Socks have long been the forgotten part of an outfit, but not anymore. Here are the definitive style tips on how to wear socks with sneakers.
How to wear socks with sneakers in 2025
The street has spoken and fashion trends are constantly changing. In recent years we’ve seen socks make a comeback as an accessory, and they’re now an integral part of any good outfit.
Socks were overlooked for years, but they’re finally getting the same attention as a bag, a cap or any other accessory that takes your look to the next level. Browse our collections for patterned socks that are perfect with trainers.
The sheer number of designs has led people to rethink the role of socks in their personal style, but there’s still a lot of uncertainty about how to pair them with each type of footwear.
At BESOCKS we’re joining the movement that champions this garment, and we want to shed some light with a few style guides on how to get the most out of your socks.
The sneaker craze has boosted the importance of socks in our outfits. Hundreds of thousands of people now pair their sneakers with socks, but few are really nailing it.
Sneakers have become the men’s equivalent of a handbag, gaining huge relevance in fashion, and socks, as a complementary accessory, have ridden the same wave.
3 basic rules for wearing socks with trainers
Here are 3 style rules that can help you get past any doubts when pairing them. But as we always say, rules are made to be broken, and it all depends on your personal taste.
Don’t mix different logos or brands
In the sneaker world, pairing Nike trainers with adidas socks is considered sacrilege. We’re not sure exactly where this rule comes from or how much sense it makes, but it’s our duty to tell you.
It’s worth knowing what some sneaker tastemakers say about wearing socks with sneakers, but the final decision is a matter of taste and entirely up to you.
If you’d rather not overthink your outfit every morning, save your energy and take a look at our original socks collection.
Browse the BESOCKS Street collection and find designs for nostalgia lovers, such as the BESOCKS x Snoopy or BESOCKS x Sesame Street collections.
Avoid ankle socks with high-top sneakers
This second tip may seem obvious, but common sense isn’t always that common. We see plenty of people wearing ankle socks with high-top trainers, and it’s a mistake.
First, for practical reasons: it’s the best way to avoid rubbing. Second, for hygiene, because part of your leg isn’t protected by the sock and summer sweat can take its toll.
If you prefer ankle socks, pair them with lower-profile trainers such as Vans Old Skool or Veja, and save white socks, seamless socks and taller skate socks for boot-style sneaker silhouettes.
So now you know: ankle socks go with low-profile trainers, and longer socks, such as white socks or seamless socks, go with boot-style sneakers.
Should your socks match your trousers?
The belief that socks should match your trousers is widespread, and with conventional shoes it’s a rule worth following. But with trainers, there are no rules.
You can combine any colours you like; it’s a matter of taste. Big myths have been debunked, like white socks with black shoes, which is now one of the strongest trends.
Aesthetically, matching your socks to your trousers elongates the leg and makes your silhouette look longer and leaner, a good tip for shorter people.
Now that we’ve debunked a few myths, you know the 3 rules to follow (or not) when pairing your socks with trainers. Let’s keep inspiring you with some combinations.
How to wear socks with Veja sneakers
Veja are often the first trainers to get the most epic sock pairings, precisely because they’re so easy to combine with all kinds of garments and accessories.
As a simple, timeless design, they go with almost everything, but we recommend wearing them with our Casual or Basic lines to give your plainer outfits a different touch.
How to wear socks with Nike sneakers
To wear socks with Nike trainers, it’s important to consider the height of the silhouette first. If you like low-profile styles like the Air Force 1, we recommend no-show or ankle socks as the safest option.
If you wear higher Nike silhouettes like the Blazer or Air Jordan 1 Mid, one of our seamless socks from the Essentials collection will fit perfectly with the casual summer look you have in mind.
How to wear socks with Vans
Other trainers often worn with socks are Vans, especially the Vans Old Skool. Like Veja, they’re a wildcard: their simple, timeless design works with almost everything.
Even so, if you want to take it up a level, check out the Street collection, where you’ll find the classic tall white skate socks with double stripes, including some of your favourite licences.
How to wear New Balance 530 with socks
Let’s keep going. Another trainer that’s taking over is the Salomon XT6. We’ve seen a boom in outdoor clothing and trainers in fashion. This trend is called gorpcore, and it’s everywhere.
For this kind of trail sneaker, we recommend steering clear of prints and going for classic options. The socks that suit this type of sneaker best are those from the Street collection.
How to wear socks with retro adidas trainers
Socks have become the stars of office looks. Casual sneakers like Hoff trainers are a must for two reasons: first, they’re comfortable, and second, their design fits the dress code.
If you want to take your sneakers to the next level, discover our full selection of fun socks designed to elevate any outfit.
Also on the journal: How to wear white socks and Socks with sandals