For decades, there has been a branch of menswear associated with a sprezzatura, a type of fashion incongruity where one dresses to purposely look nonchalant. In other words, going without socks gives you a laid-back look without being sloppy.

Unfortunately, going without socks can result in getting a mild case of stinky feet or a more serious case of athlete’s foot. Skipping socks also makes your feet more prone to getting blisters.

Given that most shoes are designed to be worn with socks, it simply doesn’t make sense to go without them. Fortunately, men’s socks have evolved over the years, and the “no socks” look has gone mainstream. Improvements in elastics and better materials have made it possible for no-show socks to be more secure and comfortable. If you consider yourself interested, here are a few reasons why you should invest in a few pairs of no-show socks:

They Feel More Comfortable Than Going Sockless

During the 80s and 90s, people rolled down their socks to make it appear like they weren’t wearing any. A short while later, the first true no-show men’s socks appeared as a niche product. Unfortunately, they weren’t so great.

These days, no-show socks have decent cushioning and a better grip on the feet, preventing them from slipping off or causing blisters. No matter what types of shoes you prefer, you can confidently pair them with no-show socks.

No-show Socks Are Great During the Summertime

Regular socks are designed to trap heat, making it more uncomfortable to wear closed-toe shoes on hotter days. However, open-toed shoes are not always appropriate to wear, and skipping socks is simply unhygienic.

That said, no-show socks are a great solution to these problems. They’re designed to keep your feet cool while still giving you the protection that you need. Additionally, a lot of no-show socks have antibacterial properties to keep any unpleasant odors at bay.

No-show Socks Look Better with Some Shoes

In some cases, the best style choice you can make is to show some ankle, especially if you’re wearing a more casual outfit. Low-cut sneakers, basketball shoes, classic running shoes, and other killer kicks stand out more when you go for the no-show look. Moreover, if you’re pairing shorts with closed-toe shoes such as loafers, moccasins, or monk straps, it’s better to skip wearing socks. Keep things comfy at your next garden party or casual outing by having a few sets of no-show socks handy.

Your Shoes Will Last Much Longer

Wearing shoes without socks encourages bacterial and fungal growth on your feet and the inside of your footwear. Bacteria can cause shoes to smell awful, which can be embarrassing when you’re out and about. Meanwhile, mold and other types of fungi can weaken and ruin the appearance of the shoe’s structure, significantly shortening the lifespan of your footwear. Fortunately, wearing socks will improve the longevity of your shoes because they help keep things dry and comfy.

Layering Socks is Easier with No-show Socks

If you plan on wearing boots for your next hiking trip, doubling up on socks is a useful hack. The extra layers on your feet help give your boots a snug fit, preventing any blisters from forming. This can also help keep your feet warm during the winter without making your footwear too bulky.

There is undeniably a lot to love about no-show socks. They’re comfortable, versatile, and allow you to rock the carefree sockless look. Make sure to choose a pair that fit your feet correctly so that you can show off your ankles confidently and comfortably.