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Socks
Good socks are vital for runners all year round, and there's some wonderful brands out there. We're featuring Hilly, ToeToe and Wigwam socks here, but don't forget relatively new brands like teko on the market too, alongside stalwarts like 1000 Mile socks.
So what attributes do socks need for the winter? Wigwam's Andrew Baguley says it's all about comfort and performance. "Comfort and performance are the key factors for running socks in bad weather. If you're running in wet conditions, you need a sock that helps keep your feet dry by wicking moisture away from the foot and up, out of the sock. With a wet sock in a running shoe you can end up with pressure points and then blisters."
Of course, this means the material of the sock is one of its most important features and USPs. Andrew added: "The materials in the sock are very important. In Wigwam socks we use a combination of hydrophobic (moisture hating) materials in the foot of the sock and hydrophilic materials in the top of the sock, working together in our patented Pro design."
Hilly are renowned for their technical running socks, and rightly so - they're many a runner's favourite. Hilly's Graham Richards explained to SGB that there is a slight difference in the socks that are more popular in winter months, and it goes against what we've been saying about visibility in this feature. "Specific for winter, we find that more people are looking for socks in darker colours because they're running off-road and the weather's worse, the ground is muddier."
Graham added: "Certain features become more relevant in the winter. On one of our socks, for example - the off-road sock - we have a nylon welt in the upper part of the sock, so that if you're running through mud and water, basically the top of the sock won't absorb the water.
"Although people will generally run on-and off-road through the year, in winter, because some people are training for early spring races, padded socks are also popular for those doing longer runs."
Hilly
HILLY offer a comprehensive range of technical performance socks for the runner. In particular, two styles are ideal for winter running, namely: Mono Skin Off Road and Mono Skin Padded Training.
The Off Road sock has recently been improved and is made from Merino wool and nylon. Ideal for trail/multi- terrain running, this mid-weight sock is cushioned to provide shock absorption. The 100% nylon leg sheds water and does not flap- ideal when running in wet conditions.
The Padded Training sock is made from resilient Meraklon that wicks away moisture and provides maximum shock absorption to the foot of the sock which is ideal for those longer training runs. Air vents to the upper help to keep the feet cool and the extended cushioning provides full Achilles heel protection.
The socks retail at £6.50 and £8.50 respectively. For stockist details, or further information call HILLY on 0161 366 8207.
Wigwam
Wigwam are the principal sponsors of the Ironman World Championships in Kona and are highly regarded in the running world...
Pro-rated, patented moisture control system to reduce blisters. Hydrophobic materials in the foot bottom repel moisture and Hydrophilic materials in the instep and leg absorb moisture using a capillary action to transport moisture out of the shoe for faster evaporation.
F6026 • Ironman Flash Pro
Pro-rated and patented moisture control system keeps feet cool, dry and protected from blisters. A mesh instep enhances the breathability of the sock, while the foot hugging fit moves with the wearer providing support and balance inside the shoe. Virtually seamless toe closure, 83% Stretch Nylon, 16% X2O Acrylic, 1% Spandex SSP £11
F6023 • Ironman Tail Wind Pro
Formerly known as: Ultimax Tail Wind A breathable second skin that protects and allows you to connect with your shoes. Lightweight protection with maximum moisture control. Seamless toe closure. Soft, cushioned sole for added protection. 65% Stretch Nylon, 30% X2O Acrylic, 5% Spandex. SSP £11
www.wigwam.com or for more information email denali@btinternet.com
ToeToe
ToeToe socks fit, literally, like a glove - each toe has its own 'compartment', just like the fingers of a glove. Not everyone's cup of tea, but people that try them are rewarded with less blistering on and under the toes, a spot renowned for blistering on longer runs.
The company says that the design of the socks incorporates Enhanced Proprioception Technology by separating the toes, and also relieves 'inter-digital' pressure and abrasion - hence reducing the likelihood of blisters. Coolmax fabric is an added bonus, so the socks are also wicking. Retailing around the £7-£8 area, they're certainly affordable enough for a customer to take a punt on. Refreshingly different.
