Polaris is stalwart of the UK mountain bike scene; the Derbyshire clothing company has been making mountain bike gear for over two decades. These Merino Sox are part of a range that covers you from head to foot, and are warm, comfy and good value, says Henry Norman.

The fabric is a merino and nylon blend that helps to keep the price competitive as well as increasing the durability. There’s a slight cost in feel when you first put them on, but you don’t tend to notice too much once you have had them on for a few minutes.

They come in the in vogue mid calf/high ankle length, which was welcome over the more traditional short bike socks cut on colder rides. An elasticated mid sole keeps them snug and they’re finished off in a black/grey pinstripe which tended to polarise (geddit?) opinion slightly.

The Polaris Merino Sox are best suited to colder, drier days keeping feet warm, dry and comfortable all day. Like most bits of quality crossover bike kit, they managed to find a place in the everyday wardrobe too, seeing action running and walking as well.

Where they miss out compared to 100 percent Merino socks is in the extremes of conditions. They feel a bit more sweaty when the going gets hot, but don’t seem to offer quite as much insulation in the extreme cold. They also felt less comfortable when wet and dried more slowly compared to my benchmark Smartwool socks

Verdict

Well priced, comfortable socks that offers good performance for the majority of uses and comes in a decent length too

Pros

Good value, comfortable and warm

Cons

Polarising looks, work less well in the extremes of conditions than some

Price: £9.99
More information: Polaris Merino Sox