The Alpinestars ZX Evo V4 Socks, SKU ALS470-4323, are FIA 8856-2018 certified racing socks from the ZX Evo range, sitting above the entry-level Race V4 in Alpinestars’ competition underwear lineup. The ZX Evo line was developed with endurance and professional circuit racing in mind, where driver fatigue over multiple hours of seat time is a performance factor rather than just a comfort consideration.
The defining feature is a compression-fit construction that uses elastic zones to apply measured pressure to the lower leg and foot, supporting the muscles and tendons through their working range. This promotes blood return from the feet, reduces the pooling and swelling that can develop over a long stint, and decreases the fatigue that builds in the lower leg after sustained pedal use. Aramidic fibre provides the flame and heat resistance required for FIA 8856-2018 approval, and Elastane is woven through the blend to allow the compression to work without the sock digging in at the calf.
The ZX Evo V4 comes in black or white in the same four size bands as the Race V4, covering UK 5 through 12 (EU 38 through 47). At £39, it costs £13 more than the Race V4. For sprint racing where sessions rarely exceed 40 minutes, the Race V4 is adequate. For endurance events, long qualifying sessions, or any driver who experiences foot fatigue during normal race distances, the compression construction of the ZX Evo V4 makes the price difference worth considering. We hold this in our Nottingham warehouse; the typical lead time is 2 to 3 working days across most sizes.
Have you written anything about this exact product?
Yes, we have covered this exact product: Alpinestars Radar V2 Shoes And ZX Evo V3 Balaclava: Same Approval, Different Jobs. That is first-hand coverage from our own builds and showroom, not brochure copy.
Do I actually need FIA underwear?
If your championship requires it, this is the layer scrutineers ask about, and it is strongly recommended under any suit regardless. These socks are homologated to FIA 8856-2000, the previous FIA standard. Many championships still accept it, but check your regulations before buying for competition. Our guide on whether fireproof underwear is mandatory covers the rules championship by championship.
What size should I go for?
Sizes run from S (UK 5-6 | EU 38-40) to XL (UK 11-12 | EU 46-47). Underwear layers should sit close to the skin without pinching, as loose fabric wrinkles under the suit and gets uncomfortable fast. Between sizes, take the smaller one for a base layer.
How do I wash it?
Underwear layers are the one bit of racewear you should wash after every use: cool and gentle, no bleach or fabric softener, air dry. That keeps the suit itself needing far fewer washes. Full routine in our racewear care guide.
At GSM Performance, our priority is to maintain the utmost hygiene and quality standards for the benefit of our customers. To that end, we have instituted a policy that all purchases of long johns, balaclavas, tops, and underwear are final and non-returnable. This policy is necessary due to the personal nature of these items, which are worn in close contact with the body. This protocol is intended to guarantee the health and safety of all our customers.
This policy adheres to the best industry practices and safeguards both our customers and our staff. It's important to clarify that this policy does not affect your statutory rights as a consumer. This policy does not apply if you receive damaged or defective products. In such cases, our customer service team is available to promptly address your concerns and arrange a replacement or refund. We greatly appreciate your understanding and adherence to our hygiene policy and thank you for your continued confidence in GSM Performance. For further information please see our terms and conditions which are agreed on checkout.