The Custom Sock Showdown: Jacquard, Embroidery, and Dye Sublimation Explained (and Why You Should Stay Away from Dye Sublimation)

At Crooked Monkey, we pride ourselves on being experts when it comes to custom socks. In fact, socks are one of our most requested products, and we’re incredibly proud of the results we deliver. Over the years, we’ve perfected the art of making socks that not only look great but also feel amazing.

When it comes to custom socks, there are a few options, and let’s be real—they’re not all created equal. So, if you’re on the hunt for socks that not only look amazing but also feel comfortable and last longer, it’s time to dive into the difference between Dye Sublimated, Jacquard, and Embroidery socks. Spoiler: Not all of them are worth your time (or your feet). Let’s break it down, so you know what you’re getting into.

Dye Sublimated Custom Socks: Not All They’re Cracked Up to Be

First off, let’s talk about dye sublimated socks. The concept sounds appealing: a quick turnaround, full-color designs, and low prices. Sounds great, right? Well, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows.

One of our larger clients came to us from a referral and asked if we did socks. She said she recently made socks with another vendor and hated them. We said – oh we make the best socks! They probably did dye sublimation which is gross… And she was like OMG! that’s exactly how I feel….

In fact, we hate dye sublimation, and we never use it. Here’s why:

Dye sublimation is a process where ink is printed onto fabric using heat. It works on white socks, so the color is applied after the fact. While it may seem like a quick and easy solution, it comes with major drawbacks. Most importantly, these socks are made of 100% polyester, which makes them the least comfortable things on the planet. Seriously, these socks feel stiff, scratchy, and downright unpleasant.

The worst part? When you stretch them, the white fabric shows through the design, and that’s just not something you want your brand associated with. You can tell a dye sublimated sock from a mile away because, when stretched, the design cracks and you see the white beneath. Not pretty. Not cool.

We don’t offer dye sublimated and if any of our competitors offer you dye sublimated you should question their ability to make any swag and run away from them!

Jacquard Custom Socks: The Real Deal

Now, let’s talk about Jacquard socks—the real game-changer. Unlike dye sublimated socks, Jacquard socks are woven directly into the fabric. This means that the color is part of the fabric itself, not just printed on top. The result? You get a more durable, high-quality sock that feels great to wear. No more stretching out to reveal white spots in your design!

Jacquard socks also offer more flexibility when it comes to material. They can be made from cotton blends, so you get a softer, more comfortable feel. We use a custom blend at Crooked Monkey, which gives you a soft, breathable sock that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re wearing them for a big event or just kicking back, Jacquard socks offer a top-notch feel and look.

Embroidery Custom Socks: A Timeless Classic

Embroidery is another great option for custom socks, especially if you want something that stands the test of time. Embroidered socks add a layer of texture and sophistication that other methods can’t quite match. Plus, embroidery can be done either domestically or overseas, depending on your needs.

At Crooked Monkey, we offer both domestic and overseas embroidery options. Domestic embroidery costs $20, and it’s available on both pairs of socks. Overseas embroidery is a more cost-effective choice at $7, but the quality is just as high.

Athletic vs. Dress Socks: What’s the Difference?

When choosing your custom socks, one key decision you’ll need to make is whether to go for athletic or dress socks. Athletic socks are designed with performance in mind, offering extra padding, support, and moisture-wicking capabilities. They’re ideal for those who are always on the move, whether they’re hitting the gym or enjoying an active lifestyle. These socks provide the ultimate comfort and durability for everyday wear or intense workouts. On the other hand, dress socks are more refined and typically thinner, crafted for formal occasions or office settings. They’re designed to complement your dress shoes and give you a polished, professional look without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re heading to an important business meeting or an evening event, dress socks ensure you stay stylish while feeling at ease.

No matter which style you choose, both athletic and dress socks can be made using Jacquard or embroidery methods, ensuring a premium quality finish. Both options guarantee durability and comfort, making them ideal corporate gift choices for clients or employees. Custom socks are a thoughtful and practical gift that adds a unique touch to your brand’s swag collection. Whether you go with athletic socks for a sporty vibe or dress socks for a sleek, professional look, your recipients will appreciate the high-quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design behind every pair.

Read about: Crew Socks vs. Ankle Socks in our blog.

Pricing and Turnaround Time

Now, let’s talk about one of the most important aspects: pricing and turnaround time.

Dye Sublimated Socks: These are the cheapest option, but we don’t offer them because of the comfort issues mentioned earlier.
Jacquard and Embroidered Socks: Pricing for Jacquard socks is based on the quality of the fabric and the design. Embroidered socks, especially those done domestically, are a bit pricier but well worth the investment for their quality and craftsmanship. Expect a 2-3 week turnaround time for all custom socks.

The Sock Showdown: Dye Sublimation vs. Jacquard vs. Embroidery

To make sure you get the best pair possible, it’s important to understand the differences between the main methods used to create custom socks: dye sublimation, Jacquard, and embroidery. Here’s a breakdown of the three, so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for your brand.

Feature	Dye Sublimated	Jacquard	Embroidery
Materials	100% polyester (uncomfortable)	Fabric-dyed (cotton/nylon blend)	Can be a blend (cotton, polyester)
Quality	Low quality, uncomfortable	High quality, soft feel	Premium feel, embroidered design
Design	Full-color, but may show white when stretched	Intricate designs woven into fabric	Raised stitch designs
Comfort	Very uncomfortable (100% polyester)	Very comfortable (cotton blend)	Comfortable, but less stretchy
Best For	Quick turnaround, budget-friendly	Long-lasting, high-quality custom design	Corporate gifts with premium touch
Ideal Gift	Quick, cheap swag	Stylish, high-end gift	Premium branded corporate gift

Why Choose Crooked Monkey?

Best in class: When it comes to custom socks, there’s no competition. While most of our competitors might offer dye sublimated socks because they’re cheap and quick, we don’t settle for less. We pride ourselves on offering only the best—Jacquard and Embroidered socks that not only look amazing but also feel incredible to wear.

Design: At Crooked Monkey, we pride ourselves on having the best designers. Our team is dedicated to bringing your vision to life with creativity, precision, and flair. To make your experience even better, we offer up to 4 hours of complimentary design time, ensuring that your custom merchandise is not only high-quality but also perfectly tailored to your brand’s needs.

Looking for design inspiration? Check out our Inspiration Guidelines to help you create the perfect custom socks for your brand. Whether you’re looking for bold, eye-catching designs or something more subtle, we’ve got you covered.

Extra Touches: At Crooked Monkey, we don’t just stop at great socks. We go above and beyond by adding extra touches that elevate your branding. For example, we include paper cardboard inserts for free, making your branded socks look even more polished when they arrive. It’s these little details that make a big difference.