Asics Trail Shield Quarter Review

by Dan Brosious · Published November 24, 2013 , 4:58 pm · Updated January 3, 2020 , 7:09 am

As shoes have evolved since the 1950s, socks have generally been an afterthought. Over the last few years; however, technology in socks has started garnering the same attention (and marketing potential) as shoes. Asics is no exception, and I am happy to report on the Asics Trail Shield Quarter, which is loaded with features (yes, I understand that I just said a sock is loaded with features).

The first item to note is that this is definitely a trail sock. On road or gravel, I prefer a thin low-cut sock with just enough room in the heel to keep my Achilles from rubbing against my shoe. On the trail it is a different story. I look for a slightly thicker sock that goes above the ankle to keeps out debris. The Asics Trail Shield Quarter was built with both my love for minimalism and need for cushioning in mind. The lightweight sock has extra cushioning underfoot, which anyone going on a hike/trail run over an hour will appreciate. This left my heels feeling great after a rapid 2,000 foot descent on rocky terrain.

Asics Trail Shield Quarter Fabric

The Asics Trail Shield Quarter utilizes merino wool, which helps with temperature regulation and has natural moisture wicking properties, while staying comfortable. The fabric is 43% nylon, 27% acrylic, 27% merino wool, 2% spandex, and 1% polypropylene.

Other Features

Insect Repellant: Asics has somehow managed to apply a nontoxic insect repellant to the sock, which lasts up to 50 washes. The repellant claims to keep away biting insects such as mosquitoes and fleas. As someone who grew up on the east coast, this is an amazing feature. Unfortunately, I have worn these socks through the fall in Colorado, which is not exactly bug season, so I cannot provide much feedback on the effectiveness of the repellant.

The Trail Shield Quarter has anatomically correct right and left foot construction and arch support for a better fit. As someone with high arches, I was a fan of the snugness in the arch; however, the left and right foot construction left me a bit wary, as the sock bunched slightly in my small toe. I tested a men’s large (for sizes 9.5-11.5), so the issue may have been that I wear a size 9.5. If you fall toward the low end of the sizing chart, I would recommend going down a size.

The sock also features seamless toe construction, anti-odor properties, lace pad cushioning, and anti-slip silicone underfoot. The silicone was my least favorite part of the sock. Even though it served its intended purpose, it was noticeable during trail runs and I would prefer that future versions of this sock exclude the silicone.

Overall

In summary, I would recommend using the Asics Trail Shield Quarter on rugged terrain, but believe that it is too much sock for a road runner or someone who prefers a minimalist design.