Soccer socks don't carry the glamour that many other kit pieces do, so you're unlikely to see professional endorsements for these. But, they're vital to ensuring you stay focused on the game at hand, beat the evening chill, and don't let your standards slip.
There are a variety of options out there, including different lengths, some with specific technology, and others give you a classic offering for those who want to keep it simple. We've put together some of the best soccer socks you can get on the market today, depending on what you want out of your game.
Why do you need soccer socks?
Simply put, soccer socks are designed specifically with a single task in mind - to help you deliver on the pitch on matchday. Soccer socks are explicitly designed to enhance and support your body, aiding you in delivering a better all-around game.
Why do some players cut the feet from their socks?
In the past few years, there has been a trend of some players cutting the feet off of their soccer socks. Even in the biggest leagues in the world, top players are chopping up official kit socks.
There is reason to the madness, though. Often, it is so a pair of extra-grippy socks can be worn on the feet to stop sliding around inside soccer cleats, while some players find wearing a whole pair of soccer socks restrictive because they can feel too tight on their calf muscles.
Recently, top soccer brands have caught on and designed split socks with either calf sleeves or stirrups so players can have grippy socks without taking scissors to their gear.
Why do some players wear their socks low?
Players like Jack Grealish, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Francesco Totti are known for wearing their socks low. This can be to the annoyance of referees and match officials when amateurs try to copy the look.
But some players with particularly muscular calves can find long, tight socks restrictive, and lowering them can help relieve some of that tension. Split socks can also remedy some of that discomfort.