BOOTS, TRAILS, & TALES
The summer season is rolling right along, and here at the station, we’ve been keeping busy making sure your feet are ready for whatever lies down the line. Whether you’re heading out on the trail, stepping into a pair of well-worn cowboy boots, or simply looking for a better pair of socks for the journey ahead, this edition has something worth stopping for.
Inside, you’ll find our guide to the best socks for cowboy boots and a look at our top picks for hiking, along with a few bits of sock trivia, summer happenings, and a farewell to one of our summer crew members as they head back to college. So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and read all about it. The train is leaving the station!
FEATURED SOCKS
NEXT STOP: COWBOY COUNTRY
If you’re fixin’ for a hard day’s work, the right pair of socks can ensure at least your feet stay comfy. While stylish, cowboy boots are very utilitarian by design, and the wrong socks can exasperate potential problems. That’s why the Railroad Sock designed the “Ranch, Range, and Trail” Over-the-Calf Boot Socks. These thick cotton workhorses are loaded with modern features, such as full terry cushioning of the foot and up over the calf. Plus, the flat toe prevents bunching that could cause friction blisters. But the most important addition are the 3 support bands (one in the arch, one above the ankle, and one above the calf), that lock these socks in place without binding or cutting off circulation. So, whether you’re kneeling, riding, or scooting across the (line) dancefloor, these socks will hold strong and keep your feet happy.
Giddy up and grab a pair today!
MONTHLY TIP
TICKET TO THE TRAILS
The Best Socks for Hiking and More
It’s late summer and that means outdoor activities will soon be a lot more bearable. In this transitional weather period, we highly recommend Merino Wool socks due to their natural thermoregulation. That means whether it’s 89º or 55º, your feet will feel “just right”. We’ve got great options for both Men & Women. Like our Hike • Bike • Run Outdoor Socks. Available in either No-Show or Quarter fits. These lightweight wool socks look and feel great with their cushioning, arch support band, and breathable mesh top. For a little more lower leg protection, we also offer Outdoor Merino Wool in Micro Crews for Women & Crews for Men. Both feature soft terry cushioning, arch support, and stay-up welt tops to prevent slipping. For nature lovers, you can’t go wrong with one of these excellent Merino Wool options.
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
GUALALA SPORT & TACKLE
Nestled along California's breathtaking Highway 1, Gualala Sport & Tackle has been a favorite destination for locals and travelers alike for nearly 40 years. This welcoming family-owned, sporting goods and general store is where you'll find everything from fishing tackle and camping essentials to unique gifts, apparel, and, of course, your favorite Railroad Socks. We're proud to partner with Gualala Sport & Tackle, who share our commitment to quality products and exceptional customer service. Their support of American-made products and independent manufacturers like Railroad Sock means the world to us. If your travels take you to California's beautiful Mendocino Coast, be sure to stop by, say hello to the team, and browse their incredible selection.
RAVING FANS
CHOO-CHOO CREW REVIEWS
"I like the comfort and the thickness. They are very good!"
- Richard C. (Men's Ranch, Range, & Trail Over-the-Calf Boot Socks)
"These socks are amazing. The menthol is so refreshing...it's like a gentle spa treatment for my feet every time I put them on. Highly recommend!"
- Tina J. (Menthol-Infused Pain Relief Socks)
Do you love our socks?
Your reviews help us grow the Choo-Choo Crew! Add one to your favorite socks on our website!
SOCK TRIVIA
WILLIAM LEE
Stocking Knitting Frame
The more you know: One of the most important figures in sock history, William Lee (c.1563-1614) invented the stocking frame knitting machine. Before his invention, every sock was painstakingly knitted by hand. At 26, Lee developed a machine that used rows of hooked needles to create knitted loops. It could produce stockings much faster and with remarkable consistency. The basic loop-forming principle he devised is still recognizable in modern knitting technology more than 400 years later. For a company like Railroad Sock, William Lee isn't just a historical figure—he's the pioneer whose innovation made modern sock manufacturing possible. Every pair of socks produced on today's knitting machines can trace its technological heritage back to the stocking frame he invented in 1589.
MEET THE CABOOSE CREW
ALLISON BEECH
Summer Crew
This summer, we were excited to welcome Allison "AJ" Beech (Amanda's daughter) to the Railroad Sock Caboose Crew! Allison joined us in the banding room, where she worked alongside Harold, learning the ropes before his well-earned retirement. We tried our best to convince her that sock banding was just as exciting as college chemistry... we're still waiting for her final verdict.
AJ is a junior at Lindenwood University, where she is double majoring in Chemistry and Criminal Justice with the goal of becoming a forensic pathologist. Her dedication, curiosity, and strong work ethic made her a wonderful addition to our team this summer. If anyone can solve a mystery, it's the future Dr. Beech!
When she's not working or studying, you'll find Allison cheering from the sidelines with the Lindenwood Lionettes dance team or curled up on the couch with her dog, creating one of her favorite diamond dot crafts.
Fifty-six days of working together simply wasn't enough time to accomplish everything we hoped but move-in day is just around the corner. We know she'll be back on school campus with plenty of clean socks and a few stories from the banding room to share.
HOW ABOUT A JOKE?
Why don't socks ever tell secrets?
Because they know word gets around on foot.
Railroad Sock – We Make a Great Pair!
Thank You for your continued support of our small business as we celebrate our 125th Anniversary. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help finding the perfect pair!
Find Your New Favorite Socks
