Complete Guide to Sock Lengths
Socks are an essential garment that not only provide comfort and protection for your feet but also add style and versatility. Choosing the right length is key depending on the activity, season, or outfit. Below you’ll find a detailed explanation of each sock height, along with a multilingual reference table — perfect for consumers, textile professionals, or international retailers.
No‑Show / Pinkies
Description: Hidden inside the shoe, covering toes and heel without showing.
English: No‑Show Socks / Invisible Socks
Portuguese: Meias Invisíveis / Sapatilhas
Use: Ideal for low‑cut shoes or a “no socks” look.
Ankle Socks
Description: Cover just above the ankle bone. Also available in light or moderate compression versions for sports such as running or trail.
English: Ankle Socks / Low‑Cut Socks
Portuguese: Meias de Cano Curto / Meias Curtas
Use: Very popular for sports and casual wear.
Quarter Socks
Description: Above the ankle, below mid‑calf.
English: Quarter Socks (Crew optional)
Portuguese: Meias de Cano Baixo
Use: Extra protection for sports or daily wear.
Mid‑Calf Socks
Description: Reach halfway up the calf.
English: Mid‑Calf Socks
Portuguese: Meias de Cano Médio
Use: Versatile for any footwear and season.
Three‑Quarter Length
Description: Above mid‑calf, below the knee.
English: ¾ Length Socks / Long (Three‑Quarter)
Portuguese: Meias Longas Três Quartos
Use: School, formal, and sports socks.
Knee‑High Socks
Description: Cover the calf and reach the knee.
English: Knee‑High Socks
Portuguese: Meias até ao Joelho / Meias até o Joelho
Use: High boots, winter wear, or uniforms.
Over‑the‑Knee Socks
Description: Cover and extend past the knee.
English: Over‑the‑Knee Socks
Portuguese: Meias Acima do Joelho
Use: Fashion, sports, and cold weather.
Multilingual Table
| Spanish |
English |
Portuguese |
Description |
| Invisibles / Pinkies |
No‑Show Socks / Invisible Socks |
Meias Invisíveis / Sapatilhas |
Hidden inside shoe, do not show |
| Tobilleros |
Ankle Socks / Low‑Cut Socks |
Meias de Cano Curto / Meias Curtas |
Above the ankle — also available in light or moderate compression for sports |
| Cortos (Quarter) |
Quarter Socks (Crew optional) |
Meias de Cano Baixo |
Above ankle, below mid‑calf |
| Media Caña |
Mid‑Calf Socks |
Meias de Cano Médio |
Halfway up the calf |
| Largos (Tres Cuartos) |
¾ Length Socks / Long (Three‑Quarter) |
Meias Longas Três Quartos |
Below the knee |
| Hasta la Rodilla |
Knee‑High Socks |
Meias até ao Joelho / Meias até o Joelho |
Up to the knee |
| Encima de la rodilla |
Over‑the‑Knee Socks |
Meias Acima do Joelho |
Past the knee |
Tips for Choosing Length
- Sports: No‑shows, ankle socks (also in light/moderate compression), quarter, and mid‑calf offer lightness and support.
- Formal wear: Long or knee‑high socks for a polished look and full leg coverage.
- Climate: Taller socks = more warmth in cold weather; no‑shows or ankle socks in summer.
- Style: Vary lengths and designs to match your outfit.
Knowing the different sock types and their names in various languages helps communication with suppliers, customers, and improves the buying experience.