Urban cycling socks

Waterproof socks: how the membrane works

A waterproof sock consists of three layers: a durable outer knit that resists abrasion, a waterproof and breathable membrane in the middle, and a lining that contacts the foot, made of merino, bamboo, or synthetic fibre. Dexshell and Sealskinz rely on the same membrane, called Porelle. The Dexshell Hytherm Pro, designed for cold weather, features a thicker lining, while the Ultra Thin Crew Bamboo, very thin, fits easily into a snug city shoe. The only limitation is that during a prolonged downpour, water can eventually enter from the top of the shaft, which is why a well-covered high shaft is important.

The rest of the outfit

Urban gear also comes in:

• Trousers.
• Jackets.
• Gloves.
• Textile accessories.
• Urban helmets.
• Reflective accessories.

All the equipment is gathered on the urban page.

Merino, bamboo or cool fibre: lasting until evening

After the ride, the sock stays on for the whole day: it needs to dry quickly and not retain any smell. The merino wool of the Giro Seasonal Merino, Giro HRc Merino and Sweet Protection Hunter Merino absorbs moisture in the form of vapour and slows the growth of bacteria, making it the safest material from November to March. In fine weather, synthetic fibres take over: the Gist Ride Fast has an antibacterial treatment, and the Giessegi Cool uses light knit that allows the foot to breathe in a closed shoe.

Height, support and patterns, for small and large

The shaft height is chosen based on the shoe: the Falke BC Impulse, short, disappears into a low-top sneaker, while the Giro Comp High Rise rises up the calf and protects the ankle from chain grease. BV Sport, a St Etienne brand established in 1998 and a specialist in compression, designs the Bike Elite for pedalling. The Sporcks, a brand from Valencia, feature colourful designs like Drink Coffee or Marie Blanque, a nod to the Pyrenean pass. Lastly, the Cairn Spirit J, made for small sizes, accompanies children on their way to school.

Good deals

Good deals can also be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new products showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and sent out within 24 hours. The key moments of the year follow a stable order: Black Friday at the end of autumn, the holiday season, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, then the summer sales and back to school.

Frequently asked questions

What shoe size should I choose for cycling socks?

Socks are sold in size ranges, for example from thirty-nine to forty-two. If you're between two sizes, it's better to go for the smaller one to avoid wrinkles under the arch of the foot, source of chafing on the pedal.

Can waterproof socks go in the tumble dryer?

No, the heat damages the membrane. Wash them inside out at thirty degrees, without fabric softener, then turn them the right way out and let them air dry, as the inside dries more slowly than the outside.

How many pairs should I have for cycling every day?

Merino can be worn for two days in a row if aired out in the evening, unlike synthetic. Three or four pairs allow you to rotate through the week, letting each pair dry completely between washes.

Do waterproof socks keep you warm?

The membrane blocks the wind and keeps the foot dry, which is often enough in cool weather. In very cold conditions, a lined model like the Dexshell Hytherm Pro provides more insulation; a shoe that’s too tight cancels this effect by constricting circulation.

Are there cycling socks for women?

Most models are unisex and simply chosen by size, with the smaller ranges fitting slender feet. For high shafts, check that the elastic edge doesn’t squeeze the calf too much by the end of the day.