It’s hard to withhold a giggle when viewing the oldest surviving pair of socks.
Long and narrow with one large toe slit (for a sandal strap), this duo on display at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum dates back to Egypt, circa A.D. 300-500, and looks more like an accessory for flippers than feet.
But given how much humans rely on our feet, and the fact that feet produce more than a pint of perspiration a day, it follows that each historical manufacturing leap has corresponded with an advance in sock production.
When shopping for socks, ask yourself the following questions: What are they for? Although many comfortable and lasting socks are made from natural fibers, athletic and outdoors socks tend to be “engineered” with synthetics for additional durability and functionality.
What’s your preferred sock height, fit, padding and reinforcement?
For even more insight on shopping for socks, check out REI’s buying guide at .
Here are examples of quality socks at the luxury, department store and discount store price. — Elana Ashanti Jefferson
