Inov8 Mudsoc 36 - Tested

Inov8 Mudsoc 36 - Tested

Inov8 says that the Mudsoc has been 'developed and tested to provide the ultimate in off-road running comfort and performance'. It's primarily a short cut off-road running sock, but there's no reason why you can't use if for walking with lightweight trail shoes.

The fabric is quick wicking, quick drying, good old traditional Coolmax with big loop-stitch cushioned areas across the base, heel, toes and top of the lacing area. Nothing particularly complicated, but they're all areas that get a hammering when running, so it makes a lot of sense.

The Mudsocs arrived in a slightly apologetic way along with a pair of Inov8 shoes. To be honest, we didn't really take much notice of them, until we actually started using them when it rapidly became apparently they were actually pretty good.

The length is just right, shorter than most ankle socks, but longer than trainer liners and there's plenty of padding where you need it giving a nice, comfy., springy fit underneath.

As you'd expect the loopstitch has compressed with use, particularly under pressure points, but as with Bridgedale's Trailhead, there's still plenty of cushioning to be had.

Wicking performance is good and they dry reasonably fast despite the thick padding areas.

Don't be put off by the name either. It's great that the dark colour doesn't show the mud after a hack across Bleaklow, but they're useable in all conditions and a good complement to Inov8's range of shoes.

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