It says in the Shulhan 'Aruch (Code of Jewish Law) that one who removes his shoes (touching them) and one who touches his feet must do Netilath Yadayim (the ritual washing of one's hands). The question is whether touching one's socks also requires one to do Netilath Yadayim.
The Kaf Hahayim mentions different opinions, implying that it is appropriate to be particular to do it, but that according to the strict Halacha (law) it is not necessary. The Kaf Hahayim states further, that they heard directly from Hacham Yoseph Hayim, 'a"h, himself (the Ben Ish Hai), that according to the strict interpretation of the law it is not necessary.
The Ohr LeSion says that if one touches the portion of the socks that is inside the shoe, where the feet perspire, one must do Netilath Yadayim, but the portions that are outside the shoe do not require it. In all the above-mentioned cases, the Netilah is done without a Beracha.
(Sh. 'A. 4: 18. Kaf Hahayim, ibid, Oth 72. Ohr LeSion 2:1, Oth 12)
