Published February 22, 2019 11:56PM
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First Look: Waterproof Stormsock by Bridgedale
Bridgedale Lightweight Ankle Stormsock
Outer: 95% Nylon/Polyamide, 5% LYCRA/Elastane
Inner: 45% Merino Wool, 45% Polyester, 7.5% Nylon/Polyamide, 2.5% LYCRA/Elastane
Membrane: 100% PU
Price: $45.00
Best Features: Waterproof, breathable, anti-bacterial/anti-odor Merino wool, durable, lightweight.
Room for Improvement: Stiff, bulky in shoe, not form fitting to the foot, minimal insulation.
The Bridgedale Lighweight Ankle Stormsock is ideal for outdoor activities in which breathability is necessary and minimal insulation is required. The waterproof, windproof and breathability features of the Stormsock make it ideal for endurance days when you are running or hiking on wet ground or traversing through low stream crossings. The durable outer nylon layer combined with the inner Merino wool layer manages moisture while preventing unwanted odors and bacteria, keeping the feet warm and dry.
Due to their length, the Ankle Stormsock may ingress water after extended time in wet weather or when submerging the feet in water greater than ankle depth. If this is a concern, check out the boot length version. Additionally, these lighter weight socks have minimal insulation and therefore should be used on warmer days. Bridgedale also carries a variety of socks that are more insulated and longer in length for activities in which warmth is the main concern.
The Stormsock has an elasticated arch and flat toe seam that reduces bunching of the sock and insures they remain in place without causing any irritation of the foot. However, due to their many layers and high level of durability the Stormsock felt slightly bulky in my shoe and did not form to the foot as much as I would prefer. This is a small price to pay though, for dry, warm, odorless feet!
—Tara Richardson has placed first in the 2018 Collegiate Peaks 25 miler, 2018 Under Armour Mountain Running Series 50K on Copper Mountain, Colorado, 2018 GORE-TEX Grand Traverse Mountain Run and 2018 Under Armour Mountain Running Series 50K in Bend, Oregon. She was runner up in the USATF trail marathon championships and recently qualified for 2020 Olympic Marathon trials. She runs about 70 miles per week. The more uphill the better, she says!