11/21/2022

Developed with ski pros: Highly functional ski sock with blister protection from Lé Bent

Winner ISPO Award 2022: LÉ BENT Cody Towsend & Elyse Saugstad Pro Series Zero Cushion Snow Sock

Australian sock specialist Lé Bent has collaborated with US professional skiers Cody Townsend and Elyse Saugstad, the power couple of the ski industry, to develop a sock that is particularly breathable, protects against blisters and the ultimate touring sock.

Many a skier knows the problem: the snow conditions are perfect and the day is still long, but the feet don't want to go on. Often this is because the socks don't fit properly or the boots - or simply both together.

Focus on temperature regulation

Australian brand Lé Bent has teamed up with ski pros Cody Towsend and Elyse Saugstad to develop an ultra-lightweight sock that is designed to do one thing above all: be highly functional. The sock is made of merino wool and bamboo fibers. Both materials together not only provide ultimate softness on the skin and best comfort. The high wool content also ensures an antibacterial effect and prevents the development of unpleasant odors.

Image credit: LÉ BENT, Bjarne The Fifty

In addition, the key innovation is exceptional breathability and important temperature regulation. This is made possible by the integration of large mesh inserts on the upper foot and under the arch.

Protection against blisters

In addition, Lé Bent wants to counteract the formation of blisters on the heels. To this end, the company has equipped the heels of the socks and the inside of the upper welt with innovative silicone grips. These adhere to the inner lining of the boots and thus prevent the sock from slipping back and forth or being pulled down, which is usually the cause of blisters. Rounding out the cohesive concept is a semi-compression fit on the leg.

Image credit: LÉ BENT

Collaboration with Cody Townsend & Elyse Saugstad

The sock was developed together with US big mountain and backcountry skier Cody Townsend and his long-time partner, US professional freeskier Elyse Saugstad, each as a men's and women's variant.

The socks will be on the market in fall 2023. They are ideal for skiing, ski touring and backcountry skiing.

This convinced the jury:

  • Mesh panels for greater temperature regulation
  • Silicone strips to prevent slipping
  • Moisture regulating & breathable
  • Quick drying & antibacterial 
  • Light weight
  • Light compression
  • Heat regulating

Statement from Lé Bent:

"We’re stoked to receive this award, it’s a great achievement for Le Bent. Being able to work closely with the world’s elite athletes to develop and craft products for a specific need, not only benefits the athletes at the highest level, but is able to enhance the experience of the everyday user. " Simon Blondel, Mitbegründer Lé Bent

What the jury says:

"It's hard to evolve a product like a sock, but Lé Bent has done it! The silicone grips, mesh inserts and comfortable softness really won us over." Jury ISPO Award
Author:
Dr. Regina Henkel