Even socks play a role in keeping you cool, particularly on really hot rides.

Those best suited to the warmest weather will be made from a lightweight fabric, often with a mesh-like structure to wick sweat away from your feet, which, after all, will be doing a lot of work on a long summer sportive.

Shutt Velo Rapide’s CoolMax socks are made from a fabric of the same name which is very breathable.

Oversocks in summer may seem something of a misnomer but on really wet rides, when there’s a ton of dirt and dust ready to be kicked up from the road, they will help protect your glistening shoes, while also providing a barrier between the falling rain and your feet.