Unless you opt for a custom design, Swiftwick socks (www.swiftwick.com) come in pretty basic colors. But they come in several styles, weights, and wicking materials…and they’re all terrific socks, combining the right amount of compression and cushioning in just the right places.
I now own several pair…a set of long compression socks and a few pair of the 4 inch merino wool socks which I’ve worn not only through the most recent cold Midwestern winter, but also through the damp and chilly Kansas City spring of 2010. They fit really well (though you should check the size chart…I wear a medium in these but a small in nearly all other brands.) The socks keep my feet comfortably dry and cozy. They’re light enough to layer under fleece socks in my mountain-bike/cyclocross shoes when the temperature drops below 20 degrees, but perfect on their own right down to freezing. (This is new to me…because, I admit it, I generally have cold feet.) They’re perfectly at home in my road shoes at any temperature, and the light arch compression keeps my feet happy even on long rides.
At the display, or on the website (I found them at Family Bicycle in Kansas City), you’ll notice that Swiftwick socks are sold by cuff length — ranging from zeros (no show) through the tall cycling version (four inch) up to 7 and 12 inch cuffs. The socks are all made right here in the USA and guaranteed. Try ‘em…I’m sure you’ll like them. As for LocalCycling…well, we’re seriously considering a custom team order of the 4 inch merinos…just in time for a fast, toasty warm, feel your toes through the whole 2010 – 2011 cyclocross season.
Swiftwick also offers knee high compression socks which are terrific for transatlantic flights and long pre-race work days in skirts and tall dress boots (Guys, I’d guess that the compression would be just as effective paired with loafers and a pair of trousers at the office, but that’s up to you.)