For some, socks are an expression of a cause, a subtle pop of color or hint of pattern, and others use them simply to keep their feet warm. Whatever your interests in socks, there are a lot of them in this world. People wear socks every day, but as with other clothing items, the way they’re made can have a huge impact on the environment. While socks may be something of a footnote, they still contribute to the 24.5 million plus tons of waste produced by the fashion industry. This is especially true if made out of synthetic (polyester, nylon, spandex) fibers. The good news, you can keep your toes happy while also helping the environment. Buying ethical, eco-friendly and sustainable socks is a great place to start converting your wardrobe. And we want to help; below are sustainable sock brands you will want to rock!

What to Look For?

If you missed our article about eco-friendly sustainable t-shirts, here is a quick overview of what to look for when shopping eco-friendly/sustainable: organic cotton, hemp, linen, and recycled fabrics is a great place to start. Additionally, look for water-based dyes and no harsh chemical treatment.

For the brand itself, look out for Certified B Corporations and WRAP, Oeko-Tex, and GOTS certifications.

Conscious Step Vegan Socks

Ethics | GOTS certified, Fair-trade certified, Ethical workplace

Sustainability | Organic, vegan cotton

Price Range | $-$$

Let’s take our first step with Conscious Step socks. These sustainable socks make a wide range of colorful and bold patterned socks. Each pair is made from a blend of GOTS, Fair-Trade certified organic cotton, elastane, and polyamide. These socks are produced in India in an ethical factory, which ensures fair and safe working conditions for their employees. With each purchase, you can contribute to a unique cause: rainforest conservation, ending HIV, building homes, ending world hunger, and more. For $15, proudly rock these socks and know you are helping make great things happen!

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People Tree

Ethics | Fair Trade certified, GOTS-certified

Sustainability | Organic cotton, Tencel (Lyocell)

Price Range | $-$$

People Tree is a unique brand bridging the gap between people and products. People Tree has several of the eco-friendly, ethical certifications on the market. They take great care to source their products from Fair Trade manufacturers. These sustainable socks are made from GOTS-certified organic cotton and Tencel. They recycle water and the solvents used in their Tencel production. The colors and patterns are bold like their mission. Starting at $13, you can own a pair of People Tree socks today!

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Organic Basics

Ethics | Fair labor practices, USA made

Sustainability | Water reduction, Low impact dyes, Low waste

Price Range | $-$$

If you’re someone who prefers a minimalist look, keeping things simple, and going back to basics, then Organic Basics is for you. This group provides all sorts of basic wardrobe must-haves at fair prices, produced through fair practices. They work with a number of humane factories around the world to source and produce their products. All of their socks are made from GOTS-certified organic cotton. Again, while their color pallet is muted, their mission is not. For  $15, you can own some sustainable socks and start updating your wardrobe!

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Harvest & Mill

Ethics | USA made, Ethical factories

Sustainability | 100% Organic cotton, Natural dyes, Natural fibers, Compostable packaging

Price Range | $-$$

If you’re into earth tones, then you will love Harvest & Mill. This company is based in the USA. They source all of their organically grown cotton and manufacture their products in the states. Doing so, allows them to support local farming. Additionally, Harvest & Mill adhere to some of the strictest chemical use and disposal regulations in the world, as they make everything in the US. They also offer both dye-free and low-impact dye options for all of their clothing. With a starting price of $9, you can treat your toes to some high-quality, natural fibers!

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Solmate Socks

Ethics | Living wages and medical benefits for employees, donations to charity groups

Sustainability | Certified B Corporation, Recycled cotton yarn and recycled polyester, Global Recycling Standard, Oeko-Tex

Price Range | $-$$

These truly eye-catching sustainable socks are wonderfully mismatched, bright, and colorful! If you love eclectic statement pieces, Solmate Socks are for you! Made in North Carolina using recycled materials certified by the Global Recycling Standard and Oeko-Tex, these socks are sustainable and ethically sourced! Plus, this company gives back by making plenty of donations to charities, including homeless shelters, refugee centers, and family services organizations. If you're all about helping others and doing it in style, we encourage you to support this Earth-friendly brand!

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Nothing New

Ethics | Supports Local Communities and Waste Collectors, Fair Labor.

Sustainability | Made of Sustainable Materials Like Upcycled Cotton and Recycled Plastic Bottles, Made In the USA, Recycling Program, Work With Material Suppliers That Have Environmental Impact Accreditation.

Price Range | $-$$

This brand's socks are made out of upcycled materials like post-consumer plastic thread and cotton! This allows them to save tons of water and energy when compared to virgin materials. Each pair offers arch support, heel and toe cushioning, anti-microbial technology, and blister tab construction so you can be comfortable while you save the planet! Shop their eco-friendly ankle and crew socks in all essential colors today!

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Dedicated

Ethics | Long-Term Partnerships, Suppliers Certified by Reliable Social Standards, Factory Auditing and Visits, Supplier Code of Conduct, Fairtrade Materials, SA8000 Standard, WRAP Certified.

Sustainability | GOTS Certified Organic Cotton, Recycled Polyester, TENCEL Lyocell, Hemp, GRS Certified, Various PETA-Approved Vegan Collections, 

Price Range | $-$$

Made of organic and Fairtrade cotton, Dedicated's soft and comfy socks come in plenty of designs that are so fun to style! Some can provide a pop of color and make a big statement, while others can be used as basics in any outfit. However, what we love most is their commitment to ethical practices for their partners and our planet! With plenty of social and ecological certifications to back them up, it's hard to ignore their efforts to make our world a better place. Support this brand's amazing mission today by picking up a pair of their organic cotton socks!

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These five eco-friendly, sustainable, and affordable brands offer a wide variety of socks and other ethical pieces for any style! Remember, as consumers we can make a huge impact through every purchase. Buy mindfully, compassionately, and sustainably and make a difference with every dollar!

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