Best yarn for socks

[AugustRose]

I want to try knitting or crocheting some socks but would like to know your choices of yarn for comfort and keeping shape, please. They will be a solid colour or perhaps a self-striping/rainbow to start with. Thanks

[ZippyNeedsFeeding]

King Cole Zig Zag is not bad and comes with a free sock pattern. It comes in a range of self patterning and plain shades.

[brodchengretchen]

Koigu, Fibrespates and Lorna's Laces do some lovely sock yarns. IMO knitting is the way to go for everyday socks, crochet produces a thick solid fabric which may be more suitable for bedsocks, in which case I would suggest Annie's Attic crochet patterns and their suggested yarns, which will probably be softer.

Look at the designers Cat Bordhi and Ann Budd for some lovely patterns, and all Evelyn Clark's designs are to die for. See Ravelry for completed projects.

Keeping shape depends on choice of yarn, go for 75/80% wool, 20/25% polyamide for maximum suitability. Good even tension with maintenance across the needle 'jogs' will see you right.

[ZippyNeedsFeeding]

Opal are good too. I'm not too sure about the comfort because I'm allergic to wool and only knit socks in the summer when I have to take allergy medication anyway, but my husband loves his socks from Opal yarn and prefers then to any of his others.

[AugustRose]

Thank you, I'll look into all of these. I'll be starting with some basic patterns and building up as it's been years since I knitted anything more complicated.

[Marcipex]

Opal is the best imo, Regia next best.