We wrote this list in the lead-up to Father’s Day – cliché, we know. But now that it’s done and dusted, is this still a list you can use all year round for gifts, or even yourself? Definitely. Plus, socks are hot right now.
So dip your toes into our favourite Australian sock brands – they’re stylish and look good, but also promise comfort, durability and support.
Some Broadsheet editors swear by Paire, socks developed by surfer Nathan Yun and textile expert Rex Zhang that use a blend of Australian merino wool and organic cotton. They claim they’re the comfiest socks around – you be the judge. The signature Cool Blend sock comes in five different sizes, plus there’s a dress sock made with an even softer wool-cashmere blend, and the active sock with extra support thanks to Tencel (a versatile lyocell that’s more breathable and absorbent than cotton).
McIntyre makes more than just socks – founders Raquel Boedo and Ned Scholfield started with pure merino wool sweaters before expanding to cardigans, vests, beanies, scarves and, yes – socks. They’re made with Australian merino that’s breathable and machine-washable, and come with either a terry sole or more lightweight crew style. The pair even spent a year living on Scholfield’s family’s sheep farm to fully appreciate the production process behind and premium feel of merino wool.
Country Road keeps things classic with its range of socks. Timeless colours and fits (specifically the Ribbed Quarter Crew) are perfect for casual outfits, sporty endeavours and general cosiness. The brand generally uses cotton-blend fabrics that let feet breathe.
Sydney Sock Project is more than just a fun sock brand. Yes, colourful pairs are covered in playful motifs – everything from echidnas to stethoscopes feature in the range. But founder Andres Herrero cares most about giving back to the community. The brand partners with Australian charities and non-for-profit organisations to create positive social impact in areas like homelessness, mental health, education, cancer research, animal preservation and more. After quitting his job as an engineer, Herrero has gone on to sell more that $1 million in socks and the company has made 71 000 donations and counting. Customers can choose which charity to support or even shop designs made in collaboration with the brand’s partners.
Joode makes colourful socks made for showing off in the brief space between your shoes and pants. They’re the ones that show you know your giftee – whether they’re a fan of pretzels, sharks, rockets, spicy red chillies, strawberries or seagulls. But these ones promise comfort, too – Joode socks are made with premium Turkish combed cotton for softness, and ethically manufactured in Turkey. One dollar from each order is also donated to Chronic UTI Australia to help fund research into recurrent infections.
Boody’s basics are a favourite for a reason. And the brand applies its signature snugness to its socks, too. From hidden and ankle styles to crew and knee-high silhouettes, there's something for every outfit – including heading to bed.
Like we said, this guide isn’t specifically just for dads – it can be for mums and kids, too. Melbourne-based Holly Day is run by two sisters and features cute sock designs in three sizes: adult, kid and baby to take matching accessories to the next level. Fruity illustrations, plain colours and gingham pairs are all made from 85 per cent cashmere (sourced from the Himalayan ranges) and 15 per cent lycra for a snug fit – not the most affordable socks, but close to the softest, and there’s free shipping when you buy more than one pair.
Of course Gorman applies its signature whimsy to socks and tights. Brighten up your top drawer and winter outfits with bold colours, patterned pairs nad playful embroidery. The brand mostly uses merino-blend fabrics for maximum warmth and comfort.
This article was first published in August 2022 and has since been updated. Additional reporting by Alice Jeffery.
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