Put a DeFeet Aireator next to a "regular" sock and try to tell me there isn't a difference. I buy cycling socks because my annual cycling budget isn't blown out by shelling out 10 bucks for a pair of socks. The Shimano S-Phyre socks are also very much specifically cycling socks.

I have a drawer full-- probably 20 pairs in different heights, thicknesses, and brands. Absolutely zero cotton. Everyone is totally free to wear whatever socks they like. But don't tell me I'm wasting money on mine.