The Socks Drawer Blog

So in different cultures, people have different needs and requirements in their socks. In Asian cultures, it is incredibly taboo to where your shoes in the house. There are other cultures where this is the same.

The foot wear that the Japanese where is also different, also requiring a different sock. So what is it that the Japanese wear for a sock? Well in my search for all things socks, I have discovered at least a couple different types of socks that are Japanese. The one I will share about today is called the Tabi Sock. There are Tabi socks or Tabi boots.

Tabi boots are like a sock, however they are sown together of fabric, typically cotton and left open in the back with fasteners to keep them closed. Tabi boots have a sole sown onto the bottom for durability. Both Tabi socks and boots are split toe allowing for the traditional Japanese footwear, sandals. That is much like the flip flop socks. Tabi boots go past the ankle and there fore look more like a boot. Traditional tabi socks typically do not go past the ankle.

There are two types of Tabi socks, the traditional odori tabi sock and the stretch tabi sock. The stretch tabi sock is made of 100% nylon and are very stretchy and comfortable, they are machine washable and easy to get on and off. They are more like an American sock but still allow one to wear them with their sandals. These are the latest rage in Japan. How’s that for a unique sock!

Here is a picture of some Tabi socks and boots. Stay tuned for an upcoming blog post on another Japanese fashion trend, the Loose Sock!

Here is a traditional tabi sock

Here are some tabi boots

Handmade socks are some what of a rare commodity these days. What was at one time, the only option, is now a treasure and an art form.

Handmade socks have all the functionality of mass produced socks.  They are often quite comfortable,  sometimes even more comfortable than other socks.  Handmade socks come in a wide variety of yarns types (fabrics), styles, colors and functions.

I have seen handmade toe socks, pedicure socks, slipper socks, baby socks, work socks, hiking socks, everyday socks and comfy cozy around the house socks!  Handmade socks can be made to meet your specific feet and your specific needs or requirements.  They can be made uniquely for you!

I love the idea of handmade socks.  I think of someone making a pair of socks for someone and what an act of love that would be!  I think about buying a pair of handmade socks and what a great way that would be to support a small business or artist. I love handmade socks, for their practicality as well as the way they allow me another opportunity to add art and fashion into my wardrobe!

If you are interested in purchasing handmade socks, I would check with your local fabric or yarn store.  I would also ask around at the farmers market.  You could check craiglist and I know that etsy.com has several people who sell handmade socks locally!  What a great way to not only find unique socks, but to also support arts and crafts and the people who are gifted in those things!

Functional, comfortable socks!

Did you know that there are specific socks for flip flops? What a brilliant idea! How many socks have I bent out of shape trying to accomodate flip flops in cooler weather! And regular socks aren’t that comfortable with flip flops. So now they have created a unique sock just for your flip flop comforts and styles! As I said previously, brilliant!

So what is a flip flop sock? It is a sock that has one separate area for your big toe, so that there is a neat place to slip the sandal strap between your toes without scrunching up your socks into a lump under your sandal! Here is an example from flip flop style. Click here to buy a great sock for your flip flops.

Toe socks are also another great way to accommodate flip flops. The difference between toe socks and flip flop socks are that toe sock separate all of your toes, where the flip flop socks separate only your big toe from the rest. Both are very functional and serve the purpose equally well.

Flip flop socks come in all different colors and fabrics, from fleece to cotton and plain to striped(my favorite!) So you can choose your comfort and style preferences AND wear your favorite flip flops when it’s cool! Now that is a great sock idea!