My son needed new cross country spikes so we went to the local shoe guru.  Before we left, he had sold both of us these new, cool looking running socks.  My son actually needed new socks, but I wanted to try a pair as well.  Little did I know that we were walking out with some very “Smart” socks.

As it turns out, our new SmartWool socks feature the "SmartFit System" utilizing “supersoft New Zealand Merino fiber” processed with "SmartTechnology."  Really, well do they have a built in pedometer or, better yet, a GPS?  No, they’re not that “Smart”, but wow are they fantastic socks.  The first thing you’ll notice is the super soft, itch free material which is 62% wool, 36% nylon and 2% elastic.  Next, you’ll notice the fit; so this is what “Smart” feet feel like!  Finally, and most important to me, is the remarkable dryness. 

I live on the Gulf Coast and am a heavy sweater.  During the summer I continue to run at lunch because I either bike or swim in the morning.  When it's 95 degrees out with 90%+ humidity, I sweat buckets during any run over 4 miles.  Since most of my runs are longer, including 10 or even some 12 milers, I often have to remove my synthetic socks to avoid sloshing around in all of the accumulated sweat.  Not any more, while I still like the feel of some high quality synthetics, my new “Smart” socks stay dry.

SmartWool explains that its almost magical dryness is due to the following:

“SmartWool’s naturally breathable fibers are cooler than synthetics because they evaporate and wick moisture faster.  Instead of waiting for moisture to condense they transport it while still in the vapor state, complementing your body’s natural cooling process.”

“SmartWool has a natural crimp that traps thousands of tiny little air pockets that act like insulation for your body.  SmartWool’s thermo-neutrality keeps your skin at an optimal temperature whatever the season or your activity.”

While I can’t verify these claims, I can verify that the socks are remarkably comfortable and dry.  My son’s only comment thus far, “those socks are awesome!”

We are both wearing SmartWool’s Ultra Light Micro Crew running sock pictured on the right.  They are available in white, gray and black.  Since they are only $10.95 a pair and you can buy them at your local running store or bike shop, or even directly from SmartWool’s web site, do yourself a favor and try a pair.  If you don’t like them, send them to me.

KDG