Prendas Ciclismo Coolmax special edition socks

Prendas Ciclismo Coolmax socks are lightweight and comfortable and they come in many different designs to match your bike, kit or mood.

I've used loads of pairs of these socks over several years. They're made from a polyester/polyamide/elastane mix that's very stretchy so you get a close fit without any ridges, and it shifts moisture away from your feet well. They're a consistent weave throughout rather than having any mesh sections but I've never noticed my feet getting particularly sweaty in these even on the hottest summer days or the steepest climbs.

The manufacturers give a temperature range for these socks of 6-22°C. I tend to wear something thicker if it's below about 10°C, or wear some overshoes, but we all have different preferences. Essentially, these are spring/summer weight socks that major on comfort and breathability rather than insulation. The section that sits outside your shoe is a double thickness and it stays in place perfectly well.

Although these are thin, they score highly for durability. I have pairs that are a couple of years old still going strong. If you go for a white pair, they gradually get less and less bright as they inevitably pick up dirt, but that's not unusual. In my experience, the reason to ditch them eventually is because they've suffered one too many wet rides rather than that the threads have worn out. They don't ever go baggy around the top like some.

As well as the performance and the reasonable price, the other reason to choose these socks is that they're available in a variety of different designs. I like the mod roundel ones – a tribute to Bradley Wiggins who was supported by Prendas as a youth rider. If that's not your thing, you can choose the Belgian colours, world champion stripes, checkerboard or various other versions.

Verdict

Cool, comfy spring/summer socks in a variety of different designs; nice price too