Cycling Socks

Depending on the climate they are designed for, cycling socks are made of different types of synthetic and natural fibres. Merino wool is the most common natural fibre, and is used for winter cycling socks because of its thermo-regulating qualities.

Synthetic materials are strong, lightweight, stretchy and anti-bacterial. The most common are polypropylene, nylon, polyester and elastane (lycra). In many cases, they are blended, to benefit from the different properties of each material, depending on the type of sock required. Some designs consist of several thin layers, each made of different materials. A waterproofing layer is sometimes added to keep your feet dry in wet conditions.

The thickness of the sock you need will depend on how tight the fit of the shoe is on your foot, so this is another factor to consider, along with the type of use and climate. If you plan to use different thicknesses with the same cycling shoes, make sure you try them on with both thick and thin socks to ensure a comfortable fit. If the shoes are too tight, they may not allow adequate blood flow, which is essential to maintain a proper temperature in your feet.

V ery short cycling socks have long since been replaced by longer socks for competition, due to their improved aerodynamics. A few years ago, the UCI finally regulated the maximum height of socks for racing and serious road cyclists are no strangers to this trend of increasing sock length.

Brands offer up to four heights of cycling socks: short or low (approx. 14 cm), medium (approx. 18 cm), high (approx. 23 cm), and very high (up to approx. 30 cm). Nowadays, the most common, used socks by all types of cyclists, are the medium and high socks. MTB socks are usually shorter than road socks, especially among non-professional cyclists.

Cycling socks, like all other cycling products, continue to evolve every year. In addition to the continuous technical improvements, they featureoriginal and fun designs with prints and colours to suit the tastes of potential customers. Yellow, pink or blue socks, and other bright colours with afluorescent finish also make the cyclist more visible and the design can provide extra safety, even more so when it is moving, as in the of pedalling. As with other sport garments, design is always an important element and is taken very seriously by brands.

C ustomised cycling socks are also a significant part of the cycling outfit for teams and clubs. Many brands offer unique designs, such as Gobik, who custom design cycling socks with minimalist or bold designs, to match the cycling outfit. Sock designs used by professional teams are also often available for sale.

As you can see, there are many factors to consider when deciding on the best cycling clothing. At Mammoth you can always count on professional advice and in all our physical Mammoth shops you will find a wide range of cycling socks. The best socks can also be found here in our online shop. We stock many types of cycling socks at great prices in collections by Castelli, Assos, Gobik, Endura, Specialized, Etxeondo, Sportful, and many other brands.