Aero Sock Testing
When it comes to $ per Watt saved, Aero Socks are THE most cost effective performance upgrade you can make in the whole of cycling. The drag savings are equivelant to a top of the line aero wheel set forf less than 1% of the cost.
In 2017 with the launch of our first Aero Socks we changed the game. Since then, out socks have been adopted by World Tour Teams, World and Olympic Champions. Now in 2024 we bring you not one but two new versions of our aero socks.
In this post, we’ll share the insights from our latest round of wind tunnel testing, where we compared our current Aero Socks to two new prototypes: the One Aero Socks (single layer aero technology) and the Neo Aero Socks (double layer aero technology).
The Test Protocol: Precision and Consistency
Testing was conducted in the Silverstone Sports Engineering Hub Wind Tunnel. Both One and Neo Aero socks were compared to our current Aero Socks as a baseline. For these tests, we wanted to ensure the most accurate and repeatable results possible. We conducted the tests using a rider pedalling at a constant cadence of 90 rpm, with a static riding position to eliminate any variables other than the socks themselves. The testing was run at speeds ranging from 25 kph to 50 kph in increments of 5kph to capture the majority of speeds seen in real-world cycling conditions.
Comparative Test Data
Here’s how the different socks performed in the wind tunnel:
| Product Name | Speed (Kph) | 25 | 30 | 35 | 40 | 45 | 50 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aero Socks (2024) | 76.71 | 127.6 | 196.42 | 288.19 | 400.58 | 535.42 | |
| One Aero Socks | 74.59 | 122.54 | 191.86 | 279.76 | 390.13 | 532.24 | |
| Neo Aero Socks | 75.06 | 122.42 | 190.74 | 277.98 | 388.47 | 529.11 |
Do Aero Socks Save Watts?
Yes, at every speed we tested, we found significant saving
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The One Aero Socks (single layer) consistently showed lower power requirements across all speeds compared to our current socks. For instance, at 45 kph, the One Aero Socks required 10.45 Watts less power, which is a substantial saving in a competitive setting.
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The Neo Aero Socks (double layer) performed even better, requiring the least power at all tested speeds. At 45 kph, these socks saved 12.11 Watts compared to the current Aero Socks.
Real World Savings
Over a flat 10-mile time trial at 45 kph, the difference in aerodynamic efficiency between our socks becomes even clearer.
One Aero Socks (Prototype): These would save you 11.29 seconds compared to our current Aero Socks over the course of a 10-mile TT. This means a rider in the current socks would be approximately 141.18 meters (463.12 ft) behind you by the time you cross the finish line.
Neo Aero Socks (Prototype Double Layer): Offering even greater aerodynamic savings, the Neo Aero Socks would save you 13.11 seconds. A rider in the current socks would trail by 163.84 meters (537.26 ft) when you finish.
These significant time and distance savings highlight the benefits of upgrading to our new sock designs, especially in competitive time trials where every second counts.
Why Upgrade to Our New Aero Socks?
Our wind tunnel testing demonstrates that both the One Aero Socks and the Neo Aero Socks offer clear advantages over our current Aero Socks. The One Aero Socks are perfect for riders who want a simple, high-performance upgrade, while the Neo Aero Socks are ideal for those who demand the absolute best in aerodynamic efficiency.
With the development of these new socks, we’re proud to continue our tradition of innovation, offering products that help you achieve your best possible performance. Whether you’re racing against the clock or the peloton, the drag savings these socks provide will provide you with an unfair adavntage agains the rest of the field.
FAQs
How much power do the new aero socks save?
At 45 kph, the One Aero Socks saved 10.45W and the Neo Aero Socks saved 12.11W compared to Rule 28's 2024 Aero Socks, based on wind tunnel testing at Silverstone Sports Engineering Hub.
What's the difference between the One and Neo Aero Socks?
The One Aero Socks use single-layer aero technology, while the Neo Aero Socks use a double-layer construction. The Neo Aero Socks required the least power of the three socks tested at every speed, while the One Aero Socks offer a simpler upgrade over the current socks.
How much time would the new aero socks save in a race?
Over a flat 10-mile time trial at 45 kph, the One Aero Socks would save 11.29 seconds and the Neo Aero Socks would save 13.11 seconds compared to the current Aero Socks — equivalent to finishing roughly 141m and 164m ahead respectively.
Are aero socks a cost-effective performance upgrade?
Yes. Rule 28 states that, on a cost-per-watt-saved basis, aero socks are among the most cost-effective upgrades in cycling, with drag savings comparable to a top-of-the-line aero wheelset for a fraction of the cost.
How were the new aero socks tested?
They were tested in the Silverstone Sports Engineering Hub Wind Tunnel on a rider pedalling at a constant cadence of 90 rpm in a static riding position, at speeds from 25–50 kph in 5 kph increments, comparing the One and Neo Aero Socks against the current Aero Socks as a baseline.
Independent testing and press coverage
Rule 28 aero socks have also been tested and reported on by third parties. Results differ between tests, so each is linked in full.
- Cyclingnews, 5 October 2026: One Aero Sock recorded the lowest drag of the socks tested at 45 km/h. The author notes the margins between the leading socks were small.
- Cyclingnews, 30 June 2025: Wind tunnel test of 16 pairs of aero socks at the Silverstone Sports Engineering Hub. One Aero Sock placed in the middle of the field, within the stated margin of error of its neighbours.
- BikeRadar, 20 May 2020: Early coverage of Rule 28 aero socks, noting the published test data and its limits.
- Dylan Johnson, YouTube: Wind tunnel test reporting a 4.8 W saving for Rule 28 aero socks versus standard cycling socks. Dylan Johnson is a Rule 28 sponsored athlete.
