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Did you know they make socks for mules?

Nothing crushes the excitement of a new pair of stylish flats like the wrong pair of socks. If you step out in the new kicks barefoot, you're a shoe-in for sweaty feet, or, even worse, blisters. But none of your sock drawer staples will work, either, because they’re all way too bulky and thick or come up too high. That’s where lightweight and snug no-show socks can come to the rescue.

The invisible garments often get a bad rep for not staying in place (which we admit, is almost worse than the aforementioned bulky sock situation), but rest assured that the non-slip, no-show style has come a long way in recent years, and there are pairs that not only fit securely, but offer added perks like ventilation, cushioning, and grip-y fabric along the edges. All you have to do is find them—and you’re in luck, because we did the leg work for you.

We consulted the Good Housekeeping Institute who tests countless products to ensure a fair and accurate representation of each item, and we combed through dozens of online reviews to curate the top-ranked, best-selling no-show socks the web has to offer.

Now, let’s get into the socks that will make shoe shopping stress-free. Whether you’re on the hunt for mules, heels (yes, heels), or your next go-to yoga sneaker, there’s a soft place for your feet to fall below.

There’s a reason the Good Housekeeping Institute dubbed these Bombas socks the best of the best: these no-show socks provide comfy cushioning while fitting great in shoes. They are a little thicker than regular socks, which means they stay put better on your heel. They are versatile and can be worn with a variety of shoes from running sneakers to heeled booties. We love that for every pair purchased, they donate a pair to a homeless shelter.

Made of 97% nylon and 3% lycra spandex, these universally soft, stretchy socks will pair well with almost any shoe, including shallow flats. Stock your sock drawer with one order which comes with six pairs.

“My feet sweat horribly, and I can’t wear loafers or any type of shoe without socks, so these are perfect, as they allow me to wear shoes without a sock line AND they aren't hot at all,” one reviewer raves.

With over 45,000 Amazon reviews (yes, you read that right), these socks maintain a 4.6-star rating. For a little over $10 you can grab four pairs in four neutral colors that match everything, and you won’t have to worry about them sliding down thanks to their silicone heel grips. A blend of cotton and spandex makes them stretchy and breathable.

“I have never, never had no show socks that stayed in place all day. That means working a 14 hour shift at a hospital and still not having your socks go anywhere,” one reviewer writes. “They’re comfortable and they’re affordable and I will purchase these for as long as the company continues to make them.”

Not just a silicone pad, but three silicone strips line the heel of these socks for ultimate slip-free protection. Not only that, the arch is lined with high-elastic threads for the closest fit possible. Available in sizes for both men and women, one order has the whole family covered.

“They work with boat shoes, tennis shoes, booties, loafers. They are super comfortable, my feet don't sweat in them, they don't slide off inside my shoe. They are AWESOME!” one reviewer raves.

In even the shallowest of flats, these low-profile slip-ons won’t be seen. They’re made of nylon, spandex, and cotton, and feature breathable mesh that promotes airflow around the feet. Reviewers with bigger feet say they’re surprisingly comfortable and stretchy, and they stay in place thanks to grips on both the heel and the top of the foot.

“This is the best liner I’ve ever worn. I recommend them to everyone wearing a low cut shoe. I put the liners in mesh laundry bags, washed in cool water, and hung them to dry. They kept their shape and work really well!” a reviewer writes.

It’s true, socks for mules actually exist. Some might have a hard time calling these little covers actual stockings, but they serve the same purpose other socks do in slip-on, backless shoes like mules. Bonus: Silicone grippers on the bottom keep the shoe from sliding off. Every purchase comes with five pair.

“For those of you who have a close-toe shoe policy at work and live in mules like I do, don’t think twice about buying these!” one reviewer writes. “They are comfortable, breathable- yet still absorb moisture & keep your shoes fresh.”

If you’re simply looking for a solid set of comfortable, reasonably thick no-show socks for everyday gym shoes, this fuss-free pick can’t be beat. You get six pair and they come in a neutral shade that matches everything (not that it matters, because you won’t be able to see them).

“These socks are affordable and they absolutely stay put! I'm cleaning out my sock drawer and getting rid of all my other frustrating no-shows and replacing them with these,” an Amazon shopper writes.

A no-show sock you won’t mind lounging in, these seamless slip-ons from Allbirds are made of super soft eucalyptus tree fiber and ZQ Merino wool which helps them wick away moisture. If your feet lean toward the smelly side, this is a good pick.

“Best no show sock I have found!! Love them,” one happy customer writes.

This brand is known for its ultra-comfortable and size-inclusive workout leggings. But their no-show socks are just as good. Compression mesh and rib stitching promote circulation and reduce swelling, ribbing at the arch provides support, and best of all, they’re super eco-friendly; made from 90% recycled plastic bottles (RPET) and 10% spandex.

“I live in the crew sock style, but this was the first time I ordered no-shows, and I am SO impressed! They don’t do the annoying thing where they slowly sink down into the bottom of your shoes, they’re actually thick and warm, and the colors are just gorgeous!” one shopper raves.

Because the goal is to not see these socks, there aren’t many fun patterned ones out there. But these will at least add a bit more color to your sock drawer. Made of 97% polyester and 3% spandex, they’re stretchy and warm, yet breathable and supportive.

“I always struggle with ‘No Show’ socks because I wear a size 5 shoe and they always end up looking like ankle socks. Not these! They fit even the smallest of feet perfectly. Couldn’t be happier!” a happy reviewer raves.

Silicone heel grip: Check descriptions to ensure the inside of the heel has a silicone gripper that will keep the sock in place. The bigger, the better. Bonus if the top inside of the sock has one, too.

Material: Some no-show socks are thin liners, whereas other warmer ones feature merino wool. Make sure to grab the material that serves you.

Consider the shoe: Not all no-shows are created equal. Some are shallower than others, which means some will work with your super low-profile flats and others won’t.