Happy Feet Require Comfortable Socks, and We Have the Best Options for Kids of All Ages (2024)

Anyone who does the family laundry may dread sorting and matching socks, but they truly are a wardrobe essential. The best socks for kids are durable, affordable, and fit comfortably to protect feet from irritation, blisters, and sweat while keeping them warm and cozy. Moreover, socks can really let a child’s style shine through with fun prints and bright colors.

To find the best socks for kids, whether for all-day wear, sports, or to absorb sweat, we spoke with parents and medical experts, including Meghan Schlitt, MD, and Mark K. Mendeszoon, DPM. We researched a variety of styles, materials, size ranges, and cleaning instructions (because socks shouldn’t be difficult to wash). Our list includes kids’ socks that will last through an entire soccer season (and more)—all while staying securely on small feet.

Our Favorites

• Best Overall:Bombas Youth Calf Socks
• Best Value:Amazon Essentials Kids Crew Socks
• Best No-Show:Bombas Youth No Show Sock
• Best Ankle:Amazon Essentials Kids Cotton Low-Cut Sock
• Best Crew:Hanes Crew Socks
• Best Knee-High:Jefferies Knee High Tube Socks
• Best for Sports:Celersport Multi-Sport Socks
• Best Breathable:Under Armour Athletic Socks
• Most Comfortable:Primary Crew Sock
• Best Durability:Bombas Calf Sock

Best Overall: Bombas Youth Calf Socks

Why We Like It

Bombas socks may feel like asplurge, but once you try them, you’ll get why they’re so popular. They aredurable,comfortable, and havefabulous features. Made from a blend ofcotton, polyester, Spandex, and nylon, they’resoft, not itchy, and machine-washable.Thecushioned footbedsare great foractive kidsor long days at school, and theseamlesstoe design means there areno annoying bumps.

Dr. Schlitt buys these socks for her kids, and one of her favorite features is their “Stay Up Technology,” which helps socks contour to feet and ankles to keep them securely in place all day without slipping down. This is an especially nice feature for young kids, babies, or anyone who runs around in just socks. In addition, the uniquehoneycomb-shaped arch supporthelps cradle the foot for additional comfort.

But Take Note

Appropriate fornearly any activity, Bombas socks come inseveral patterns and colors, ranging from interesting designs to neutrals. This eight-pack is available inone youth sizethat fits kids9T through 3Y. If you need something smaller, the brand offers toddler-sized socks, and for older kiddos,go with adult women’s sizing. While more expensive than other options, we truly think they areworth the investment—plus, for every pair purchased, the company donates a pair of socks.

The Details

• Size range:One size (9T-3Y)
• Materials:Cotton, polyester, spandex, and nylon blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 8
  

Best Value: Amazon Essentials Kids Crew Socks

Why We Like It

Families with growing kids will appreciate thiscost-effective optionfor stocking your little one’s sock drawer. There’s a lot to like about these Amazon Essentials socks, including howsoft and stretchy they are, making iteasy for kiddos to pull them on and off by themselves.The crew-cut socks have asmooth toe seam, so there’sno chance of irritation, and thecushioned solesprovide comfort and support. Available infive different sizes, it’s easy to find the right fit for your kid. While some kids may want more exciting color options, thetwo neutral colorwayssimplify laundry sorting.

But Take Note

Though thesemachine-washablesocks are quite fluffy, they mayproduce a lot of lint when first washed.And if you’re buying these for multiple kiddos,there are no size designations on the socks, which could pose a challenge if pairing different sizes.

The Details

• Size range:2T-10Y
• Materials:Cotton, polyester, nylon, and elastane blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 10

Best No-Show: Bombas Youth No Show Sock

Why We Like It

Billed as “the best-looking socks no one will ever know you’re wearing,” these Bombas no-show sockswon't slip downand cause frustration thanks to theheel grips.These socks are made to be worn withcasual shoes—sneakers or slip-ons. The fine-gauge knit is lightweight and comfortable, and the seamless toe prevents irritation.

But Take Note

Besides thecost, the only drawback of these socks is the “one size fits all” sizing. They are designed to fit kids aged5 to 11 years old, but as caregivers know, kiddos can sprout up quickly. If your kid needs a bigger size, try sizing up to the smallest size of thewomen’s no-show socks.

The Details

• Size range:One size (9T-3Y)
• Materials:Cotton, polyester, and Spandex blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 4

Best Ankle: Amazon Essentials Kids Cotton Low-Cut Sock

Why We Like It

Ankle socks are especiallygreat for warmer weatherbecause theyprotect feet without being too hot. If you live in a warm climate or have very active kids, thisaffordable14-pack is an easy way tostock upon theseeveryday socks.

Made from acotton blend, these unisex socks havereinforced toes and heels, as well astoe seams to avoid blistersor rubbing. Available infive sizesandfour colors, it’s easy to find a great fit for your kid. The solid neutrals make for easy sock matching, while the colored options will need specific matches within the pairs.

But Take Note

The socksmay leave fuzz behindduring the first few wears, so consider washing them a few times before wearing them.

The Details

• Size range:2T-10Y
• Materials:Cotton, polyester, nylon, and elastane blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 14
  

Best Crew: Hanes Crew Socks

Why We Like It

Made to reachanywhere between the ankle and the calf, crew socks are quite versatile and great for everyday use. These socks from Hanes aresoft, comfortable, and affordable, as the reasonably priced multi-pack comes with 12 pairs. Available inthree sizes and two colors, they’re supereasy to matchafter laundry day since each sock in the pack is the same.

But Take Note

Though billed as boys’ socks, there’s no reason the style isn’t unisex. They’re available intoddler through youth sizes. Also, note that the socks show the Hanes branding on the toes (some kids may not like this).

The Details

• Size range:4.5T-9Y
• Materials:Polyester, cotton, and spandex blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 12
  

Best Knee-High: Jefferies Knee High Tube Socks

Why We Like It

Knee-high socks are a great addition to a sock drawer. Theykeep legs warmwith shorts or skirts, and they can also be used asathletic socks. Thesimple and stylishsocks are white with three colorful stripes around the top. Choose between a classic or rainbow pack, depending on your kid’s preferred colors.Made in the USA, thesesoftsocks arefully cushionedand have asmooth toe seamso they won’t bother your kiddo’s feet.

But Take Note

Available inthree sizes, these unisex Jefferies knee-high socks reach or cover a kiddo’s knees. They areextra long, which means theytake up more roomin the sock drawer.

The Details

• Size range:7-11Y
• Materials:Cotton, nylon, polyester, and spandex blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 4
  

Best for Sports: Celersport Multi-Sport Socks

Why We Like It

For sporty kids, thesemulti-sport socksare a great addition to a uniform. They’re alsostretchy enough to fit shin guards underneath. Thanks to themoisture-wicking blend of nylon and spandex, they helpkeep feet dryduring games. Plus, theheels are cushionedto prevent blisters. There’s an“L” or “R” printed on each sockto help little ones put them on the correct feet.

But Take Note

Available in10 common team colors, it’s easy to stock up and avoid the game-day scramble of looking for clean socks. All the colors are available in two packs, and some are available in three packs.We like that theseversatilesocks are great for basketball, football, soccer, and most other sports.

The Details

• Size range:12C-7Y
• Materials:Nylon, polyester, rubber, and spandex blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 2-3
  

Best Breathable: Under Armour Athletic Socks

Why We Like It

Breathablesocks fit the needs ofsporty (or just sweaty)kids. Made from ablend of polyester, spandex, and nylon, these socks arespecifically designed to wick away sweatfrom your kiddo’s feet, leaving them cool and comfortable. The socks also featurebuilt-in arch supportandreinforced toes and heels.

But Take Note

This six-pack is a great option for long days of sports, camp, or just everyday activities.Available intwo sizes, the socks areunisex, although they may be listed as boys’ socks on some sites. If your kid is picky about logos, note that there isprominent Under Armour brandingon both the top of the foot and the back of the leg.

The Details

• Size range:13.5C-4Y
• Materials:Polyester, spandex, and nylon blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 6
  

Most Comfortable: Primary Crew Sock

Why We Like It

Primary is known for itssimple styles in bright colors, and these socks are no exception. Each three-pack includesthree fun patterns: stripes, solid, and stars. These mostly cotton socks areseamless, so there’s no spot that’ll irritate your kiddo’s feet, and thecotton blendwill also keep themcomfortable.

But Take Note

These crew socks are available infour sizes. They dotend to run big, so you might want to consider sizing down if your kid is in between sizes. Theheels are conveniently color-coded by size, so if you’re buying socks for multiple kids, it’ll be easy to find the right match on laundry day.

The Details

• Size range:7C-1Y
• Materials:Cotton, polyamide, and elastane blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 3

Best Durability: Bombas Calf Sock

Why We Like It

While these socks are aninvestment, they also have along shelf life. Thesedurablesocks have Bombas socks’signature clever features:seamlesstoes,honeycomb-shaped arch support,airflow venting, andlots of cushioning. Plus, they contour to your kid’s feet so theystay up all day. To ensure the best fit, there aredesignated socks for each foot. (Bonus: The sockshave an “L” or “R” on them, which can help kids learn left from right.)

But Take Note

Though they’re moreexpensivethan other options, if you’re looking forhigh-quality, long-lasting socksin neutral colors, they're worth it. As with all Bombas, your purchase does good—the companydonates a pair of socks for every pair purchased.

The Details

• Size range:One size (9T-3Y)
• Materials:Polyester, nylon, cotton, and elastane blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 10
  

Best Non-Slip: LA Active Ankle Socks

Why We Like It

Non-slip socks are asmart optionfor kids of all ages, from early walkers to fast-moving toddlers to active kiddos. We love that thegrip dotson theseextend from the toe to the heel, helping toprevent your kid from slidingacross wooden floors or down slippery steps. Thepadded heel tabspull double duty: Theypreventblistersandhelp your kid pull them on and off all by themselves. Plus, there’sstrong elastic at the ankleto keep the socks from slipping down.

But Take Note

These socks come in either a six- or 12-pack and are available innumerous color options, from bright rainbow hues to soft pastels. The sizing runs fromnewborn all the way up to 10 years old, so pricing will vary based on size, color, and the number of socks purchased.

The Details

• Size range:0M-4Y
• Materials:Cotton, polyester, and spandex blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 6 or 12
  

Best for Babies: Rative Crew Socks

Why We Like It

Babies are like magicians, making one or two socks disappear when you least expect it. As such, it’s helpful to find anaffordableoption so it’s not a tragedy when your baby kicks one off from their stroller. These baby socks are made from asuper-soft cotton and spandex blendthatholds up well in the washand providesplenty of ventilationfor little feet.

But Take Note

Available in awide range of sizes, these socks havegrippers on the solesto provide some extratractionfor new walkers (just not on the heels or toes). The multi-packs offer a widevariety of patterns and colors, including solids, stripes, and even cute vehicle patterns.

The Details

• Size range:0M-5T
• Materials:Cotton and spandex blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 6 or 12
  

Best for Toddlers: EZ Sox Toddler Socks

Why We Like It

Enter the “I can do it myself!” phase armed with thesetoddler-friendlysocks thatsave time and energy, so both you and your kiddo canget out the door faster.Loopson either side of the sockhelp toddler hands pull the sock up, making it amore independentprocess. The loops are made with reinforced stitching to withstand little fingers tugging on them repeatedly.

Thenon-skid gripson the sock bottoms helppreventyour rambunctious toddler fromtaking a spill, while thecotton blendissoft on sensitive feet. Each set comes with four pairs of socks, and you can choose betweenfun characters and patterns.

But Take Note

The stitching on the loops may come undone with forceful pulling.

The Details

• Size range:1T-9Y
• Materials:Cotton, polyester, and spandex blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 4
  

Best for Elementary Age: Cotton Day Kids Crew Socks

Why We Like It

For kids wholike a little flairin their wardrobe, go for thesesuper-soft combed cottonsocks. Styles includestars, snakes, dragons, and more.None of the five pairs in each pack are the same, so be prepared to match specific socks once laundry day arrives (or your kiddo can mix and match!).

But Take Note

Available infour sizes, these socks are a nice pick for kids who like to wearfun clothesand accessories.Just note that there are no plain styles for these socks (only printed styles).

The Details

• Size range:4-12Y
• Materials:Cotton, nylon, and spandex blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 5
  

Best for Tweens: Adidas Crew Socks

Why We Like It

Cushionedathletic socks are great for everyday tween wear. The cushioned heel and toe aresuper comfyand won’t bother their feet, while thebreathable mesh on the topof the sockhelps banish stinky tween feet. Thanks to thepolyester and spandex blend, these arestretchy and durableenough for active, growing kids.

But Take Note

Available intwo sizes, each sockhas a size callout on the bottom, which is helpful if you’ve got siblings with the same socks. As for color options, there are three varieties but no bright colors (mostly neutral).

The Details

• Size range:13C-9Y
• Materials:Polyester and spandex blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 6
  

Best for Sensitive Skin: Fruit of the Loom Mesh Socks

Why We Like It

Thin yet durable, thesebreathable mesh sockswon’t overheat your baby or cause irritation. These havenon-skid gripperson the bottom to help keep your kid safe and upright. Even better, thegrippers feature the sock size, which is helpful when sorting laundry or knowing when it’s time to size up to the next pair. When pulled up, these sockscome to mid-calfon most babies tokeep them cozyand covered.

But Take Note

These Fruit of the Loom socks areavailable in three sizes, but theydon’t go beyond size 24 months.

The Details

• Size range:0-24M
• Materials:Cotton, polyester, spandex, and rubber blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 6
  

Best Boot Socks: Lands’ End Thermaskin Socks

Why We Like It

Forkids who love adventurein the outdoors, thesethick boot socksarekey to keeping them warmin colder weather. No matter how insulated their boots are, it’s always helpful to have a thick sock toprotect toes and keep feet toasty.

Thanks to theribbed cuffs, the sockswon’t slide downin your kid’s boot. And unlike some wool socks that are itchy, these aresoft and comfy.To find the best fit among the brand's four sizes, use the handy sizing chart based on their shoe size.

But Take Note

These Lands’ End boot socks are made fromthermal fabric, whichgenerates heat by absorbing and wicking away moisturefrom the feet. They may be too warm in some climates.

The Details

• Size range:5C-9Y
• Materials:Rayon, acrylic, polyester, and spandex blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 1
  

Best Wool Socks: MeriWool Kids Hiking Socks

Why We Like It

These wool socks are made just for kids and aregreat for a day outdoors, a long hike, or any other adventure. TheMerino wool blendhasall the benefits of regular wool, but it'smachine washable and not itchy. Merino wool isnaturally odor-resistantandwicks away moisture, which is especially helpful for families who like outdoor adventures.

But Take Note

Available in a three-pack, these socks come insix muted colors. If your kid plans to wear them with casual shoes rather than boots, keep in mind thatthese socks are thick.

The Details

• Size range:6C-6Y
• Materials:Merino wool, elastic, and nylon blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash (cold) and dry (low)
• Pairs per pack: 3

Best for Skiiing: Smartwool Kid's Ski Racer Sock

Why We Like It

The key to a long day ofskiingis the right gear. Focus onkeeping extremities like toes and fingers warmso your kids willlast longer on the slopes. These Smartwool socks are made frommerino wool, an ideal fabric for skiing since it’sitch-free, breathable, and willwick sweat awayfrom feet, so theystay dry and comfortable. Thelight cushioningon the bottom of the foot and the front of the calf is helpful for kids who may not be used to the feel of rigid ski boots.

But Take Note

While they are on thepricierside, suitable ski socks areworth the investment. They are alsomachine washable, so they’re easy to keep clean.

The Details

• Size range:6C-6Y
• Materials:Merino wool, nylon, and elastane blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash (warm) inside out and dry (low)
• Pairs per pack: 1
  

Best Seamless: Epius Seamless Crew Socks

Why We Like It

For some kids withsensory needs, a sock seam can be enough tobother them for the whole dayor banish the idea of socks altogether. Thankfully, seamless socks exist,eliminating that pesky feelingaround the toes. These socks aresoft, stretchy, and comfortable, and the body of each sock blends into the toewithout a bumpy seam.

But Take Note

Each five-pack comes withcolorful striped socksin an assortment of hues.However, there are no plain colors.

The Details

• Size range:3.5T-7Y
• Materials:Cotton, polyester, nylon, and spandex blend
• Cleaning instructions:Machine wash and dry
• Pairs per pack: 5

Our Review Process

To select the best socks for kids, we considered several key factors, including size range, styles, material, and cleaning instructions, to ensure a proper fit, comfort, and convenience.

Our experienced Parents editors and writers, who are parents themselves, shared their tried-and-true recommendations for kids’ socks that have withstood their children’s all-day wear. In addition, we spoke with medical experts, including a podiatrist and a pediatrician, for guidance on factors to consider in kids’ socks.

Our Experts

• Meghan Schlitt, MD, FAAP, mom and board-certified pediatrician based in New Jersey. Dr. Schlitt prefers Bombas socks for her kids and likes how they stay up no matter what her kids are doing.
• Mark J. Mendeszoon, DPM, FACFAS, FACPM, specializes in sports medicine and all surgical and non-surgical conditions of the foot, ankle, and leg in children and adults. Dr. Mendeszoon is also the father of two children and owns a specialty running store.

Factors to Consider When Buying Kids' Socks

• Materials:When shopping for socks for kids, look for materials that are soft and comfortable, with some elasticity to help them stay in place, Dr. Schlitt advises. Good materials include cotton, wool, polyester, acrylic, and bamboo. For specific needs like skiing or other sports, you may prefer socks that are not made of cotton, since this material can hold moisture.
• Style:Sock style all comes down to personal preference, the season, and your kid’s activities. Lightweight crew, no-show, or ankle socks are great for summer, while tall wool socks can keep feet warm in the colder months. No matter the style, kids should always wear socks with shoes, Dr. Mendeszoon advises; without them, "there’s a higher risk of all different types of infections and skin problems, as well as developing stinky feet (bromhidrosis).”
• Thickness:The best sock thickness depends on the activity and the weather. If it’s cooler out and your kid is planning to spend the day outdoors, a thicker sock is the key to staying warm. During the warmer months, a lightweight, breathable sock is ideal. Choose a sock that is comfortable and appropriate for the activity—nothing stops the fun faster than wet, cold, or blistered feet.
• Ease of Use:All the socks on this list are machine-washable and dryer-friendly. (What busy parent wants to hand-wash socks?) Do consider the sock patterns and variety within multi-packs, as an assortment of styles may test your patience when sorting and matching socks, no matter how cute they are. In addition, we looked for pull tabs or loops to help younger kids get socks on independently.

Your Questions, Answered

What helps kids with stinky feet?

To prevent overpowering foot odors, kids should wash and dry their feet thoroughly every day, says Dr. Schlitt. “Switch shoes out and avoid wearing the same shoes every day. There are also some disinfectant sprays available, or families can wash their feet with antibacterial soap.” Moisture-wicking socks are great for kids with sweaty feet and can help prevent undesirable odors from becoming a part of the shoe. Machine washability is also important so socks can be easily cleaned and disinfected.

Do quality socks make a difference?

Socks are a staple in a kid’s wardrobe, so it’s important that they are durable and well-made. However, they should also be affordable; socks are easily lost and often need to be replaced, so they’re not worth busting your budget over.

Do socks have BPA?

In 2022, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH), a California-based activist group, found amounts of bisphenol A (BPA) higher than the state’s allowed levels in over 100 brands of socks, including Hanes, Jefferies, Fruit of the Loom, and Adidas.BPA is used as an additive in synthetic materials like polyester and spandex. BPA is a known endocrine disruptor; in children, it may interfere with nervous system development, affect behavioral development, and lead to obesity.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) asserts more research is needed to confirm the adverse health effects of BPAand the science of BPA absorption through the skin is not settled.No sock recalls have been made in connection with BPA levels. If you prefer to avoid polyester and spandex as a safety precaution, look for options made with only natural fibers.

Who We Are

Maya Poltonis a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who's experienced in covering food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of a 12-year-old son, a 9-year-old son, and a 5-year-old daughter. Maya’s kids are all super active, and the number of socks in her laundry is insane. She has transitioned her sons to all black or white socks, but her daughter loves all kinds of colorful socks. Maya has one rule about socks: You cannot wear them outdoors without shoes.