Even though the warm season has passed, fashion habits remain—and will return again in summer. When it comes to footwear, many men choose to go sockless, from early spring through late autumn.
Although showing your ankle is generally considered a feminine gesture, we often get questions about tips for men who still want to skip the socks. Here are a few key pointers!
1. Hygiene Comes First
You can’t avoid sweating, but unpleasant odors, yes. They come from bacteria that develop as a result of perspiration. Talcum powder, which inhibits sweat glands, is the first thing to keep in mind. If you wear quality shoes lined with natural leather, a little sweat won’t bother anyone. Still, think preventively!
2. The Short Socks
These are the so-called no-show socks. Cut short, they’re invisible but still provide relative comfort while walking. They strikingly resemble the socks girls wear with ballet flats. Breathable fabrics, like natural cotton or merino wool, are excellent for this purpose.
3. Breaking Them In
If you just bought a pair of Goodyear-welted loafers, they will likely be stiff at first. Wear them with socks the first few times until the cork insole molds to your foot. Otherwise, you risk swollen feet and blisters—and nobody wants that.
4. Soft Leather, Not Hard
The world of tanning is vast, and not all leathers are created equal. Cordovan leather, for example, will be extremely rigid and take time to “give” to your foot. Exotic leathers, like ostrich or snake, need even more patience. On the other hand, soft, unlined suede will be flexible right from the start.
5. Rotation Is Key
As we mentioned in an article HERE, never wear the same pair of shoes two days in a row, especially sockless. Give them at least one day to rest between wears so they can dry completely. Store them in a dry place and don’t forget to use shoe trees. Wood, especially cedar, absorbs moisture, prevents unpleasant odors, and maintains the shoe’s original shape.
In conclusion, hygiene, hidden socks, careful leather selection, and rotation are the main tips for any man who wants to show off his ankles in public. While at ZAVATE, we maintain some reservations about how “justified” it is for a gentleman to do this, feel free to experiment, find what works for you, and consciously own your choice. Enjoy!
