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review

MP Magic Red Crew Sports Socks

8
£9.95

VERDICT:

8
10
Thick, versatile socks with heavy cushioning and antibacterial properties that keep your feet dry and odourless
Weight: 
66g

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These MP Magic Red Crew sports socks are part of its antibacterial range, using 'three metal infused' technology. It's hard to judge their antibacterial prowess, but I can say that they're extremely comfortable, their padding makes them ideal for the winter months, and they seem to live up to the anti-pong claims.

  • Pros: Understated look, great fit, antibacterial, well insulated
  • Cons: Nothing really

Designed for multisport activities, these socks are claimed to offer fast moisture wicking, good arch support and extra cushioning. However, their main highlight is the infusion of silver, copper and zinc interwoven within the fabric and designed to remove odours and kill microbes.

> Buy these online here

Although I cannot comment on the exact science behind the sock's antibacterial nature, I certainly haven't had a problem when it comes to odour. After wearing them for three consecutive training sessions without washing them (all in the name of road.cc testing – I don't recommend this!), I didn't experience any unusual smells coming from my shoes or the socks.

It makes me think they'd be good for commuting, and ones to consider for multi-day epics where preventing infection is imperative.

What I can confirm is that the sizing is accurate and the fit generally good, with the fabric stretching nicely to accommodate the foot. I did find the collar of the sock on the smaller side, though it doesn't slip at all, and it does feature a nice thicker band that aids in comfort and keeping out wind chill.

> How to keep your feet warm while cycling in winter

The material is a mix of cotton, nylon, spandex and 'MP special yarn', which features the interwoven metals. MP Magic says, 'We use this special technique to infuse all the three metals within the fabrics so that they will never wash away!' After a few washes, these socks still felt as comfortable and performed as well as when they were first taken out of the packet.

Priced at £9.95, these socks are pretty good value – dhb's Aeron Light Weight Merino Socks are £10 for example, without the claimed additional antibacterial properties, while the more technical Aeron Lab Winter socks are another £8.

Overall, these socks performed very well during the winter testing period, between 10 and 2°C, keeping my feet warm, dry and pong-free. They even performed admirably while turbo training, wicking away sweat pretty efficiently despite being designed for warmth and comfort.

Verdict

Thick, versatile socks with heavy cushioning and antibacterial properties that keep your feet dry and odourless

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road.cc test report

Make and model: MP Magic Red Crew Sports Socks

Size tested: M

Tell us what the product is for

MP Magic says, 'Maximize your performance with best gears! With unparalleled high tech and verified deodorant function, MP magic athletic socks will keep your feet dry and odourless, protect you from sports injuries, and give you unmatched comfort and support. Keep exercising and stay fresh all day with MP magic socks!'

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

From MP Magic:

Mixture of cotton, nylon, spandex and, 'MP special yarn.'

Three metal infused technology.

Highy brethable and super durable.

Anti-slip and functional arch support.

Mesh structure enhances airflow and permeability. Perfect for sweaty feet

Rate the product for quality of construction:
 
9/10

Looks very clean and understated. No loose threads or peeling.

Rate the product for performance:
 
9/10

Comfortable and supportive while keeping my feet warm and dry.

Rate the product for durability:
 
8/10

Early days, but as soft as when they first came out of the packet.

Rate the product for fit:
 
8/10

Wrapped around the feet nicely.

Rate the product for sizing:
 
8/10
Rate the product for weight:
 
7/10
Rate the product for comfort:
 
8/10

Good arch support and warm soft material.

Rate the product for value:
 
6/10

In line with other brands, like the dhb Aeron Light Weight Merino Sock, while boasting additional features...

How easy is the product to care for? How did it respond to being washed?

Washes easily and doesn't seem to lose of its antibacterial/anti-pong properties.

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

Functioned as a winter sock should: comfortable and protective against the elements, and no smelly feet.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

The lack of smell and the comfort provided.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

My feet did get a little warm towards the end of a turbo session.

Did you enjoy using the product? Yes

Would you consider buying the product? Yes

Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes

Use this box to explain your overall score

They're really good socks, doing what winter socks should, with additional features like the arch support and antibacterial properties.

Overall rating: 8/10

About the tester

Age: 20  Height: 6 ft 2 in  Weight: 75kg

I usually ride: Giant TCR  My best bike is: Giant Trinty

I've been riding for: 5-10 years  I ride: Every day  I would class myself as: Expert

I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, time trialling, club rides, occasional bit of track

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