2023-08-28 14:28:41
In the field of sports, technical clothing is not designed haphazardly.
Thus, if professional cyclists all wear beautiful high socksit’s not a question of style, but of performance.
Indeed, a long aero model would save up to 6 watts of power.
Enough to make the difference on the finish line, provided you compete at a high level.
For the majority of cycling enthusiasts, however, these models allow you to gain in comfort.
Zoom on the advantages of aerodynamic socks before focusing on the best models on the market.
Short socks or long socks: the science to decide!
The fervent defenders of short socks put forward above all aesthetic arguments.
If you tend to take your bike out as soon as the sun comes up, low socks (only partially) avoid the famous “cycling tan” and its demarcation at mid-calf.
A chocolate/vanilla effect which, let’s face it, leaves little doubt regarding your devouring passion for cycling.
Since the 2000s, high socks have nevertheless made a comeback, with an argument this time more performative than aesthetic.
The latter would thus offer a real aerodynamic gain. This will settle the debate once and for all.
Unanimous tests on the aerodynamic gain of long socks
Eager to verify the veracity of the aerodynamic statement, professionals in the sector have therefore embarked on tests.
Among them, the equipment supplier Castelli submitted his model Fast Feet to a test in real conditions on cyclists launched at 50 km/h.
Result: increased power of approximately 2 watts.
The Compressport brand has also passed its Aero Sock model on the Loup.
The wind tunnel study concluded that a potential gain of approximately one minute on an Ironman event (i.e. 180 km of cycling).
Finally, the former professional cyclist Jasper Ockeloen created his own brand, Sockeloen, following an in-depth study of the subject.
According to the conclusions published by the Dutchman, his aero socks would thus make it possible to gain up to 6.9 W of power at a speed of 54 km/h, headwind.
Results to put into perspective
It goes without saying: aero socks have no impact on the performance of amateur athletes.
To enjoy a significant gain, you will have to drive at more than 40 km/hover long distances, in relatively flat terrain and with a stable wind.
Not considering your posture on the bike must also be perfect (and therefore have undergone posturology tests).
The gain in power thus concerns only a very small part of high-level cyclists. However, the benefits of these products do not stop at performance.
Aerodynamic socks: efficient and comfortable
The performance gain: not necessarily what should motivate your purchase!
Putting on long socks won’t turn you into Jonas Vingegaard.
However, they may well make your outings more enjoyable thanks to a design designed for the comfort of the lower limbs.
An aerodynamic sock is made in such a way that it provides a excellent calf supportwithout exerting pressure.
So she stays perfectly in place and at the same time allows the blood to circulate properly.
Just slip your foot into a special bike sock to understand the difference with a standard model!
The design of an aerodynamic sock
At the calf level, an aerodynamic sock generally consists of an airy lycra upper so as not to restrict the flow of air.
This design also allows for a light and breathable product, ideal for pedaling in the summer.
For the part in the shoe, the manufacturing is often more classic.
A reinforcement at the heel also prevents the fabric from slipping on the foot.
Our tips for extending the life of your aero socks
Aerodynamic socks are not cheap!
About ten euros for entry-level models up to around fifty euros for the most advanced equipmentbetter take care of it.
Be careful when threading
In order to prolong their lifespan, be careful when putting on your socks.
Indeed, lycra is a fine and airy fabric. It can therefore easily tear if put on hastily or because of a badly cut nail.
Cleaning Tips
wash your socks at low temperature et without adding softener in your laundry.
Afterwards, Avoid going through the dryer.
This advice applies to aero socks, but also for all technical clothing.
In this way, you preserve the properties of the material used in the manufacture of the equipment (ventilated, cold-resistant, water-repellent, etc.).
Professional cyclists: pay attention to the height of your aero socks!
Since 2018, in competition, the aero sock has been the subject of a regulation issued by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).
Thus, only models whose height does not exceed half the length measured between the lateral malleolus and half of the head of the cyclist’s fibula are authorized.
The objective: to provide manufacturers with a framework in order to standardize professional equipment as much as possible.
If it may seem anecdotal, some runners have already been subjected to checks before starting a race.
Buying guide: the best aero socks
Finally, here are some socks selected from the best aerodynamic products of the moment.
900 Aero socks – Van Rysel: excellent value for money
Editor’s Choice
Very thin material allowing better management of perspiration Support band at the ankle, arch of the foot and tibia Colour: steel white Size: 35/38, 39/42, 43/46 Price: €18 Distributor: Decathlon
Available at Decathlon for €18, this sock offers excellent value for money since it is found at the feet of the professional runners of the Cofidis team.
On the design side, three adherent bands distributed at the level of the arch of the foot, the ankle and the tibia guarantee excellent support throughout the outing.
The very fine and aero fabric of the upper part meets the performance requirements of a top-of-the-range product, with the added bonus of a pleasant second-skin effect.
Hydrogen Aero – Specialized: comfort above all
Colors: white, black, green, red, orange Size: S, M, L, XL Price: €20 Distributor: Specialized
With its Hydrogen Aero model, the equipment manufacturer Specialized offers a very good product made from aerodynamic bands in ribbed knit at the ankle, more comfortable than a technical fabric.
The Mesh technology at the tip of the foot, the plantar support and the perfect ventilation make it an excellent pair of socks for pedaling for hours.
FSTOP 468 – Sockeloen: the top of the range aero sock
Colour: white and gold Size: 36/42, 43/48 Price: €44.95 Distributor: Sockeloen
We talked regarding it at the beginning of this article, the Sockeloen brand, created by former cyclist Jasper Ockeloen, is the must in terms of aerodynamic socks.
Thanks to its revolutionary high-performance Q-Skin fabric, this model saves up to 6 watts more than a standard product. Recommended for high-level athletes looking for performance.
Updated by Manon on: 08/28/2023
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