Clocking up some serious miles on your bike can take a real toll on your feet, which is why it’s important to invest in specific cycling socks. 

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There are a range of things to consider when deciding which are the best cycling socks for you, including the weather you’re pedalling in, the duration of the journey and the intensity of the ride.

We’ve put together our picks of the best cycling socks by relying on industry knowledge and analysing user reviews. The result is a selection of options to keep you warm in the winter, help you cycle smoothly in the summer and give your feet the support they need when training or racing. 

A colourful choice, these Scandinavian-influenced socks are for those looking for a fashionable fit without wanting to overdo it. Made with Coolmax-Mesh they aim to be breathable, regulating your temperature to keep you comfortable as you cycle and helping excess heat dissipate from your feet. 

They have supportive stretch zones that are designed to provide a tight but pleasant fit that won’t slip and slide as you ride. They’re available in a variety of colours and sizes, with the regular cut measuring around 12cm in length.

Engineered for protection on long, cold rides, these socks are designed to be both heavy duty and slim fitting at the same time, with natural warming and anti-bacterial properties thanks to the use of Merino wool. 

Ideally used from autumn until spring, we’d expect these cycling socks to retain a high level of warmth, even when wet, with a special contoured fit employed to provide insulation and temperature regulation in the right places.

Those familiar with Italian will know quindici translates to 15, which is the length of the cuff on this sock. Being constructed of Merino wool, these socks are likely to perform in all weather types thanks to the material’s thermal properties, even when they get wet.

As Merino is a natural fibre, we’d also expect these socks to remain odour-free, meaning you won’t have to feel self-conscious on those long rides.

These mid-length socks are designed to deliver warmth and comfort in the winter months without being too heavy duty. They feature a light blend of Merino and synthetic fibres, which means they should hit that sweet spot of durability, warmth and breathability in a range of conditions.

Using a waterproof membrane and Merino wool, these cold weather socks are designed to keep the warmth in and the water out. They feature zonal elastication for added support, while flat seams along the toes help to prevent friction and blisters. 

If you’re looking for socks to keep you both dry and warm, check out our list of the best waterproof socks.

Made from Prolen, a sweat-wicking, breathable material that aims to keep your feet fresh and dry during long workouts, these ankle-length socks have been specifically designed with anti-friction zones in the heel and toe to keep blisters away. They’re versatile socks that are said to work well on any pedal, whether you’re road racing, mountain biking or on a turbo trainer.

They’re designed in Denmark and produced in Portugal under fair working conditions, says the brand. They’re also OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, which means they’re free from harmful substances, so you can ride at ease and with a clear conscience.

Available in a wide range of colours, these compressive cycling socks aim to improve circulation, support the ankle and keep your muscles fresh as you work out. 

The brand claims the material is 50% lighter than cotton and offers over double the abrasion resistance of cotton and wool. The socks feature a tall cuff, with stronger yarns in the heel and toe area to support the foot and lower leg.

Due to their strong compression it’s advised you give them some time to adapt to your foot, as they’ll feel very tight to begin with.

These socks are all about support, with a compressive midfoot support band, a cushioning pad situated under the ball of your foot and asymmetrical construction to accurately mirror the shape of your feet. 

They’re made with Meryl Skinlife yarns, which contain antimicrobial silver ions to reduce odour, and also have a reflective tab at the back of the foot for added visibility. 

Aimed at competitive athletes, the SGX Raceday sock provides a compression fit and features performance ribbing. 

Sockguy also claims it provides enhanced ventilation for added breathability, while a reduced friction profile and stretch-to-fit sizing is designed to improve comfort on those intense rides. Reinforcement in the toe and heel area are said to maximise support when you need it most.

Designed with breathability and longevity in mind, the unique honeycomb structure in these socks is made from a high-wicking polyamide yarn with reinforced seams on the toe and heel to maximise durability. They also have a ribbed cuff, which means they shouldn’t slide down as you ride.

When riding in the sun you’ll want to adjust your footwear accordingly. These summer socks are designed to be breathable on hot rides, with an ultra thin and lightweight design. Created with a fit that goes up to the base of the calf, they have a specific cut for the left and right foot for extra comfort. 

Despite being thin, these socks are said to offer ample support, with elasticated bands at the ankle, tibia and the arch of the foot. They’re available in white, red, yellow and black.

Andrew Lloyd is a digital writer covering the latest gadgets, appliances and devices across Immediate Media's special interest brands. Whether you’re relaxing at home, exploring a mountainside, or staring into space, he likely has a recommendation for you.

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