In 2016, Nike finally released an answer to the rise of Trusox as a highly regarded grip socks brand with their NikeGrip socks. According to design director Tim Clark, the ultimate goal of NikeGrip is to eliminate slippage in both sock-to-boot and foot-to-sock, providing the perfect grip inside out. In the same way that some Nike boots have been inspired by nature, NikeGrip gets its inspiration from the wildlife, specifically the gecko and how the tiny hairs on its tread-like sole enable it to climb vertical surfaces. I was looking forward to its launch and see how Nike would deliver their own interpretation of what a grip sock is (I reckon pride was at stake and that they won’t just copy what Trusox had done). I was left wanting for more though.
Let me describe to you first the composition of NikeGrip socks. For its grip technology, NikeGrip utilizes ultrafine polyester fibres covering the entire heel. The fibres extend to the rest of the sole in a tread-like manner to mimic the ribbed sole of a gecko. Grip is achieved as the fibres carry more twistings than the regular sock textiles. NikeGrip also utilizes multizonal cushioning with the purpose of alleviating cleat pressure.
The extra fabric has been dialled down around the heel for a more precise heel-lock system and the top has an arch compression system, both of which increases snug. Premium cotton makes up the overall material of the sock to deliver a pleasant skin contact sensation plus a decent amount of stretch for fit.
What We Think about NikeGrip Socks
Let me just put it out there and say that it’s definitely not the grippiest socks out there, and I just find the name quite ironic given that grip is not what would drive the sales of these socks. I have tested out old and new brands and I can certainly say that there are a lot of options out there if you intend to buy a pair of grip socks for what they are supposed to do. While the concept of the Gecko is interesting (and to some extent works with Nike boot insoles), at the end of the day, I find it more as a marketing feature above all else given NikeGrip socks’ shortfall in grip levels. There is one thing though that I will give it props though when it comes to grip: it does have a bit more traction once the cotton gets wet.
Where NikeGrip socks really live up to Nike’s reputation as a premium sports brand is the material and fit. I think the cotton used is one, if not the nicest material you’ll ever find in a pair of socks in general. I find that the additional padding in key areas really enhances the overall comfort, and they are already comfortable in the first place because of how pleasant the material itself is on feet. I would also grade the compression levels as top notch. It’s not something I would consider too restrictive, and I would judge it further as sufficient enough to be truly adaptive and form-fitting to anyone’s foot shape. In the end, I think NikeGrip socks can serve as a threshold to surpass in terms of balancing grip, fit and comfort.
