Tactical Socks: Regulations, Expectations, & FAQs

If you’re looking for tactical socks to wear with your tactical boots or military uniform, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the best quality socks possible. When you know what dress code regulations military members have to follow and the main expectations you should have for your tactical socks, you can more easily select a pair of tactical socks you’ll love wearing. As you try to find the best tactical socks for your needs, review our guide to picking the right tactical socks.

What Is a Tactical Sock?

Sometimes called military socks, tactical socks are designed to be worn with combat boots. Since they’re meant to be worn with boots, tactical socks tend to come in crew or calf-length sizes. They also often have extra cushioning and moisture-wicking features while also offering exceptional temperature regulation. 

Are There Any Regulations for Tactical Socks?

If you’re serving in the military, you will have regulations for the types of socks you can wear. For example, while members of the Army are wearing the physical training uniform, socks have to cover the ankle bone, be in a white or black color, and can’t have any insignia or logos above the shoe line. 
When a member of the Army is wearing combat or organizationally issued boots, their socks should be stretch-type, calf-length with a cushioned sole, and tan, green, or black (page 143 of The Department of the Army’s Pamphlet 670–1 has additional information on tactical sock regulations). 
Keep in mind that other branches of the military may have different requirements, particularly when it comes to color. Before you purchase tactical socks, check your branch of the military’s rules for tactical socks. Of course, if you’re just wearing your tactical boots and socks for personal reasons, you don’t have to worry about your tactical socks complying with any regulations. 

What Expectations Should You Have for Tactical Socks?

While you look for a pair of tactical socks, you should expect the very best in moisture-wicking, blister-protection, temperature-regulation, and comfort. Below, you can find a breakdown of what to expect from a tactical sock:

• Lack of visible insignia or logos: When wearing tactical socks with a military uniform, the socks shouldn’t contain branding in any area that could be visible to others while wearing your boots. Make sure any logos or insignia are located below the shoe line before you purchase any tactical socks.
• Be in an appropriate length and color: If you’re wearing your tactical socks with your military uniform, check that the tactical socks you’re interested in buying are in a color that meets your uniform’s requirements. Alongside choosing the right color, make sure the socks are tall enough to cover your entire ankle. Those wearing tactical socks for non-military purposes can still benefit from taller socks, as they’ll put a protective layer between your lower leg and your boots.
• Moisture-wicking design: When you wear tactical socks out in the field or during training, your feet will sweat, potentially leaving your feet soggy and smelly by the end of the day. Since you don’t want to be distracted by soggy feet, you should expect your socks to be made out of moisture-wicking materials (e.g., Merino wool and polyester) and designed to move moisture away from your feet to keep them dry.
• Exceptional temperature regulation: Tactical socks are often worn in freezing or hot conditions, and you should expect your tactical socks to regulate the temperature in your boots. While looking for tactical socks, check that they offer breathability and are made with materials that excel at temperature regulation. For example, standard wool will trap heat during the summer, but Merino wool excels in hot and cool conditions, ensuring your feet are comfortable no matter the weather.
• Anti-blister design: The last thing you need while you’re out in the field is a painful blister. Instead of risking getting a blister, look for tactical socks in a double-layer design. These types of anti-blister socks prevent blisters by neutralizing the three main causes of blisters—heat, moisture, and friction. The inner layer of these socks will feature a hydrophobic yarn that wicks away moisture and cools your feet, while the outer layer absorbs friction before it can reach the skin.
  If a tactical sock doesn’t meet the above requirements, you’ll want to look elsewhere for your tactical socks. 
  

Can You Wear Regular Socks With Tactical Boots?

If you’re not in the military, you can wear regular socks with your tactical boots, but we wouldn’t recommend it. Standard socks (e.g., socks made out of cotton) often absorb moisture, trap heat, and struggle to regulate temperature. All of these issues can make the socks uncomfortable to wear and create an environment in your boots that leads to blisters.

Choose Wrightsock for Anti-Blister Tactical Socks

At Wrightsock, we’re proud to offer anti-blister tactical socks to members of the military and others who wear combat boots. With our double-layer tactical socks in your corner, you can expect complete blister protection as the socks neutralize heat, wick away moisture, and absorb friction. We’re so confident in our double-layer socks’ anti-blister qualities that we cover each of them with our blister-free guarantee. Our tactical socks also have the Wrightsock logo under the shoe line, come in colors matching uniform requirements, and are made in America. 

Review our full selection of anti-blister tactical socks today.