Will Vettel blow the socks off his rivals with new... racing sock?

Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel may initiate a new fashion trend next weekend in Sochi when he sports a pair of innovative 'racing socks'.

The specially developed-product made by Puma is a one-piece, laceless boot which weighs in at just 135 grams, and which has just been homologated by the FIA.

"Auto Bild's information is that Vettel can finally use his racing sock from Russia," the German publication declared.

"We wanted to create the most minimalist solution," says Sonny Lim, Puma's Teamhead Design Motorsport Footwear.

"The idea was to make the lightest shoe, so we knitted an upper in one piece made of Nomex."

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The designers added a neoprene outsole, which is the world’s lightest and provides most grip.

The sole acts as the critical interface between a drivers and the race car, facilitating lightning-fast throttle and brake responses.

Needless to say that the footwear also needed to be comfortable and breathable. But most importantly, it needed to be fireproof.

"That was a real challenge", remembers Sonny.

Sebastian Vettel was central to the development of the new piece of racing footwear.

"The feedback of the driver is the most important part, as we want to give him what he wants. We have succeeded in that," he added.

Will it help Vettel blow his rivals' own socks off? Wait and see...

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.