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Glossary · Underwear & Socks

Cushion & Terry-Loop Socks

Terry-loop (cushioning) socks knit small loops of yarn into the interior to create padding underfoot or throughout. The cushioning adds comfort, absorbs impact, and often extends sock life by adding material at wear points — which is why hard-wearing boot and athletic socks use it. The trade-off is bulk and warmth, so dress socks stay flat-knit and thin. Fiber matters too: merino cushion socks manage moisture and odor well, while synthetics add durability and stretch. On a spec, "full cushion" versus "flat knit" tells you whether a sock is built for comfort and toughness or for slim dress wear.

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