“The socks hold up without them just fine,” he says.

Ainsleigh cuts off the elastic band at the top of the sock, because it’s constrictive and limits circulation. The socks are a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex. “These American-made work socks are simply astounding for the way they feel on my feet, especially when I’m running long distances,” Ainsleigh says. This year, the 71-year-old hopes to secure his 23rd Western States finish, and he’ll be running in Fruit of the Loom crew-cut work socks-which he also wears for gardening, landscaping, and maintaining local trails. In 1974, Gordy Ainsleigh, a chiropractor from Auburn, Colorado, became the first person to run it on foot, finishing just 18 minutes under the 24-hour time limit and thus founding the iconic event. Western States evolved from a 100-mile horsepacking race known as the Tevis Cup. Fruit of the Loom Heavy Duty Reinforced Crew Socks ($30 for 10 pairs) (Courtesy Fruit of the Loom) Gordy Ainsleigh These are the socks that eight Western States runners will put their faith in this weekend. Of course, it also requires high-functioning gear-like, you know, good socks. This weekend, nearly 400 runners will set off from Squaw Valley, California, and head west along the crest of the Sierra Nevada, through exposed high-alpine terrain, rambling streams, and dense forest.Ī race like Western States demands the highest level of commitment, physical fitness, and mental preparation. The Western States Endurance Run is the world’s oldest 100-mile race.

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