Putting Hilly Double Layer Running Socks to the Test
Dear A & H…Whether we notice it or not, each and every time we “suit up” for a run, we are actually donning a uniform, a uniform of comfort. We might express our individuality through choosing different colors, fabrics, and length of sleeves and bottoms, but we definitely can be singled out from a crowd merely by what we’re wearing. So, today I decided to discuss one small piece of this uniform that isn’t always a perfect steward of comfort but really can be if we choose wisely. ت
Why I Decided to Buy Hilly Socks
Of all the many iterations of running clothing, nothing impresses me more than socks described as double layer.
They aren’t flashy or high tech, but quietly masterful at preventing blisters.
They do this so well, in fact, that the only socks I’ll wear to race in are the double layer variety. No other kind will sway my loyalty, no matter how nice they look or how promising the claim on their label.
Simply put, when these socks are on my feet and I’m racing, I never have to worry about the state of my feet.
With that topic off the table, I’m left with the opportunity to focus more intently on pacing, hydration, the scenery, etc.
It’s for all these reasons that the one treasured pair I own rests in its own special place in my drawer.
As for regular training days (i.e. most days of the year), any clean pair of socks will do.
A Change is in the Wind
This is how it’s been for years and years…until recently.
Now, peering down into my sock drawer, it’s a sorry sight.
Not including my pristine double layer pair, everyday training socks look like holey misshapen creatures lying in crumpled heaps.
Many attempts have been made to sew them but, in spite of careful mending, they are nearing their end of days.
So, with only a run or two left in any one pair, the realization has set in that it’s time to search for replacements…
…and maybe, finally, fulfill a wish.
Long story short –
Now five new pairs lay in a nice little pile in my drawer…all made by Wrightsock…all double layer.
A wish fulfilled!
So, from now on, no matter when or where I run, double layer socks will be on my feet.
Bliss! 🙂
. . .
Hmm…😳
Actually, I have to fess up.
It’s six pairs…I really have six pairs.
You see, while researching for my sock buying splurge, a pair from another company caught my eye.
They’re made by Hilly.
Everything about them seemed perfect (i.e. well made, designed for running, anti-blister) so, being too curious for my own good, I bought a pair to see how they’d perform and compare to the Wrightsock brand I was already familiar with, they being the company that made the single pair I’ve been coddling for years.
Here they are:
What are Double Layer Socks?
Double-layer socks are simply two thin socks that are attached together, usually at the toe and cuff.
When worn while walking or running, they redirect friction away from skin to the space between the two sock layers. In this way, blisters are avoided.
Such a simple design, but amazingly effective.
To date, I’ve never gotten a single blister while wearing double layer socks. For this reason, up until this year, they were my only “go to” socks for racing. Now, after buying enough for almost every day of the week, they’re now the only socks I train in, as well.
The Test
The test was simple.
One day had me running in my usual – but best pair – of single layer socks. The next workout had me run in the Hilly pair.
It’s worth noting, my shoes were also rather new. Comfortable, but still only worn a few times prior to this sock test.
The route had varied surfaces, including asphalt, concrete, and sand (both loose and packed).
The length of each run was about 2 hours.
The Outcome
Single Layer Sock Test
Running in my usual single layered socks, I experienced forefoot soreness and definite hotspots on the bottom of my toes during the last leg home.
Though this is not unusual for me, I always imagine I’m moments away from blisters.
Double Layer Sock Test
Running in Hilly’s double layer socks was a completely different experience.
Right away, they felt “plush-ier” than the single layer pair. Being made from, as the name implies, two socks, this makes sense. But, in spite of the thicker feel, they didn’t make my feet feel tight in my shoes. At most, wearing them is similar to wearing a pair of thicker athletic socks.
Beyond that, there’s nothing really to report.
I had no soreness, hotspots…nothing.
I arrived home with happy feet.
Final Opinion
This pair of Hilly socks met all my expectations.
Briefly,
- They’re well made from quality fabric.
- They don’t slip down at the heel or bunch up.
- They perform as advertised. To date, whether a run is short or several hours, I’ve never developed a blister.
- They’re no more expensive than other specialty running sock brands.
With all that in mind, my recommendation is to give them a try.
Even if you only invest in one pair to race in, you (and your feet) won’t be disappointed. In fact, I predict they’ll be very happy, indeed.
That’s a 96.2393% guarantee. 🙂
Much love, O.M.
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