The gear testing team at Spoke+Blossom has found our favorite sock this season! The Pursuit Ultralight from Swiftwick just launched August 3, 2020, and we’ve had the chance to test the lightweight technology for the past month on trails and in the office, from running and bike sessions to full days of desk time and errands.

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The lightweight, fine-gauge Merino wool has a smooth and comfortable stretch design that provides ideal moisture and sweat management. While the socks are thin and breathable, they also feature a reinforced heel and toe to maximize durability. We were told and can confirm that the Pursuit Ultralight is ideal for running, hiking, cycling, mountain biking and golf, too (we didn’t try golfing but there’s no doubt these would be great for a full 18 holes), and they also are a top-drawer choice for daily lifestyle wear.

We test a lot of socks, and quite honestly it can be hard to see how much more the design and technology of performance socks can be improved. The most noticeable attribute about the Pursuit Ultralight when I first tried them on is that they feel distinctly different from other socks I’m testing right now … the others are still nice and work well, but there really is something about that fine-gauge Merino wool that keeps these socks perfectly in place without hesitation — a reassuring feeling as soon as I slip them on. The fabric is soft next to skin, too, so there’s no experience of rubbing or chafing. Bye bye, blisters!

The new Ultralight line is available in all popular cuff heights: zero tab, one, four and seven (all measured in inches from the ankle). As Swiftwick puts it: “If you prefer running in zeros and biking in fours, you can do it all with Ultralight.” If you do like more cushion, Swiftwick’s original Pursuit and Pursuit Hike socks give that extra comfort.

The Swiftwick Pursuit Ultralight can be found at swiftwick.com. Pricing varies by cuff height, $16.99-$21.99.

Gear Hub: Swiftwick Pursuit Ultralight