- Sizes: 5-8, 8-11
- Material: Cotton
- Features: 3 silicone heel grip
- Price at publish: $17.00 for 8
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Good socks should be easy to find. But in our world of plenty, where the sheer number of choices of anything can be overwhelming, they’re surprisingly elusive. Especially when it comes to no-show socks. They’re a simple accessory but, for such a small article of clothing, they can wreak havoc on your feet and your day. You may even be tempted to go sockless—but then there’s the blister problem and the odor problem. Finding a pair of no-show socks that stays put no matter what, and are comfortable, can be difficult. That’s why we found some great options that work with a variety of shoe situations, all of which won’t slip and some of which will even look cute while (not) doing so. Whether you’re wearing running shoes, loafers, or flats, there’s a pair for you.
For a great value, this eight pack of Wernies no-show socks can’t be beat. Each package includes two pairs of four different colors (white, gray, beige, and black; you can also find all-white, all-black, or black/white/gray assortments). They have an ergonomically designed arch for support and three silicone heel grips to keep them in place. These are suitable to wear with loafers and sneakers, but aren’t super low, so they may not work with flats. If you have a washing machine that routinely eats socks, these are inexpensive enough that you may not care (as much).
With a 3D-knit PerformaHeel and Active Grip tabs that create a shaped fit, these workout socks from Lululemon feel locked-in even when you don’t (and let’s be honest, not every workout is a stellar one). At least though, your socks will stay in place. They also have 360-degree arch support to keep you comfortable while running, cycling, or whatever is your jam. Plus, they’re available in fun, bright colors.
Made from a soft and smooth microfiber nylon, Peds low-cut liner socks feature a seamless toe and gel heel grip. To me, Peds are pretty much the OG of no-show socks (which may be some sort of indication to how old I am) and it’s easy to see why. They’re nothing fancy, but they do what they say they will and stay where they should.
These are one of my favorite pairs of no-show socks. I wear them in the summer while running or cycling. I’m a person with horrible runner’s feet and often pretty scary looking toes that tend to poke holes in even the most resilient of socks—but not these. The Shred Shield technology helps prevent wear at the toes. They also feature a seamless opening to reduce stress on pressure points, light cushion on the bottom, and an internal gripper.
These socks aren’t just good for you, they give some good back into the world as well. With every pair you purchase, Bombas donates one pair to Covenant House, a non-profit helping youth facing homelessness—socks are the number one requested item at homeless shelters. Bombas no-shows are on the thick side of the plush equation, but they’re fluffy. One reviewer described them as “light fluffy clouds for your feet” and comfortable and stay put. What more could you ask?
The same brand that offers reliably good-quality cotton underwear, sports bras, and pajamas for men also make the best no-show socks for wearing with high heels. These moisture-wicking liner socks from Hanes are made with a touch of spandex for stretch and mesh ventilation for breathability. They are super low, so you can wear them with heels without any fear that anyone will know you have socks on. These are a “to be felt, but never seen” pair of socks. Kind of like how some of us deal with certain emotions.
With nine (nine!) strategically placed silicone grips to keep them in place, these socks from Comrad neither bunch nor slip and never fall down. This quality makes them a good option particularly for hard-sole shoes like loafers, where you can experience a good degree of sock slippage. They have super-comfortable padded heels and toes while, at the same time being magically thin and lightweight. And we could all use a bit of magic in our lives, even if it’s just in our socks.
These have a super lightweight fit, while being both soft and breathable. They’re thin, but not too thin, and pack down to nothing if you’re looking for something to throw into a weekender bag or travel tote bag. If you’re looking for a good basic no-show sock you’ll hardly notice is there, these are for you. Plus, at $20.00 for 6, they’re an exceptional value.
Champion compression no-show socks feature DoubleDry technology for sweat wicking, which controls moisture buildup so your feet feel cooler and drier no matter what you’re doing. There’s extended arch compression for long lasting comfort throughout your busy day, so you can keep moving.
These fun pairs are the sock equivalent to flip-flops: They’re lightweight, colorful, and comfortable. Made from a cooling, functional yarn, Falke Cool Kick no-show socks feature moisture regulation, a slight cushion, and an anatomically shaped toe (for optimal fit). They’re available in a wonderful array of colors so you can really up your sock game. You might even want your no-shows to show in this instance.
With reinforced wear points for durability, Allbirds no-show socks are an excellent every day choice. Plus, they’re nature made and nature friendly. Allbirds, a carbon neutral business certified by Climate Neutral, is a company with socially responsible sustainability practices. Their Anytime No-Show Socks have a carbon footprint of 0.71 kg CO2e. If you want to learn more about measuring carbon footprints and how they track their emissions, they have an entire PDF available.
These cushy socks from Quince are designed to mold to your feet. They have a Y-stitched heel seam, seamless toes, a cushioned foot bed, and silicone heel grips that keep them in place no matter what you’re up to. They’re manufactured in Business Social Compliance Initiative-certified factories, which strive to ensure quality working conditions throughout the entire supply chain. Plus, for every pair purchased, the company donates a pair to a community in need.
These socks have a cushioned sole and 360 degrees of compression, making them a sock that hugs your foot; snug but not too tight. The snugness also keeps the rocks, sand, and pebbles out of your shoes—a feature that I find helpful as I often wear these when trail running. Plus, Definite Articles uses an innovative technology called CiCLO that helps synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon biodegrade naturally when they are discarded, instead of ending up as pollutants in the environment. So you can feel good about your sock choice.
With so many choices, it may be hard to know where to begin when shopping for no-show socks. Here are some things to consider.
In order for no-show socks to do their thing they need to fit correctly. If they’re too big, they won’t stay in place. They should feel as if they are hugging your feet. Always consult the size chart on a brand’s website for guidance. That’s why they’re there.
What fabric your no-show socks are made from is important. Cotton socks are more cushy and comfortable, while polyester versions have moisture-wicking technology. For a good, close fit, you’ll want something with at least a small percentage of elastane (spandex, Lycra, etc.) for stretch. Socks made from wool are naturally able to fight odors. It’s likely the perfect pair of socks for you are a blend of different fabrics.
Also, take into consideration what will keep your socks where they’re supposed to be—specifically on your heel and not slipping down into your shoes. Most no-show versions have silicone tabs or tight cuffs to achieve minimal slipping.
If you plan to wear no-shows while working out, you’ll probably want to go for a pair with cushioning on the bottom, as well as arch compression. This will help keep your feet feeling their best.
We chose these picks by scouring online reviews as well as by pooling our own personal experience. I’m a cyclist, runner, and a New Yorker which means I bike, run, or walk everywhere (no driving) so my footwear is integral to my well-being throughout the day. Nothing ruins my day faster than a poor sock choice—well, except for a poor shoe choice. I also work as a tailor and pattern maker for film, TV, and fashion so I have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to socks—and most any garment.
Women’s sock sizes normally range from 4 to 10 and they’re commonly available in some sort of iteration of S (4-7), M (5-9), L (10-11). As with everything in the apparel industry, there is no standard sizing across brands so it's best to check the size chart on each company’s website. Sock size corresponds to your shoe size and you want no-show socks to fit snugly or they’ll slip. This means you may have to experiment with different sizes to find the perfect fit.
No-show socks made from polyester or nylon—or ones that at least have a percentage of these in their blend—tend to not slip down as much as 100% cotton varieties. Also, make sure to choose a sock with silicone heel grippers that will keep them in place.
The best way to wash your no show socks is to put them into a mesh laundry bag (this also helps to prevent the stray sock from inexplicably disappearing) and wash on a cool, gentle cycle. Tumble dry on a no-heat or low heat setting to keep any silicone heel grips from getting wonky.
The best no-show socks we’ve found for moisture-wicking and odor prevention are the Lululemon Power Stride socks on this list. They’re made from a breathable nylon which really helps to mitigate odors.
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