OUR STORY For more than a century, NZ Sock Co has been a part of Ashburton’s history. What began in 1901 as Phaups Hosiery has grown into the New Zealand Sock Co you know today, shaped by three generations of passion, grit, and Kiwi ingenuity.

NZ Sock Co’s modern history began in 1980, when Cip Sparrow and son Euan took on the factory with a vision to blend traditional craft with modern innovation. Fast forward to today, and Euan still leads the business as CEO, joined by his daughter Gabrielle, our International Sales Manager, and his son Paul, our Operations Manager. Together, they carry the legacy forward, honouring our heritage and looking into the future. 

We’ve come a long way from those early knitting machines. Our purpose-built Ashburton factory hums with 54 machines running around the clock, producing socks trusted by adventurers, athletes, and everyday Kiwis alike. Yet some things haven’t changed—and never will. Every pair is still checked by hand, because quality isn’t just part of the process; it’s who we are. 

From a small hosiery workshop to one of the world’s leading innovators in sock technology, our story is proof that when you mix craftsmanship with commitment, great things last.

Our company foundations

Our belief

Great socks matter. They connect you to to world beneath your feet.

Our purpose

To keep you on your feet for longer. With socks that perform, so you can too.

Our vision

Become the global benchmark for performance socks. Designed to handle whatever life throws at you.

Our promise

Feet first technology™ Pioneering innovation from the feet up.

Our values

Tight knit

We respect and care for our team.

Stay in step

Consumer-centric, building products that solve consumer problems.

Stretch yourself

Always improving, never settling.

Thread lightly

Always considering the impact on people and planet.

Our Technology

Custom Manufacturing