Previously I tried making a pair of spiral socks, where the spiral rib fits the heel without having to make a gusset or turn a heel when knitting. This kind of sock also is independent of foot length, making it a great choice when shoe size is unknown, or you are dealing with growing feet. It worked, so I started a second pair. About half way through the second pair, we discovered that the first pair didn’t stay up very well. The spiral fit the heel, no matter how the socks were put on, but tended to slide down the foot. I have to admit that I lost interest in the project for a while. Eventually I came back to it and decided to just finish off the sock in stockinette stitch and do an even decrease to make a round toe.

I wove in the ends and had my youngest try them on.

The socks look strange, but fit well. I feel they will have the same issue sliding down the foot without some modification. For the next pair, I plan to make the ankle a standard rib, use the spiral rib for the heel, a rib across the arch, and a stockinette toe with round finish. The goal is to have a sock that can be put on easily without having to align a heel, but still stays in place.