The sock-like design intrigued me to put these to the test, and I was impressed by their performance across various terrains, from tarmac to beaches and coastal trails. With no laces, the Skinners sock is easy to slip on and start running.
Upon first trying on the shoes, they felt incredibly comfortable and much lighter than other minimalist shoes on the market. I tested them out on a one-hour run on various terrains, including tarmac, grass, beach, and coastal trails. Despite the shoe’s thinness, it handled the harder surfaces very well, and I felt confident running on pavements and roads.
The Skinners sock performed exceptionally well on the beach, adapting easily to the sand’s contours and providing a comfortable running experience. While water did get into the shoe during the run through shallow seawater, the knit-like build quickly dried out, and I experienced no discomfort.
The rubber-like outer sole of the Skinners sock provides adequate protection on every terrain, and there were no instances where I felt a rock or twig breaking through. The sock-like build of the shoe does cause minor issues on steep terrain as the front of the shoe shifts slightly, making it feel like you’re losing grip and losing balance.
Despite the super minimal build, the Skinners sock provides plenty of protection and remains comfortable even during long-distance runs. I would highly recommend these shoes for everyday use, such as running errands or for use during exercise, including running, hiking, and cycling.
If you’re considering buying these shoes for minimalist running, it’s essential to make a gradual switch and start with shorter distances and softer surfaces, as the Skinners sock shoes do not offer any cushioning or assistance. These shoes force all the work into your feet and legs, requiring time for your muscles and tendons to adjust.
The Skinners sock shoes are designed to be put on just like any other sock and fit comfortably like quality socks. They grip smooth surfaces such as hardwood floors great, but don’t offer much support, which is common for minimalist footwear. The sock-like material feels comfortable, and the polymer sole has 2mm of protection, making them lightweight at just 2.8 ounces. They are packable for travel and also provide warmth.
When walking on concrete with the Skinners, I could feel the ground beneath my feet, but they did not transmit heat. On dirt and sand terrains, the Skinners performed exceptionally well, adapting easily to the surface’s contours. However, on sand with rocks, I did experience some discomfort, but they still performed reasonably well. On hard surfaces with rocks, I could feel the rocks poking the bottom of my feet, indicating that the Skinners had reached their limit of usefulness.
In conclusion, the Skinners sock is a unique and comfortable shoe that is ideal for those who enjoy minimalist running experiences. The shoe is durable, lightweight, and flexible, adapting easily to various terrains. However, the sock-like design does mean debris can get into the shoe, so wearing socks is recommended. For those new to minimalist running, it’s advised to start with shorter distances and softer surfaces to allow for muscle adaptation. The Skinners sock offers a great minimalist running option at an affordable price point. Skinners socks are great for various outdoor pursuits such as traveling, walking, running, hiking, camping, cycling, and even for use in the gym. They offer a unique and comfortable running experience at an affordable price, making them an excellent choice for those looking for a minimalist shoe that will take their running to the next level.