Maybe you've seen the videos hailed as ‘the great sock debate,’ or you've been in the gym and noticed the glaring absence of the humble ankle sock. However you got here, if you're wondering whether ankle socks are out of style and what socks you should be wearing, keep reading as we answer everything you need to know.
The Rise Of Crew Socks | Why Gen Z Prefers Longer Socks
There's no doubt that longer socks have made an apparent comeback. We've seen the resurgence of the retro 90s influence on street style and athleisure (think basketball shorts, mesh shorts, and baby tees), and longer socks are certainly reminiscent of the retro with a nod to nostalgia; I mean Princess Dianna iconically repped it first.
For many Gen Zs, socks aren't just a functional item but an accessory that makes up part of a fully styled outfit. Styling visible socks allows you to experiment with color, logos, and patterns that can accentuate, elevate, or even be the statement piece of your outfit.
Crew socks can also elongate the appearance of the legs due to being able to help balance the proportions of the outfit; think white crew's with your athleisure leggings👌🏽
Does This Mean Ankle Socks Are Out Of Style?
In short, yes—at least according to Gen Z. Much like ballet flats and skinny jeans, ankle socks have been labeled as 'outdated' by the trendsetters of TikTok. Most fashion lovers, celebs and influencers are now opting for longer socks, leaving ankle socks behind.
While ankle socks still have their place, especially in the athleisure and sportswear space, their reign as a staple style is undeniably over.
What Styles Of Socks Are Popular Now?
When it comes to socks, most articles say that it's crew socks that Gen Z favors; however, the socks you probably see online from your fav influencers, gym buddies, and other Gen Z's are either ‘half-crews’ or ‘quarter socks.’ What's the difference, I hear you ask? We'll break it down a little for you.
What Socks To Wear In 2025
Crew Socks
Crew socks are the longer of the bunch; they'll go to about mid-shin and are halfway between ankle socks and knee-high socks. Effortlessly blending comfort with a throwback aesthetic, the crew sock has been around for years.
Crew socks style perfectly over leggings (yes, socks over leggings), but you'd style them by scrunching them down slightly so they don't sit too high up the leg.
Half Crew Socks
The perfect balance of long but not too long, half-crew socks come up above the ankle but not quite as high as a full crew sock. Also known as midi socks or half-calf socks, they can be worn over leggings, too, and don't require scrunching as they sit at the perfect height.
Quarter Socks
For those who can't bring themselves to take the leap from ankle socks to crews or half-crews (millennial ankle sock stan's we're looking at you), the quarter sock might be the perfect choice. Coming up over the ankle bone, about a quarter of the way up the lower leg, these will give you a visible sock without sitting too high.
Why You Shouldn't Get Rid Of Your Ankle Socks
There's no denying that ankle socks have decreased in popularity in recent years, with online editorials highlighting an increase in crew sock sales and a decrease in ankle sock sales, but that's not to say that they don't have their place. So, if you're thinking about throwing them in the trash… Stop. Right. There.
We'd never suggest tossing out perfectly good socks to follow a trend—especially when ankle socks have their own advantages. For high-intensity workouts, they're a strong choice thanks to their functionality. Ideal for HIIT sessions, or spin classes, ankle socks help release heat through the ankles to keep you cooler and you don't need to worry about bunching around your ankles either! Helping you stay focused on your workout without any distractions.
Do People Still Wear Ankle Socks?
Ankle socks are still a popular choice; in fact, a study from YouGov shows that they are THE sock of choice for Gen Z adults in the US—with 41% of us opting for them! So, while TikTok may have you believing that Gen Z's wouldn't be caught dead in ankle socks, this isn't representative of everyone.
Plus, Reddit users and comments on TikTok videos support this, with some users claiming they'd never switch out their ankle socks and others suggesting you should wear whatever sock makes you feel comfortable.
. . .
The great sock debate might have declared ankle socks as "out of style," but fashion trends are never one-size-fits-all. While Gen Z has embraced crew, half-crew, and quarter socks as part of their retro-inspired looks, ankle socks still hold their ground in the workout space and beyond.
Ultimately, the choice of socks comes down to your preference, what you find comfortable in, and how you want to express your style. So, whether you're repping the latest trends or sticking to the classics, do it in the sock that works for you!
