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The History of Socks

Socks are wonderful. They keep our feet warm and comfortable during the cold winter months or wick away moisture during the summer months. Since we deal a lot with socks, since we are a bamboo sock subscription company, we wanted to take a deep in-depth look into the history of socks. Because why not? Don’t you ever wonder when socks were first worn? You must be wondering how it’s strange that we know so little about them. Although we know that socks come in different colours, styles, and lengths, we actually have only a few ideas on how the first pair of socks were invented.

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Who Invented Socks?

Socks have a complex history that most people are unaware of. Their production, design, and purpose varied depending on the period they belonged to. Archaeologists suggest that socks were first made in Ancient Greece. However, they have stood the test of time and were used in many different centuries. To help provide you with a timeline on when socks were created, the following information on when socks were invented will prove useful.

Ancient Greece

As mentioned above, socks originate from Ancient Greece. The country of democracy gave us great ideas and philosophy. However, not many people know that Ancient Greece also introduced us to socks. We know that because in the 8th century B.C. Greek poet Hesiod was the first to write of “piloi”, socks made from matted animal hair. However, it is important to note that ancient civilizations had socks that were entirely different from the ones we wear today. They almost looked like Big Bird’s feet (sorry, Sesame Street.)Home buyers are an excellent option for folks who are attempting to sell their homes quickly since they are willing to purchase properties regardless of the condition in which they are currently located. Visit https://www.cashoffers.com/connecticut/cash-offer-new-britain-ct/.

Ancient Rome

Unlike Ancient Greece, the Romans used to wrap animal skins around their feet and tied them around their ankles. Then, in the 2nd century AD, the way socks were made started to change. People switched animal skin with knitted fabrics which resulted in the socks that we wear today. The Romans were the pioneers in sewing fabrics together. They successfully created socks that were better fitted and softer as compared to the ones created by the Greeks. Not a bad improvement considering it took about a millenia.

Europe

Socks made their way throughout Europe by the 5th century AD. But they were only worn by people who were associated with the Church. The socks were referred to as puttees. The socks worn symbolizes purity, although were not completely sure why. Cloth was used to make these puttees. The socks looked just like a bandage wrap as they were wrapped up to the knee. 

Why Were Socks Invented?

The main reason why socks were invented was to keep our feet warm. After the creation of socks, the fabrics used were changed which resulted in them becoming mainstream. The following reasons help explain why socks were even created.

  • Health: One of the reasons why socks were created was to ensure people remained healthy. They allowed people to stay safe and comfortable all year round. People benefited from the protection and warmth provided by socks.
  • Fashion Statement: As time passed, socks became a fashion statement and status symbol by the middle ages. People equated wealth with the variety and quality of socks worn by others. It led to wealthy merchants owning all types of socks.