Cycling Socks

Cycling socks, also called road cycling socks, are specifically made for use in cycling shoes. They are cut more tightly than ordinary socks so that no folds occur that cause blisters, they are made of quick-drying, moisture-wicking materials that keep your feet dry during exertion and they are reinforced on the places that wear most in cycling shoes. A small addition to your cycling outfit that noticeably contributes to comfort on longer rides.

Cycling socks come in different heights — from short ankle models to the high socks that have become the norm in professional road cycling — and in summer and winter variants. Most models are unisex or available in men's and women's cuts. The most important selection criteria are the desired sock height, the season in which you ride and whether you prefer synthetic or merino material.

Which cycling socks suit you?

The right choice depends on when you cycle, the look you want and what comfort is your priority. The following scenarios help you quickly find the right direction.

You cycle in summer and want to keep your feet cool and dry on longer rides: Choose a thin summer cycling sock of quick-drying synthetic material. Lightweight socks with ventilation zones or mesh inserts on the top of the foot ensure maximum airflow. They are designed to wick sweat away quickly so that your feet stay dry in the cycling shoe even during intensive exertion and warm weather.

You cycle in spring or autumn at lower temperatures and want to keep your feet warm: Choose a thicker winter cycling sock of warmer material. Winter socks are made of thermal synthetic fibres or merino wool, both of which retain warmth without becoming too heavy or thick. They fill the extra room in your cycling shoe that you do not need in summer but is pleasant in winter for warmth.

You want to follow the trend of high cycling socks and the look of professional cyclists: High cycling socks reach to just below the calf, generally 15 to 19 cm high. They are both functional and a clear style statement. In the professional peloton, high socks have become the standard in recent years. They are available in neutral colours but also in striking prints and patterns that combine well with your cycling jersey and cycling shorts.

You ride time trials or triathlon and want to keep your socks aerodynamic too: Aero cycling socks are made of a smooth, close-fitting material that reduces air resistance around the ankle and lower leg. The advantage in watts is modest but real at higher speeds. They are a small but no-regret choice if you also pay attention to your equipment in time trials or triathlons.

What to look for when purchasing?

Sock height

Cycling socks come in three common heights. Short socks (0 to 9 cm) come to just above the shoe and are the lightest and most ventilated option — ideal for warm weather and athletes who want little extra material on the ankle. High socks (9 to 19 cm) reach to just below the calf and are the most popular choice in road cycling at the moment. They give more coverage, more style options and a slightly warmer ankle in changeable weather. Medium socks fall in between and are the classic "norm" of a few years ago.

Material

Most cycling socks are made of synthetic materials such as polyester or nylon with a small elastane addition for stretch. Synthetic is lightweight, dries quickly and is easy to wash. Merino cycling socks are made of merino wool, which is naturally temperature-regulating, antibacterial and less odorous than synthetic. Merino wool is slightly slower drying but more pleasant in temperature changes and is preferred by many cyclists for the transitional season.

Fit and size

Use your shoe size as a starting point. Cycling socks must fit snugly without constricting: a good sock has no excess material that forms folds in the cycling shoe. Consult the brand's size chart, as sizing can vary slightly per manufacturer. When buying winter socks, keep in mind that a thicker sock sometimes needs half a size extra to fit comfortably in your cycling shoe.

Summer or winter

Summer socks are thin, light and provided with ventilation. Winter socks are thicker and warmer, sometimes with a thermal layer or water-repellent properties. For the transitional season, merino-mix socks of medium height and thickness are the most versatile choice. Choose your socks matched to the season, just as you do with your cycling jersey and cycling shorts.

Our advice: Buy at least three pairs of cycling socks — not for luxury but for practical reasons. Washing and drying socks takes time, and after an intensive summer training you do not want to put a wet sock in your cycling shoe the next morning. Two or three pairs in rotation always keep you supplied with a fresh sock.

Short or high cycling socks?

A few years ago short ankle socks were the norm in road cycling. Nowadays high socks that reach to just below the calf are the dominant choice in the peloton — and that trend has spread to recreational cyclists and triathletes.

Functionally the difference is small: high socks give slightly more protection to the ankle in wind or cold and offer more room for prints and colour combinations. Short socks are lighter and maximally ventilated in warm weather. The choice is ultimately both functional and a matter of style preference. If you want to follow cycling fashion, go high. If you prefer minimal material in warm weather, go short.

Who are cycling socks suitable for?

• Road cyclists who do longer rides and want to stay blister-free and dry through the better fit and moisture wicking of a specific cycling sock.
• Triathletes who also pay attention to the small details and want to complete their outfit with the right socks for the cycling section.
• Mountain bikers who want a sturdy sock that fits well in the shoe with off-road riding over rough terrain.
• Cyclists who also ride outdoors in winter or the transitional season and want to keep their feet warm with the right thermal sock.

Need help with your choice?

Would you like to buy cycling socks but are not sure which model suits your needs best? Then we are happy to help. You can reach our specialists by phone on +31 (0)413-256800, send an email or visit our triathlon store in Volkel, the Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions about cycling socks

What is the difference between ordinary socks and cycling socks?

Cycling socks are cut more tightly than ordinary socks so that there is no excess material that forms folds in the cycling shoe — a common cause of blister formation on longer rides. They are made of quick-drying, moisture-wicking materials that wick sweat away quickly. They are also reinforced on the wear-sensitive spots in cycling shoes. Ordinary socks work in a cycling shoe, but give a higher chance of blisters and sweaty feet on longer rides.

Why have high cycling socks become so popular?

High cycling socks have become the standard in professional road cycling in recent years, partly because rules on sock length at the UCI have been tightened and high socks are the maximum permitted variant within those rules. In recreational cycling culture that look has been adopted as part of cycling fashion. Functionally, high socks give slightly more protection to the ankle and more options for colour and print combinations with your cycling clothing.

Are cycling socks unisex or are there separate men's and women's models?

Most cycling socks are unisex or available in unisex sizing. Because the anatomical differences between men and women in the foot are small, the same sock suffices in most cases. Some manufacturers offer women-specific models with a narrower cut at the instep or heel, but that is the exception rather than the rule. In that case choose based on shoe circumference and the brand's size chart.

What are the advantages of merino cycling socks?

Merino wool regulates temperature naturally — it keeps warm in cold but does not feel overheated in warmth. It is antibacterial, which means merino cycling socks smell less quickly than synthetic variants. Merino wool is also more pleasant on the skin for cyclists with sensitive skin. The disadvantage is that merino cycling socks dry slightly more slowly than synthetic models. They are most suitable for the transitional season and longer rides where temperature variation plays a role.