We love good socks. All kinds, but my go-to for the day varies based on both the shoes I’m wearing and whether I’m running clip-in or platform pedals. When clipping in, my preference is towards middle to or even heavy weight socks, as they provide a bit more cushioning and long term comfort throughout a day of riding. Midweight socks also are more durable and last longer. So when the folks at Feetures socks reached out asking if I wanted to check them out, I couldn’t say no, electing to try the Elite-light Cushion Crew and Graduated Compression socks.
Features
The Elite-light Cushion Crew sock is woven from 96% Nylon and 4% spandex. Feetures socks are designed with what they describe as ‘Sock-Lock Technology’ that provides targeted compression where it’s needed most.
The Targeted Compression adds comfort and support and as they’re also marketed to the hiking market, aids in eliminating blisters. They feature an anatomical design for left-right specific fit which keeps loose blister causing material at bay.
Sock details include:
- Patented Sock-Lock Technology to provide targeted compression where it’s needed most.
- Anatomical design enhances fit, delivering maximum comfort and protection by eliminating blisters.
- High density cushioning provides extra protection in high impact areas.
- iWick fibers for moisture wicking
- Perfect Toe design prevents irritating toe seam.
On the Bike
If you wear white cotton socks, it’s time to wake up! Nothing says “I’m a newb” like white cotton socks. The only more egregious faux-pas would be to pair some with spandex shorts and a white cotton crew. That just ain’t right.
While I tend to with all dark colors when sock shopping, I’m loving the pop of color on the Elite Light Cushion Mini Crew in the Cascade Black.
Cotton socks? Hell, no. Moving on…
Whether its trail building or long days on your feet at trade shows, a good pair of socks can add a lot of value.. assuming you don’t like having sore and tired feet at the end of the day.
My feet are rather finicky. I’ve experienced with foot numbness here and there over the years, and after trying a number of shoes of various models and brands I’ve found the pairing of shoes and socks actually makes a notable difference, especially during that post-ride couch session at the end of the day. So when I find a new pair of socks I’m fond of, I tend to wear them all the time. The Feetures, besides being on-brand with the sweet color (they also match one of my favorite pairs of Leatt gloves, so that’s a major bonus) do everything I want out of a pair of socks, while never being noticed on the bike. Because if you’re thinking about your socks while pinning it down the trail, something ain’t right.
Some of my favorite cycling socks are wool blends for their anti-odor properties. Wool by itself doesn’t hold up over time, so I find myself often running synthetics. The downside is they often stink at the end of the day. That said, I just came away from a weekend of riding at Mountain Bike Oregon, and while I’m hestitant to admit it, I wore the Elite Lights on more than one riding day. Whatever they’re treating them with is working, as I didn’t hear a complaint regarding smell… which to be honest was actually a bit surprising.
The downside? $18 for a pair of socks is not a small amount, especially since you’ll want to nab more than one pair. I prefer to buy my socks 2 or 3 at a time, as I always seem to end up misplacing at least one, only to turn up a few weeks later. (my review on the compression socks is pending, as soon as I locate the other)
The Elite Light Cushion Mini Crews in Cascade Black lists for $17.99. Check it out at Feetures.com
… and the Graduated Compression Light Cushions in Black.
