From plush cashmere-merino blends claiming to be the softest yet, to fruity illustrations and natural hemp styles, these Aussie brands are elevating the humble sock.
We wrote this list in the lead-up to Father’s Day – cliché, we know. But now that it’s done and dusted, is this still a list you can use all year round for gifts, or even yourself? Definitely. Plus, socks are hot right now.
So dip your toes into our favourite Australian sock brands – they’re stylish and look good, but also promise comfort, durability and support.
11 Aussie sock brands to shop
Paire
Some Broadsheet editors swear by Paire, socks developed by surfer Nathan Yun and textile expert Rex Zhang that use a blend of Australian merino wool and organic cotton. They claim they’re the comfiest socks around – you be the judge. The signature Cool Blend sock comes in five different sizes, plus there’s a dress sock made with an even softer wool-cashmere blend, and the active sock with extra support thanks to Tencel (a versatile lyocell that’s more breathable and absorbent than cotton).McIntyre
McIntyre makes more than just socks – founders Raquel Boedo and Ned Scholfield started with pure merino wool jumpers before expanding to cardigans, vests, beanies, scarves and, yes, socks. They’re made with Australian merino that’s breathable and machine-washable, and come with a terry sole or in a lightweight crew style. The pair even spent a year living on Scholfield’s family’s sheep farm to fully appreciate the production process behind, and premium feel of, merino wool.Sydney Sock Project
Sydney Sock Project is more than just a fun sock brand. Yes, colourful pairs are covered in playful motifs – everything from echidnas to stethoscopes feature in the range. But founder Andres Herrero cares most about giving back to the community. The brand partners with Australian charities and not-for-profit organisations to create positive social impact in areas like homelessness, mental health, education, cancer research, animal preservation and more. After quitting his job as an engineer, Herrero has gone on to sell more than $3 million in socks, and the company has made 400,000 donations and counting. Customers can choose which charity to support, or even select shop designs made in collaboration with the brand’s partners.Holly Day
Like we said, this guide isn’t specifically just for dads – it can be for mums and kids, too. Melbourne-based Holly Day is run by two sisters and features cute sock designs in three sizes – adult, kid and baby – to take matching accessories to the next level. Fruity illustrations, plain colours and gingham pairs are all made from 85 per cent cashmere (sourced from the Himalayan ranges) and 15 per cent lycra for a snug fit – not the most affordable socks, but close to the softest, and there’s free shipping when you buy more than one pair.Hommey
Local homewares label Hommey is stepping out of its plush towelling, buttery-soft bedding and boucle cushioning – and into socks. With the same bold colours and playful hues signature to the brand, each two-pack comes with one solid and one striped design that could easily be mixed and matched.Zorali
Trust an outdoors brand to nail sock breathability. Made from natural hemp, Zorali’s sock collection is designed for comfort, breathability and made without harmful chemicals. Choose from single pairs or multi-packs for under your urban kicks or hiking boots.Humphrey Law & Co
Crafted in the label’s ECA-accredited factory in Melbourne, Humphrey Law & Co has been carefully making socks with the finest natural yarns for more than 75 years. Shop from a range of playful hues like fairy floss, pool blue or marigold yellow in a cotton blend or cobalt blue, chilli red and more in a merino wool blend from capsule wardrobe advocate HB Archive.LMND
Created by Colombian-born Australian Ana Maria Escobar, LMND has amassed a cult following over the last few years for its colourful collection of shirting. In a recent addition to the Sydney-based designer’s offering, bold-hued socks are available to shop with two-toned colourways in grenadine and burgundy, and electric blue and birch.Gorman
Of course Gorman applies its signature whimsy to socks and tights. Brighten up your top drawer and winter outfits with bold colours, patterned pairs and playful embroidery. The brand mostly uses merino-blend fabrics for maximum warmth and comfort.Country Road
Country Road keeps things classic with its range of socks. Timeless colours and fits (specifically the Ribbed Quarter Crew) are perfect for casual outfits, sporty endeavours and general cosiness.We hope you like the products we recommend on Broadsheet. Our editors select each one independently. Broadsheet may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.