The sock is, at best, usually glimpsed in passing; occasionally displayed in full glory with shorts and sandals (a difficult sartorial field in which to achieve excellence); at worst, only you or those very close to you will appreciate your choice of hosiery. 

Style is important, but sheer wearability is the priority, and the best approach is to maintain a range of socks for different seasons and usages.

Cotton or, better still, a cotton and synthetic mix works for most people in most circumstances, but longer designs and, especially, wool, preferably merino or cashmere, cannot be bested for winter, nor silk for comfort in summer. Bamboo and hemp fibres are not so reliable. 

The sock is, at best, usually glimpsed in passing; occasionally displayed in full glory with shorts and sandals (a difficult sartorial field in which to achieve excellence); at worst, only you or those very close to you will appreciate your choice of hosiery. 

Style is important, but sheer wearability is the priority, and the best approach is to maintain a range of socks for different seasons and usages.

Cotton or, better still, a cotton and synthetic mix works for most people in most circumstances, but longer designs and, especially, wool, preferably merino or cashmere, cannot be bested for winter, nor silk for comfort in summer. Bamboo and hemp fibres are not so reliable.