It’s 4-8 W at 50 kph. Let’s assume the 8W is compared to wearing rolled-down stockings, so its more likely 4W compared to normal socks. Then you’d maybe not ride at 50kph during a long-distance race, so it’s probably more like 1W.
Maybe still worth it regardless? Price is one thing, but it also seems very little hassle, if these are like normal socks.
Would be great to see data. But in a basic sense, I can see why these might be able to give the savings claimed.
Our lower leg is nearly a cylinder in a vertical orientation. That is a terrible shape as far as aero is concerned. Then consider it is constantly moving in space (and changing orientation) relative to the rest of the bike in motion (pedaling).
So, if something like these socks can clean up the air right around that moving cylinder, it I could see how it might make a functional difference as claimed. Surely in the marginal gains territory, and I’d hope people have other parts of their kit locked down prior to this feature, but considering the relatively low cost, it’s probably the not worst way to spend some beer money.
Agreed. Just pointing out that sometimes we see people pick stuff like this while neglecting areas that may well matter more (loose or wrinkled kit, bad tires, etc.) from a pure watt savings perspective.
But these seem like nice socks no matter how you cut it. If you’re gonna have a pair or two for races, it sure makes sense to me.
I think most aero sock look ridiculous, even on lean pros. Even more ridiculous on not so lean not so pros. If it’s the price of going fast, I’m in for races.
The defeet and now these silcas offer a slightly less ridiculous option for club rides and day to day use then .
Also, let’s not forget the benefits of looking fast. I definitely want to feel fast to go fast, and for some this helps that mindset. Cheaper than the Rule28 skinsuit that’s for sure.
One question I have.
These socks being tested at clearly TT speeds: 50, 55 and 60kph are speeds not even pros maintain on an RB at 0 wind and 0% grade for sustained periods of time, when not sheltered.
So why not use overshoes instead? Is a sock faster than an overshoes? Don’t really think it is.
“Cycling Socks” have a very specific purpose, and that purpose is to cover the difference between your shopping cart total and the ‘free shipping’ value. $30 means going to another website.
Aero socks are nice for group rides. I’ve got the defeet ones. They say “it’s on motherf*$&#@rs” without saying it. I usually yell it anyway tough because aero socks are so stupid that most people wouldn’t think that something so stupid exists and you paid $30 for it. Yelling “AERO SOCKS!!!” as you rock everyone with a random mid-ride sprint sends a certain message.
Keep in mind - 8w @ 30mph is about 2w at 20mph. That’s the difference between the GP5000 you wanted to buy and the other tire you had to buy because they didn’t have GP5000s in stock.
I read somewhere that the fastest tested setup was an aero sock with a short velotoze overshoe, as opposed to the longer options.
I agree they are used at TT speeds, a good 40k TT you can get close to 50, then shorter ones might be slightly easier, but also if you are a breakaway specialist, then it could help slightly more as well.
Pure sprinters, if you are looking at tire rubber width finishes, sometimes every little bit helps when accelerating hard.