Not the cheapest, but your feet will thank you
Contact: www.alwaysriding.co.uk
Solo merino socks
Solo promise that their Merino sock will 'help you say goodbye to sweaty, smelly feet' and they're spot on: these are amongst the most comfortable cycling socks I've ever worn. All this performance comes at a price, but if you suffer at all in the foot department then it's a price worth paying.
The Solos are constructed in the main from New Zealand Merino wool, with a bit of nylon and Lycra thrown in to help them keep their shape. They feature a very loose knit on the top panel to help keep the foot cool, with denser material on the footbed for longevity. The logo and coloured bands lend them a slightly retro air, and the quality of construction is excellent.
Also excellent is the performance. These really are among the best socks I've tried. Even wearing them for days at a time in a heatwave they were supremely comfortable, doing a great job at regulating foot temperature and wicking moisture. I tried riding in my Winter boots in 25° heat, but even then my feet didn't complain. They wash and retain their shape pretty well, and are much better at controlling foot whiffs than nylon socks.
So a big thumbs up all round then, with the possible exception of the price. Still, you get what you pays for here: quality socks that will probably outlast cheaper alternatives.
Verdict
Your wallet/bank manager won't thank you, but your feet will
road.cc test report
Make and model: Solo Merino Wool sock
Size tested: L
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? Yes
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes
About the tester
Age: 36
I usually ride: Schwinn Moab, urbanised with 700cs My best bike is: Trek 1.5 with upgrades
I've been riding for: 10-20 years I ride: Every day I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: time trialling, commuting, sportives, general fitness riding, fixed/singlespeed, mtb, Mountain Bike Bog Snorkelling, track
I have the Rapha merino and love them. And the Rapha actually work out cheaper if you buy them in a 3 pack for 30 quid - still not cheap but probably the best value item Rapha make.
I have a pair of the Rapha socks, which came "free" with my first subscription to Rouleur.
I noticed the other day that, after fairly infrequent use, they have worn very thin (to the extent I tore one pulling it on).
Will the Solos go the same way?
Also, does anyone out there do a "trainer" cut sock made from merino? I like to maximise what little opportunity there is for as much of a normal person suntan as possible....
I've got 5 pairs of Rapha merino socks, some are about 3 years old, used and washed lots, and all still in very good condition.
I too would like to find some trainer style merino socks, but not to attampt a more normal sun tan, that really is a lost cause. My tan now is truly ludicrous, but to be honest I love it; the badge of honour of the cyclist.
Complicating matters since 1965
Also, does anyone out there do a "trainer" cut sock made from merino? I like to maximise what little opportunity there is for as much of a normal person suntan as possible....
Smartwool do some, they are designed for running but work great for cycling. I've had a pair for three years that have been used for pretty much every run & ride I've done in that time. I've worn through the sole on them, but they are ace and I'd buy again. Got my from Cotswold Outdoors for about £11.
Carpe Diem ab absentis: seize the day off
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