FLR Elite 3.5 Short Lightweight socks

The FLR Elite 3.5in Short Lightweight Socks are just that – ideal socks for the warmer months as they are comfortable and breathable, and against much of the opposition they are a very good price.

• Pros: Cheap, soft against the skin
• Cons: Cuff is a little tight at first

Like almost everything in life, sock length in road cycling is dictated by fashion and with the current trend being for most of your calf to be covered, the FLR Elites are surprisingly short (you can get 5.5in ones for a couple of quid more). But for me – having short legs – that is absolutely fine.

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They are made from a mix of 70% nylon and 30% elastane, which gives a secure and snug fit, especially around the cuff. At first I found after four or five hours the cuff could start to dig into my skin a little, but after a couple of weeks of riding and washing that did seem to ease.

There is one seam that travels across the top of your toes but it is minimal and I never felt it rub or even to be noticeable when worn. The socks, because of that snug fit, don't move around at all so there is less chance of irritation.

On the top of the feet the material is thinner to create a mesh that seems to coincide with the vents on most shoes, so when wearing them in the summer you should get a pleasant cool breeze across your feet to help keep them sweat-free.

I know this because apart from a few warm days in the upper teens, the test period has taken place with the temperature not even nudging double digits and my feet have been chuffing cold.

For such a thin material it has proved impressively durable, with no wear or bobbling around the heel and no damage from toenails.

They are available in three sizes, covering European sizes 35 through to 47, and in white as well as black.

Price-wise, at £4.99 the FLRs look an absolute steal considering most of the socks we get sent in for testing are double, if not treble that.

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Lusso is renowned for its quality versus value pricing structure but the FLRs are half the price of its £9.99 SoftAir socks, though they are a bit taller so there is a little more material involved.

When it comes to breathability the FLRs are very similar to the dhb Aeron Lab socks, but while those are very good they are three times the price.

Overall, the FLRs are very good cycling socks made from a comfortable fabric, with a lightweight breathable design, at a great price.

Verdict

Simple lightweight socks for the warmer months at a bargain price