Comparative Review: What's the best place to run on tough terrain? I tried comparing the high-performance 5-finger socks

A complete comparison of five-finger socks to support comfortable running

Today's running socks come in a wide variety of colors, are fashionable, and offer increasingly high functionality to help you achieve even better performance. While it's tempting to choose socks based on appearance, trail running, which involves running freely through the mountains, puts a considerable strain on your feet. For a comfortable trail running life, you can't compromise on the choice of socks

Among the various types of running socks available, five-finger running socks are becoming increasingly popular among runners due to their breathability and ease of traction. I know many friends who don't usually wear them, but who wear five-finger running socks when trail running, especially when it's wet and the impact of downhill runs is intense. Of course, they're also great for hiking and fastpacking, which involve the same terrain

So this time, we've picked out some interesting models, including high-performance models that average around 2,000 yen per pair, and super-cheap models that cost just 980 yen for three pairs, and as always, compared them from a variety of perspectives. Differences that aren't obvious from the outside, but when you actually try them on and run, can make a big difference in comfort and ease of running, depending on the material, how they're fastened, and whether or not they have anti-slip features. We'll introduce the features of each pair, so we hope it will help you find your best buy

table of contents

• About the items we compared and tested this time
• Test results and spec comparison table
• Overall Review - Recommended Models by Type -
• Detailed reviews of each item (Page: 2)
• Summary (Page:2)

About the five-toe socks we compared this time

The six five-finger socks we compared this time are as follows:

• Tabio Trail Running Five-Toe Short Socks
• R×L SOCKS TRR-35G Merino Wool Five-Toe Socks [Short Length/Non-Slip]
• ITOITEX Running Socks, Five-Toe, Short
• CW-X CW-X Parts Five-Toe Socks (Short)
• C3fit Paper Fiber 5 Finger Socks
• Workman Arch Power Assist Short Five-Toe Socks

This comparison offered a wide variety of choices in terms of materials alone, including synthetic fibers, cotton and synthetic blends, merino wool, and, most notably, a blend of washi fibers. Performance differs depending on the construction and stitching, whether or not there's a non-slip feature (Tabio, RxL, and Workman's three models have non-slip features), odor resistance, and other factors, and we evaluated them from multiple angles, focusing on the following seven points:

1. Barefoot feeling (comfort): Rather than general "comfort," we place emphasis on the barefoot feeling (how much it makes you forget you're wearing socks)
2. Quick-drying: Ability to quickly dissipate large amounts of sweat
3. Breathability: Not only does it quickly wick away sweat, but it also helps you forget about stuffiness
4. Resistance to slipping (holding feeling) - whether your feet move around easily inside the shoes when braking or stepping down
5. Shock absorption: How well does it absorb shock, especially when braking?
6. Fatigue resistance: Degree of contribution to reducing fatigue and preventing injuries to the arch of the foot and ankles
7. Durability: How resistant to wear and tear from vigorous movement and prolonged use

Test environment

The test was conducted from June to July 2018. To ensure uniformity, the course and shoes were matched to the same environment. The test consisted of three laps per pair of Altra shoes on a 10km trail circuit. Other tests included running through rivers, bushes, and frequent sidesteps, intentionally pushing the shoes too hard

Test results and spec comparison table

Overall Review - Recommended Models by Type -

After extensive testing, the Tabio Trail Running Five-Toe Short Socks of performance overall. They offer excellent comfort, quick-drying and breathability, arch and ankle support, a non-slip sole, and reinforced toes. Personally, I think the reinforced arch is outstanding. They can be used for training, racing, and any season, from summer to winter, so I recommend having a pair.

For a one-off race, the ITOITEX 5-finger short running socks are a good choice. They're incredibly quick-drying and breathable, staying dry even when wet. They're also incredibly durable for rainy days or races with poor drainage. They're also incredibly light, making them the most comfortable pair to wear barefoot (you can even wear them with Vibram Five Fingers). However, they're not very durable, especially at the toes, and any extra space inside the shoe can lead to holes. Don't forget to bring a spare pair for long-distance races.

If you're looking for a quick-drying, comfortable, and durable sock, try the C3fit Paper Fiber 5-Finger Socks . the ITOITEX , making them ideal for short races in the summer. However, because they don't have a non-slip surface, they may cause foot fatigue depending on the compatibility with your shoes.

If you're planning on using them heavily for training, Workman offers the best value for money . They're a great pair for races up to 50km. However, because they're primarily made of a cotton blend, they feel natural when dry, but become more uncomfortable when wet, and you can't expect them to be breathable or quick-drying. I'd recommend them for training only.

The CW-X CW-X Parts Five-Toe Socks (Short) are gentle on beginners and those with insufficient training . The brand is known for its athletic tights, but these socks utilize that same compression technology to provide excellent support for the ankles and arches. I'd like to use them as a spare sock for the second half of an ultra-long distance race.

Finally, if you're looking for a comfortable run in mild weather rather than speed or durability, try the RxL SOCKS TRR-35G . The comfortable fit and soft feel of the merino wool make these a great pair to wear every day. The soft, non-slip material is even more effective with longer laces. However, because the fabric is thick, it doesn't dry quickly, so you'll want to avoid wearing them in rainy weather.

Next page: Go to detailed reviews of each item

On the previous page, we introduced the evaluations and specs of each of the five-finger socks we compared, as well as recommended models based on them. From here, we will explain what criteria were used to evaluate the evaluation and why it was evaluated in that way.

Detailed reviews of each item

Barefoot feeling (comfort)

The key to comfort with socks when running, is to accurately and quickly transmit information from the soles of your feet to your brain, allowing you to safely take the next step. Therefore, the criteria for judging the socks in everyday life are slightly different from how comfortable they feel. thin C3fit and ITOITEX feel very barefoot, so even with shoes, they were fun to run, consolidating trail information from the eyes and soles. On the other hand, thick socks are safe and stable, so they have a high limit when driving, so they will actually be a handicap in races.

Easy to dry (quickly dry)

The test was hot, and it was the perfect season to test for quick drying, as it caused the river to get soaked in the river and sweaty shoes. If the product does not dry quickly, it can cause stuffiness and leans to the soles of your feet. In lace, shoes are not put on and take off frequently, and quick-drying is an essential feature for preventing accidents. Naturally, thin socks generally dry quickly. In C3fit and ITOITEX use a "washi" material to further improve quick drying. Even if it's thick, TABIO and CW-X will not be a problem unless it's summer. Quick-drying is an important feature in winter, so it is a feature that should be emphasized.

Difficult to stuffiness (breathable)

The function to release heat and sweat from the soles of the feet is a function that prevents accidents, just like quick drying. Trerunning in particular is a sport that makes full use of the plantar muscles. The temperature on the soles of your feet is higher than on road running, so socks that maintain a dry feel are best. thin C3fit and ITOITEX were comfortable and allowed me to concentrate on running without feeling the sweat from my feet. Even though it is thick, TABIO has mesh for breathability, so it is a good way to remove sweat. RxL and Workman 's fabric on the soles of the plantar caused creases due to sweat.

It's not easy to slip (hold)

Generally, non-slip types hold the feet in the shoes so that they do not slip and do not slip, increasing the stability and fatigue reduction. However, if the shape, thickness, and arrangement of the anti-slip rubber do not match your running style, the soles of the soles of the feet may separate and cause an accident, so it is not versatile in this regard. The bottom line is that your feet do not go wild inside your shoes, and the basic premise is that the size and shape of your shoes match your feet. With this in mind, TABIO is made of soft silicone rubber located on the forefoot and heel, providing a sense of stability and can be used safely even on long laces. The RxL is a well-thought-out anti-slip rubber with a weak anti-slip rubber located on the forefoot to prevent rubbing inside the socks, but the rubber material is hard so it slips more than you might think. Workman has soft elastic on the front and back and toes, but it is suitable for short lace because the thickness of the rubber is a concern.

Cushioning

Thrusts from the trail are prone to damage even when you're a beginner. This is an important selection criteria for socks used in practice. Thick socks are sure to be safe. The RxL is made of merino wool material and wraps around the entire foot and gives it a sense of security on irregular terrain. The TABIO and Workman were also thick, so they could reduce the pain even if they landed on a rocky area.

Support

The CW-X has a distinctive function that aids running, and it felt like wearing lightly tightened taping. You can see the ankle reinforcement in particular the moment you wear it. Many people tap on trail running to prevent injuries, but being able to reinforce with socks is a relief, which is a relief. When you actually drive, it's not as strong as taping, so you shouldn't expect too much, but if you don't normally use taping, you'll feel it will be effective. The TABIO was especially well supported by the arch, which gave me a comfortable feeling of tightness. This time we ran a trial run of about 30km, but since we definitely support the plantar muscles, you will be able to feel the effects in the second half of the long run.

Durability

Though it is thin, the C3fit is surprisingly easy to worry about. In the old model, even after three 100km races, there were no holes in the fingertips. The ITOITEX is lightweight, made from a lot of washi paper and is quick-drying, making it the best sharp model, so it is less durable, but it is a model that you would like to use especially in rainy lace. The thick TABIO is extremely durable. I used it repeatedly, but it has little pilling and can be used continuously. Other models can pilling, so if not removed, there is a risk of leans being formed more than rubbing. The RxL has reinforced fingertips and heels, but since it is made of merino wool, there was wear on the arches and other parts.

summary

I'll summarize my conclusions after wearing them all and running again. I want a pair of TABIO, . If you want to enjoy barefoot for a long time, try C3fit . If you want to use it hard during practice, try Workman . For a one-shot race, try ITOITEX . If you're worried about lack of practice, try CW-X . If you run slowly, it's RxL . This impression was a lot of unique models. Please use this as a useful option when choosing according to the situation you use.

We also recommend this article about socks

• 5 reasons why you should not underestimate mountaineering socks and how to choose the best socks
• Comparison review: Comparing mountaineering socks [What are the most comfortable and easy to wear for climbing? 】

Tojo Kazuya

He grew up in Ibaraki Prefecture and worked mainly in swimming during his student days. He made his triathlon debut as a working adult. In his first year as a member of the company, he completed the first Japan Mountain Endurance Race (= Hasetsune). I am fascinated by the sense of accomplishment of mountain sports. In his 30s he moved to Saitama Prefecture and became independent. Mr. T guided Okumusashi to him and was fascinated by the training run and ultra marathon. He is currently active mainly in domestic trail races. He completed a series of long races from Shinetsu Five Mountains, Joshu Takeru, and KOUMI100. He also works with the NPO Koedo Oedo Trennic World and the NPO Sainokuni Ultra Project (SUP). They are also working hard to bring out the performance of the gear and raise awareness of ensuring the safety of trail running.

Looking for reviewers

Outdoor Gearzine is always looking for members who love the outdoors and would like to write reviews about outdoor equipment. For more information, please this REVIEWERS page !