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NZ Mountain Biker - Jun 04
Ground Effect is a Christchurch based clothing company that should be familiar to most Kiwi Mountain Bikers. If you don't already use their gear then you probably know someone that does...
We've been riding in the Ankle Biter socks for a good few months now... Actually if you want to get technical they're made from Coolmax polyester designed to wick sweat and keep feet comfy. They're Ground Effect's summer socks as they also offer winter and thermal socks.
When it comes to socks Nike sports socks have often been the choice around here which seem fine although they always seem to end up with holes on the anklebone where they snag on pedals. But as they say " the best you know is the best you've tried". Slipping into the Ankle Biters was a pleasure - they're plush! Extra padding can be found across the toes and heel, which does improve comfort when riding. They also proved very good at wicking sweat compared to the Nike's, which often ended up saturated with sweat. The other bonus with these socks is that you can wear them even when you're not riding. There's something very cool about always being in a piece of cycling kit.
Note: Ground Effect has just released an updated version of the Ankle Biter that are slightly thinner but now feature merino wool and increased elastic support.
Merino/Nylon
Toasty Merino wool knitted sock with nylon plated to the outside
for durability. Blended with elastic for stretch.
> Composition: 66% Merino; 23% nylon; 11% elastic
Sizing
Check out the chart to suss out where you fit. It's no hassle
to swap it, if your first choice is not the best fit.
| Socks | |||
|---|---|---|---|
|
S |
M |
L |
|
|
Men's |
6 - 7 1/2 |
8 - 9 1/2 |
10 - 11 1/2 |
|
Women's |
7 1/2 - 9 |
9 1/2 - 11 |
- |
|
European |
39 - 41 |
41 - 44 |
44 - 46 |
Snappy socks knitted from lightweight merino wool to deal with sweaty feet in the heart of summer and deliver you from the jaws of canine predators. X-rated elastic arch prevents slippage while the cushioned sole and reinforced cleat-pad keep your feet purring.
> Made by us in New Zealand.
> The Ankle Biters are a lightweight summer sock constructed from a blend of Merino wool and nylon to keep your feet cool in sticky situations.The Toe Rags are constructed in much the same way as the Ankle Biters, but are more of a hot weather option, thinner with heel and toe padding and below-the-ankle styling.
> The Zig Zags are primarily for winter riding. Merino wool on the inside keeps your toes toasty while the hard wearing nylon outer keeps them looking good.
> The Lucifers are a thermal sock with a windproof front - providing maximum warmth in cold conditions.
Washing Instructions?
> All Ground Effect clothing enjoys a warm machine wash. Try to avoid cold-water detergents and those with bleach. The cold-water varieties have little enzymes that are super-charged to brave the cold but can damage technical fabrics and cause skin irritation. And bleach rots natural fibres like cotton, strips the dye and can also cause irritation. As a rule of thumb, product that is easy on the planet is also easy on your body. Plant based soaps like 'Ecover' or specific sport wash formula are recommended.
> Hand washing is sometimes the only option on tour, but a washing machine rinses more thoroughly and is preferable if you have the choice.
> Drying on the line or hanging on the bedpost is generally preferable to using a dryer. Most Ground Effect gear dries super-fast anyway. High heat can damage some fabrics so if you must take your threads for a spin set the device on 'medium' or 'warm' rather than hot.