DryMax Running Mini Crew Review

This 100% synthetic running sock is super durable and amazing at wicking away water. It still stands out for its ability to repel water and dry quickly. In all other aspects, it's performance is sub-par.

Performance Comparison

Comfort

While we would certainly not go so far as to call these socks uncomfortable, we have to concede that they are the least comfortable socks in this review. This started with the choice of olefin fibers in their blend. In a classic tradeoff situation, these fibers granted this sock unparalleled wicking ability, but have the least soft and cozy feel against the skin. Wool and polyester felt better to wear. We also have complaints about the toe seams.

This is a potential problem area on all socks because the extra stitching needed to close the seam can lead to abrasion and rubbing against the tops of the toes. These socks ended with large bumps of fabrics and creases at the end of each seam, creating definite pressure and abrasion points against the outsides and tops of the big toes and pinky toes on each foot. Their medium+ density also tended to make our foot feel hot more often than not.

This sock is designed to be medium+ density thickness, with added padding. There is no doubt that it is a high volume sock. While there is padding in all the areas that it is needed, including under the forefoot, on the sides of the forefoot and toes, over the toes, and in the heel, it is also padded all the way through the arch and on the sides of the entire foot.

The extra padding in the arch and sides of the foot seems unnecessary and probably contributes to the heavy and hot feeling of the sock. The padding in the arch, in particular, seems to compromise the ability of the vented arch band to work. While we like the fact that this sock has padding, we wish it was a bit more restrained in its use. Overall, comfort is not the best out there.

Fit

In general, this sock fits fairly large. The material stretches and if you're on the cusp of the sizing scheme, be sure to order smaller, not larger. The fit, in general, is not very specific. It doesn't really hug or compress the foot or arch and is more like a tube of material. As a result, because the fit is non-specific it's not our favorite and proves to rub along some of the seams.

Wicking & Breathability

Wicking ability is what DryMax has staked their reputation on, and in this case, they've nailed it. In our 15-minute on-the-foot drying test we found a few mildly damp places on the outside of the sock, but also found that the padded areas on the inside of the sock were nearly completely dry.

Not only was it the best at wicking away moisture, but also seemed to be the least absorptive. The one-hour drying test verified these findings for us, as the insides of the socks were completely dry after one hour. The outsides, on the other hand, were still a little damp, but this backs up DryMax's claim that they have layered hydrophobic fibers on the inside of the sock with moisture attracting fibers on the outside to help pull moisture outwards. We see this same trend while running. It doesn't pick up moisture easily and does a decent job of evaporating moisture from the fabric.

Slip Prevention

There is no doubt that the DryMax Running Mini Crew offers great slip protection. It easily grips inside the shoe to keep from sliding around. That said, the loose fit allowed the foot to move around within the sock a bit causing a tiny bit of slip in looser shoes.

Durability

We are impressed with the durability of this sock. After about thirty miles of wear and tear, we only noticed some minor pilling. The fibers seem to be totally bomber and intact, not showing any signs of use. Overall, this is a durable running sock.

Value

This sock is quite inexpensive. While it is certainly not as comfortable as other competitors, you really can't go wrong for the price. These socks are durable and will last for a-many a mile, providing great overall value.

Conclusion