thanks for the info! I appreciate socks a lot more, now that I'm older. They were an afterthought when I was young.

[@The_Kavalier]

🎶 Well I guess this is growing up 🎵

[@staaswolter641]

I have three pairs of Viccel socks and they are the best i own so far. Im also looking at a French brand called Mes Chausettes Rouges. They are more at the price of Fort Belvedere. The thing for me is Im a size 7 and I need a sock that is that size, has rich colors, and will last a long time. Great review. :)

[@bobstoudt9243]

So will you do a review of an over the calf work boot socks for construction type boots

[@BroomerVelo]

Thank you for this. This is what I was looking for. I too am tall with big feet and socks have always been a problem.

[@JJGarza-qd9rt]

Below the calf socks require a lot of elastic to hold them up. The constant and continuous pressure will reduce hair growth over time. Think of the calf as an inverted cone, because the calf muscle itself is the widest part of the leg. You have to have a very tight fit and lots of friction to keep a below the calf sock from sliding down - tightness to fight gravity. With an above the calf sock, the sock actually has to widen or open to drop down below the calf - very unlikely. Next time you’re at the golf course, look at the older guys in shorts. I guarantee you’ll be able to tell who has worn short socks all his life.

[@santiagojpr4779]

I don't understand,if you use short socks you got more hair in your legs,if you use otc socks you don't got much leg hair,i'm wrong?

[@adamdavies7813]

I would check out Mazarin and Pantharella as well!

[@matereichardt5626]

Ooh, I have found youtube's sock master

[@ejm6122]

Have you ever tried the mens hosiery called Pantalone? I absolutely love their cashmere socks as well as their wool socks.

[@The_Kavalier]

I haven't but any company that makes cashmere socks is A-OK in my book 😜

[@ejm6122]

@@The_Kavalier lol that's what I often say...

[@zachmitchem2801]

I love Viccel socks but with large calves and long legs they don’t stay up for very long. Great quality and foot size but I am going to try replacing them with some Boardroom socks....🤓

[@sheilavaid]

Where we get this Stocks 4:45

[@daringagged]

The purple and black strip socks tube are the best

[@christopherfoley2819]

Nordstrom has a sized sock line, limited colors in all the usual colors, over the calf, great product, I highly recommend them

[@nickgraham1210]

This has nothing to do with socks but was wondering if you had a updated review of your Thursday dress shoes

[@saloserman]

OTC SOCKS AND SHEER SOCKS PLEASE

[@topherallen203]

Yes! Please!!!

[@serpico7308]

Exactly! Sheer socks are Awesome !

[@michaelmaina4911]

Thanks os much for your videos! really appreciate them and excited to be here before the channel grows so much!

[@davideastman5871]

QUESTION! I love OTC socks, find fallen socks showing skin while dressed up is super tacky. But my issue with them is with slacks right now in fashion being form fitting around the leg and then high socks tend to bunch up the slacks around the calf and keep them from just falling down along the leg to the foot. do you have a solution for this? are there sock or slack materials that allow the two garments to not catch onto each other? oct socks are great for denim and chinos but for dress pants and slacks in can be a bit of a conflict....any insight into this would be appreciated

[@The_Kavalier]

I've had to account for this in all of my new trousers with wider openings at the knees. Cuffs certainly help as it gives the bottom of the pants some weight.

[@davideastman5871]

@@The_Kavalier good to know, appreciate your insight in the matter and how you deal with it.

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

I don’t know how I missed this video when you first uploaded it. Thanks, Jon. Very helpful video.

[@eduardoramirezjr4403]

Gold toe goes back to the 60s and were all the rage. I wear bombas for the arch support.

[@xavieraguilar2740]

Thanks for all the information. Keep the videos coming.

[@hdeen4610]

The Marino wool gives the sheer look of old gentleman I like that

[@joshuasteele4498]

So, have you tried those from Hangar Project? The price point on Ft Belvedere shocked me, but then I saw Kirby’s and just shook my head. I’m sure they’re great. For those that are dropping $1200+ on shoes, $70-140 for socks is probably no issue, but seems there has to be a diminishing return after the $40/ea point

[@alukardFE]

Even less if you ask me

[@jebbush2527]

Kirby has some socks in the $30 range, which is less than Belvedere lol. Haven’t bought any though. Do have some Belvedere’s

[@luishernandez3328]

Great looking long sleeve shirt! I can’t tell if it’s a dark navy or black. Do you mind sharing what brand it is?

[@rehab_herr]

volcolm also makes pretty good socks They have a lot of BAD looking skater socks with print on logos and art etc. But they also have very sleekly colored socks that have great padding and comfort stretch.

[@Blast20nx]

I can recommend the likes of Dore Dore, Mazarin, Bresciani, Marcoliani, The Purple Seal, William Abraham, V.K. Nagrani, Palatino, Sovereign Grade Socks, Fort Belvedere Socks and Brooks Brothers Socks.

[@The_Kavalier]

Amazing recommendations Ore! Few of those I haven't tried yet.

[@danielhakimi]

@@The_Kavalier I'll double up on the Bresciani recommendation.

[@Blast20nx]

@@The_Kavalier I will also add Sozzi socks from Milano.

[@michaelsperanza8818]

Try Southern Scholar Socks. They are out of Dallas and they are amazing!

[@chrisgreen8231]

Nice sock collection btw what's your shoe size u could be a foot model

[@jasonhull9154]

Great video. Like you, I'm tall (6'2") and my height is all in my legs. I only buy over-the-calf socks and have for years. I always find it puzzling that they are so much harder to find than mid-calf or crew socks when nothing looks worse than a man with his socks "puddling" around his ankles or showing a part of his hairy shins when he crosses his legs in slacks . In addition, OTC socks provide additional support for the legs. I'm not talking about compression socks; I'm talking about just standard OTC socks. I am constantly seeing men my age or even younger with horrific varicose veins below their knees. Meanwhile, even though I've always worked jobs that have required me to be on my feet for hours at a time every day, I've not a single varicose vein in sight. I will add, however, that I always go for nylon dress socks rather than cotton. Their color doesn't fade as much in the wash, they fit better, are more durable and long-lasting than cotton or wool, and provide more support. I agree that GoldToe/SilverToe aren't what they used to be. In the 90s, they were the absolute best. I don't know what happened, but they simply aren't the same. I used to love Burlington Microfiber OTC socks as well. They could be ordered online, fit well, looked terrific, and were reasonably priced. Alas, they're no longer around. Finally, while I like buying American-made products, there is a Chinese brand of socks called Mr. Babuu that has become my number one go-to. They have an Ebay store and typically offer free shipping to the U.S. (though it can take a month to receive your order). Most of their socks are nylon, although they do offer some in cotton and silk as well. The majority of them are OTC and either sheer, semi-sheer, or thick-n-thin. The quality from style to style can be inconsistent, but they are very affordable and feel terrific. Laundering tip for socks: put them in a delicates or lingerie bag, then put the bag in the washer and wash on a cold setting. Air dry them on a drying rack instead of putting them in the dryer, which can cause significant wear and tear. (Where do you think all the lint in the lint trap comes from?) You'll exponentially extend the life of your socks.

[@msanchez0125]

OTC are definitely the way to go. However, they present the new problem of having your trousers catch on your socks when standing up, so the pant leg stays up and looks ridiculous. Is there any sure fire way to stop this?

[@The_Kavalier]

I've had to account for this in all of my new trousers with wider openings at the knees. Cuffs certainly help as it gives the bottom of the pants some weight.

[@JohnSmith-gt3jc]

Use fabric softener. It stops the static

[@oabb101]

Well what size shoe are you to judge the heel section to up to knee.

[@user-jk1ts3iv8u]

Hi Jon, i really like your videos and was wondering if you’d consider reviewing the shaving and skincare products from Supply.

[@tjs5770]

I picked up some Daniel Creameaux from Dillard’s in a pinch and they’re ok. Interested in your thoughts on Panthrella socks. They sell them in one of the old school high end men’s stores in my town at $30 a pair which was a bit rich for my blood but I do wonder if they are worth it.

[@pschlick4]

I was a big bombas OTC fan for a while but at some point in the past 2 years I think they must have changed something. The older pairs I have stay up great but the newer ones do not for some reason. Mack Weldon is my new favorite OTC sock, no question at that price point.

[@The_Kavalier]

Interesting. I only have some of those latest Bombas ones for OTC but I have some old mid-calf from them that are great. We're certainly spoiled with options!

[@hugobroberg5167]

try the granqvist store otc socks

[@senadkazic5855]

Great video and nice socks my friend !! :D

[@RickyMouse64]

What about stance dress socks?

[@AHappyAvocado]

where are your fort belvedere socks?

[@The_Kavalier]

They're in there towards the end! Last but certainly not least.

[@fg-4519]

Falke all week

[@saulramirez370]

Are there any seamless socks? I have corns and the seams bother me too much.

[@Steve-hi1db]

Quality content!

[@paulhanft]

i have had good luck with Tommy John Socks, although not a great selection

[@danromero]

If I ever win the lotto, I'm hiring you as my stylist.

[@danlopez6960]

Thanks for the video. I'd always been interested in American Trench (their silver line - I think they said you could take one pair of socks on a trip? Does that hold true?) but it seems like they're a little too short for my taste. Also, I recently saw an instagram ad for a sock company called Almia Apparel which promises a sock that works for both dress and gym wear. If you end up reviewing them, that'd be awesome.

[@lapizza7206]

Would you review the socks kirby allison sells?

[@nicholasjohnson5944]

Thank you kindly for this video!!! I, too, love knee high socks and will be looking into these brands for the future!!! Extra positivity and rainbows go out to you and your beautiful family to stay well, healthy and happy!!!!! :D

[@The_Kavalier]

Thank you Nicholas, you as well!

[@TEFgolfer11]

Kavalier, What is your calf circumference? I feel like OTC socks wouldn't fit as well on me because i've got bigger calves. Not sure how much of a problem this actually poses, as I've never bought OTC socks before.

[@Potatocurry96]

Great vid! Where did you get the art on the wall?

[@arnold-moger]

I own boardroom socks and I think they are amazing.

[@fruitcake9824]

Arnold not slip down and get holes easily?

[@Manuel421]

Came at the right time since I'm looking to buy some longer socks in the near future ones I can wear casually with my cold weather clothes great insight!

[@jedwardoo]

What about Bonny Silver socks on Amazon? I'm curious how the micro modal fabric infused with silver does well in the comfortable, function and longevity of the socks.

[@jahanas22]

I tend to find the higher socks dig into my legs. I love Mack Weldon and Bombas.

[@senthilvelsaravanan196]

I'm from india. Please tell me the best brand for checked shirt collections

[@Kanoemirate]

What about no-show socks for hotter climes.

[@ikkiiiieee]

Which ones would you reccomend for us Europeans? I'm having a hard time finding any with a broader range apart from Falke

[@PKDN215]

I must say the Bombas no shows fit great and stay up BUT I found that they didn’t last very long. I also ordered some other pairs, as did my wife, and we got a lot of holes. I did ask Bombas about it and they were all replaced though!

[@The_Kavalier]

Good to hear Patrick! Will keep my eye out for similar reports.

[@danieldoherty5034]

Looks like Mack Weldon no longer sells OTC, just what they are calling "extended crew". Just in time for your video! Nice review Kavalier.

[@wrightleftify]

They also don't have sizes, just "One size fits most".

[@justinscroco1603]

Hey @kavalier, If you can come to my 19th bday next year and my graduation party in AZ (if you have time to since it would be an honor to have my favorite youtubers attend), would you wear long dress socks?

[@schmenken]

Tommy John socks are brilliant. I’m also a big fan of their underwear ... the easy-access pouch is great and the fit always seems to just work for me.

[@serpico7308]

What are Your thoughts on sheer socks!?! My wife bought me some from Spain. They look like Women's pantyhose, but they they are so comfortable.

[@luiswhiskylucan8452]

Drive me crazy!!!!! 😻😻😍

[@saxguychris]

I have a similar problem being 6'2" and all of my height is in my legs, too. I'm glad to see some sock recommendations for dress wear. Finding the proper size socks for me has been difficult (particularly because of my shoe size 13 foot). And maybe part of it has been from trying to look at affordable rather than fit. I'll look through these and maybe try them out in the future.

[@jaghifi]

love high socks

[@Jebro439]

Bombas for me. Yes always their no show socks

[@danielhakimi]

If anything, luxury socks wear faster. My fine merino wool socks were heavenly, but they developed holes very fast, and now they're barely wearable. Pantherella is the other classic dress sock, and my Brescianis are great too. For casual socks, my Chups and Anonymousisms really hold up nicely -- the anonymousisms are all blends, and that's definitely part of why they last. I'm really still curious to try linen socks, but I can't seem to find a decent pair under ~$40.

[@JG-uu1oj]

Do you not know what an over the calf sock is when you mention the types you don't mind putting on then immediately cut to a pair of (casual I might add) socks that aren't even mid calf..?

[@makiostar199127]

Mid calf’s are better only because they don’t let the trousers cluster near the chin..especially when you wear tapered trousers

[@chiane1968]

Are people wearing otc socks in summer, or climates like Miami? I’m not picturing that enjoyable.

[@sircadogan6362]

If its a very thin knit then yes

[@TheHD0000]

Thanks for the video, it was very helpful. I'm surprised you never mentioned 'happy socks' in the video, is like, the most popular brand. You don't like them? Great channel though.

[@The_Kavalier]

I have a few from them but was never really impressed. Not always a good sign when they can be found at Marshall's or TJX

[@RubenWhitter]

Lol u look like superman

[@yossifelder6775]

Bresciani

[@rovercoupe7104]

Pantherella.

[@shmuli9]

Some of my socks have still been washed for 30 years.

[@Skyhawk1987Turbo]

He should wear sheer socks

[@ArtYourMinds]

what is happening to your neckskin, that doesnt look like lightning alone

[@The_Kavalier]

Age?

[@AaronsRandomLife]

I was very unhappy with the quality of boardroom socks. Bad fit, no memory. I’ve had great results from darn tough and dapper classics.

[@The_Kavalier]

Thank you for sharing Aaron! Which line from Boardroom?

[@AaronsRandomLife]

@@The_Kavalier they are the over the calf, merino wool ribbed.

[@billybrand]

I like silk Socks. People have to be careful there are a lot of fake silks out there.

[@AnthonyBennettKY]

Not as tall as you (only 5’10”) but, no socks can go over my calves let alone stay up. Larger calves and dress socks do not mix. :-(

[@TheMarathonomahos]

If you live in New Zealand, knee socks are worn by almost every schoolboy in the country with shorts.

[@daringagged]

I’ll worship you

[@KG-td9wf]

FORT BELVEDERE!!!

[@The_Kavalier]

💯

[@topherallen203]

😍🤤