Defeet's Cyclismo High Vis socks are a very comfortable mid-calf length option with cushioning under the balls of your feet.
The Cyclismo socks are made from a synthetic mix (nylon, Thermo Cool, Lycra and elastic) in various different weaves. Although these are high vis, they're not a heavy winter weight. Most of the foot is an airy mesh while the heel and toe sections are a little more substantial. There is a seam across the top of the toes but it sits on the outside and you can't feel it even in tight fitting shoes.
The only thick section is the cushioning you get under the ball of your foot – the area where your cleats attach to your shoes if you use clipless pedals. Defeet call this a Meta-Pad – 'meta' as in 'metatarsal' – and they reckon that it reduces vibration. Maybe it does, maybe it doesn't, it's certainly not enough for me to discern, but there's a lot of pressure on that area when you pedal so a little extra cushioning can't hurt.
The upper section – which Defeet call the AeroSpeed Cuff – extends 5in (13cm) above your ankle. It's not as much of an open mesh as the foot section, but it still allows plenty of air in. If you object to mid-calf length socks on aesthetic grounds – or moral or religious grounds for that matter – there's an ankle-length version too (£10.99).
The Cyclismo socks wick moisture away from your feet really well – they're very impressive on that score – and they dry super-fast. They also keep your feet feeling pretty cool when you're pushing the pace, and they're reasonably hard wearing.
If this high vis yellow isn't for you, the Cyclismos are available in white/black and black/white too. A wool version (£11.99) is available in various colours as well.
Verdict
Comfortable, mid-calf length sock with extra cushioning under the ball of your foot.
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road.cc test report
Make and model: DeFeet Cyclismo socks
Size tested: Large, Hi-viz
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
Defeet say, "With similar attention to detail of a hand-crafted bicycle frame, the Cyclismo again elevates the modern cycling sock. The new Cyclismo® was first used at Italy's Giro d'Italia. In the fastest stage ridden in the history of the Giro, the Cyclismo® crossed the line first. Fittingly, cyclists who earn their livings by racing were the first to complement the seamless feel, beautiful lines and intricate patterns of the Cyclismo®.
AeroSpeed Cuff: All-new mesh pattern is tough, light, provides perfect fit and breathes well.
Thermo°Cool Duoregulation: Provides superior evaporation and comfort in wider range of temperatures.
Aireator Mesh: The weave that lets feet breathe freely.
Moisture wicking: Pulls moisture away from skin for a dry-feel and comfort that lasts the whole ride.
Meta-Pad: Reduces vibration for a smoother ride.
No feel toe seam: Ultra-clean seam is undetectable on toes and built to last.
Compression fit: Consistent pressure around sock supports foot and feels incredible.
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Rate the product for performance:
7/10
Rate the product for durability:
7/10
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
8/10
Rate the product for value:
7/10
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.
Would you consider buying the product? Possibly.
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes.
Age: 42 Height: 190cm Weight: 75kg
I usually ride: My best bike is:
I've been riding for: Over 20 years I ride: Most days I would class myself as: Expert
I regularly do the following types of riding: commuting, club rides, sportives, general fitness riding,
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Great to read about someone who knows their own mind. Well done Stu!