Socks are knitted garments that are made to enclose the human foot and usually extend up to the lower leg. They are designed to meet several objectives, one of which is that it is supposed to ease the chafing caused by footwear when worn directly on bare feet. It makes the feet warm and absorbs the sweat that emanates from the feet. To provide a meaning with a different context, the term sock is also the word describing the thin layer of leather of similar material that covers the insole of the shoe. The term half-sock is described to the half-covered insole where the forepart is made visible.

As mentioned above, socks are very useful for absorbing the sweat produced by the feet. It draws the sweat to areas where free-flowing air dries up the perspiration avoiding feet odor build-up. Likewise, in cold environments, socks serves as remover of moisture produced by the feet and decreases the risk of a person being inflicted with frostbite.

Athletic shoes, casual shoes, and even boots require the use of socks. Fashion has also allowed the use of socks on open-toed shoes such as sandals. Still, this practice of using socks in sandals is considered unfashionable in several social circles. Indoors, socks can be worn without a shoe just for the comfort and warmth that it brings. It is most convenient if the socks worn are wool socks. Wool socks are worn for the comfort that the wool material gives to the wearer. During the old days, people used to wrap their feet in wools from sheep, much like sandals, to protect them from harsh elements and keep them warm throughout the day.

Though socks are usually made from cotton and polypropylene, wool socks are becoming more popular due to the softer and warmer touch it gives to the feet. Socks come in many colors but the usual fashion requirements are colored or dark socks for formal attire and white socks for athletic and casual attire. The length of socks also varies either from ankle-high up to being knee-high. Just-below-the-knee socks are used in sports such as soccer, football and basketball. The fencing sports wear extra long socks that reach beyond the knee. Ankle socks, on the other hand, are usually used with athletic shoes, especially by teenagers and young adults.

Other styles of socks available are mid-calf, bare, crew and toe socks. The important thing that people must always observe in terms of fashion when wearing socks is that the color of the socks must complement the color of either the shoes or the pants.