Thinking about trying some Swiftwick socks which I’ve heard/read nothing but good things. The question is, which version? There seem to be several options which all seem appealing. These would be primarily for running. I understand there’s an element of YMMV, but any thoughts would be appreciated. Also, I’m only interested in Swiftwicks. I’m not interested in trying x,y,z brand. Thank you.
I love the Vibe zero for running. Great socks.
I go for the Aspire or the Vibe. The Aspire are thinner. I like the Zero for running unless you like the compression socks, then the 12s. 4s are great for cycling.
I’ve been at Swiftwick for 4 years now so I’ve certainly had the chance to wear everything that we offer. For running, I prefer the Aspire and Vibe for running in the warmer months, Pursuit (Merino Wool) for the colder months, and the Pulse (super thin) for racing. I like the lower cuts (ZERO and ONE) for everyday running, and then the Aspire TWELVE, our full compression socks, for any type of workout, long run, or longer race.
Aspire- thinner, more compression- my go to running socks
Vibe- Slightly more cush in the footbed, a tad less compression, still quite thin
Pursuit- Wool, tad thicker, similar compression to the Vibe
Sustain- Similar to Vibe compression, more padding in footbed and heal, synthetic
Pulse- Super, super thin, developed for racing flats and spikes, Aspire-like compression
I wish I knew the model names, but I have 3 pairs and they are my favorites. The wool ones seem to be a little warmer and the improved wicking makes tem my favorite for longer runs. The thinner ones (pulse?) with minimal padding I use to faster runs and for 70.3 races. The material blend made them very quick to put on in transition with just a little extra padding for comfort. Minimal blisters. The compression (probably sustain, but might be aspire) are a good all around option.
I suggest trying one of each. They all have benefits for different uses, weather, etc.
FWIM - I also use Smart Wool, Thorlos and a couple misc. running socks and like SW best. I don’t use calf compression socks or any calf compression gear other than tights in colder weather.
I wish I knew the model names, but I have 3 pairs and they are my favorites. The wool ones seem to be a little warmer and the improved wicking makes tem my favorite for longer runs. The thinner ones (pulse?) with minimal padding I use to faster runs and for 70.3 races. The material blend made them very quick to put on in transition with just a little extra padding for comfort. Minimal blisters. The compression (probably sustain, but might be aspire) are a good all around option.
I suggest trying one of each. They all have benefits for different uses, weather, etc.
FWIM - I also use Smart Wool, Thorlos and a couple misc. running socks and like SW best. I don’t use calf compression socks or any calf compression gear other than tights in colder weather.
Easiest way to tell what model they are is to look at the size on the bottom. Color indicates model.
Red-Aspire
Yellow- Pulse
Green-Pursuit
White or Black- Performance
Tan/Khaki- Sustain
Vibe (colorful line)- Black
+1
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I use the aspire zero for running and the 4 for cycling.
Best sock i’ve ever worn. Period!
thanks! you’re getting a new customer today!
I use the vibe and sustain zero socks for running under most conditions. Light weight and very comfortable - have not had issues with blisters or hot spots with either style. If its cold or wet I switch to the pursuit socks - I like the wool under those conditions. I use the zeros for running because my Achilles is pretty sensitive for higher socks with running. But for cycling I prefer the ones for low socks.
The performance style doesn’t fit my foot as well and I like the extra cushion that the aspire lacks. I do wear the aspire 12s for work and travel.