It's funny how people always remember to purchase good, supportive shoes but rarely, if ever, give a thought to the type of socks they wear. They may pick up a pair of cheap athletic or ankle socks without giving a thought to their quality or fashion appeal.

Believe it or not, the socks you choose can greatly enhance your enjoyment if they keep your feet comfortable, dry, and cool. It makes absolutely no sense to go and spend hundreds of dollars on shoes only to pair them with cheap, poorly made socks. Selected wisely, they will work with your shoes to deliver multiple benefits to your feet plus style to your outfit.

The Functionality of Ankle Socks

Well designed mini- and low-cut socks have drastically increased in popularity over the past few years because of the benefits they offer. They keep feet warm in the winter months while also keeping them cool and dry in the summer. Where regular socks may stretch and bind the leg, low-cut socks only hug the foot, avoiding that tight sensation that usually leaves imprints of elastic on your legs. Ankle socks also allow the feet more breathing room since they don't stretch up to cover the leg area.

When deciding between going without socks and wearing ankle socks, always choose the latter. Ankle socks will provide extra protection, as well as comfort, to your feet. Without any socks, your feet are much more apt to blister and swell, which places you on the sidelines much too early in whatever adventure you're tackling that day.

Ankle socks work quite well when worn with rubber-type shoes, sneakers, and low-rise boots. For summer wear, they are a must because they are lighter, cooler, and more breathable than regular socks. Not only do they absorb moisture quite well, they also guard against athlete's foot and smelly foot odors

Ankle Socks are the New Fashion Statement

In addition to functionality, ankle socks also offer many fashion benefits. They can accompany any type of outfit without taking away from the intended impression. They go well with shorts, jeans, Capri pants, dresses, and mini-skirts. Paired with the right type of shoes, ankle socks can actually contribute to a trendy look.

Check any fashion magazine and you will find that low profile socks are fast becoming hot items these days. In addition to the traditional pairing of ankle socks with sneakers, you will now see women wearing them with sandals and heels. Another new concept for women is wearing them with men's shoes, such as Oxfords and Brogues. Wait until you see them worn on top of stockings! Get used to it because you will soon see this new fashion statement everywhere.

Low-cut socks aren't just for women, however. Men have been wearing them for quite some time now, particularly when participating in sports, because they find them cooler and more comfortable than traditional, longer socks. Good quality ankle socks are made the same way as customized socks with logo  regular counterparts and contain special fabric blends and instep supports for protection.

Among the many good brands of ankle socks out there, some of the ones worth noticing are Bridgedale, Darn Tough Vermont, Icebreaker, Patagonia, Pearl Izumi, REI and Saucony. Check them out the next time you go shopping and select a good pair to try. I would be willing to wager that you will go back for another pair once you see how comfortable they are to wear.