Wicking Sportswear

Recently, the Mt. Better High School athletics department was one of first to implement the new “MTB Socks” program, using this technology-to help reduce moisture management and encourage faster, more comfortable foot movement, while at the same time, keeping athletes dry and protected from potential injury. The results have been promising thus far, with some athletes reporting increased agility, acceleration, and quickness after wearing the socks. Here are some things we’ve learned from Mt. Better High School athletics, and what we can do to apply the knowledge to our own athletic performances:

MTB socks were created by cyclists to eliminate friction and transfer heat away from the foot. By doing so, they create a neoprene-like material between the foot and the bike frame which also help reduce irritation and blistering. MTB socks are used primarily for cycling, but other sports such as track and field use the technology for faster, more efficient warm-up periods and cool-down periods. While the concept of heat transfer is simple, creating socks that work effectively for cycling is a bit more challenging, making the material a complex science in itself. While heat does not cause blisters on MTB socks, the material does lend itself to better moisture management-an effect not shared by many common socks.

Although the process is complicated, the good news is that the results are quite clear-MTB socks deliver faster, more comfortable, and safer performance. Our recommendation? Try a pair! And while we don’t recommend them as the sole solution to your cycling problems, they definitely come close. Not only do they look great, they feel great, too-a definite bonus when choosing a new pair of biking socks!