Gordini Lavacross Socks
By Jon Sharp

When I was just a cycling novice—unlike now, when I only ride like one—there were many cycling accessories I felt were unnecessary. For one, I really didn’t think there was any benefit to a cycling jersey. Another was cycling-specific socks. What’s wrong with white cotton crew socks? I remember vividly once when I was in a shoe store buying a pair of hiking boots. The sales person recommended I get socks with my boots and suggested anything that wasn’t 100% cotton. In fact, he went so far as to laud the benefits of polyester. Polyester?! Like the leisure suits?

Times have changed and much of what I wear has nylon and polyester. When I get on my bike, there is nary a cotton thread to be found. Socks are among the non-cotton items I own and use. And, as with the first time I wore a real cycling jersey instead of a cotton t-shirt, the first time I wore cycling socks on a ride, I swore I’d never go back.

The Lavacross is a short crew sock by Gordini. They are made of a natural and synthetic mix called Lavawool. These are definitely a technical sock, with varying degrees of thickness in just the right places. Unlike some polyester socks, these don’t have the hard face to them, but are fleecy on the inside. In fact, these are some of the softest socks I have worn. As in other wool, or part-wool products, the Lavacross is good at temperature regulation. They wick moisture very well to keep my feet cool and dry, but also insulate well on cooler days.

Initially, I was quite worried about the long-term durability of these socks. When I first put them on, they seemed to be shedding their wool. Also, being as soft as they are, I think that they just don’t seem durable. However, after wearing them for a few months, there doesn’t appear to be any signs of immediate wear. I cannot, however, vouch for whether or not they’d last years.

Summary: $13 buys you a technical sock that is both comfortable, and thermal-regulating (in moderate conditions). I found them comfortable both on the bike, and while hiking or jogging. They are a do-anything sock that is at home most anywhere. When you first get them, however, don’t be frightened by some shedding. It appears to just be part of the breaking in process. Although you can by a 12-pack of white cotton tube socks for the price of one pair of these, once you use them, you’ll understand, appreciate, and long for the difference.

Jon Sharp is a contributing editor for GearReview.com who wanted to somehow work the phrase "sock it to me" into the review but couldn't.

For more information, contact:
Gordini
info@gordini.com