Welcome to my world!!! I have that problem all the time.I have big legs,and always have had them,and it seems like today they make the socks tighter and tighter.Like you i also tried mens.They were too tight as well.I've got an overflowing drawer full of socks that i need to g thru and get rid of because of this problem.

The only ones i found that i can wear with no problem are the guys white tube socks.I don't always like to wear white,as i usually try to match my socks to my pants.
Good luck.
Kathi

Thanks Kathi, I may give the tube socks a shot and try them.
Hoping someone else may have a solution.

Try diabetic socks.

You might try putting them in the dryer on high for awhile - this is supposed to destroy elastic......

I don't have a dryer, so I've resorted to making small(between threads) cuts in the elastic.

Thanks ladies for your suggestions. I think I'll try the diabetic socks. Will look for a store that stocks merchandise for diabetics and also some of the chain drug stores.

If you don't find anything locally, do an online search for diabetic socks.
I've never had much luck getting elastic to relax with heat, even steam heat from a hot iron. I think the newer stuff is made to resist heat from washing and drying.

Thanks again to you all. Googled diabetic socks and got a lot of information but WOW theses speciality socks are pricey! But it may be worth the price for the comfort! Will see if I can get them locally too.

Would the white tube socks take a fabric dye? Either Rit or one of the other types?