Product Review: Wrightsock Anti-Blister

Got blisters on your foot?  Fear no more…

I usually neglect the importance to good running socks.  I have been using cotton socks for my runs.  The same kind of socks I have been using since grade school.  But runners have special needs when it comes to socks.  Some important things to consider when choosing your socks are moisture management, cushioning, breathability and anti-blister.  My cotton socks gives me just cushioning and is worst when it comes to moisture management.  Ah… the smell.

That’s is why there are several synthetic materials for socks that targets the specific needs of a runner.  Wrightsock is among those brands that promises blister-free runs.  I never experienced blisters yet and I wouldn’t want to get one.

From their website, Wrightsock is a double layered sock to protect your feet from blisters.  It provides a three-part system for your feet.

1. Moisture Management.  Dri-Wright inner layer wicks moisture off the skin making your feet dry during the run.
2. Temperature Regulation.  Staying dry means staying cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter for a comfortable feel. Hmmm… kailan kaya magka-winter sa Pinas?
3. Friction Reduction.  Interaction between the inner and outer sock layers absorbs friction that is normally transferred to the skin thus eliminating the skin shear which results to blisters.

Sock it

I have a 6K run with the socks as a test.  Like many hi-tech materials the Wrigthsocks doesn’t feel as soft as my cotton socks but they are comfortable.  Wrightsocks have two layers and this feels diferent.  Wearing them is like wearing two socks at the same time that keeps on rubbing each other.  But this is a good thing.  This saves your feet from creating friction which could result to blisters.

So why not just wear two socks at the same time?  I tried that before.  The problem is, the socks would often misalign.  You’d be surprise that the bottom part of the socks are on top.  Wrightsocks created a third layer to keep the socks aligned.  Besides, wearing two socks at the same time is thick and makes the fit tighter.

However, like many hi-tech socks, Wrightsocks are a bit expensive than my favorite cotton socks.  Price ranges from 300-500 a pair.  See the next page for the pricelist.  Yet, this is reasonable considering how much they cost in the US.  The benefits will outweigh the cost in the long run. I would still consider it a good investment.

Wrightsocks products and pricelists

Descriptions were taken from their website.

	Running I The Running I sock is a flat knit (no cushion) midweight sock designed for all running activities. Features the perfect combination of moisture management and friction-free control. This sock provides all the protection you need without shoe sizing issues. USD Price: 9.50 USD PhP Price: 360.00 Php per pair (Introductory price)
	Running II The Running II sock is still a flat knit but has a bit more Lycra® and a Stabilizer ZoneTM for a snug (but not tight) fit.  Perfect for the Running I sock user who would like just a slightly snugger fit. USD Price: 10.00 USD PhP Price: 380.00 Php per pair (Introductory price)
	DLX DLX provides a light amount of cushioning for added comfort. Dri-WRIGHT II™ wicks moisture away from your feet and the two layers absorb all the friction and foot shear. Stabilizer Zone™ helps lock the sock in place. USD Price: 11.00 USD PhP Price: 400.00 Php per pair (Introductory price)
	Coolmesh Coolmesh is the lightest, most breathable Double Layer. Features 30% lighter weight than the Running sock along with a mesh panel across the top of the foot. This panel allows for maximum “wicking” action away from the foot, keeping you drier and cooler than other socks. Designed for all activities where lighttweight is preferred. Perfect for Running, Cycling, Hiking and Walking on or off trails. USD Price: 9.50 USD PhP Price: 360.00 Php per pair (Introductory price)
	Silver Elite Double Layer coupled with the introduction of the benefits of silver. Silver has long been recognized as an anti-microbial (kills 99.9% bacteria) that offers protection from the bacteria associated with smelly feet. USD Price: 12.00 USD PhP Price: 425.00 Php per pair (Introductory price)

So many choices?

With the different products, which one would you choose?

Well, it’s really up to you.  I was able to try the Running I, Running II, DLX and Coolmesh.  The thickness is different between them.  I find the DLX the thickest and the Coolmesh as the thinest. Other than that, they seem to be all the same.  I prefer the DLX though since it thickness is almost same as my cotton socks.

Look closely and you’d nocite that the socks have the model name written on it.  Just to make it less confusing for you once you buy the different pairs.  Some models also come in different colors and sizes.

Contact

To order, you may contact  Norman Arteficio at 0917 8445258 or email triadmultisportinc@me.com

Wrightsocks are also available at Secondwind Running Store in Quezon City.