Women's Socks & Tights

The longest-lasting women’s socks and tights are made with reinforced heels and toes, strong seams, and durable fibres like organic cotton, wool blends, or recycled nylon. Look for styles with lifetime guarantees or at least 10-year warranties - they're usually built to last. Hand-linked toes and tougher weaves help fend off holes and sagging too. With gentle washing and air drying (especially for tights), a great pair can keep going for years.

Explore hard-wearing designs in our women's socks & tights collection and see how we find the most durable products.

To keep your wool or cotton socks in good condition, wash them at 30°C and steer clear of the tumble dryer. Heat can ruin the fibres, while gentle washing helps preserve shape and softness. Turn them inside out to cut down on wear and fading. Use a delicate detergent for wool, and non-bio for cotton. Skip the fabric softener - it messes with absorbency and elasticity. With a bit of care, these socks can put in years of hearty service.

Compression socks apply gentle pressure to your legs, improving circulation and supporting your veins. The result? Less swelling, reduced fatigue, and a lower risk of issues like DVT. They're particularly handy for long-haul travel, standing jobs, or post-exercise recovery. Look for the pressure rating (in mmHg) to identify the level of support. The best compression socks offer both comfort and longevity, as long as you get the right fit.

Some people cut holes in their socks to relieve pressure on sore spots like blisters, bunions, or corns - basically, a hack to ease discomfort. While it works in the short term, it does weaken the sock. If you're regularly reaching for scissors, it's time to switch to socks with seamless toes, a roomier fit, or extra stretch. Better for your feet and far less faff in the long run.

Crew socks are mid-length, sitting just below the calf. They're the Goldilocks of socks - not too short, not too tall. Spot-on for trainers, boots, or lounging about in style. The best crew socks are breathable, comfy, and made from durable stuff like combed cotton or wool blends. Whether you're on a hike or heading to the shops, they strike a fine balance between coverage and everyday wearability.

To get your white socks looking bright again, soak them in warm water with oxygen-based bleach or a mix of vinegar and baking soda. Let them sit for half an hour, then wash at 30–40°C. Ditch the hot wash - it sets stains. Drying them in the sun helps lift stubborn marks too. Starting with quality cotton makes all the difference, as they're less prone to going grey in the first place.

Compression socks can be worn overnight in some cases, but only mild ones (15–20 mmHg) and ideally under advice. Stronger compression isn’t suitable for sleeping unless your doctor says so - too much pressure can cause problems if not needed. Always check the manufacturer’s guidance and make sure they fit properly. When used correctly, they’re both comfy and long-lasting companions for tired legs.

Making your socks last longer starts with gentle washing, low heat, and storing them properly (no stretching them over the back of a chair, please). Want more tips? Our full guide on how to make your socks last longer covers everything from fabric choices to clever repair tricks. Give it a look - your favourite pair will thank you.