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Sock Utopia is a site devoted to the best article of clothing out there- socks. From sports socks to heavy woolen socks to pink socks to striped socks, we have all the information you could ever want about socks. Why not take a few moments to browse our site? Your feet will thank you for it!

 

 

History of Socks

Socks have been around since ancient times, and remain today one of the most coveted articles of clothing. Join us as we journey back and time and look at the history of socks.

The word 'sock' is derived from the Latin word 'soccus', which refers to the loose-fitting shoes worn by Greeks and comic actors more than two-thousand years ago. The word has since gone on to mean a shoe accessory meant to provide extra protection to the feet, and not the shoe itself.

It is known that the ancient Romans wore socks underneath their sandals, and that the article of clothing was also popular amongst barbarians of the time living in Britian. Socks were probably worn to protect the wearer's feet against the elements, and have remained popular throughout the ages.

Variants of socks were worn throughout the Middle and Dark Ages, and in 1589, an Englishman by the name of Reverand William Lee invented a sock-knitting machine that make manufacturing the garment faster and more efficient. This led to a decline in the price of socks, and helped them grow in popularity.

Towards the eighteen century, socks were worn in the form of hosery, and it wasn't until later on that they took the form we know of today. With the industrial revolution in full force during the nineteen century and the new industry brought to America after World War I, new materials were developed, most notably nylon and other sythetic fibers. It was around this time that men started wearing socks in different colors, as black had been the dominant color during the Victorian era.

Today, socks are all over the place. Not only are socks available in every color imaginable, but progressions in industry and technology have been them more affordable then ever. There are many reasons why socks should be worn: