--- title: "Sock Yarns & Constructions: Cotton, Merino, Bamboo" description: "Sock yarns compared: combed cotton, merino, bamboo viscose, recycled polyester, and the terry, rib, jacquard, mesh and grip constructions." url: https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/sock-yarns/ language: en-US updated: 2026-10-21T14:39:14+00:00 alternates: fr: https://mrbalaclava.com/fr/materiaux/fils-pour-chaussettes.md de: https://mrbalaclava.com/de/materialien/sockengarne.md es: https://mrbalaclava.com/es/materiales/hilos-para-calcetines.md publisher: Mr Balaclava (https://mrbalaclava.com/) --- Material Library · Socks # Sock Yarns & Constructions A sock is made of two things: the yarn it is knitted from and the knit structure it is knitted in. This page covers the sock yarns we use, from combed cotton and merino to bamboo viscose and recycled polyester, and the constructions that decide cushioning, grip, stretch and warmth. [Request a quote](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) Browse the fabrics Updated 23 October 2026 ![Hand threading yarn on a small-diameter circular knitting machine](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ml-small-circular-knitting-1024x1024.webp) - **50 pcs** Minimum order - **14 days** Standard lead time - **OEKO-TEX®** Fabrics from certified mills - **ISO 9001** Certified (Eco Jersey Limited) - **Sedex** Member (Eco Jersey Limited) Yarns and constructions ## Sock yarns and constructions we work with Open a fabric to see what is typical for it and what we confirm for your order. Blend shares, gauges and weights are set for each style in the tech pack. - ![Combed Cotton Sock Yarn (Cotton/Nylon/Elastane): two unlabelled cones of white combed cotton sock yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/combed-cotton-sock-yarn-white-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Combed Cotton Sock Yarn (Cotton/Nylon/Elastane)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/combed-cotton-sock-yarn/) The everyday sock yarn: combed cotton for a smooth, soft feel, plated with nylon for strength at the heel and toe and elastane for stretch. Cotton… Single jerseyRib knitLightweight **Warmth** Moderate **Breathability** Very high **Stretch** High [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/combed-cotton-sock-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Two unlabelled cones of navy mercerized cotton sock yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/mercerized-cotton-sock-yarn-navy-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Mercerized Cotton Sock Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/mercerized-cotton-sock-yarn/) Cotton yarn treated to add a soft sheen, strength and deeper colour. Knitted in fine gauge for dress socks and fashion socks that should look smooth… Single jerseyRib knitLightweight **Warmth** Low **Breathability** Very high **Stretch** High [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/mercerized-cotton-sock-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Merino/Nylon Sock Yarn: two unlabelled cones of heather grey merino wool and nylon sock yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/merino-nylon-sock-yarn-heather-grey-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Merino/Nylon Sock Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/merino-nylon-sock-yarn/) Fine merino wool blended with nylon for strength and elastane for stretch. Warm and soft, and wool tends to resist odour, so it is a popular… Rib knitTerry loopMidweight **Warmth** Very high **Breathability** High **Stretch** High [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/merino-nylon-sock-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Wool/Acrylic Sock Yarn: two unlabelled cones of burgundy wool and acrylic sock yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/wool-acrylic-sock-yarn-burgundy-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Wool/Acrylic Sock Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/wool-acrylic-sock-yarn/) Wool blended with acrylic: warm, bulky and colourful at a lower price than pure merino. A good choice for patterned winter socks, gift socks and workwear… Rib knitTerry loopMidweight **Warmth** High **Breathability** Moderate **Stretch** High [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/wool-acrylic-sock-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Two unlabelled cones of soft sage-green bamboo viscose sock yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/bamboo-viscose-sock-yarn-soft-sage-green-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Bamboo Viscose Sock Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/bamboo-viscose-sock-yarn/) A silky, breathable yarn made from bamboo-derived viscose, blended with cotton, nylon and elastane. Soft against the skin and popular for comfort socks. It is a… Single jerseyRib knitLightweight **Warmth** Moderate **Breathability** Very high **Stretch** High [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/bamboo-viscose-sock-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Recycled Polyester Sock Yarn (RPET): two unlabelled cones of light grey melange recycled polyester sock yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/recycled-polyester-sock-yarn-light-grey-melange-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Recycled Polyester Sock Yarn (RPET)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-polyester-sock-yarn/) Polyester spun from recycled plastic bottles, used in place of some new polyester in sport and everyday socks. It generally performs much like standard polyester: quick-drying,… Single jerseyRib knitLightweight **Warmth** Moderate **Breathability** High **Stretch** High [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-polyester-sock-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Polyester/Nylon Performance Sock Yarn: two unlabelled cones of bright royal-blue polyester and nylon performance sock yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/polyester-nylon-performance-sock-yarn-bright-royal-blue-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Polyester/Nylon Performance Sock Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-nylon-performance-sock-yarn/) Polyester and nylon with elastane, chosen for sport socks: it helps move sweat away from the skin, dries quickly, keeps its shape and takes bright colours.… Rib knitMeshTerry loop **Warmth** Moderate **Breathability** High **Stretch** Very high [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-nylon-performance-sock-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Two unlabelled cones of bright orange acrylic sock yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/acrylic-sock-yarn-bright-orange-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Acrylic Sock Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/acrylic-sock-yarn/) A soft, bulky synthetic yarn with a wide colour range and easy care. Used for bright pattern socks, plush socks and colour-heavy team socks where colour… Single jerseyRib knitMidweight **Warmth** High **Breathability** Moderate **Stretch** High [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/acrylic-sock-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Elastic Covering Yarn (Nylon/Spandex): two unlabelled cones of white elastic covering yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/elastic-covering-yarn-white-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Elastic Covering Yarn (Nylon/Spandex)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/elastic-covering-yarn/) Spandex (elastane) core wrapped in nylon or polyester. It is knitted in with the face yarn to give a sock its stretch, its grip on the… Rib knitLightweight **Warmth** Low **Breathability** Moderate **Stretch** Very high [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/elastic-covering-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Close-up of charcoal terry-loop sock knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/terry-loop-sock-knit-charcoal-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Terry-Loop Sock Knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/terry-loop-sock-knit/) A knit with thousands of small loops on the inside of the sock. The loops cushion the foot, absorb impact and hold warm air, so terry… Terry loopMidweight **Warmth** High **Breathability** Moderate **Stretch** Moderate [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/terry-loop-sock-knit/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Rib Sock Knit (1×1, 2×2): close-up of black 2x2 rib sock knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/rib-sock-knit-black-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Rib Sock Knit (1×1, 2×2)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/rib-sock-knit/) A knit of alternating raised and lowered columns that stretches sideways and springs back. Used at the cuff, the arch and often the whole leg, it… Rib knitLightweight **Warmth** Moderate **Breathability** High **Stretch** Very high [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/rib-sock-knit/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Close-up of a navy, red and white jacquard sock knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/jacquard-sock-knit-navy-red-and-white-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Jacquard Sock Knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/jacquard-sock-knit/) A knit where needles are selected one by one to build a design of two or more colours into the fabric. Stripes, dots, logos and full… Jacquard knitLightweight **Warmth** Moderate **Breathability** High **Stretch** High [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/jacquard-sock-knit/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Mesh Vent Sock Panel: close-up of a white mesh vent sock knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/mesh-vent-sock-panel-white-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Mesh Vent Sock Panel](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/mesh-vent-sock-panel/) An open, breathable zone knitted into the top of the foot or the sides of a sock. It helps let heat and moisture out where the… MeshLightweight **Warmth** Low **Breathability** Very high **Stretch** High [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/mesh-vent-sock-panel/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Brushed Interior Sock Knit: close-up of the brushed inside of a grey thermal sock](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/brushed-interior-sock-knit-grey-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Brushed Interior Sock Knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/brushed-interior-sock-knit/) A sock knit whose inside is brushed to raise a soft pile. It traps warm air much like terry but feels smoother and lighter, so it… Single jerseyMidweight **Warmth** High **Breathability** Moderate **Stretch** High [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/brushed-interior-sock-knit/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Silicone Grip Sole Print: close-up of grey silicone grip dots on a black sock sole](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/silicone-grip-sole-print-black-sock-with-grey-grip-dots-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Silicone Grip Sole Print](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/silicone-grip-sole-print/) Dots, lines or a logo of silicone printed on the sole of a sock and heat-set so it bonds to the yarn. It helps stop the… Lightweight [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/silicone-grip-sole-print/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Graduated Compression Sock Knit: close-up of dense black compression sock knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/graduated-compression-sock-knit-black-close-up-768x512.webp) Sock Yarns & Constructions ### [Graduated Compression Sock Knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/graduated-compression-sock-knit/) A knit with zoned tension: firmest at the ankle and easing towards the top of the leg, built with a high share of elastic yarn. Used… Rib knitMidweight **Warmth** Moderate **Breathability** High **Stretch** Very high [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/graduated-compression-sock-knit/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) At a glance ## Sock materials compared Typical characteristics relative to the other fabrics in the library. | Fabric | Construction | Weight class | Warmth | Breathability | Stretch | Moisture management | Typical products | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Combed Cotton Sock Yarn (Cotton/Nylon/Elastane)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/combed-cotton-sock-yarn/) | Single jersey, Rib knit | Lightweight | Moderate | Very high | High | High | Socks | | [Mercerized Cotton Sock Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/mercerized-cotton-sock-yarn/) | Single jersey, Rib knit | Lightweight | Low | Very high | High | High | Socks | | [Merino/Nylon Sock Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/merino-nylon-sock-yarn/) | Rib knit, Terry loop | Midweight | Very high | High | High | Very high | Socks, Ski wear | | [Wool/Acrylic Sock Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/wool-acrylic-sock-yarn/) | Rib knit, Terry loop | Midweight | High | Moderate | High | Moderate | Socks | | [Bamboo Viscose Sock Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/bamboo-viscose-sock-yarn/) | Single jersey, Rib knit | Lightweight | Moderate | Very high | High | High | Socks | | [Recycled Polyester Sock Yarn (RPET)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-polyester-sock-yarn/) | Single jersey, Rib knit | Lightweight | Moderate | High | High | Very high | Socks | | [Polyester/Nylon Performance Sock Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-nylon-performance-sock-yarn/) | Rib knit, Mesh, Terry loop | Lightweight | Moderate | High | Very high | Very high | Socks | | [Acrylic Sock Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/acrylic-sock-yarn/) | Single jersey, Rib knit | Midweight | High | Moderate | High | Moderate | Socks | | [Elastic Covering Yarn (Nylon/Spandex)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/elastic-covering-yarn/) | Rib knit | Lightweight | Low | Moderate | Very high | Moderate | Socks | | [Terry-Loop Sock Knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/terry-loop-sock-knit/) | Terry loop | Midweight | High | Moderate | Moderate | High | Socks, Ski wear | | [Rib Sock Knit (1×1, 2×2)](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/rib-sock-knit/) | Rib knit | Lightweight | Moderate | High | Very high | High | Socks | | [Jacquard Sock Knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/jacquard-sock-knit/) | Jacquard knit | Lightweight | Moderate | High | High | Moderate | Scarves, Socks | | [Mesh Vent Sock Panel](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/mesh-vent-sock-panel/) | Mesh | Lightweight | Low | Very high | High | High | Socks | | [Brushed Interior Sock Knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/brushed-interior-sock-knit/) | Single jersey | Midweight | High | Moderate | High | Moderate | Socks | | [Silicone Grip Sole Print](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/silicone-grip-sole-print/) | | Lightweight | – | – | – | – | Socks | | [Graduated Compression Sock Knit](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/graduated-compression-sock-knit/) | Rib knit | Midweight | Moderate | High | Very high | High | Socks | Choosing a yarn ## Which yarn for which sock Almost every sock is a blend: a main fibre for feel, nylon for strength and a little elastane for stretch. The main fibre sets the character of the sock. | Main fibre | Best for | Strengths | Watch out for | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Combed cotton | Everyday, office, kids, workwear | Soft, breathable, easy to dye | Slow to dry, wears at heel and toe unless blended with nylon | | Mercerized cotton | Dress and fashion socks | Sheen, deeper colour, smooth feel | Fine gauge is less cushioned | | Merino wool blend | Hiking, winter, outdoor work | Warm when damp, tends to resist odour | Higher cost; needs nylon for strength | | Wool/acrylic | Patterned winter and gift socks | Warm, colourful, lower price | Less breathable than merino | | Bamboo viscose | Comfort and sensitive-skin socks | Silky, breathable, soft | Weaker when wet; must be labelled as viscose | | Polyester/nylon | Running, gym, team and compression socks | Wicks sweat, dries fast, holds shape | Feels cooler and less natural than cotton | | Recycled polyester | Sport and everyday ranges with a recycled claim | Performs like polyester with recycled content | The recycled share and certificate come from the yarn supplier | | Acrylic | Bright pattern, plush and team socks | Wide colour range, soft, easy care | Can pill and holds less heat than wool | Constructions ## What the knit structure does The same yarn behaves differently in different knits. Most socks combine several constructions in different zones. - **Terry loop** Loops on the inside cushion the foot and hold warm air. Full terry is usually the warmest; terry zones sit in the heel, ball and toe of sport socks. - **Rib** Stretchy columns at the cuff and arch keep the sock up and snug, and hold its shape after washing. - **Jacquard** Two or more colours built into the fabric for stripes, patterns and logos, which do not crack or fade. - **Mesh and grip** Open mesh lets a sport sock breathe over the instep, and silicone dots on the sole stop slipping on smooth floors. Products ## Where these materials are used In our custom socks, from ankle and crew socks to compression, thermal and team socks. - [Custom socks](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/) Custom socks under your label: ankle, crew, dress, sport, thermal, grip and team socks with jacquard logos. From… - [Custom ski wear](https://mrbalaclava.com/ski-wear/) Custom ski jackets, pants, suits, fleece and base layers under your label, waterproof 5K–20K with taped seams. From… - [Custom scarves](https://mrbalaclava.com/scarves/) Custom scarves under your label: knitted, football, silk and printed scarves, bandanas, neckerchiefs and hijabs. From 50 pcs… Product pages that use these fabrics: - [Socks](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/) - [Everyday & Fashion](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/everyday-fashion-socks/) - [Dress & Business](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/dress-business-socks/) - [Sport & Team](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/sport-performance-team-socks/) - [Winter & Outdoor](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/winter-outdoor-socks/) - [Grip & Comfort](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/grip-comfort-socks/) - [Custom Logo Socks](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/custom-logo-socks/) - [Custom Team Socks](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/custom-team-socks/) - [Merino Wool Socks](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/merino-wool-socks/) - [Bamboo Socks](https://mrbalaclava.com/socks-manufacturer-and-supplier/bamboo-socks/) - [Ski Socks](https://mrbalaclava.com/ski-wear/custom-ski-socks-manufacturer/) Journal ## Guides on socks - [Style & Trends · 9 min readSocks for Every Sole: Trendy, Cozy, and CustomizableDiscover the ultimate guide to Socks for Every Sole: Trendy, Cozy, and Customizable. Explore stylish designs, cozy materialsRead the guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/journal/socks-for-every-sole/) - [Product Guides & Comparisons · 5 min readMerino Ski Balaclava: Is Merino Wool the Best Choice for Skiing?Explore why a merino ski balaclava is a top choice for skiing, covering warmth, breathability, odor resistance, and comfort on the slopes.Read the guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/journal/merino-ski-balaclava/) - [Materials & FabricsBamboo Fiber Beanies: Soft, Breathable Comfort for Every SeasonBamboo fiber beanies offer soft comfort, breathable warmth, moisture control, and eco-friendly style, making them ideal for everyday.Read the guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/journal/bamboo-fiber-beanies/) FAQ ## Sock yarns: frequently asked questions **### Why are cotton socks blended with nylon and elastane?** Pure cotton wears through at the heel and toe and does not spring back. Nylon adds strength and elastane adds stretch and recovery, so the sock lasts and keeps its shape while still feeling like cotton. **### Is bamboo viscose the same as natural bamboo?** No. Bamboo viscose is a manufactured cellulose fibre made from bamboo. It feels silky and breathes well, and in most markets it must be labelled as viscose (or rayon) made from bamboo. **### Can you supply recycled or certified yarns?** Recycled polyester and organic or certified cotton yarn can be sourced on request, subject to availability. Certificates come from the yarn supplier for the order, and we do not claim a certification unless it can be documented. **### Who makes the yarn, and who knits the socks?** The yarn comes from partner spinners. We knit, finish, inspect and pack the socks in our factory in Sialkot, Pakistan. Material Library ## More fabric families and guides - [All fabrics in the Material Library](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/) - [Fleece Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fleece/) - [Cotton Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/cotton/) - [Merino Wool & Wool Blend Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/merino-wool-blends/) - [Polyester & Recycled Polyester Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/polyester-recycled-polyester/) - [Acrylic Knits & Yarns](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/acrylic/) - [Performance Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/performance-fabrics/) - [Shell & Waterproof Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/shell-fabrics/) - [Insulation & Linings](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/insulation-linings/) - [Cap & Hat Materials](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/cap-hat-materials/) - [Knitting Yarns](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/knitting-yarns/) - [Scarf Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/scarf-fabrics/) - [Waterproof & Breathability Ratings Explained](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/waterproof-breathability-ratings/) - [Fabric Weight & GSM Guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric-weight-gsm-guide/) - [Textile Certifications Guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/textile-certifications/)