So, do they, do repair work?

Assuming that they meant to say that they support your life with socks (as opposed to the life of your socks), it's impressive that they got the punctuation correct. Half the native English speakers I know would have put "sock's" (which is wrong for both senses, unless only one sock is supported).

I wonder if they carry socks that would fit me. As it is now, I have to go to Grand Back (Kawabata/Gojo) for everything. I went to Sports Depot in Shiga the other day looking for shoes appropriate for working out in the gym, but despite the advertisement that they carry large sizes, the largest shoe they could find in the store was a 28, which left me 2cm lacking )-:

I don't see where the distinction is. My socks ARE my life.

It's interesting how we use singular for "shoe" (payless SHOE source, FOOT locker, SHOE pavilion), but plural for "sock". However, it is the shoe, not the sock which needs its partner. Socks are allowed to mingle.

I have seen stores selling socks back in the states.

Obviously, this thread has hit an important and meaningful vein :-)

FWIW, http://www.sockcompany.com/
has treated me well in the past. They carry large sizes, too.

I see now that they specifically do ship to Japan (and even offer prices in a variety of currencies, including yen), but you have to shop at thier subsidary(?):

http://www.amazingsocksint.com/web/r/10/l/2/c/11/main.asp

I hadn't looked at this place since moving back to Japan -- they look to carry a lot of things besides socks, so I'll have to bookmark them.

I'm sorry for the multiple posts, Nils, but just had to mention that they carry gohonyubi socks in US size 14+! Gohonyubi socks (socks with "fingers") are getting popular/faddish in Japan these days, so now those with larger feet can partake, too:

http://www.amazingsocksint.com/web/c/11/pid/RUN+QTR/item.asp

you can also try the "so that's it" store off of Shirakawa.

My socks are my life. I can't stand when they get worn out! One little hole and they're gone!

Hey, Jeff -- I don't know if you've considered this, but Land's End has shoes to fit, a liberal return policy, okay prices, and $20 shipping to Japan for the first $100 of your order. I'm also a size 30, and will probably have to use them for shoes when the time comes.