Stories
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
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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!
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The LÉ BENT Guide to Choosing Trail Running Socks
Trail running is an invigorating experience. Nature's sights, sounds, and smells are healing and therapeutic for your body. It's also a great alternative to the repetition of running on roads. The good thing about trail running is that you don't need much gear. You can pack light and get moving quickly, but there are a few items you'll want to have with you. One of the most important items you'll need is a pair of trail running socks. The best trail running socks will keep you from overheating and help keep you dry and comfortable. But how do you choose the right pair? Fabric Matters Choosing the right fabric for your socks is vital, as you'll want them to be comfortable, breathable, and durable. Let's go over what materials to use and which you should avoid. Best Fabric for Trail Running Socks The best fabrics for trail socks are natural fibres like merino wool. Merino wool is naturally odour-resistant, breathable, and moisture-wicking. Merino trail running socks are incredibly comfortable and perfect for running on rough terrain. Fabric Types to Avoid You'll want to steer clear of cotton because it can cause issues while running trails. Cotton holds moisture which can cause painful blisters. Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon work more effectively but aren't odour-resistant like wool. Key Features After choosing the proper material for your trail socks, you'll want to look for the key features that make them worthwhile pieces of gear. The following features are for both men's trail running socks and women's trail running socks, so let's dive in! Fit Running socks need to fit perfectly. You'll want them to fit snugly on your feet without feeling loose or too tight and constricting. This ensures maximum comfort and support while you're trail running. Loose-fitting socks will cause discomfort and may cause blisters on your feet. They can also bunch up in your shoes and become a distraction when you're trying to focus on the unfolding trail in front of you. Thickness The thickness of your running socks is a matter of preference. If you're running in cold weather, you may want to choose a thicker pair of socks. If the temperature is warm, choosing a thinner pair of socks is a better choice. Additionally, the thickness of your socks will affect how breathable they are during your trail running experience. Thicker socks are less breathable than thinner socks. Finally, the thickness will play a part in how cushioned the socks feel within your shoes. Depending on the thickness of your shoe's midsole, you may prefer an ultralight sock or a light sock with strategic cushioning under the forefoot. Again, this is a matter of preference and location. Breathability The best running socks are highly breathable, meaning your feet can adequately get air and wick away sweat. If your trail socks aren't breathable, you may end up with blisters and sweaty feet. The socks should also be able to perform while wet as on many occasions while trail running, you may be forced to run through puddles — especially in races. Ideally, you'll want to buy trail socks that are insulative, keep your feet dry, and regulate body temperature. Ankle Support Ankle support is vital for trail running. You need to ensure your trail running socks have some level of ankle support because rugged trail terrains can cause ankle injuries. Make sure your running socks comfortably grip your ankles to provide support. The rougher the terrain, the more support you'll want from your socks. Arch Support Arch support is a must for avid trail runners, especially if you suffer from common conditions like plantar fasciitis. Some trail running socks will provide support under your arch or heels. And support in these areas is also a great feature if you have high arches. Length The length of your socks will depend on a few different factors. Shorter socks will feel less warm and supportive around the ankles. They're recommended for warmer temperatures. Longer socks can help wick sweat away from your feet, provide additional warmth, and protect your ankles from debris that may flick up on the trail. In addition, they're better for colder temperatures. Trail running crew or ¾ crew socks are a great choice and provide a balanced length. Zero Seams Seams are uncomfortable, and there shouldn't be any in your trail running socks! Seams can cause friction while running, decreasing comfort and performance. Instead, opt for socks with a ghost seam and Y-heel stitch for the best trail running experience. Why Choose LÉ BENT Socks? LÉ BENT trail socks are designed to provide maximum comfort and performance. Our socks will transform your trail running experience! LÉ BENT Socks are Equipped with The Definitive Fit System™ LÉ BENT's Definitive Fit System™ makes our trail running socks comfortable and functional.This system delivers you form-fitting socks, strategic stitching, and quality elastics. These features provide a better fit and support where you need it most. LÉ BENT Socks Offer Perfect Breathability LÉ BENT trail running socks regulate your body temperature. They'll keep you warm when it's cold and help you stay cool in warmer temperatures thanks to the composition of natural materials. In addition, our socks wick away moisture and keep you comfortable during your entire run. LÉ BENT Socks Features Our Signature Merino and Rayon Blend LÉ BENT socks are made from a technical blend of merino wool and rayon from bamboo. These two exceptional materials blend to create a truly unique trail running sock that unlocks the best of both fibres. The rayon delivers luxurious, anti-itch softness and supreme comfort. The merino wool helps regulate your body temperature, control odours, and adds even more comfort. Together, they form our premium fabric blend that keeps you dry and focused on the trails. Get Your Trail Socks at LÉ BENT! LÉ BENT socks are unlike any trail running socks you've experienced before. We offer trail socks for men and trail socks for women, and we guarantee you'll love them! For trail running socks in Australia, visit our store and experience them for yourself!
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LÉ BENT Hiking Essentials: How to Gear Up for Hiking
Hiking is one of the most common and popular outdoor activities. This may not be too surprising considering hiking is a beautiful activity that allows you to see unique parts of the world. However, if you're not prepared with the right hiking clothing, you will Not be able to properly enjoy the great outdoors.
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THE FIFTY PROJECT - WATCH SEASON 4 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.’ Watch the latest episode below: We asked Cody what drove him to pursue the Fifty... “The FIFTY was started because I was searching for something new in skiing.” “I’d spent the prior decade chasing the highest performance downhill, big mountain focused skiing I could. Eventually I felt like I’d tapped out all my dreams, goals and challenges within that realm,” said Cody. “As skiing is a sport with an unlimited amount of ways you can do it, I started being drawn into the human-powered approach to skiing big lines, to expeditions to far flung corners of the world and to skiing iconic peaks that had no mechanized access.” To date, Cody’s been joined by a number of big-name, big mountain riders as well as lesser known but equally respected locals. From the likes of snowboarder and activist Jeremy Jones, to photographer Jimmy Chin , climber Alex Honnold and fellow Le Bent team rider Elyse Saugstad (who also happens to be Cody’s better half). “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 helps you get through the day.” “I know with those socks I’m gonna have less chance of blisters, which could be trip enders, and more chance for warm feet which makes the challenges that you’re gonna face just a little bit easier.” “My gear decisions are always changing, always nuanced and always adapted to bring the highest level of comfort, safety and chances for success. I’m super calculated with every piece of gear I bring out there because without good gear, this project wouldn’t be possible.” One unsung item that Cody has worn up and down all of his Fifty lines, is a Lightweight Le Bent Baselayer. "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 Le Bent Merino & 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.
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Why Wool? Introducing LÉ BENT’s Hybrid Insulated Jackets
The invention of synthetic fabrics such as polyester in the middle of the 20th century seemingly solved this problem. The majority of modern clothes are made from these artificial textiles. This includes your average insulated jacket. Yet, these materials are cheap, dry quickly, and are easy to mass-produce. This may sound like a consumer's dream. Unfortunately, the reality is that synthetic fabrics are unsustainable and unethical. The materials have a negative impact on global ecosystems when washed. So what is the answer for the modern outdoor adventurer who seeks to revel in the natural world without destroying it? While this may come as a shock to many, the answer is wool! Keep reading to discover why a Merino wool jacket is the ideal staple for cold-weather adventure clothing needs. Why Wool? Wool is a versatile fiber that humans have been using to make durable clothing for thousands of years. Yet, modern perceptions of wool tend to conjure images of itchy, unwanted Christmas sweaters. Merino wool breaks and dispels all negative stereotypes associated with wool. It is a fine wool that comes from Merino sheep. It not only surpasses synthetic fibers in terms of outdoor performance needs but is also a sustainable, natural resource. In addition to being good for the environment, insulated jackets made with Merino wool can be ethical. Sheep actually benefit from being sheared as health problems can arise for them if their wool grows too long. Since wool always grows back, it makes for a quality renewable resource. What ethically-guided consumers need to be aware of when shopping for Merino wool clothing is a process called mulesing. This is when sections of the sheep's skin are removed in an attempt to reduce insect infestations in the wool. However, this harmful practice has proven unnecessary and cruel, so look for brands that source non-mulesed wool. Understandably, you won’t want to sacrifice performance or safety when being active in harsh, cold conditions. So it’s good to know you can have both natural and ethically sourced products that perform as well as, or most of the time, better than the artificial competition. Here are six ways a Merino wool insulated jacket performs better than synthetics. 1. Superior Warmth and Comfort Merino wool fibers are thin and fine, making the wool so soft that it is often compared to cashmere. Even those with sensitive skin will find it silky to the touch. Moreover, a 2019 scientific study shows that Merino wool helps reduce the severity and surface area of eczema compared to standard clothing. Wool also makes for an excellent insulator, as the formation of its fibers allows for air to be trapped within, keeping the wearer nice and warm. 2. Temperature-Regulating One of the struggles outdoor enthusiasts face is finding clothing that keeps them warm without leading to overheating and dampness from excess sweating. Merino wool is a perfect solution because it not only has the capacity to trap heat but also provides its wearer with a built-in moisture-wicking system. Its fine-wool fibers can store moisture at an undetectable level. When that moisture evaporates, it creates a cooling effect. In this way, Merino wool is perfect for temperature-regulating jackets. It automatically keeps one warm while managing the sweat produced from body heat, leaving its user feeling just right. 3. Quick-Drying Whether one is skiing or trekking, an insulated jacket with fast-drying properties is a must. While Merino wool does have the ability to absorb moisture, it does so without leaving one feeling wet or damp. Its moisture-wicking system also helps it dry quickly. Moreover, it can dry as efficiently as synthetic polyester when crafted into quick-drying jackets combined with other types of fibers. 4. Odour-Resistant One of the areas where Merino wool outperforms polyester by a landslide is its resistance to odour. While polyester absorbs less moisture, this leads the smelly oils that form body odour to settle into the fabric. Merino wool's absorption and evaporation properties make it odour-resistant, as the smells vaporize along with the water. For this reason, Merino wool requires less washing than other textiles. This is yet another way wool proves more sustainable and better for the environment. 5. High Breathability The air pockets in wool fibers that create a temperature-regulating system also facilitate excellent breathability for Merino wool clothing. Garments like this women's insulated jacket are designed to not only harness the power of Merino wool's natural breathability but also to build on it with additional features designed with outdoor adventure in mind. 6. Durable and Long-Lasting Merino wool is a natural fiber, which makes it biodegradable, unlike polyester. However, some may wonder if that makes it less durable, something that will need replacing quickly. Fortunately, Merino wool is a highly sturdy natural fiber due to how its protein structures cause the fibers to interlock. Not only that, but the shape of the fibers themselves enhances the wool's durability and elasticity. Yet another strength of wool is the natural UV protection it provides. Several scientific studies have proven that Merino wool provides a superior barrier to UV waves than that of all other textiles. It does so by absorbing the rays and thereby shielding the user from them. Live Your Adventure in Comfort With an Insulated Jacket Finding the right clothing for cold-weather adventures is difficult enough as it is. Trying to do so while factoring in environmental sustainability and ethics makes it all the more challenging. A non-mulesed insulated jacket made with Merino wool is the best way to tick all your conscious consumer boxes without sacrificing quality or performance. There's an insulated jacket to fit everyone's individual needs. Click on the link to find a variety of Merino wool apparel, including insulated jackets for women and specially designed men's insulated jackets that will keep any adventurer warm, dry, and feeling fresh.
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