The 2016/17 is upon us, so we thought we'd put together a little clip of our riders to get you amped. Head over to our FIND A STORE page for your nearest stockist in North America and Europe.
08.11.2016
THE LINE-UP IS STRONG!
Related Posts
08.01.2025
LÉ BENT WELCOMES NIKOLAI SCHIRMER TO THE TEAM
Nikolai Schirmer is hot property in the ski world these days. So much so, one comment on our announcement post joked that, "rumor has it, Nikolai Schirmer will hold 60-70% of all brands total freeskiing marketing budgets before the end of the year. Totally insane, but still well deserved!" Nikolai's video projects are some of the most anticipated releases of each season, raking in over a million views each, and transporting us to some ridiculously beautiful lines in his home of Northern Norway. We caught up with Nikolai amongst such lines to welcome him to the team. LB: Hey Nikolai, welcome to the Lé Bent team! How is your season going so far? Where in the world are you and how are the conditions? Man it’s been such a good start to the season! I had a round of skiing in the Alps the last weeks of November, and then it’s just been full on winter in Northern-Norway since then. We’re skiing lines that normally don’t fill in till spring. We saw you’ve been ripping around in the Cody Townsend Pro Series Snow Socks. How have you enjoyed wearing them? The socks are amazing, and for sure the best feel for my skiing I’ve had. The little rubber pieces make them stay in place, and the fit with technical stitching really delivers next level performance. I had never been in a merino wool and bamboo rayon blend before, so I was happy to discover how warm and comfortable they are. Did you ever think a sock could make such a difference to a day, week, month or season in ski boots? I didn’t believe it till I could feel it with my own two feet. A whole new world. Compared to other socks the first thing I notice is that they stay up better. The worst feeling is to have a wrinkly sock giving you shin bang, and Lé Bent really has solved that issue well. I like to go for minimal cushioning in my sock to have maximum contact with my boot, and the power delivery in these are amazing. Aside from lapping the local hills, it looks like you’ve had your hands full with your latest film project ‘SKI’? Tell us about this film. It’s the story of when I set out to make a movie about my friend who was training for what I dubbed The Greatest Ski Tour of All Time, and tried to appropriate his 'snow warrior monk' way of life to elevate my own skiing to new heights. It’s been a crazy ride making my first feature documentary, and to have it on regular cinema distribution in Norway is wild. The Tom Hanks movie is the one next to ours on the ticket page. We’ve had a few screenings internationally already ahead of the Norwegian premiere next week, and I’m happy to hear people enjoy the film so far. You’ve released some incredible films in the past as well, such as Wavy and the Endless Winter Series, which have both gotten over one million views. How does SKI compare to these? SKI is an evolution of those I’d say. Making videos and movies is a bit like writing, where you develop a style and a rhythm over time, so I think an audience that’s familiar with my previous work will recognize the vibe. But the scale of SKI is just bigger in every way. I think the budget is something like 20x what we had for Wavy. Wow, that's epic! Aside from the film premiering in January, what projects are you working on this season? I’m really excited to get back to YouTube vids this season. Making a feature documentary is a (fuck) ton of work, for a relatively small amount of video output - while YouTube is the opposite. And it’s just nice to not have to think of a grand narrative spanning many years, and focus on the here and now on the mountain. I’ll be working mostly in Norway, but I’ve planned one trip with Lucas Wachs and Sam Favret too. Also chatting with Cody (Townsend) about finally making that YouTube collaboration happen. I'm sure we're not the only people who would love to see a collab between you guys! Any long term goals for your skiing or something you’d still like to tick off? Maybe a trip to Australia to ski some ‘real mountains’ could be on the cards?... I actually spent a full year living in Australia, in Kew, Melbourne, as a kid, and never knew you even had skiing. So yeah, that’s definitely highest up on the to do list career wise. Beyond that I just want to find a little more balance. I have a habit of getting really excited about winter and ending up pretty burned out by the end of them, which is a bummer because spring is generally the best time to ski. So I’m trying to ease into this one a little more. Well Nikolai, we look forward to following along and seeing all the incredible places you end up this season and beyond! Thanks for taking the time to chat and we’re stoked to have you on the team! Bring on the good times ahead. Yew! My feet and I thank you for having me! ABOUT NIKOLAI SCHIRMER Age: 33 ● Hometown: Tromsø, Norway ● Home Resort: Kattfjordeidet ● Nationality: Norwegian ● Sponsors: Lé Bent, Black Crows, Julbo, ATK, Scarpa, Polestar, Grivel, OpenSnow and Infinitum. ● Favourite Lé Bent gear: The Cody Townsend Pro Series Snow Sock ● Follow Nikolai here: Instagram and Youtube.
Read more
29.10.2024
Watch: Cody Townsend's The FIFTY+
The Pursuit of Classics Continues. After 6 years of following, climbing and skiing 46 of the lines and mountains in the book “The Fifty Classic Ski Descents of North America”, Cody Townsend is now chasing a personally inspired and modern list of classics. Lé Bent is proud to be along for the ride once again providing Cody with his pro series snow socks, his favourite touring cap, as well as "the best base layer I've ever worn." "Using a personally created metric of characteristics like Aesthetics, Ski Quality, Climb Quality, Bragging Rights and more, each episode will venture into the mountains and come home with a decision on the question, “Is it a Classic or not?” said Cody. Shop the Cody Pro Series Snow Sock
Read more
15.10.2024
LÉ BENT WELCOMES NICK RUSSELL TO THE TEAM
Nick Russell has dedicated his life to being in the moment in the mountains. With a riding style that he describes as "a blend between low stress pow riding in the forest and intentional movement into the alpine", Nick has been on our radar for many years at Lé Bent. The sock gods saw fit to intervene and after leaving his socks at home, Nick finally dipped his toes into a borrowed pair of our Signature Merino Blend... and he couldn't go back. We caught up with Nick to welcome him to the team. LB: Hey Nick, welcome to the Lé Bent pro team!!! Thank you! I’m honored and excited to be here next to some heavy hitters on the team, not to mention to be running the best socks in the game. It sounds like we have Cody Townsend to thank for getting you in our snow socks. Is it true the first pair of Lé Bent socks you wore were a ‘rental pair’ Cody had in the back of his van? Yes, this is true. I showed up to do one of the Fifty lines with him in the Eastern Sierra and realized I forgot my socks. Thankfully the guy had an extra pair. If I remember correctly, they were his pro model socks which were perfect for a long spring day. LB: A long spring day for Nick = A sufferfest of epic proportions.. Hopefully, they were a clean pair… what did you think of them? For someone that spends 8 months non-stop in their boots, socks are perhaps one of the most important elements to my overall happiness in the mountains. Everything from the merino blend that makes sure I don’t sweat, to the fluid articulation in the ankle and up to compression in the right spots, I’m honestly blown away with the performance of these socks. And, did he ask for them back? I think he knew better than to ask for them back ;) Thankfully we were able to send you your own pairs that you could actually keep… How do you find the different cushioning options and do you have a favourite pair now? I find myself bouncing between the lightweight cushion and zero cushion options for longer warmer spring days and the slightly thicker Xavier De Le Rue Pro Series Sock for colder days. Just like how you adapt your board for current conditions, it's the same with socks. It’s amazing to wear something that clearly has had so much attention to detail go into it. After a full season of heavy duty use, I think I only circulated between 3 or 4 pairs, which says a lot about their durability. You’ve been dragged along on a lot of Cody’s Fifty lines and been a fan favourite in a bunch of episodes. It looks like you always draw the short straw and get the pure sufferfests though... How has that project been for you? For the majority of those lines we did together, there was always a caveat that likely, it was going to be one of the longest days of your life and the approach would have some level of ridiculousness to it. But at the end of the day, it all lends to the elusiveness of certain lines that always makes it worth it. In addition to riding with Cody and Bjarne, what personal projects have you been working on in the past 12 months? I’ve been working on a film with Patagonia from our expedition to Papsura, India this past spring. It’s called the “Peak of Evil.” This will be likely my proudest project to date and I’m excited to release it to the world. We’re slated to start premiering it in December and the online release will be in January 25. I was also involved in a French film project called “The Octopus”, from my time in Chamonix with Pica Herry and crew. Additionally I’m a part of a short film with Austin Sweetin coming out called “Hogs on the Horizon.” I also recently signed with United Shapes snowboards which is also really exciting. Sounds like you've had plenty on the plate. What are your goals for the coming season? A magician never reveals their secrets. Haha well we look forward to the show. What about in the longer term. What are your future goals in snowboarding and how would you describe your style of riding? To continue exploring my backyard of the Sierra Nevada and beyond, stay healthy and share the love of snowboarding with others. I’d say my riding style is a blend between low stress pow riding in the forest and intentional movement into the alpine. Well Nick, we look forward to following along and seeing all the incredible places you end up this season and beyond! Thanks for taking the time to chat and we’re stoked to have you on the team! Bring on the good times ahead. Yew! Thanks guys! Can't wait. ABOUT NICK RUSSELL Age: 36 Hometown: Truckee, Ca Home Resort: Sierra Nevada backcountry Nationality: USA Sponsors: Lé Bent, Patagonia, United Shapes, Anon Optics, Backcountry Access, Deeluxe boots, Pomoca skins, Spark bindings Favourite Lé Bent gear: Any of the light cushion snow socks! Follow Nick here: @nick_russelll
Read more
26.09.2024
Running The Pilliga Ultra Trail Race - Tom Batrouney
RUNNING TO SAVE OUR WILD PLACES Words by Tom Batrouney Photos by Calumn Hockey When was the last time you ran to SAVE THE WORLD? For me, it’s been a three-year journey to finally reach the start line of the Pilliga Ultra 50k, and I was stoked to be there this year. The Pilliga is Australia’s largest inland forest spanning over half a million hectares and the For Wild Places team host this event to encourage people to explore its rugged trails, connect with a community of fellow runners, and advocate for its protection. The local Gomeroi people, among others, have been battling against fracking in The Pilliga for years, providing clear evidence of habitat destruction, gas leaks, and groundwater contamination. Running has given me a chance to pursue a purpose beyond myself, using my body, mind, and voice for a greater good while inspiring others to safeguard our beautiful wild spaces and it was time to run! My race strategy was to start strong, find my rhythm out front, and maintain my pace to the finish. It nearly went according to plan. When the gun went off, I made the most of the first 8-10 kilometres of flat farm roads, a river crossing, and trails before tackling the first significant climb. I knew it would be tough because it always is, so I focused on the cause, the FWP team, and the significance of this race, all while pushing through the challenges with a smile. I felt great as I ran hard, especially on the flats, and at the 20km mark, everything felt right. There’s no better feeling than running hard in a race and not feeling like you’re working hard at all. At the 30km aid station, I noticed the second-place runner was only three minutes behind, but I kept my dream state alive, committing to push myself even harder over the next 15kms to increase my lead again. My lead grew over second place, and I began to imagine the finish line hug with Hilary, the CEO of For Wild Places. I wanted to express my gratitude for everything she and her team have accomplished, and I imagined that too. It was all playing out in my head, and I felt really proud of myself and like I had done it. As I approached the last 2kms which were flat, I couldn’t quite see the finish line, but I felt close. Then, I reached a gate that looked familiar from earlier on in the race, and my heart sank. I screamed at the top of my lungs until my voice gave out, and then I screamed again and again until I wasn’t making any sound. Checking my watch, I saw "off course," and for a moment, I considered giving up and sitting down before I panicked and sprinted back to where I had made my wrong turn, just 2kms from the finish. My legs felt utterly wrecked. The 4km detour not only allowed the second-place runner to take the lead but also sent my heart rate soaring and my legs into disarray. I crossed the finish line in second place, three minutes behind the first, feeling broken, bewildered, and in disbelief. I had executed the best race of my life—well, 99% of it, anyway. The Pilliga is a special place, a wild experience I want every human to feel at least once in their lives. I have spent my life outdoors running and exploring and the Pilliga has opened my eyes and shown me that there is so much more of our incredible country to explore, fall in love with and that needs us to run for it not just in it. See you at The Pilliga Ultra next year!Find out more about the work For Wild Places do and find out more about the Pilliga Ultra here.
Read more
18.07.2024
The Western Faces 50 - Rohan Kennedy's Quest To Ski Iconic Aussie Lines
Longtime Le Bent ambassador and backcountry aficionado Rohan Kennedy has been living in Jindabyne since 2007 and skiing the Australian Main Range since 2012. Now a backcountry guide for SMBC after spending 10 years in ski patrol, Rohan practically lives on the Main Range during the winter and spring months. Rohan helped guide Cody Townsend, Elyse Saugstad and the Le Bent team out along the Western Faces back in 2019 and has been inspired by Cody to complete a kind of 'Aussie Fifty Project', drawing inspiration from an incredible local book and our answer to Cody's muse, 'The Fifty Classic Ski Descents of North America.' The below was written by Rohan. THE WESTERN FACES 50 WITH ALAN ANDREWS' SKIING THE WESTERN FACES OF KOSCIUSKO By Rohan Kennedy If there’s one book that stands out as the ultimate guide to the NSW Main Range backcountry, it’s Alan Andrews’, “Skiing the Western Faces Kosciusko.” Published in 1993, this book has been described by many as the definitive guide for skiing this remarkable area, and I couldn’t agree more. Alan Andrews poured his love for the Kosciusko region into this book, combining decades of experience with a unique approach. His guide is more than just a collection of routes; it’s a blend of poems, hand-drawn maps, and detailed information covering 14 sections of the Main Range from Dead Horse Gap to Mount Tate. I first bought this book over ten years ago, and since then, it has been my source of inspiration for planning and dreaming about backcountry ski tours. The notes and photos in its pages have guided me to discover 40 ski lines, and I’ve added another 10 lines myself that represent some of the steepest challenges the range has to offer — lines that Alan himself envisioned might one day be skied. Having watched Cody Townsend's 'The Fifty' series and having had the pleasure of guiding him while he was here in Australia, I was inspired to undertake a similar project in our own mountains, to shine a light onto the great skiing we have here and bring this personal challenge to life. With snow falling and more in the forecast, I’m excited to continue this journey and see if I can complete my list of 50 lines. I’ll be sharing updates and stories from the slopes along the way as I work towards my goal. View of Watsons Crags South Face from Sentinel Summit. Below is the full list with names of lines taken from the book or names of lines that I have heard most about from the area. 1. Strzelecki Creek2. Little Austria3. Avalanche Alley4. Townsend West Spur5. Anderson Crags6. Friars Alp 7. Watson Creek8. Siren Song Creek9. Kosciuszko 10. South Rams Head area 11. Cleft Rock Run12. Golden Gully13. The Spur 14. The Couloir15. The Corrie16. Twin Humps17. Abbotts18. Byatts Camp19. Muellers Peak20. The Racecourse 21. Ians Gully22. The Alice Rawson23. Twynam North Spur24. Triple A25. The Scimitar26. Goes Forever27. The Awesome Spur28. Walters Gully29. Ant Ridge.30. Avalanche Gully 31. Avalanche Face32. Tenison Woods North Face33. Carruthers West Spur34. Middle Gully35. Erics Funnel36. Carruthers Variant37. Sentinel SE Face38. Sentinel SW Face39. Sentinel N Face40. Sunshine Chutes 41. Watsons Crags North Face42. Dog Leg43. Waterfall44. Crags Hidden Line45. Club Lake46. Blue Lake47. Twin Valleys48. Tate E Face49. 11 Highest Peaks Traverse50. Jagungal You can follow Rohan Kennedy on Instagram for updates on the project as he hopes to tick off a number of lines each week!
Read more
14.06.2024
Watch: Shinrin-Yoku — Forest Bathing Snowboard Edit By Toby Nagorcka
Local Hotham rider and Lé Bent ambassador Toby Nagorcka spent an enviable month in Japan earlier this year. He chased deep powder and dodged a pesky El Nino, and while not getting Japan at its powdery best, at its worst, it's still more than enough to make you want to book a plane ticket for next season... Watch the edit and read what Toby had say about the trip — a right of passage for Aussie snowboarders and skiers. "It was after dark, the snow was dumping and not a westerner in sight; or anyone for that matter. We knocked on the door of what looked to be a deserted chalet. A small, elderly Japanese lady greeted us with a smile and a pair of wabaki and we knew we had found our accommodation. Without a word of English spoken, she welcomed us inside and sat us down to dinner. It is not often that you receive a meal and don’t recognise anything. Even less often that the meal is looking back at you. Probably a bad time to Google translate that we were vegetarian (we let it slide for this trip).These were the experiences that my partner and I were looking for on this trip. Hiring a car and travelling to the somewhat unknown Japanese ski resorts, where we hoped to find zero lift lines and untouched snow. Our road trip took us through the countryside of Akita, up to the Aomori region and then Northern Hokkaido. Although our trip was largely affected by an El Nino season and less snow than we had expected, the places we found were breathtaking and some that we will never forget." – Toby Nagorcka
Read more
24.04.2024
TRAIL RUNNING — HOW TO TRAIN FOR HILLS
HOW TO TRAIN FOR THE COASTAL ASCENT ELEVATION By Vlad Shatrov It’s no secret that the Coastal Ascent course is challenging, but thats definitely a part of the reason people sign up and run this event. This particular course has you running into and around the Glenrock National Park which is located just south of Merewether beach in Newcastle. In terms of trail terrain it has plenty to offer including flowing fire trails, single track, technical terrain, sand, rocky coastal shorelines, some footpaths and ovals and HILLS. There are 7 main hills in the 25km event alone and just under 800 metres of elevation gain, so it’s a course that will take your breath away and also your legs — unless you have trained well for the hills. Lé Bent team trail runner and Runlab Coach Vlad Shatrov has put together these training recommendations that will improve your ability to cover hilly courses. Vlad also happens to be the Coastal Ascent race director, so he knows a thing or two about the course! One of the many hills that litter the Coastal Ascent course. Firstly, if you are relatively new to trail running or just running in general, the best thing you can do is gradually increase your overall running volume to a sustainable level to fit your lifestyle, mix up the intensity of your weekly runs and include a sound gym strength routine. Your gym work should specifically includes a focus on improving your core strength and functional and single sided leg strengthening exercises. Make sure the last 7-10 days before you take on the event are relatively easy. Now if your a serious runner, or someone thats been training for a little while and is really looking for training tips to take your running ability to the next level — particularly how to take on a hilly course like the Coastal Ascent — this is what I would recommend. Recommended Hill Training Techniques 1. Challenge yourself in your harder workouts. Sure a majority of run training should be done relatively comfortably, but when it’s time for a solid session it's important to push hard. 2. Include a functional leg strength session weekly into your training. Just make sure this isn't the day before you do a harder run. I like doing 20 minute sessions the same day as my long runs (after the run, later in the day). I program 50-60 minute strength sessions for my runners but there is really only about 20 minutes of the workout which is strength specific. 3. Practice hill repeats within some weeks of your training. It’s also important to be able to handle the load of running downhill too. That’s where relevant hill sessions and gym strength sessions play a key role, these will allow you to run up or down hills (or walk the really steep hills which is totally acceptable) but ensure you aren't too fatigued over the remainder of the race. One of my favorite running workouts for hills: I run a circuit that includes some short hills and is approximately 1.2km - 1.6km long, with the last 400 metres being relatively flat and therefore, very runnable. After a good warmup, I will run these efforts hard but especially focus on running the shorter hills steadily with smaller steps before increasing leg turnover and running the last 400 metres fast. I have about 2 minutes recovery between reps and ideally will run the circuit between five and six times. Vlad's pins give the impression he doesn't skip leg day in the gym... and neither should you! One of my favorite strength workouts for hills: One of the most beneficial leg strength training tips for improved hill running is to focus on endurance. I.e. lots of reps in 30 seconds with relatively light weight or sometimes even no weight. These should be done one leg at a time. It’s also important to include some core and stability exercises to mix up the training as these are the key powerhouse hill running muscle groups. You can check out a comprehensive training program for the Coastal Ascent, including the Lé Bent 50km over on the Coastal Ascent website.
Read more
23.04.2024
LÉ BENT WELCOMES KAI JONES TO THE TEAM
When Kai was 11 years old his segment for TGR went viral and racked up 6 million views. That year he also won the North American Junior Freeride Series. He was nominated for Rider of the Year at IF3 Film Festival at 14 years old, and again a year later. Now at age 17, Kai has been a mainstay in TGR’s last five films, and earned the right to be called a legitimate “prodigy”. Kai is leading the charge for the next generation of groms that jump off things, while also managing to be a favorite amongst the older guard. We caught up with Kai in between cork 7’s and massive cliff drops, to welcome him to the team and find out what makes him tick. LB: Hey Kai, welcome to the Lé Bent pro team!!! How has your season been going so far? My season has been good. Little slower than normal because of my injury. Super stoked to be back on snow and progressing. So, you’re 17 years old — and probably sick of people mentioning how young you are — what are your goals for the next few years and where do you want to take your skiing? I am super hyped to keep pushing my limits and bringing more freestyle into the big mountains. You’ve been described as a “skiing prodigy”, “Mayor of Stomptown” and “grom pied piper” how’s that feel and what’s it like inspiring the next generation of groms your age and younger? One of my biggest goals in skiing is to inspire people and it makes me so stoked to see the next generation taking inspo from me. For those who don’t know, you sustained a season-ending injury, breaking both your tibia tubercle’s in March last year. We followed your rehab and were super impressed by how much work you were putting in to getting your body right. How was that recovery experience and how was your return to snow this season? My recovery has been going super good. I spent the last 9 months training hard to get back to my sport. As I am writing this I still have work to go but every day I am getting closer and closer to being 100 percent. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kai Jones (@kaijonesski) You’ve been in 5 Teton Gravity Research Films already. Who are some of the skiers you grew up watching and looking up to? Some skier's that I grew up watching are Tim D, Sammy C, Nick McNutt, Shane M, Eric Roner, Thall, Sage C, Ian Mac, Candied Thovex, Henrrik, and way more ahah! Have you got a favourite movie part of theirs or a favourite TGR film that you always go back to? My favorite movie part is Tim Durtschi's My Way of Life segment or Nick McNutts' Almost Ablaze segment. A lot of young skiers and snowboarders start off in freestyle and transition into the backcountry after years of competition and events. What motivated you to make backcountry skiing your main focus from the get-go? We dont have alot of parks back home so I grew up learning tricks and skiing in the backcountry. It was natural for me to move into freeride because of the mountain I grew up skiing on (JHMR). Any interest in taking your skills to the Freeride World Tour — you’d probably have to forgo some powder days though! Only time will tell... We have both Cody Townsend and Sammy Carlson on the team holding it down in the BC, how would you compare your style of riding to these guys and have you followed their careers at all? Cody and Sammy are some of my favorite skiers. My style is more similar to sammy but I love to get out in the big mountains like Cody and ski mountaineer. So, are you reaching for the Cody Pro Series or the Sammy Pro Series in your sock drawer? I personally like Sammy's socks with their light padding which suits my riding. SAMMY CARLSON PRO SERIES SNOW SOCK SHOP SAMMY SOCK What features would you include in your own Pro Series Snow Sock? Just in case we’re cooking something up over here ;) I want to include padding to protect from shin bang - something I experience in my style of riding with big landings. Lé Bent already does such a good job innovating new technology in socks to help prevent issues like this, so i’m looking forward to providing my own feedback. GET EARLY ACCESS TO THE KAI SOCK! What other Lé Bent gear have you been enjoying this season? I have been loving the Pramecou Wool Insulated Hooded Jacket! What’s the plan for the rest of the season? I hope to keep skiing good snow in Jackson, go to AK, and ski mountaineer back home. Well Kai, we look forward to following along and seeing all the incredible content you put out! Thanks for taking the time to chat and we’re stoked to have you on the team! Bring on the good times ahead. Yew! Cheers guys, can’t wait! ABOUT KAI JONES Age: 17 Hometown: Victor ID Home Resort: Jackson Hole Nationality: USA Sponsors: Red Bull, Dakine, Atomic, Teton Gravity Research, Lé Bent Favourite Lé Bent gear: Sammy Carlson Pro Series Snow Sock Follow Kai here: @kaijonesski
Read more
15.04.2024
Watch: Here, Hold My Kid
LÉ BENT was proud to be a supporting partner of pro team rider Elyse Saugstad's recent project — Here, Hold My Kid! Elyse teamed up with pro skier and fellow super mum Jackie Paaso to make what they describe as, "an homage to all the parents who have dragged their kids to the mountains." “Any parent knows that traveling with a one-year-old can be a nightmare." Said Jackie. "Seeing that Elyse and I like a challenge we thought, why not make it two one-year-olds traveling around the world while starring in and producing our own film? Challenge accepted, and while there may not have been any blood, there was a lot of sweat and tears!” “Jackie and I didn’t want to hide from being new moms as professional athletes, but rather throw a spotlight on trying to blend the two life endeavors. What ensued was lots of laughter, some great skiing, and the undervalued talent of still getting our kids to bed on time." Said Elyse. After sharing the hilarious trailer a few months back. You can now check out the entire 38 minute, offbeat documentary for free on Redbull TV. Watch Here
Read more
16.10.2023
BOA Ski Boots - What Are They & Do They Fit Better?
We exist to keep you in the moment with our luxuriously soft snow socks, and therefore we stay up to date with the latest in ski boot technology. So, what’s the fuss about BOA ski boots? We take a look at BOA and modern bootfitting.
Read more
03.10.2023
The Fifty Project - Watch Season 5 Here
LÉ BENT is proud to be an official sponsor of Cody Townsend's FIFTY Project — a herculean quest to ski ‘The 50 Classic Ski Descents of North America.’ As Cody's sock, base layer and headwear and accessories partner we've been along for the ride since day one, and develop products with Cody's direct skin-track-feedback. “There is no getting around the complete punishment your feet go through on tours for the Fifty," said Cody. "You’re gonna get them wet, sweaty and cold at times. But minimizing those impacts with better materials and innovations like the heel grip strips on the Pro Series Sock I made with Lé Bent helps you get through the day.” Shop the Cody Pro Series Snow Sock Watch the latest episode below: One unsung item that Cody has worn up and down all of his Fifty lines, is the Men's Core Lightweight Crew Base Layer. "Layering is everything because one of the most important aspects of big backcountry missions is temperature management," said Cody. “I’ve found with base layers, the combo of wool and synthetic, like the Lé Bent Merino Wool & Bamboo Rayon blend provides a perfect blend of maintaining warmth and being dry” Check out Cody's bonus guide to layering from Season 3 of The FIFTY below.
Read more
22.09.2023
HERE, HOLD MY KID - OFFICIAL TRAILER
LÉ BENT team rider Elyse Saugstad has teamed up with pro skier and fellow super mum Jackie Paaso to make what is likely to be the most hilarious and heartfelt ski movie of the season — Here, hold my kid! Elyse previously teamed up with fellow team rider Cody Townsend to create the aforementioned kid, and this film talks about the thrills and spills of balancing professional skiing and motherhood. “Jackie and I didn’t want to hide from being new moms as professional athletes, but rather throw a spotlight on trying to blend the two life endeavors," said Elyse. "What ensued was lots of laughter, some great skiing, and the undervalued talent of still getting our kids to bed on time.” Check out the official trailer below! Shop the Elyse Pro Series Snow Sock
Read more
03.02.2023
A Quick Look at Le Bent’s New Unisex Wool Insulated .75 Pant
What do you do when you need to stay warm in the cold but don’t feel that you need a pair of full-length insulated pants? The answer? LÉ BENT’s .75 insulated pants. Insulated pants are an essential piece of gear for anyone who spends time in cold weather. Generally speaking, these pants are designed to keep you warm and comfortable, even in the most extreme winter conditions. Insulated pants are typically made from down or merino wool and are worn over base layers and under shell ski pants or as a standalone layer around the ski lodge. They can also be worn first-on-skin under skin pants, so you can tailor depending on the temperature. Before we get into the details of LÉ BENT’s .75 insulated pants, let’s first gain some background information on insulated pants in general. Insulated Pants 101 Insulated pants are a must when spending time in the cold, whether skiing, hiking, or climbing. The characteristics of these cosy garments make them ideal for anybody seeking warmth when the temperature’s bone-chilling. Sometimes referred to as down pants, these pants have the plumage of ducks or geese and provide excellent insulation. The problem with regular insulated pants, however, is that they lose their insulating properties when wet. LÉ BENT’s insulated shorts are different in that they feature Merino wool, a natural fibre that can retain warmth even when wet. Merino is also more breathable and dries faster than down insulation. That said, insulated pants made of Merino blend are the perfect pair of pants for outdoor activities. They are the ideal insulated shorts for skiing or hiking and will prevent you from freezing during your adventures. LÉ BENT’s .75 Pants at a Glance Now, it’s time to place LÉ BENT’s Unisex Wool Insulated .75 pants under the microscope. The LÉ BENT Unisex Wool Insulated .75 Pant is layered over base layer bottoms and in-between shell pants, but you can wear them without a base layer or as a standalone layer around the ski lodge. What makes them unique and stand out from other brands is that they’re made of LÉ BENT’s signature Merino blend, a blend of Merino wool and rayon fibre from bamboo. This blend provides the necessary stretch, moisture-wicking property, and natural odour resistance you’d expect from a vital piece of cold-weather apparel. Performance The LÉ BENT Merino wool insulated pants are the ultimate outdoor gear for adventure seekers. Constructed with a lightweight 90g outer shell and packed with 80g of wool insulation, these pants are ready to take on any challenge. Whether you’re hitting the trails for a hike, shredding the slopes on your skis, or hunting for your next trophy, these pants will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable all day long. One of the best things about these pants is their versatility. They can handle any environment, from the coldest and snowiest to the mildest and dampest. And, with a range of configurations, you can customise them to suit your needs and preferences. Not to mention the easy-to-wear and remove design that makes layering a breeze. And let’s not forget the wool insulation that provides amazing thermal insulation and will keep you warm even when wet. But don’t let the warmth fool you. These pants are also designed for maximum movement and enhanced breathability. The high-performance fabric ensures that you can move freely and comfortably, making them perfect for activities that require a lot of movement, such as hiking, skiing and snowboarding. Comfort and Fit If you’re tired of outdoor gear that just isn’t comfortable enough to wear for extended periods, look no further than Lebent’s Unisex Wool Insulated 75 Pants. These pants are designed with comfort in mind and feature an adaptive sizing system with multiple attachment points for a customisable and secure fit. But that’s not all. Since the pants feature our signature Merino blend, you can expect them to provide stretch for added comfort. This means you can wear these pants for hours on end without feeling restricted or uncomfortable. Whether you’re going for a long hike, a full day of skiing, or a multi-day hunting trip, these pants will keep you comfortable the entire time. Style The LÉ BENT Unisex Wool Insulated .75 Pant is a stylish and functional piece of outdoor gear that is designed to suit a wide range of tastes. The pants feature a sleek, minimalist design that is both modern and timeless. The LÉ BENT logo on the left leg gives the pants a touch of brand identity, while the full-length colour-coded side openings on both sides provide a touch of visual interest and help you connect the correct side when fully unzipped.. One of the key design elements of these pants is the attention to detail, such as the water-resistant zippers with an interior wind flap and soft-coated zipper pulls. These features not only add to the overall aesthetic of the pants but also make them more functional and user-friendly. The easy-press stud buttons and multiple attachment points for added versatility give the pants a clean, polished look while providing functionality. The Elasticated leg cuffs with silicone grippers that keep the pants leg from wandering, give the pants a snug and secure fit and also add to the functionality of the pants. This feature helps keep the pants in place while you’re on the move, preventing them from riding up or bunching up. Finally, the Lebent Unisex Wool Insulated 75 Pant is designed to be adaptable to different body types and preferences. The Unisex adaptable sizing allows for a comfortable fit for a wide range of individuals. The pants are available in a range of sizes, making it easy to find the perfect fit for you. Unisex Wool Insulated.75s Are Great Insulated Pants The LÉ BENT Unisex Wool Insulated .75 Pant is a great choice for anyone looking for a warm and comfortable pair of insulated short pants. They’re designed for a comfortable and customisable fit, making them perfect for extended periods of wear. The pants also feature a sleek and modern design that is both stylish and functional. If you’re looking for a high-quality pair of insulated pants that can withstand the elements, the LÉ BENT Unisex Wool Insulated .75 Pant is worth considering. Be sure to check out our store today.
Read more
03.02.2023
All About Mid Layers
The global market for adventure tourism could be worth more than a trillion dollars by 2032. Whether you're planning an extreme climb or a hike with the family, the right clothing is a key part of your safety and comfort. Mid layer clothing deserves special attention for your winter activities. It helps keep you warm and dry no matter the conditions. LÉ BENT mid layers, in particular, give you top-level performance. Learn more about what makes an excellent mid layer and why your next mid layer should be LÉ BENT. What Makes a Good Layering Outfit? Layering is essential for staying warm and comfortable during outdoor pursuits. You can take layers on and off as your activity level or the weather changes. A good layering outfit includes the base layer, mid layer, and outer layer. These layers work together, but each has a different role in the system. For instance, the base layer wicks sweat off your skin.On the other hand, the mid layer is the insulating layer. It prevents your body heat from escaping. For the most versatility, you may use more than one mid layer. Finally, the outer layer protects you from the wind, rain, and snow. Even if you don't start out wearing all three layers, taking them with you is a good idea. That way, you'll be prepared if conditions change. Features of a Good Mid Layer Good mid layers have several key features. You want mid layer clothing with the right balance for the activity you plan to do. Protects from the Cold The primary role of almost all clothing is to protect from the cold. This is especially important for mid layer clothing. One of the main ways the body loses heat is convection. When cold air or water moves across your skin, you feel colder. Mid layers should help prevent convective heat loss. The wind has a significant effect on how fast you lose heat. A good mid layer will provide some protection from the wind. In addition to the fabric itself, design features like elasticated cuffs can help prevent cold from penetrating a mid layer jacket. Retains Body Heat and Vents Extra Heat The purpose of a women's or men's mid layer jacket is insulation. The type of mid layer you choose lets you control how much body heat you retain. Insulating fabrics create small air pockets that trap heat close to your body. They prevent cold air from getting through to your skin. A mid layer should also let you vent extra heat. You need flexibility for changing conditions and activity levels. Breathable Breathability is just as critical as insulation for mid layers. Breathability describes how well a fabric lets moisture vapour get through. A good mid layer lets sweat moisture out before the moisture affects the fabric. If your clothes get wet on the inside, you can get just as cold as if rain soaked in from the outside. Wet clothes make you lose heat much faster than dry ones. Highly insulating fabrics and waterproof fabrics are typically not very breathable. Look for mid layer clothing that balances these features to give you the best performance. Water-Resistant A mid layer needs to be breathable, but it should also be water-resistant. Protecting you from rain and snow is the leading role of your outer layer. However, some water resistance is essential for the mid layer too. If your mid layer sticks out from the bottom of your outer layer, you'll notice a lack of water resistance. A water-resistant mid layer allows you to use it as an outer layer in mild conditions. Lightweight Mid layers should feel light. You want lightweight clothing that gives you the level of protection you need. A good warmth-to-weight ratio is especially important. Versatile in Function and Style A versatile mid layer gives you more options. You may want to wear it as a standalone item for high-intensity activities. A stylish mid layer can be at home in the city as well as on the mountain. Moves with Your Body You don't want mid layers to restrict your freedom of movement. LÉ BENT mid layers feature a FlowState Sleeve System that gives you best-in-class freedom of movement, as rated by Outside Magazine. We believe that a mid layer shouldn't interfere with your performance. Our mid layers help level up an experience where others might obstruct it. Types of Materials for Mid Layers Down, polyester fleece, and Merino wool are some of the most common materials for mid layers. They each have pros and cons depending on your needs. Down Natural goose or duck down makes a very warm, lightweight, and packable mid layer. It provides some wind resistance but loses its insulating abilities when wet. Down is a relatively expensive option. Polyester Polyester fleece is soft and breathable. It dries quickly. On the other hand, a fleece mid layer is economical but durable. However, fleece can pill up over time. It's also less compressible than down. Merino Wool A Merino wool mid layer is very durable. It provides excellent temperature regulation and retains warmth when wet, unlike natural down, Wool has anti-odour properties, meaning, Merino mid layer doesn't require frequent washing. However, wool doesn't have the same warmth-to-weight ratio as down. What Makes LÉ BENT Mid Layers Unique? LÉ BENT mid layers combine the best materials and design features. Our unique blend of Merino wool and rayon bamboo gives you exceptional performance and comfort. In addition, it's a powerful insulator that helps regulate your body temperature in all conditions. The padded chest panels in our mid layer jacket feature a 100-gram blend of 30% wool with recycled polyester. The 10K/10K shell fabric gives you water resistance and breathability. Our Flow State sleeve system provides more freedom of movement than you expect from mid layer clothing. Choosing Your Mid Layer Clothing Mid layers are an essential part of your clothing system. From ski mid layer to mid layer hiking clothing, you can guarantee that LÉ BENT has what you're looking for. Our men's mid layer and women's mid layer collections are specially designed for your needs. We use a unique blend of innovative materials and design to help you reach the next level. Browse our catalogue to find your perfect mid layer.
Read more
25.01.2023
5 Reasons Why Ski Socks are Worth the Investment
Skiing has long been one of the most popular winter sports. It’s not hard to see why! It is extremely fun and can be customised to fit all skill levels. Really, the only downside is having to deal with the frigid cold temperatures that accompany so much time in the snow. Luckily, that problem can easily be solved by getting the right gear to deal with the climate. Everyone knows one needs a good pair of snow pants and a winter coat, but many often forget the importance of ski socks for a great day on the slopes. It's incredible the difference this one clothing item can make. After spending so much time getting the right gear, it would be a shame to have your time on the mountain ruined by frozen toes. Investing in the best ski socks is one way to ensure you get the most comfort out of your boots and have a great time on the mountain. Here are five of the most important reasons to get good ski socks for the season. Improved Comfort and Warmth Cold toes happen when the wrong materials are used when making the socks. Great women's ski socks and men's ski socks are made out of materials that offer both moisture-wicking properties while still offering adequate insulation. The balance between those two is where you'll find the most comfort for a full day of skiing. Beyond keeping you extra warm, a good ski sock should also help you stay as comfortable as possible in your boots. This means fitting tight enough to help prevent blisters and having extra support and cushioning where needed to avoid tired arches and heels or bruised shins. Ski socks come with a range of different cushioning profiles to suit your preference. Choosing a pair that specifically works with your boots and style of skiing in mind will have a tremendous impact. Enhanced Performance Before hitting the slopes, the emphasis is often placed solely on finding a well-fitting boot to wear. This is definitely important but can be made even better when you pair an amazing ski sock with your footwear. A sock designed for this activity will have added support for the ankle and foot to improve stability and balance. So much of skiing is transferring your weight with very controlled movements. The more support you can give your feet and ankles, the better they'll be able to handle those movements for hours on end. A pro-series ski sock utilises LÉ BENT Definitive Fit System™ of strategically placed elastic and stitching to give you precisely that level of support you need. Extra emphasis is placed on the instep, achilles, and ankle to keep your muscles from getting too tired and to keep your feet locked in the correct positions as you ski. And best of all, these socks are made with Memory Stretch™, so they feel like a custom fit every time you put them on! Longer Lifespan - Durable & Built For Boots Skiers' feet do a lot of the work in getting them down the mountain, which is why a regular pair of socks will wear out faster than you'd like. It can be incredibly frustrating to have to continually replace the same piece of equipment after only a few ski days. But this won't be the case when you invest in the best ski socks. Instead, you'll be able to wear them for countless runs down the mountain and have them still feel brand new. One of the keys to this is the materials used in creating these specific socks. Merino wool ski socks are designed to withstand regular exposure to the colder weather and hold up great against the additional friction from all the movement. After you have a good pair of ski socks, you'll never have to think about having cold toes again! Wide Range of Options - Colourful and Fun A part of the fun of being a skier is finding the best outfit and gear to wear. There are so many styles and types available that you can show your personality and fashion sense every time you're on the mountain. This is true of the socks you wear as well. You can go for a perfectly coordinating pair or choose something that stands out and makes more of a statement. Either way, you won't have to be embarrassed when you take your boots off in the lodge. Not only can you choose the colour or pattern of your ski socks, but also the thickness, material, and height. Convenience - Wash Friendly & Odour Free Often, a hobby can be ruined by the preparation it takes to participate. The packing up and getting ready to go can feel too daunting even to tackle. Then you have to think about all the clean-up required when you've finished the activity. All of that work can suck the fun right out of it. This doesn't have to be the case, however. You can choose gear that is easy to maintain and keep ready to go at all times. Ski socks that are machine washable and can be thrown in with the rest of your snow gear and then packed away quickly, makes the whole process much simpler. Instead of having to take special care, you can throw everything you need for a day in the snow in a bag and head to the mountain! Being made of Merino Wool and rayon from bamboo, Lé Bent ski socks can also be worn for multiple days in a row without washing and remain odour free. Invest in LÉ BENT Ski Socks Investing in high-quality ski socks means you'll have warm, cosy toes while on the mountains for years to come. With all of the options available, you'll be able to find a pair that matches your style and skill level for optimal performance. And then you'll know every inch of you is covered. LÉ BENT is where you can go to get all the ski gear you need, including the best socks for skiing. Our quality and selection are unmatched for all different levels. Our team has been working with industry professionals for decades to get the perfect pair for you and your ski boots. We can help you find the right pair, so check out our selection of snow socks today!
Read more
11.11.2022
What to Pack for Your Ski Trip: A Quick Guide
On average, there are more than seven million people who ski or snowboard every year. These winter sports provide a fun outlet for people to enjoy the outdoors and the thrill of descending a snowy mountain. For many, the thought of skiing sounds fun, but it's quickly followed by the worry of being too cold out in the elements. That problem is quickly solved by having the right ski gear. The right combination of skiing clothes will keep you cosy and warm as you spend the day racing down the mountain and enjoying the beautiful snow. Not sure what that right combination is? Follow this guide for planning your ski clothing so you can enjoy it all winter long! Skiing Gear Working in several layers is the key to successfully dressing for a ski trip. This method allows you to cover the vulnerable areas of your body multiple times for ultra protection against the cold air and extra moisture. Pairing several pieces together makes sure nothing is left exposed and allows you to shed or add layers as needed After so many years of dressing in skiing apparel and all kinds of ski clothing brands, we've developed a fool-proof system for ultimate warmth. So when you take this layering approach, you're sure to stay warm! Base Layer Whether you're looking at men's ski apparel or women's ski apparel, the most critical layer is the base layer. Warmth starts at your core. Unfortunately, it's also often the most overlooked as well. As the first piece to touch your skin, the base layer should be made of soft and comfortable materials. Ideally look for a natural blend of merino to ensure proper thermoregulation, odour suppression and moisture wicking to keep you warm and dry. Mid Layer On top of your base layer, the next addition is a mid layer jacket to add a little bit more insulationt.Mid layers are an all encompassing term that covers fleece tops, sweaters, technical insulated jackets, puffers and down jackets or vests. This layer can be made of a combination of the preceding, depending on the level of chill. Ski Jacket When you think of ski clothing for women or men, the first thing that comes to mind is likely the outer jacket. A ski jacket keeps the snow off your body and traps all the heat inside. This is a crucial layer that should be a top priority! Look for one that has an appropriate water and wind rating. It may feature GORE-TEX but this will influence the price, so it will also depend on your budget. Ski jackets tend to be brightly coloured so you stand out from the crowd — however, the crowd invariably is also brightly coloured, so this works better in theory! Gloves or Mittens You can't forget your hands when getting ready to spend time outside! It's helpful to try out both gloves and mittens to see which you prefer while skiing. Gloves offer superior dexterity, while mittens have the warmth advantage since the fingers are still touching. You can further warm your hands by layering with a pair of glove liners. Ski Pants Just like your ski jacket, ski pants are a crucial element in keeping the cold and moisture out and the heat close to your body. They can either be insulated or shell pants and made of a fabric such as GORE-TEX or some other water repellent material. . Neck Gaiter or Balaclava It’s important to cover all areas of skin that might be vulnerable to cold winds and snowfall. There’s nothing worse than an icy wind while riding a chairlift!. You may choose between a neck gaiter or balaclava to protect your neck and face. Neck gaiters or neck tubes are smaller and provide less coverage than a balaclava, but can be worn multiple ways and are versatile layering pieces. A balaclava is a must have for every skier and boarder. It ensures proper coverage over your face and can be adjusted to sit just under your ski goggles and ensure your nose and cheeks stay warm. Both headwear options come in different thicknesses and a range of colour options to help mix and match with your ski outerwear. Helmet No skiing outfit is complete without a well-fitted helmet. There's no reason to leave yourself unprotected while riding down the mountain. Some skiers and boarders also like to wear a light beanie underneath the helmet for additional warmth and comfort. Goggles Another vital piece of equipment is your goggles. These make sure that you can see clearly while you're riding, so you avoid obstacles and unnecessary crashes. They keep moisture and debris from your eyes And combat the bright and often blinding white snow reflection. Ski Socks There's nothing worse than cold feet, which is why not just any socks will do while spending the day in the snow. Proper ski socks are designed for those cold temperatures with material that will keep you dry and warm. Snow socks are made with ski and snowboard cushioning in mind as well as targeted stitching and elastics to keep your feet comfortable all day long. Clothing Tips Understanding the right layering combination can significantly affect how well you can manage the colder weather while skiing. Dress for the Climate When you're getting ready for a ski day, you tend to only worry about how much it snowed overnight. But it's essential to consider the weather as a whole; wind, temperature, fog, ice, etc. And don't forget that the weather at the top of the mountain is often significantly different to that at the bottom. Master Some Layering Basics Everyone knows how vital a ski jacket is in protecting you from harsh winter weather. However, not everyone pays as much attention to the base layer, which can be even more important. High-quality base layer pieces will give you a solid foundation for the best protection. Merino Wool + Rayon Bamboo = Winning Combo! The easiest way to ensure that your ski gear will keep you as warm as possible is to wear layers made with the best materials. Merino wool is one of those materials. It has all the benefits of regular wool without the itch factor that often comes with it. Combine merino wool with bamboo rayon, and you have the ultimate fabric for cold-weather gear — warm and luxuriously soft like cashmere. Remember to Put on Sunscreen Most people don't associate sunburns with the winter months, which is a major mistake. The snow can reflect the sunlight and cause you to get a more severe burn than you'd get in the summer. It's important to remember to wear your sunscreen every time you're going to be outside, especially while skiing. Lightweight balaclavas and base layers are also a great way to protect yourself from the harsh UV rays of the high alpine. This is especially great to remember in spring. Get Your Ski Gear at LÉ BENT There's nothing better than a beautiful day on the mountain with your friends and family. This is especially true when you have the right ski gear to stay warm and enjoy the fun. Simply gathering a random assortment of ski apparel won't be enough to take care of you while in the snow. When you invest in high-quality pieces that work together, you'll be able to enjoy as many snow days as you'd like for years and years. In addition, you won't have to worry about your ski clothes wearing out and the cold getting in! Our selection of cold-weather clothes is just those pieces you can count on. Check out our shop to find just what you need!
Read more
