Merino MTB Socks

Stem height: why go higher on a mountain bike

On the trails, the lower leg brushes against plants and picks up mud and stones. A mid-high stem, like that of the Fox Racing Flexair Merino, about six inches or around fifteen centimetres tall, covers the ankle and the lower calf. It protects the skin from brambles and nettles, and prevents direct contact between the ankle and the crank in technical sections or when carrying the bike. Low socks, which are cooler, are reserved for smooth and open trails on hot days when the vegetation doesn't spill over onto the path.

The rest of the outfit

Mountain bike gear also comes in:

• Mountain bike shoes.
• Shoe covers.
• Shorts and bibs.
• Jerseys.
• Gloves.
• Protection gear.

All the gear is gathered on the mountain biking page.

Merino wool: what it brings to the trails

Merino wool owes its comfort to the fineness of its fibres, thin enough not to itch the skin. It absorbs a significant amount of its weight in water vapour before appearing wet, keeping the foot drier in a closed shoe, and it retains its insulating properties even when damp. Its structure slows the growth of bacteria responsible for odours, which is a plus on long outings or multi-day trips. When combined with synthetic fibres, as is common in sports socks, it gains in abrasion resistance and support.

Thickness and season: what winter mountain bike socks to choose

Thickness should be chosen based on the shoe: a denser sock keeps the foot warm in winter, as long as it doesn't compress the toes, because a tightly confined foot cools down faster than a free one. Merino keeps its warmth once wet, making it the sensible choice for muddy outings from November to March. In summer, a fine knit and ventilated areas on the top of the foot help to wick away heat. After a muddy ride, rinse the sock in clear water before machine washing it inside out on a low temperature to prevent dirt from sticking to the fibres.

Good deals

Great finds can also be spotted in the good deals, promotions, clearances, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and sent out within 24 hours. The key events of the year follow a stable order: Black Friday at the end of autumn, the festive season, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, then the summer sales and back to school.

Frequently asked questions

What size sock should I choose for mountain biking?

Choose the size range that includes your shoe size, without hesitation to go down a size if you are on the boundary. A sock that is too big will bunch up in the shoe, causing blisters when carrying and walking.

Can I wear road socks for mountain biking?

Yes, but they tend to be shorter and thinner, therefore less protective against branches and brambles. For narrow trails and thick vegetation, a mid-high stem is still much more comfortable.

Do merino socks wear out quickly?

Pure wool is delicate, which is why mountain bike socks combine merino with synthetic fibres and reinforce the heel and toe. A gentle wash, inside out and without a dryer, significantly extends their lifespan.

Do I need compression socks for mountain biking?

They can help with recovery after a long ride, but they're not essential. In mountain biking, the priority is to keep the foot stable in the shoe and protect the ankle from vegetation.

What socks should I wear for e-mountain biking?

The same as for standard mountain biking. Since the effort is often less, you sweat less and can choose a slightly warmer sock in winter; the mid-high stem still protects from branches on the trails.