While it is customary to dress for the occasion, today there socks are also available for serving various purposes too. Various utility socks include, socks for hiking, socks for walking, casual socks, dress socks, gym socks, football socks, formal socks, baby socks and much more. They are designed for various activities, alright; but the vital aspect in the making of the sock, is its yarn.

The quality of the sock yarn plays an important role in the wear and tear of socks, elasticity, warmth, and even their washing techniques. Researchers, say that socks made of 100% cotton, are the worst kinds. Nylon, acrylic or any synthetic material are the more durable and useful in the making of socks. However, this does not mean that the sock yarn has to be 100% synthetic; it just suggests that sock yarn must contain some percentage of synthetic materials to ensure that the socks don't develop holes too soon. Socks are subject to lot of stretching, while wearing them on and off. Hence, the sock yarn is expected to carry some elastic properties. Woolen yarn has maximum elasticity; hence could be combined with yarns of other materials. Apart from being the most elastic, no other sock yarn provides as much warmth as wool.

Another notable point that is important to be considered, is whether the socks can be machine or hand washed. Socks, must also allow one's feet to breathe, while at the same time keeping the feet dry. All said and done, preference of the sock material varies from individual to individual. Just as the wearer of the shoe knows where it pinches; the wearer of the socks also knows what suits the best.