6 BEST BAMBOO SOCKS FOR ECO-CONSCIOUS WOMEN & MEN
This blog post is all about the best bamboo socks for men and women.
As sustainable products are becoming more and more popular, brands have started to sell bamboo clothes, like socks, marketing them as some of the most sustainable options we can buy.
However, not all of them are created equal.
Some are made with longevity and sustainability in mind, while others aren’t.
In this article, I’ve selected the 6 best bamboo socks for men and women.
These brands craft them using ethical and sustainable practices and ensure their products are of the highest quality!
I’ve included all kinds of socks, including no-show, ankle, crew, and quarter socks, hiking, running, and performance models, thermal socks, and even compression and diabetic socks.
Plus, one of these even has bamboo socks made in USA!
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What are bamboo socks? Are they sustainable?
Bamboo socks are socks made from fibers derived from the bamboo plant.
There are actually two different types of bamboo fabric: bamboo linen or lyocell, and bamboo viscose or rayon.
Bamboo linen or lyocell is the most sustainable bamboo fabric out of the two.
It’s made in a closed-loop system where there’s very little waste and the manufacturer uses natural or non-toxic enzymes.
Unfortunately, it’s still extremely rare to find bamboo lyocell on the market as it is very expensive and labor-intensive to produce.
On the other hand, bamboo viscose or rayon is chemically processed and its production can cause different environmental issues.
That being said, bamboo viscose is derived from renewable, natural sources.
It’s the fastest-growing plant in the world, can grow without the use of pesticides and herbicides, and requires very little water to grow compared to other crops.
So it’s way better than most unsustainable fabrics like synthetics!
I couldn’t find socks made of bamboo lyocell.
However, I’ve made sure to include models made of bamboo viscose that are made using ethical and sustainable practices.
Are bamboo socks good? Bamboo socks benefits
There are many reasons why one may want to buy bamboo socks!
First, bamboo fabric is soft, lightweight, and stretchier than cotton.
It has a smooth texture, making it very comfortable to wear, especially on our feet.
It’s also hypoallergenic and has great anti-bacterial properties, which help eliminate unpleasant odors.
Not only that, but bamboo fabric provides UV protection and effectively wicks away moisture.
It’s also very breathable, making it great for wearing all day long and in all seasons, whether you’re staying at home, running, or hitting the trails.
What to look for when shopping for bamboo socks?
If you want to make a more conscious choice, make sure the brand you’re buying from has implemented sustainable practices.
If you cannot find models made of bamboo lyocell, that’s okay.
Some companies (like those on this list) are making their bamboo viscose socks with the planet in mind.
For instance, they may have taken steps to reduce material waste, minimize chemical usage, and only use non-toxic dyes.
Their factories may be energy-efficient, running on renewable energy, and reusing water.
See if you can buy socks made from bamboo grown with rainwater and sourced from responsibly managed, FSC-certified forests.
The bamboo should also be produced without pesticides and other toxic chemicals.
If you can find organic or recycled bamboo, these are great options!
Try to also buy from brands that received third-party certifications such as Climate-Neutral, OEKO-TEX, Fair Trade, or B Corp.
What’s more, the company should provide workers in its supply chain with human working conditions and fair wages.
Lastly, buy socks that are designed for longevity.
Most bamboo socks will contain a small percentage of a synthetic fabric.
While synthetics aren’t sustainable, adding them to socks can help make them more durable and stretchy.
Read more:
Where to buy bamboo socks? 6 best bamboo socks for men and women
1. Cozy Earth
For: Women & Men
Cozy Earth creates responsibly sourced and high-quality bamboo viscose home textiles and clothing.
While its ankle, quarter, and calf socks are made of a cotton-nylon blend, its Plush Lounge Socks are crafted with polyester (unfortunately) and bamboo viscose with a bit of elastane.
These cozy socks, which are sold individually or in packs of three, are designed with high-quality materials and a durable weave fabric that doesn’t pill so you can enjoy them for years!
They feature a textural ribbed design and are available in different colors and patterns.
If you opt for the patterned models, you’ll be able to choose from stripes and a couple of winter-inspired prints (like snowflakes and Fair Isle).
Cozy Earth usually avoids dyes, but when needed, it only uses responsible dyeing practices and ensures its products are free of harmful substances.
It has also implemented fair labor practices in its supply chain, and its fiber process recycles water and doesn’t release waste into nature.
Plus, the Plush Lounge Socks got featured on Oprah’s Favorite Things list in 2021!
2. Seasalt
For: Women & Men
Seasalt designs sustainable clothing, footwear, and accessories inspired by the maritime heritage of Cornwall, in the UK.
It has a large collection of men’s and women’s socks made from a variety of eco-friendly materials such as bamboo, organic cotton, recycled polyester, lambswool, or recycled nylon.
Its bamboo socks are crafted with bamboo viscose with a bit of recycled or virgin polyamide and elastane.
With their comforting texture, soft toe seams, and rolled-edge tops, they’re a treat for your feet!
Seasalt makes them in all kinds of characterful patterns inspired by the local fauna and flora, and nautical stripes.
You’ll be able to choose socks with fun prints such as playful rabbits, thoughtful-looking owls, flowers, and scenic landscapes.
You can also get them in beautiful gift boxes to give them as presents to your loved ones.
What’s more, the brand works with SEDEX-certified suppliers and is a member of the Ethical Trading Initiative.
It’s also a certified B Corp, so it’s one of the most ethical and sustainable brands on the market!
3. BAM
For: Women & Men
BAM offers a wide range of bamboo socks for men and women, available in different neutral and bold colors as well as patterns.
These socks are very soft and comfortable in addition to being moisture-wicking and breathable.
They’re also reinforced at the toe and heel and crafted with longevity in mind.
BAM makes them from bamboo viscose and a small percentage of recycled or virgin polyamide and elastane.
Some socks also contain merino wool for added warmth.
From hiking and running socks to gym and everyday socks, the brand has something for any activity!
BAM is very transparent about each stage of its socks’ production process and discloses where exactly they’re produced.
It also partners with suppliers that received the OEKO-TEX certification and that are committed to protecting ancient and endangered forests.
Plus, it is B Corp certified and only works with manufacturers who have responsible waste treatment and chemical management practices!
4. Cariloha
For: Women & Men
Cariloha sells socks made from a blend of bamboo viscose, organic cotton, and a tiny bit of nylon and spandex.
It has everything from no-show, crew, and trouser socks to athletic and ankle socks.
You can choose from a variety of solid colors as well as from printed socks featuring fun designs like palm trees or ocean scenes.
The brand even has warmer, fuzzy socks with a cable knit design, a soft fleece interior, and grippy no-slip beads on the footbeds!
Cariloha socks are moisture-wicking and odor-resistant.
They provide arch support or have a reinforced heel and toe construction depending on which models you choose.
The company is a certified B Corp and uses sustainable packaging.
Its products are also carbon-neutral and have been tested for harmful substances by OEKO-TEX.
5. Ecosox
For: Women & Men
Ecosox creates all kinds of bamboo socks for men and women, including hiking and running socks, ankle socks, thermal models, and more.
But what truly sets this brand apart is that it also offers diabetic and compression socks.
Its compression socks are great for improving circulation and reducing swelling and fatigue, or for workout recovery.
Its diabetic socks on the other hand are ideal for people with diabetes, edema, or neuropathy.
Ecosox socks feature reinforced heels and smooth toe seam stitching for durability, have a cushioned footbed, and provide arch support.
Mostly made of bamboo viscose, they’re naturally moisture-wicking.
You can also get warmer models made from bamboo and merino wool.
Choose from various solid colors as well as stripes and polka dot prints.
Many of these socks are made in the USA, and the brand plants a tree with every purchase (for specific models).
6. Boody
For: Women & Men
Boody socks are some of the most sustainable socks you can get!
They’re made from a soft blend of organically grown bamboo viscose, organic cotton, and/or recycled nylon.
From no-show, sports, and crew socks to quarter, ankle, and workboot socks, the brand has something for every woman and man.
Many of its socks are cushioned, provide arch support, and have a reinforced toe and heel for added durability and a seamless toe construction to ensure a smooth feel.
The brand makes sure all the water used in the production process of its bamboo is recycled, and it is a certified B Corporation as well.
It has also endorsed the FSC Fashion Forever Green Pact, meaning that it’s committed to supporting sustainable forestry and responsible sourcing.
Final thoughts on bamboo socks
I hope you’ve found this article helpful and that you could find socks you love wearing!
Bamboo socks are some of the best socks you can get as they’re breathable and moisture-wicking, and they have antimicrobial properties.
If bought from the right brand, they can also be sustainable and durable.
If you enjoyed this article, you might want to read:
- 10 best organic cotton socks you’ll never want to take off
- 12 best organic cotton underwear brands for all-day comfort
- 9 cozy, sustainable slippers to keep your feet and the planet happy
- 14 best sustainable shoe brands for an eco-friendly footprint
- 8 sustainable boots for fall & winter adventures
- Are Crocs bad for the environment? & 6 eco-friendly alternatives
What are your favorite bamboo socks for men and women?
Please leave your recommendations in a comment!
Don’t forget to share this blog post with your friends to help them find a pair they love too.
Looking for more non-toxic & sustainable brands? Check out the Ethical & Sustainable Brand Directory!
It features conscious brands in various categories, from home goods and furniture to fashion and clean beauty!