When it comes to running socks, I’m never sure how much of an effect they really have on your performance - surely whatever material lays between your skin and your running shoe can’t shave minutes off your personal best? We will be taking a look at the Falke 4 Grip to find out.

Firstly, let’s see what makes these different from my usual running socks (100% cotton Harry Potter ankle socks). Well, the first noticeable feature is that they are covered silicone dots both outside and inside, to optimise your grip inside your shoe and allow you to turn corners faster and easier. Secondly, the socks can basically stand up by themselves - this is due to a compression zone in the ankle area intended for reducing misalignments and the risk of sprains. They also have a moisture-regulating, 3-layered fabric structure to help keep your feet cool and dry, and their ergonomic fit and patented toe box claims to reduce pressure marks and blisters.

So how did they perform? Well, on an entertainment level my partner found it pretty funny watching me trying to get into them; due to the compression around the ankle it became quite the battle just to get my foot in. Whilst out running, if I am totally honest I found the silicone dots a constant distraction - it was like having a label stuck to the bottom of my foot the entire time, and I found they did nothing to help my cornering.

However, the compression around the ankles provided a little extra support on tight corners - something I am particularly bad at when it comes to running at any kind of pace. When it came to taking them off again, however, it was the same ridiculous performance, to the point that I actually enlisted the help of my partner to yank them off.

I was left feeling rather confused about the 4 Grip; on the one hand the compression supported my ankle and the fabric structure appeared to keep me cool and dry, but the silicone was simply annoying at best and getting into the socks was such a battle I don’t think I would bother with them for anything less than 10 miles.

So, would I spend £32 for these socks? Certainly not. There are some nice elements but I am afraid I couldn’t get past the silicone dots (or that price tag). RRP £32

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1.5 out for 5

Pros

Ankle compression

Moisture-regulating, 3-layered fabric structure

Ergonomic fit

Cons

Silicone pads inside and out are annoying

Over priced

Difficult to put on and take off