Basic Socks – Strong Heel is a classic top-down sock pattern featuring my Centered German Strong Heel—a smooth heel construction developed as a variation of the traditional German Strong Heel.

Instead of a heel flap and gusset, the heel is shaped with increases and short rows, then returns to the original stitch count with a clean transition back to knitting in the round. The result is a comfortable, well-fitting heel with a polished look and straightforward construction.

The pattern includes:

• 4 sizes (EU 36–43 / US Women’s 5.5–11)
• top-down construction
• 3×1 ribbed leg
• Centered German Strong Heel
• classic wedge toe
• detailed, row-by-row instructions
• stitch counts and tables for every size
• photo illustrations for key steps

This pattern is suitable for knitters who are comfortable with knitting in the round and would like to try a modern heel construction without working a heel flap or gusset.

Materials

• Fingering-weight sock yarn (approximately 420 m / 460 yds per 100 g)
• 2.5 mm (US 1½) double-pointed needles
• Stitch markers
• Tapestry needle

Gauge

30 stitches × 42 rounds = 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4”) in stockinette stitch after washing and blocking.

Happy knitting!