The sock market was ripe for the picking. Bland, boring and oh so stale, a category upset was bound to happen, and it did. Statement socks are having a major moment, bold colorful designs from brands that pump out new products at a breakneck pace. Consumers are embracing the creativity with a side of comfort, helping the multi-billion dollar sock industry to grow 14% in the last three years. With elevated designs and prices to match, it’s no wonder brands big and small are getting into the game.
The premium sock category has a large swing in price, starting at $8.00 and heading north up to $1,500 per pair. We’ve uncovered five of the most interesting brands playing footsies today, most falling in the $12.00-$20.00 range.
Happy Socks
Started by two friends with a vision to spread happiness through creative and comfortable socks in 2008, the Happy Socks brand is now sold in over 70 countries. I have a few pairs and they really do make you smile. Sweet success by way of socks, now that’s something to be happy about.
Stance
Master collaborators, Stance has established a strong reputation for innovation beyond just socks. By dual-pathing partnerships with cultural phenoms (Rihanna & Harley Davidson) and sports royalty like Dwayne Wade, the Stance brand has all their marketing bases covered and then some. Oh, and have we mentioned they are the Official On Court Sock of the NBA?
Arthur George
A partnership between Robert Kardashian and Universal Hosiery Inc., the LA-based Arthur George brand is both design-minded and tongue in cheek. Offering hosiery for men, women and kiddos, Arthur George has evolved with great basics and ironic collections (ok, DILF) that stand out from the crowd.
Richer Poorer
Another LA-based brand elevating socks through design and supreme comfort, Richer Poorer offers everyday casual options plus athletic styles to boot. Proving socks are a hot commodity, the brand was recently acquired by Shoes.com for an undisclosed sum.
Hot Sox
Selling crazy colorful socks for over 40 years, Hot Sox continues to thrive in today’s market. Sold in stores such as Macy’s, Lord & Taylor, Nordstrom and many others, the brand is currently highlighting their Museum Collection. We’re talking Mona Lisa, The Scream and The Kiss right there on your ankles for all to see.
Found your favorite sole mates? Drop us a line and tell us all about them.
-N.C.
P.S. Speaking of trends, check out the bulletproof suits and premium watches we’ve discovered.
