DeFeet Cyclismo socks

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.