When it comes to creating the perfect pair of socks, much of the magic lies in the yarn count and plies.
These technical aspects determine the socks' comfort, durability, breathability, and fit — elements that hipSwan prioritises in every design.
Whether you need lightweight, breathable socks for everyday wear or thicker, cushioned socks for performance activities, understanding yarn count and plies can help you appreciate the craftsmanship behind your socks.
What Is Yarn Count in Socks?
Yarn count refers to the thickness or fineness of the yarn, expressed as a measure of length per weight. Higher yarn counts indicate finer, thinner yarns, while lower yarn counts result in thicker, bulkier yarns.
- High yarn count (40s to 60s): Used for lightweight, breathable socks, like dress or no-show socks.
- Medium yarn count (20s to 40s): Common in performance and everyday socks, offering a balance of softness and structure.
- Low yarn count (5s to 20s): Best suited for thermal and hiking socks, where thickness and insulation are key.
Yarn Count in hipSwan Socks
At hipSwan, we choose yarn counts that complement the sock's function:
- Chill No-Show Socks: Featuring a high yarn count to provide a sleek, breathable design, perfect for summer wear.
- Dash Merino Wool Socks: Designed with a medium yarn count to balance breathability and warmth, making them ideal for athletic or outdoor use.
- Roam Organic Cotton Trainer Socks: Crafted with a mid-range yarn count for everyday comfort and durability.
Below is an example comparing cotton with a yarn count of 20/1 (left) to a yarn count of 30/1 (right). Can you tell the difference?
What Are Plies in Socks?
Ply refers to the number of strands twisted together to create a single yarn. For example, two-ply yarn consists of two strands twisted together, while three-ply yarn combines three strands.
- Single-ply: Lightweight and soft, but less durable.
- Two-ply: Provides a balance of strength and softness.
- Three-ply or more: Creates thick, durable yarns suitable for heavy-duty socks.
Plies in hipSwan Socks
We carefully select the right ply for each sock style to ensure maximum comfort and longevity:
- Flow Gripper Socks: Made with two-ply yarn for improved durability and a secure fit, perfect for activities like yoga or barre. Now available in a crew-length version.
- Dash Merino Wool Socks: Featuring two-ply merino wool yarn to enhance elasticity and resilience during workouts.
- Roam Organic Cotton Trainer Socks: Constructed with two-ply organic cotton yarn for long-lasting wear and softness. Also available in a crew-length version.
Why Yarn Count and Plies Matter
The right combination of yarn count and plies impacts the overall performance and feel of the socks:
- Comfort and Fit: Finer yarn counts provide a smooth, snug fit, while the right ply ensures the socks maintain their structure without sagging.
- Durability: Multi-ply yarns resist wear and tear, making them ideal for socks that undergo daily use or high-impact activities.
- Breathability and Moisture Control: High yarn counts paired with natural fibres, like organic cotton or merino wool, ensure moisture-wicking and breathability.
Choosing the Right Socks for Your Needs
Whether you’re looking for everyday comfort or performance-driven designs, hipSwan offers a range of options:
- For Everyday Wear: Our Roam Organic Cotton Socks provide the perfect balance of softness and durability, with mid-range yarn counts and two-ply construction.
- For Workouts: Choose our Dash Merino Wool Socks, which combine the breathability of medium yarn counts with the durability of two-ply wool.
- For Low-Profile Styles: The Chill No-Show Socks offer high yarn counts for a sleek, comfortable fit under any shoe.
Final Thoughts on Quality Socks
When you slip on a pair of hipSwan socks, you’re stepping into thoughtfully designed footwear, built with the perfect blend of yarn count and plies to meet your needs. By understanding these technical elements, you can select the best socks for any occasion, ensuring comfort, performance, and durability.
Ready to upgrade your sock drawer? Explore our hipSwan sock collection, where craftsmanship and innovation meet.
Want to learn more about how to tell the difference between quality and cheap socks? We've got you covered with our in-depth blog post here.
