Last Updated on 19 September 2023 by Cycloscope
Discover the 5 best cycling socks for summer. Breathable materials, moisture-wicking technology, and comfort-enhancing features to keep your feet cool and comfortable on the hottest rides.
Summer cycling socks are a cyclist’s gear critical component, often overlooked but essential for a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.
Typically crafted from advanced synthetic materials like nylon, polyester, and elastane, they provide a combination of moisture-wicking capabilities, breathability, and durability. Their moisture-wicking properties help keep the feet dry, reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort during long rides.
To combat the heat of summer, these socks often feature strategically placed mesh panels. These panels enhance airflow around the foot, allowing heat to escape and fresh air to circulate. This ventilation helps regulate temperature and prevents excessive sweating, which can lead to discomfort and chafing.
Many summer cycling socks come with compression features. These socks offer a snug, supportive fit that aids in blood circulation and reduces muscle fatigue. Proper compression can enhance performance and endurance during extended rides.
Some high-end summer cycling socks incorporate UV protection technology to shield the feet from harmful sun exposure. This feature is especially valuable for cyclists who spend extended hours under the sun.
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How we compile our gear guides: during the almost 10 years of cycloscope.net our team personally tested dozens of similar pieces of gear. For what we can't test personally, we involve other people in the cycling community to give their feedback and opinion about gear they have used. Our decade-long experience in bicycle touring enables us to find the key cons and pros of every product we mention.
5 Best Cycling Socks for Summer in a Nutshell
- 5 Best Cycling Socks for Summer
- DEFEET Aireator Share The Road Socks – Best recycled summer cycling socks.
- SuMade 100% Waterproof Socks – Best waterproof summer socks for biking.
- GripGrab Summer Cycling Socks – Best lightweight summer cycling socks.
- Assos Monogram Summer Cycling Socks – Best for moisture-wicking construction.
- POC LURE MTB Summer Socks – Best for technical rides.
The 5 Best Summer Cycling Socks
1. DEFEET Aireator Share The Road Socks
Best Recycled Summer Cycling Socks
SPECS
- Material: 60% Nylon/39% Recycled Polyester/1% Lycra.
- Machine Wash: Yes.
- Waterproof: No.
- Activity: cross-country, cyclocross, road cycling.
- Cuff Length: 6 in or 3 in.
Dafeet is another leading brand in the bicycle footwear world, with dozens of different cycling socks on their listing, some of which are very colorful and funny.
The model displayed here has been chosen for its great visibility and for the important message they convey. Hopefully, some drivers will have a spark of wisdom and avoid passing you at scary distances after reading this… at least we hope.
Like all Dafeet cycling socks, the Arieator wears well and are comfortable, provided with a 6-inch cuff, a mesh at top of the foot and toe box for high breathability even in the hottest summers.
Manufactured in North Carolina with an eco-friendly recycled polyester (39%), mixed with 60% nylon and 1% lycra, those are durable socks that perform very well in warm and hot weather.
Have a look at the whole Dafeet catalogue
2. SuMade 100% Waterproof Socks
Best waterproof summer socks for biking
SPECS
- Material: Outshell: 61% nylon, 32% polyester, 7% elastane; Interlayer: 100% PU waterproof and breathable membrane; lining: 66% coolmax, 30% polyester, 4% elastane
- Machine Wash: Yes.
- Waterproof: Yes. Cuff is not waterproof.
- Activity: Dirt Roads Cycling, MTB, Bikepacking.
- Cuff Length: Knee High or Ankle High.
Another favorite pair of waterproof cycling socks, suitable for summer bike rides, are the SuMade 100% Waterproof.
These are socks specially designed for rainy weather, the waterproof external membrane is combined with a Coolmax layer, that removes moisture from the foot surface, allowing the sweat to evaporate out.
They feature reinforcements and shock absorption on the heel, toe, and footbed areas, a soft and tight cuff, and a smooth seamless toe-box that helps to prevent irritation, itch, and blisters.
3. GripGrab Lightweight SL Performance Summer Cycling Socks
Best Lightweight Summer Cycling Socks
SPECS
- Material: 51% Polyester 41% Polyamide 8% Elastane.
- Machine Wash: Yes.
- Waterproof: No.
- Activity: MTB, Gravel, Indoor.
- Closure: Pull on.
- Cuff Length: Short 3.5 in, Long 6 in.
The Lightweight SL Socks feature open mesh zones to ensure optimal breathability, facilitating the free flow of cooling air around your feet.
Thanks to their seamless toe and incredibly soft Coolmax yarn, you’ll hardly notice them once you slip them on.
Plus, with a timeless cuff length and a wide range of colors, you can effortlessly coordinate them with your summer cycling attire, reflecting your personal style and mood.
4. Assos Monogram Summer Cycling Socks
Best for moisture-wicking construction
SPECS
- Material: 90% nylon, 10% elastene.
- Machine Wash: Yes.
- Waterproof: No.
- Activity: Long summer road rides.
- Cuff Length: 18cm, 7in.
The Assos Monogram EVO Socks are a versatile addition to your cycling gear, designed to meet the demands of both training and racing during the summer months. These socks embody a careful blend of performance and style.
One of the standout features of these socks is the seamless construction, achieved through an impressive 160-needle seamless knitting process. This ensures that there are no uncomfortable seams to cause friction or discomfort.
The sock’s composition is designed to provide light compressive support to your foot, ankle, and lower leg, thanks to the Lycra® blend. This gentle compression aids in circulation and reduces muscle fatigue, enhancing your overall riding experience.
The elastic single cuff around the ankle offers additional compressive support, while a slightly thicker sole adds a touch of cushioning for added comfort.
They feature a lighter knit on the top of the foot, creating a mesh-like structure. This enhances airflow and moisture transfer, keeping your feet dry and cool even on the warmest days.
5. POC LURE MTB SOCK LONG
Best for technical rides
SPECS
- Material: 90% polyamide.
- Machine Wash: Yes.
- Waterproof: No.
- Activity: MTB, Gravel, Dirt Roads Rides.
- Cuff Length: 7.8in.
POC’s Lure MTB Sock is a versatile choice that caters to the needs of mountain bikers across different seasons, making it an ideal companion for year-round riding adventures. These socks are designed with a focus on practicality and performance.
One of the key features of the Lure MTB Sock is the strategically placed cushioned sole. This design element goes a long way in ensuring maximum comfort, even during those all-day rides through rugged terrain. It absorbs the shocks and impacts that come with off-road cycling, reducing fatigue and enhancing your overall riding experience.
In the middle of the foot, a high-density band is strategically positioned to offer exceptional support. This targeted support contributes to better stability and control while pedaling, which is essential for maintaining balance on challenging trails.
The 20cm height of these socks offers additional coverage, extending up the calf. This not only adds a touch of style but also provides extra protection from dirt, debris, and potential abrasions when riding in rough off-road conditions. It helps keep your lower legs shielded from the elements, further enhancing your comfort during mountain biking adventures.
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What socks are good for sweaty feet in summer?
The Assos Monogram EVO Socks, they feature a lighter knit on the top of the foot, creating a mesh-like structure. This enhances airflow and moisture transfer, keeping your feet dry and cool even on the warmest days. Other very good cycling socks model for sweaty feet are:
POC LURE MTB SOCK LONG
GripGrab Lightweight SL Performance
SuMade 100% Waterproof Socks
DEFEET Aireator Share The Road Socks
Are merino wool socks good for hot weather?
Yes, merino wool socks are generally known for their excellent moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties, making them suitable for a wide range of weather conditions, including hot weather.
