Cycling socks

Polaris PDT socks come as a trio of sport specific socks; designed with plenty of cushioning and breathability in mind. Not specific to cycling but also for running, are they capable as a jack of all trades or would you be better off just getting some cycling socks?

You always know there is a bike event in town when you see loads of guys wandering around with knee high socks, shorts and maybe even sandals - it would be no surpirise if some of them were wearin Polaris's Ultra Tec Compression Socks. So, the question is are the possible benefits of wearing them worth risking arrest by the fashion police?

I'm a big fan of Keen shoes, and I love stuff made from Merino. I was expecting quite a lot from these Keen Springwater socks. They don't disappoint.

They are made from a clever mix of 50% merino wool and 50% synthetic stuff. In my experience, it's pretty important to get this mix right. Too much synthetic stuff and the smell-stopping merino can't work its magic. Too much wool and holes start appearing too quickly. So far, the evidence suggests Keen have got it right.

I do like a nice sock. There's nothing worse than spending a ride with seams chafing or a loose heel riding up. There's no danger of that with these Bike Race socks from Craft, Swedish masters of technical sportswear.

These oversocks – call them Belgian booties, if you like – are about as simple as they get, adding shoe protection and a little warmth on those days when a full overshoe would be excessive.

These are simple Coolmax socks for use in the spring, summer and autumn, and at £6.50 a pair – or four pairs for £20 – you won’t get too upset when they eventually wear out or won’t come clean anymore.

Muxu's ride socks are stylish, practical, comfortable and durable, and as such go a long way to justifying their hefty price tag. They're a bit too warm for the really hot days but great for general riding, with a cut and style that performs on the road and doesn't make you look like a freak off the bike.

Muxu ride socks