SmartWool Gets Faster...

SmartWool has launched a whole new range of merino wool socks aimed at 'fast movers' and dubbed 'Adrenaline'.

Merino is a very fine-fibred, silky wool produced by merino sheep in New Zealand and combines warmth and comfort with good moisture management qualities, but without the coarse, itchiness of some traditional wools. We like them a lot.

The 'Adrenaline' socks are aimed at mountain bikers, runners, climbers and anyone else looking for a thinner SmartWool sock and on top of the excellent material, they also incorporate a load of advanced technical features.

You get:

• an elasticated ankle brace
• flex zone at the front of the ankle
• a thinner waffle knint inset over the forefoot
• flat knit toe seam to minimise rubbing
• an elasticated arch brace
• reinforced sole

The end result is a sock that fits closely and gives a lot of strategic padding without adding bulk in areas where you don't need it like the top of the foot. We have a pair on test and they feel lovely.

The new Adrenaline range comes in four colours and a choice of four styles in men's a women's versions. There's a straight 'Adrenaline Crew', a shorter 'Adrenaline Crew 3/4', the shorter still 'Adrenaline Mini' and last but not least, the 'Adrenaline Micro Mini' trainer-cut version to allow you to display your finely formed ankles...

Prices range from £11.95 to £14.95 - ouch - and they'll be in the shops soon. For more information contact UK importes Anatom on 0131 221 2200 or visit their web site.