When you have large feet, choosing socks by an XL or XXL label alone can be unreliable. Measuring your actual foot length gives you a clearer starting point and helps confirm whether Samson XL or XXL is the better fit.
What you need
- A sheet of paper large enough for your foot
- A wall with a flat floor beside it
- A pencil or pen
- A ruler or tape measure
- The socks you normally wear, if you are measuring for shoes as well
How to measure your foot length
- Place the paper against a wall. Make sure the edge of the paper and your heel can sit flush against the wall.
- Stand with your heel against the wall. Put your full weight on the foot so it rests naturally.
- Mark the longest toe. This is not always the big toe, so mark whichever toe extends farthest.
- Measure from the wall to the mark. Record the distance in inches or centimeters.
- Measure the other foot. Feet can differ slightly in length. Use the larger measurement when choosing your size.
For the visual version of these steps, visit the Samson Find Your Fit guide.
Samson foot-length guide
| US men’s shoe size | Approximate foot length | Samson size |
|---|---|---|
| 13 | 11.7 in / 29.7 cm | XL |
| 14 | 12.0 in / 30.5 cm | XL |
| 15 | 12.4 in / 31.4 cm | XL |
| 16 | 12.5 in / 31.8 cm | XXL |
| 17 | 12.8 in / 32.6 cm | XXL |
| 18 | 13.2 in / 33.5 cm | XXL |
The same numbers, with XL vs XXL guidance, are on our full sock size chart.
Samson XL measurements
Samson XL is designed for US men’s shoe sizes 13–15, corresponding to an approximate foot-length range of 11.7–12.4 inches (29.7–31.4 cm).
If your foot and shoe size fall in this range, shop the Samson XL sock collection or read how to choose socks for sizes 13–15.
Samson XXL measurements
Samson XXL is designed for US men’s shoe sizes 16–18, corresponding to an approximate foot-length range of 12.5–13.2 inches (31.8–33.5 cm).
If your foot and shoe size fall in this range, shop the Samson XXL sock collection or compare styles in best socks for sizes 16–18.
Should you measure both feet?
Yes. One foot can be slightly longer or wider than the other. Measure both feet while standing, then use the larger measurement. This reduces the chance of choosing a sock that feels comfortable on one foot but restrictive on the other.
Should you measure in the morning or evening?
Feet can feel different after standing or walking throughout the day. For a realistic everyday measurement, measure later in the day and stand naturally with your weight on the foot.
What if your shoe size and measurement disagree?
Shoe sizing can vary between footwear brands. Treat your normal shoe size and measured foot length as two pieces of information rather than relying on either one blindly. Compare both with the Samson chart and use the larger foot measurement. Sock brands vary too: see XL and XXL sock sizes by brand.
You can also review our complete men’s sock size chart for shoe sizes 13–18.
How should a correctly sized sock fit?
- The sock’s heel should sit around your heel, not underneath it.
- The toe area should cover your toes without excessive pulling.
- The cuff should feel secure without being overly restrictive.
- The fabric should not become unusually thin from stretching.
If those problems persist, read why regular XL socks may still feel too small.
Choose your Samson sock style
Once you know your size, choose athletic socks, dress socks, or hiking socks. Each style is available in Samson XL for sizes 13–15 and XXL for sizes 16–18.