Cycling socks

A pair of socks is a pair of socks is a pair of socks, right? What’s the difference between a pair that you wear everyday to a pair of cycling socks made for cycling? Can they improve your performance in such a way that they make you faster? Probably not but they can do a few things. Let’s take a look.

Cycling socks have a number of different features which can improve your ride.

Cushioned at the heel and the toe

You will notice the the heel and toe areas of the sock have extra thick padding providing more comfort in these areas. The extra thickness helps prevent rubbing and blisters in the areas which are in contact with the cycling shoe. The top of the shoe is in contact with the shoe but has less pressure on it than the base.

Cycling socks open weave for ventilation

The top of a cycling sock is a thinner, open weave to circulate more air round. Normal cotton socks retain moisture and make your feet hot sweaty and kind of gross. This extra ventilation helps them stay less gross – and that’s science.

Gripping ride

The top of the sock grips the lower leg in a comfortable position. Too much grip and it can feel uncomfortable; too little grip and it can fall down – which can be super irritating. The middle of a cycling socks’ foot is narrower to ensure the sock doesn’t move around on your ride.

Thin at the sides

Finally, you are about to get off your bike and unclick your cycling shoes off the pedals. You need a snug fitting shoe with thin socks to get the leverage to unclick. Imagine wearing a pair of thick cotton socks in your shoes. The extra twist needed is marginal but can make the difference between getting unbuckled and laying flat on your side on the road side – not a good look for a Mamil.

So..

All these things might not directly add to your lap times but they may make you feel more comfortable. Which in turn may keep your mind on the road instead of thinking about that nasty blister developing. It will keep you more comfortable than with a conventional sock which will help with, staying on the road for longer with more comfort. Something that Team Sky refer to as Marginal gains.
 

Cycling socks from Bikes&.co

We at Bikes&.co created our own pair of cycling socks. Available on Amazon.co.uk.
  • StayDry top weave to allow air circulation and wicks moisture away from the skin
  • 85% Nylon moisture wicking top weave to keep your feet comfortable and dry
  • 5% Lycra with graduated compression profile to keep your socks in place while cycling
  • 10% Elasto to stretch with your movement for a long term fit.
Cycling socks from Bikes&.co. Perfect for cycling or spinning – allowing you to stay dry and comfortable throughout your training. Lightweight webbing on the top of foot for increased air flow and breathability.
 
 
 
 

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