No matter how sporty you may be, we consider it a universal truth that nobody truly enjoys exercising in sub-zero temperatures.
The harsh reality of most winter exercise expeditions is that the weather is often frosty, cloudy and bitingly cold. While this won't stop the sporting experts from getting outside, the correct kit is crucial.
This is not always the easiest to secure. It requires diligent research into the best materials and most reliable brands, while ensuring the option is – of course – à la mode.
When it comes to purchasing the right gear, there’s frankly no sport more challenging than cycling. The task becomes even more arduous during the winter, as enthusiasts of the sport must find a streamlined, breathable kit that’ll keep them warm and dry during long and difficult cycles. Perhaps the most essential element of ensuring a warm and comfortable ride – and one that is often forgotten – is socks.
We chatted to Hannah Greenshield, Product Developer for performance cycling apparel brand, Le Col, for some tips on what to consider when purchasing a pair of cycling socks for the winter.
How are cycling socks sized?
“Most commonly, cycling socks use a sizing system to accommodate a larger range of sizes rather than specific shoe sizes,” says Greenshield. “The stretch yarn used delivers a high level of elasticity and recovery - stretching between 3 or 4 shoe sizes comfortably without compromising on performance or durability.”
What materials should one look for when purchasing a pair of winter-ready cycling socks?
When it comes to breathable, insulating materials, there’s no better option on the market than Merino wool – it’s just about how high of a percentage of the golden fleece the product incorporates.
Ensuring high percentages of merino wool in performance-ready products can be difficult because it’s equally important that the material is reinforced with durable and flexible materials such as nylon and elastane. Merino offers spectacular insulation combined with breathability, sweat-wicking ability and a natural capacity for odour resistance.
Greenshields adds, “In winter it’s important to look for a sock that can handle the intensity of riding in cold conditions. Our winter-specific Tech Wool Socks use a Merino and polyamide blend for a high warmth-to-weight ratio while maintaining high breathability. The magic in Merino is that it keeps you warm even when wet.”
What are the benefits of wearing cycling socks?
Like with any sport, wearing kit designed by professionals on a mission to optimise performance is going to be the smart choice. Specialised cycling socks have been crafted with comfort and practicality in mind. “Everything is considered for performance on the bike by offering breathability, freshness, hygiene, and comfort,” the Product Developer at Le Col says. “We use a specific polyamide yarn with silver ions that helps to regulate moisture management and eliminate bacterial build-up.”
What's the difference between cycling socks and normal socks?
When it comes to cycling professionally and taking part in tours and triathlons, many competitions will have rules when it comes to cycling attire no matter the season – socks are included in this. Most events will require cyclists not to wear socks which come up higher than the middle of your lower leg. Plus, “As well as using performance fabrics, the fit is compressive with strategically placed cushioning to increase comfort and support in weight-bearing areas when riding. The cuff is also designed to stay in place throughout your ride,” Greenshield says.
Without further ado, keep scrolling for a round-up of the best cycling socks to wear during the winter months.
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Best winter cycling socks at a glance:
- Best for overall: Le Col Tech Wool Cycling Socks - £20, Le Col
- Best for waterproofness: Stanfield Waterproof Extreme Cold Weather Mid Length Sock - £48, Millets
- Best for thermal insulation with a lightweight feel: Falke BC Warm Unisex Biking Socks - £26, Falke
- Best for triathlete-approved: Danish Endurance Merino Wool Cycling Socks - £29.95, Amazon
- Best for value-for-money: Endura BaaBaa Merino Cycling Socks - 2-Pack - £20.89, Tredz
- Best for temperature regulation: MAAP Alt Road Duo Sock - £25, Article
- Best for funky colourways: Universal Colours Spectrum Tie-Dye Merino Socks Bundle - £60, Sigma Sports
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Le Col Tech Wool Cycling Socks
Best for: overall
Founded by British cyclist Yanto Barker, the highest-placed British contender in the 2005 Tour of Britain. According to Barker himself, the tech wool socks offer a blend of synthetic fibres for “a sock that performs to modern standards but provides classic looks and feel." Fabricated from a durable, thick yet entirely breathable Merino blend with a comfortable terry sole, these socks have been reinforced by nylon and acrylic materials to ensure they truly go the distance.
Buy now £20.00, Le Col
Stanfield Waterproof Extreme Cold Weather Mid Length Sock
Best for: waterproofness
Sleek and stylish, the mid-length Stanfield socks from Sealskinz feature an impressive, fully waterproof membrane with a moisture-wicking, antibacterial and temperature-regulating Merino wool lining to help your feet stay fresh and dry when the mercury drops below zero.
Buy now £48.00, Millets
Falke BC Warm Unisex Biking Socks
Best for: thermal insulation with a lightweight feel
Designed to provide ample, warming padding where necessary while leaving the midfoot and heel area non-padded for direct shoe contact, the extra-warm winter cycling socks by Falke offer an optimal fit. The specific left and right toe boxes also help these Merino wool socks to stay wrinkle-free and wonderfully comfortable no matter the weather.
Buy now £26.00, Falke
Danish Endurance Merino Wool Cycling Socks
Best for: triathlete-approved
Endurance-tested by Ironman Triathletes, these winter warmers are durable in both name and nature. Woven from a flexible, strong and insulating blend of Merino wool, prolen, polyamide and elastane, Danish Endurance socks feature cushioned padding in the toe, heel and arch compression to reduce foot fatigue and improve shock absorption.
Buy now £29.95, Amazon
Endura BaaBaa Merino Cycling Socks – Two Pack
Best for: value-for-money
Featuring a slightly shorter length than most winter-ready cycling socks, these Merino stockings will nevertheless keep you warm and sweat-free during your winter rides. With a whopping 74 per cent wool construction, this two-pack of socks is also an incredible value-for-money option.
Buy now £20.89, Tredz
MAAP Alt Road Duo Sock
Best for: temperature regulation
Realised in an attractive contemporary design, it’s hard to comprehend that these cycling socks from MAAP aren’t high-end, fashionista-approved hosiery. Featuring a premium, 80 per cent Merino wool blend, high piling resistance, compression arch support and engineered jacquard knit for a snug yet breathable fit, they have a hard-wearing design to see you through cold-weather cycles.
Buy now £25.00, Article
Universal Colours Spectrum Tie-Dye Merino Socks Bundle
Best for: funky colourways
Rather than constantly washing your favourite pair of winter cycling socks because you decided against shopping for a bundle deal, go for this three-pack of bright and beautiful Merino socks from Universal Colours.
Buy now £60.00, Sigma Sports
