From one mill to a family of brands.

After 20 years in the industry, Marty Nester founds the business, producing unfinished cotton crew socks on first-generation, belt-driven machinery.

From an old grocery building in Dobson, NC, Nester discovers the advantages of wool and begins making high-performance socks for outdoor enthusiasts.

On its way to becoming a world leader in wool sock innovation, the factory continually adds machinery to craft any type of sock.

Nester's first seamless toe-closure machine — soon the majority of production.

Operations expand and streamline into a larger facility, the heart of the company's growth.

Purchase and refurbishment of the former Ballston Knitting facility — 250% larger and Nester's home to this day.

Kelly Nester sets out to create an all-American sock — US wool, US processing, US knitting, US packaging.

Made with 100% US ingredients by US workers, Farm to Feet® debuts at the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market.

Nester becomes the first sock manufacturer with a supply chain traceable enough to earn Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) certification — used on select products built to that specification.

Merit Capital Partners makes a significant investment in Nester Hosiery — partnering with the Nester family, who remain substantial owners, to accelerate the company's growth, innovation, and reach.

Nester becomes the official licensee for Ariat socks, slippers, and throws — bringing its manufacturing expertise to one of the most trusted names in western and outdoor footwear.

Nester acquires the assets of Fox River Mills — adding its heritage brands, Pistil and FoxSox, and the Pendleton license to the Nester family of brands.

Nester receives the novation of the U.S. Army Cold Weather Program contract, continuing its commitment to equipping American service members with the highest-performance hosiery made in the USA. See our tactical division →

With deep roots from wool growers to software developers, Nester produces the most innovative socks on the market — always with an eye on community, locally and globally.