The Best Men’s No-Show Socks for Low-Key Comfort

If you’re the type of guy that loves to wear shorts, rolled pants, or cuffed chinos in the summer, it’s common knowledge that your sneakers, low-cut slip-ons, or boat shoes will steal the spotlight. But, like most guys, you might not like the look of knee-high socks as you strut down the street in your favorite outfit. Luckily, there is a menagerie of companies that want you to look your best. So, in their infinite wisdom, they’ve created an essential for low-profile summertime wear — the no-show sock. Below, we’ve handpicked a few of our favorites, so kick off your shoes and throw away your old crew cuts — it’s time to slide into our guide on the best no-show socks.

what are no-show socks?

The no-show sock has quickly become a staple of every self-respecting guy’s summer wardrobe, boasting a minimalist style that sits just below the cut of your favorite sneakers. These cotton-embued companions provide wearers with the ultimate comfort, breathability, and style while offering the quintessential “athletic” look that so many strive for. 

When should you wear no-show socks?

Besides the style that no-show socks provide, they’re great for wearing with summer shoes when you want a sockless look, without the sweat, odor, and blisters that come with going sockless (most of the time). Some outfits and shoes call for a more subtle style that lets the shoes shine (like boat shoes), and no-show socks are really the only options that make it look like you’re not wearing any socks at all.

What’s the point of no-show socks?

They’re ideal for slip-on and low-cut shoes like sneakers, loafers, flats, and boat shoes, as you’ll still need to keep your feet protected in these shoes. Do keep in mind that when it comes to thickness, cushioning, and other active-friendly features, no-show socks generally fall behind their taller counterparts. So if you plan on getting active, it’s best to go for something like crew socks, but if you’re set on having a sockless look, try to pick a pair that at least has a cushioned footbed.

What to look for

Non-Slip: If you really hate the feeling of slipping socks, look for pairs with extra elastic or silicone grips. Some may also offer grips on the heels to really keep them in place.

Material: The most common sock materials are cotton and polyester, or a blend of the two. If you want a winter/cold weather option then wool is the way to go.

Cut: Some no-show socks may be higher than others, which can help provide ankle coverage, but you may end up seeing the socks from time to time. It’s best to get socks that come up just below the back of the shoe, so you get adequate protection without seeing them.

Cushioning: No-show socks will generally have less cushioning than the taller options, so keep that in mind and adjust your activities accordingly. There are options out there that are designed with more cushioning for activity, but they usually won’t be as effective as taller socks.

Ondo Organic Cotton No Show Socks

Best Organic Socks: Ondo is committed to ethical manufacturing and creating sustainable and innovative materials with a process that you can trace back to the beginning. This radical transparency and push to innovate allows Ondo to create socks that are not only sustainable but comfortable as well. Like these no-show socks that are made with a blend of organic cotton and the label’s aerolite fiber (a sustainably-made polyester). Additionally, with each pair of socks that are purchased, Ondo donates 1% of its revenue to help clothe college students in need.

Vans Classic Super No Show Sock 3 Pack

Best Streetwear Socks: Vans’ Classic No Show socks are an iconic pair of low-cut variants that were built to pair with the company’s classic shoes. With staples like the Classic Slip-On and Low-Pro, a pair of no-show socks is a necessity — so, to keep you looking your best, Vans went out of its way to create a pair of thin, breathable nylon/cotton socks for everyday use. Whether you’re wearing your favorite pair of sneakers with jeans, shorts, or athletic attire, these classic no-shows set the bar for the industry’s lightweight examples — providing a comfortable fit, while keeping things minimal.

Smartwool Everyday No Show Socks

Best Wool Socks: When you think of wool socks, you likely think of Smartwool, a label that’s been around since the mid-’90s outfitting hikers, skiers, and adventurers with warm socks. But you don’t have to brave the elements to enjoy these warm and comfy no-shows, as they’re made with a seamless opening, along with other comfort-focused features. You’re getting a supportive arch brace, the label’s “Virtually Seamless” toes, and an internal grip at the heel to make sure they stay in place. And since they’re made of Merino wool, you can enjoy the natural moisture-wicking and odor-fighting properties of the fabric.

Mack Weldon 2-Pack Everyday No Show Sock

Best Slip-Free Socks: If you’re looking for a pair of classic, low-cut socks that are backed by one of the most prolific companies in menswear, look no further than Mack Weldon’s No Show. These combed cotton, spandex, and nylon essentials boast a seamless toe that prevents abrasion, a cushioned bed that helps to support your foot as you step, and a no-slip heel that keeps you stable in (and out) of your shoes. But, if all you’re looking for is the perfect pair of low-profile socks to keep your athletic style at the forefront, then Mack Weldon has you covered.

Ten Thousand Training Socks

Best Active Socks: Ten Thousand crafts rugged activewear that’s designed for function and durability, and rigorously tested to be certifiably strong. So if you plan on getting a good workout in, and prefer the look and feel of no-show socks, then this is the pick for you. They’re super lightweight and breathable, and feature a medium compression rib and arch support. Additionally, the XT2 polyester provides lasting odor protection, so long workouts are more pleasant (for everyone).

J.Crew No-Show Socks Three-Pack

Best Pack: If you’re looking for a pack of reliable and comfy socks at a reasonable price (~$8 a pair), then this 3-pack from J.Crew has you covered. They’re made with a breathable blend of cotton that has just a little bit of stretch, and feature a thin grip pad on the heel so they don’t sag or fall down. The socks are also composed of 30% Re-imagined fabric, J.Crew’s sustainably-made material.

Stance No Show Gamut Socks 3 Pack

Best Casual Socks: Stance has made quite a name for itself in the footwear industry, and as one of the world’s leading proprietors of comfortable crew socks, it’s no surprise that they’ve branched into the realm of no-show. The company’s Gamut socks embody the same high-quality construction elements of their other variants, like a Terry loop in the forefoot and toe for exceptional cushioning as you walk, ultra-light cushioning and arch support, and a silicone gripper on the heel for no-slip wear. Elaborating on the brand’s no-show Gamut, these bolstered successors clear up any (and all) qualms that wearers have had with the original pair.

Bombas Lightweight No Show Sock 4-Pack

Best Lightweight Socks: Bombas’ Men’s Lightweight socks are an essential piece of everyday wear, and when you finally put a pair on for the first time, you’ll see why. Not only are the socks specially engineered to never fall down, they utilize a comfortable, ultralight, fine-gauge cotton, stay-put heel grips, and seamless toe to keep you feeling (and looking) great, all day long. As one of the premiere no-show socks on the market, Bombas’ Lightweight socks have successfully set the bar for alternative, low-profile styles.

The Best Men’s Socks For Every Occasion

Maybe you’re still not sold on no-show socks? No worries, we’ve got you covered with our guide to the best men’s socks for everything life throws at you.