Top 10 Companies Dominating the Global Socks Market Landscape

The Sock Factory, Nester Hosiery, Golden Lady Company SpA, Nike Inc, Hanesbrands Inc., Under Armour®, Inc., PUMA SE, Strumpfwerk Lindner GmbH, Exceptio Ltd, and HJ Hall Socks, among others, are the major players in the global socks market. 

The global socks market reached a value of about USD 52.79 billion in 2023. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% in the forecast period of 2024-2032 to reach around USD 87.93 billion by 2032. As per the analysis by Expert Market Research, the market is expected to be driven by rising demand for specialised socks products.

A sock is a soft piece of clothing designed to cover the foot or lower part of the leg. Typically knitted from materials such as cotton, wool, or nylon, socks are worn under shoes and come in a variety of colours, sizes, and materials to cater to customer preferences.

The anticipated rise in the importance of maintaining formal attire among white-collar professionals globally is expected to significantly contribute to socks market growth. Furthermore, it is anticipated that peoples' growing expenditures on health and fitness will boost demand for a range of shoe accessories, such as ankle and sports socks. In order to address the rising prevalence of foot diseases associated with diabetes, healthcare experts have expanded their involvement in publishing research papers on keeping healthy feet in recent years.

The increasing demand for specialised socks, such as compression socks for enhanced circulation, grip socks for improved stability during workouts, and waterproof socks for outdoor activities, indicates a trend toward functional and performance-oriented apparel. Consumers are placing greater value on innovative features that address specific needs, fuelling the popularity of these specialised sock types and contributing to the overall growth of the socks market.

Key factors fuelling the global socks market's expansion encompass increased disposable incomes, a burgeoning retail sector, a rising inclination toward sports and athletic pursuits, and the heightened emphasis on maintaining formal attire in corporate environments. The industry's growth is further propelled by growing consumer awareness regarding hygiene and an uptick in foot disorders.

Top 10 Socks Companies in the World:

The Sock Factory

The Sock Factory stands out as the leading manufacturer of performance and high-fashion socks in North America. Operating as a vertically integrated facility, the company specialises in crafting high-performance athletic, dress, compression, and outdoor socks. Located in western North Carolina, the family-owned and operated business has over 40 years of experience. The company is committed to delivering an optimal combination of performance, style, and craftsmanship. It also offers customer service, innovation, and delivering quality products at competitive prices.

Nester Hosiery

Nester Hosiery, situated in Mount Airy, NC, is a prominent performance sock manufacturer with a primary focus on producing premium merino and synthetic constructions tailored for outdoor, lifestyle, and sporting goods categories. Renowned for the state-of-the-art global manufacturing capabilities, the company serves leading outdoor performance brands and proudly manufacture its own brand, Farm to Feet. As a sock design and manufacturing leader, Nester Hosiery emphasises superior product development, incorporating current fashion trends while ensuring alignment with customers' performance requirements. The operations feature cutting-edge circular knitting machinery, multi-chamber steam boarding, water-conserving steam tumbling, and automated packaging equipment.

Golden Lady Company SpA.

Established in Castiglione delle Stiviere (MN), Golden Lady Company swiftly ascended to prominence in the European market and successfully expanded into Russia and Eastern Europe. The company's growth can be attributed to substantial investments in technology, research and development, along with a commitment to quality products at competitive prices. As a leading international multi-brand group, Golden Lady Company dominates the global scene in designing, producing, and trading hosiery, underwear, and apparel. Renowned for acquiring top national and international hosiery brands like Omsa, SiSi, Filodoro, and Philippe Matignon, the Group emphasises asserting Italian identity worldwide. It maintains a cutting-edge department dedicated to researching, producing, and marketing high-performance and high-tech yarns.

NIKE, Inc.

NIKE, Inc. unites the Nike, Jordan, and Converse brands, driven by a shared purpose to make a lasting impact. As the foremost designer, marketer, and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessories across various sports and fitness activities, NIKE, Inc. bears the name of the Greek goddess of victory. Operating segments include North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Greater China, Asia Pacific, and Latin America. Additionally, the company has wholly-owned subsidiary Converse Inc., specialising in casual footwear, apparel, and accessories.

Hanesbrands Inc.

HanesBrands (NYSE: HBI) crafts everyday apparel celebrated globally for its comfort, quality, and value. Renowned brands such as Hanes, Champion, Bonds, Maidenform, and Bali epitomise the company's commitment to excellence. With 51,000 associates across 32 countries, HBI prioritises workplace quality and ethical practices. Launched in May 2021, the Full Potential plan outlines a strategic roadmap for enhanced revenue and profits over the next three years. Uniquely, over two-thirds of HBI's apparel are manufactured in-house or by dedicated contractors, ensuring cost-effectiveness, scalability, and sustainability.

Under Armour® Inc.

Under Armour focuses on developing, marketing, and distributing branded performance apparel, footwear, and accessories for men, women, and youth. Their products, designed for various climates, are worn globally by athletes across all levels and individuals with active lifestyles. Net revenues are generated through sales to wholesalers, distributors, and direct-to-consumer channels, including owned stores and e-commerce. Under Armour aims for long-term growth by increasing product sales, expanding the direct-to-consumer channel, and enhancing strategic initiatives in key areas such as wholesale, footwear, women, and direct-to-consumer businesses.

PUMA SE

PUMA, in its relentless pursuit of speed, transcends mere athlete endorsement. Beyond supporting the world's fastest athletes, PUMA prioritises swift adaptation to the evolving global landscape. Through cutting-edge design, iconic apparel, and genuine partnerships, the brand consistently pushes boundaries in both sports and culture. Infused with a hustler's spirit, PUMA seeks talent to drive innovation at the intersection of sport and culture, fostering dynamic connections with communities. With a global presence spanning 120+ countries, the PUMA Group encompasses PUMA, Cobra Golf, and stichd, employing over 20,000 individuals.

Strumpfwerk Lindner GmbH

LINDNER, synonymous with "Made in Germany" excellence since 1890, has upheld a legacy of crafting premium trousers for four generations. Extending its reputation beyond Europe, LINDNER elevates socks from everyday essentials to fashionable accessories. Meticulous craftsmanship, innovative techniques, and attention to detail set their products apart. By combining traditional manufacturing with groundbreaking innovations, LINDNER ensures partners receive exceptional, individually tailored additions to their collections, embodying the brand's commitment to quality and style.

Exceptio Ltd

As a premier UK-based hosiery manufacturer, Exceptio, with over a century of expertise, prioritises top-notch quality. Serving leading European brands and retailers, Exceptio offers a comprehensive sock solution, emphasising customer satisfaction and continuous factory enhancement. Operating from its UK Headquarters, the company provides tailored CAD sock and packaging artwork, fostering efficient and transparent collaborations with buying teams. With full control over the manufacturing process, from yarn selection to product testing, Exceptio ensures excellence through strategic investments in both personnel and technology.

HJ Hall Socks

With a heritage dating back to 1882, the Hall family has been a stalwart in sock manufacturing in Leicestershire. Fuelled by experience, innovation, and design flair, the family's enterprise, now part of Pantherella International Group, stands as the largest branded sock manufacturer in the United Kingdom. Notably, the acquisition of Pantherella Socks in 2001 by HJ Hall mirrors a commitment to quality and a stellar reputation, solidified over 80 years of collective industry experience.