Mans Feet Wearing RoToTo Socks

RoToTo Socks Guide: Styles, Materials and Sizing

RoToTo socks originate from Koryo Town in Nara Prefecture, Japan — a region known for its sock-making heritage. Produced using vintage knitting machines and high-quality yarns, RoToTo focuses on comfort, durability and thoughtful design over fast fashion. This guide outlines the key styles in the range, how they fit, and which options are best suited to different types of wear.

Where RoToTo socks are made

All production takes place in and around Koryo Town, where spinning, dyeing and knitting are handled locally. RoToTo uses old analogue machines operated at slower speeds, enabling greater control over tension and loop density. The result is a dense yet comfortable knit that holds its shape after repeated use and washing.

An overview of RoToTo styles

Each RoToTo style is designed for a particular purpose rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach. Some of the best-known ranges include:

  • Double Face socks – A two-layer construction combining merino wool on the outside with organic cotton against the skin. Ideal for colder conditions and suitable for wearing with boots or more substantial footwear.
  • Washi Pile and other breathable knits – Made with Japanese paper yarns and lighter structures to help regulate heat and moisture in warmer weather.
  • Organic Daily and Coarse Ribbed – Everyday crew styles that work well with trainers, loafers or casual boots. Many feature vintage-style ribbing and sports-inspired details.
  • Room Socks and lounge styles – Thick, pile-lined socks for indoor wear, with some models including grip soles for extra stability on hard floors.

Choosing the right socks for the job

  • Walking and hiking: Double Face and other wool-rich crews offer underfoot cushioning and a close fit, making them ideal inside walking boots.
  • Office and commuting: Organic Daily, City Socks and Coarse Ribbed designs pair neatly with jeans, chinos or tailoring, offering comfort without bulk.
  • At home: Room Socks, Loose Pile and Comfy Room styles provide warmth and softness, with relaxed cuffs and optional grip soles for wearing in place of slippers.
  • Gifts: Three-pack athletic crews and eye-catching patterns such as checkerboard or tie-dye offer simple sizing and a more considered alternative to everyday socks.

Materials and construction

RoToTo selects yarns based on the function of each sock. Common materials include:

  • Merino wool – Insulating, breathable and naturally odour-resistant.
  • Organic cotton – Soft, comfortable and easy to care for.
  • Washi yarn – Lightweight, breathable and quick-drying, ideal for warmer conditions.
  • Hemp and recycled fibres – Durable, low-impact materials used in selected styles to reduce waste and support longevity.

Features such as reinforced heels and toes, shaped footbeds and deeper cuffs are found across many styles, helping the socks stay securely in place throughout the day.

Sizing and fit

Most RoToTo socks are available in standard UK sizes: Small (UK 4–6), Medium (UK 6–8) and Large (UK 8–11). Some lounge and women's styles are available in one size. As a rule of thumb, go for the size closest to your usual footwear. Choose the smaller size if you prefer a snug fit for walking, or size up for added comfort in thicker lounge socks.

Caring for your RoToTo socks

To keep RoToTo socks in good condition, turn them inside out before washing. Use a gentle 30°C cycle with mild detergent and avoid bleach or fabric softener. Line drying is recommended — high heat from a tumble dryer can damage elastic and shorten the lifespan of wool and technical yarns.

Shop RoToTo at The Sporting Lodge

This guide is intended to help you choose socks suited to your lifestyle. When you're ready to buy, explore the full range to find current colours and sizes.

Shop RoToTo socks at The Sporting Lodge — including Double Face, Washi Pile, Organic Daily, Room Socks and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should RoToTo socks fit?

RoToTo socks are designed to follow standard UK shoe sizes, with most styles offered in Small (UK 4–6), Medium (UK 6–8) and Large (UK 8–11). They should feel snug around the mid-foot and heel without tightness at the cuff. If you are between sizes, choose the smaller size for a closer fit in boots or the larger size for more relaxed lounge wear.

What is the difference between RoToTo Double Face and Room Socks?

Double Face socks use a dual-layer construction with merino wool on the outside and organic cotton on the inside, giving warmth and cushioning that works well with boots and shoes. Room Socks are thicker, softer styles intended mainly for indoor use, often with pile linings and, in some cases, grippy soles so they can be worn instead of slippers.

Which RoToTo styles work best in winter?

In colder weather, RoToTo Double Face socks, chunky pile boot socks and wool-rich Room Socks provide extra insulation and cushioning. Their denser knit and merino content help keep feet warm whilst still allowing moisture to move away from the skin.

Which RoToTo socks are better in warmer conditions?

For milder days, lighter crews such as Washi Pile, hemp-blend styles and Organic Daily socks are a good choice. They use breathable structures and yarns like washi paper, cotton and hemp to manage heat and moisture during everyday wear.

How should I wash RoToTo socks?

Wash RoToTo socks inside out on a gentle cycle at around 30 °C using mild detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softener, which can damage fibres and elastic. Line-dry rather than using high tumble-dryer heat to help maintain shape, cushioning and colour over time.

Are RoToTo socks unisex?

Many RoToTo socks are effectively unisex, with sizing based on UK shoe sizes rather than gender. Some ranges are labelled as women’s and feature specific colour palettes or one-size fits, but in most cases you can choose your usual UK size regardless of whether the sock is described as men’s or women’s.

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