Stories
Trail Socks Versus Running Socks — Differences Explained
Trail running is one of today's fastest-growing sports, with an estimated 20 million runners worldwide—up from just under 4 million in 2012. If that trend continues, another 3 million runners will leave the pavement behind by next year in search of tight weaving single track and gravel trails. And who can blame them!. Nothing beats running through nature, braving the elements to boost adrenaline and connect with our primal selves. We are, as Christopher McDougall put it, "Born to Run." With such a boom in activity, trail running has seen some major technological developments in performance wear. From vests and compression clothing to running socks and shoes—there is a version specifically designed for trails. But what's the difference—really—between good old regular running socks and trail running socks? And what are the best running socks for you? We'll break down the key distinctions between trail socks and running socks. Here's what to look for when buying the best sock for your running style. Style The most obvious difference, at first glance, between traditional running socks and trail running socks is the visual style. Trail running socks come up higher on the ankle to offer protection from the elements. Depending on your trail, that could be anything from dirt and mud to loose sand and gravel or even twigs and brush. The higher ankle cuff keeps this various debris from getting under the sock and making for unpleasant scraps or chafing. If you're primarily running on the pavement, you don't need this extra protective fabric and may favor the lower profile of a regular running sock. Another difference is that trail socks are more often offered in darker shades since lighter colors stain more easily. Those bright and bold colors that are so trendy with track and road running shoes start to look dingey real fast when put up to the elements of the trail. So if color-coordinating is your thing, make sure you look for running shoes and socks that will pair well with the extra dirt that comes with hitting the ol' dusty trail. Looking for men's trail running socks or women's trail running socks? The good news is there's no difference, functionally speaking. Just find a pair in the size and color you like, and you're good to go. Functionality In addition to the ankle height for extra protection, running socks and trail socks will have differences in cushioning and fit to reflect the different demands of trail running and running on pavement. Running on trails means encountering uneven surfaces. From rocks and tree roots to sand and slippery boulders at creek crossings. This can fatigue the foot more quickly, as the muscle fascia is making constant micro-adjustments to stabilize you through your run. All that shifting of impact will mean the foot needs more support up through the ankle. The best socks for running on trails will have that in the form of compression and in-step support to keep the foot from getting fatigued on long runs through shifting terrain. If you're looking for trail running socks in Australia, check out these Le Bent trail socks that fit the bill. By contrast, when running on flat roads, your foot will be dealing with hard, repetitive impacts that send shockwaves up the foot through the legs. For this type of running, cushioning at the forefoot and heel will provide the shock absorption you'll want over long hours pounding the pavement. Comfort and Feel If you're going to be in pain, it should be the "I just had an amazing run, and my muscles are sore" type of pain. Not the "my feet are covered in blisters, and I'm this close to chopping them off" type of pain. Whether on the road or trails, a good sock should feel comfortable during a hard run. Comfort comes down to two things: materials and design. For centuries, wool has been the material of choice for performance clothing. This is because of its unique ability to keep the wearer either warm or cool in different environmental conditions. Today, there are a plethora of synthetic fabrics that blend natural materials like bamboo to increase the sock's comfort and performance while retaining the wool's moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties. The best running socks like these from Le Bent are made of quality materials that don't chafe and can wick away moisture and keep your feet at the right temperature. Choosing the right sock for the season goes a long way to making your most brutal summer and winter runs more bearable. In addition to starting with quality materials, a good design is key. Cushion and support where you want it, and no extra bunching fabric where you don't. Comfortable running socks are essential to keep your feet from forming blisters. It’s important to keep your feet dry, but this is not always possible when crossing creeks and demolishing puddles on a trail run, so it’s important to wear a material such as a Merino and Bamboo Rayon blend that performs just as well when wet. Get the Right Running Socks Now that you know the differences between running socks and trail socks, which is right for you? Are you putting in the hours at your gym's treadmill? Are you braving the rain and mud for your fix of the runner's high? What's important is that you're getting out there. As they say, run your own race. Looking for running socks in Australia? Whether you're looking for men's running socks or women's running socks, LÉ BENT has some of the best trail socks you can buy, as well as high-quality performance apparel for all your outdoor activities.
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Comfort and Performance — Picking The Perfect Pair of Ski Socks
In the U.S., around 75 million skier days get racked up every year. A ski holiday is a great activity for the whole family and people of all experience levels. To ensure you have the best day possible on the slopes, the importance of dressing well and layering correctly cannot be understated. Keeping warm whilst also maintaining breathability and performance can be a tricky balancing act. The right fabric and cushion profile will help massively, and high-quality ski socks will keep your feet comfortable and in top condition on the slopes. This article explains why LÉ BENT socks are the best ski socks in 2022. We will cover the fabrics used, as well as thickness and cushioning preferences. Finally, we will discuss the fit, length, and maintenance of your LÉ BENT ski socks. Fabric Type Here at LÉ BENT, we have a signature blend that we use for our socks for skiing. Using premium materials will make all the difference. It’s incredible how much the fabric blend will alter the feel of a pair of socks. Once you wear our Signature Merino Blend, there’s no going back. Let's look at the materials in a little more detail. Synthetic Blends We use rayon from bamboo as one component of our ski socks. Rayon is a synthetic blend crafted from bamboo. It offers a luxuriously soft finish with excellent temperature regulation. In addition, the material has no itch technology, as the fibers are smooth and round, so they do not cause irritation, akin to the feel of cashmere. This makes it the most comfortable choice for men's and ladies' ski socks. The material is very light, which gives plenty of movement and flexion whilst you are being active. As a non-static material, it also doesn't cling to you or create friction. Another positive about this material is that bamboo is a fast-growing and renewable source, making it an incredibly sustainable crop and ethical material to use. Merino Wool Merino wool ski socks are wonderful for natural temperature regulation. It is the ideal material for active wear due to its flexibility and endurance. It has the benefits of conventional wool blends, but Merino also brings superior odor and bacterial control. Merino wool also offers UV protection, even up to 50+. This is much higher than popular alternatives like cotton, which makes it the perfect base layer throughout all seasons. It is also wrinkle-resistant, so it helps to prevent bunching in your ski or snowboard boots. Thickness and Cushioning When you wear an item of clothing all day, you need the most support and comfort possible. It's a misconception that the thicker a sock is, the more warmth it can provide. When socks are too thick, it can restrict blood flow, which is required to keep the feet warm. When choosing a ski sock, you want to opt for a pair that provides perfect cushioning, one that can offer comfort without affecting your performance. The goldilocks of socks. Ultra Light Cushioning For those who want the highest performance possible with a sock that complements a tight-fitting ski boot, our ultra-light sock range is for you. These socks have a targeted cushion pad over the shin to protect from impacts, but there is no additional padding or cushion under the foot, so you can most seamlessly feel your skis glide over the snow. Light Cushioning Light cushioning builds upon the ultra-light cushion with shin padding and also cushioning under the foot to absorb impacts. These are favored by skiers and snowboarders who want to strike a balance between comfort and performance and who are on their feet all day long. Medium / Midweight Cushioning Midweight cushion is preferred by snowboarders as there is an evenly padded feel all the way around the foot and leg. Here at LÉ BENT, we offer socks that meet all cushioning requirements. Our Alpha Midweight Socks and Core Midweight Snow Socks, for instance, provide a full cushion profile for sumptuous comfort. Alternatively, we have a range of Light socks such as the Pixel Light Snow Sock or Core Light Snow Sock. These socks are specifically designed for long sessions on the hill. If you're looking for exceptional breathability and superior comfort, our Shred Ultra Light Snow Sock and Core Ultra Light Snow Sock can provide a low volume sock that offers a precision fit. Fit and Length Here at LÉ BENT, we have the Definitive Fit System, which provides the best fit possible for all occasions. Elastic and strategic stitching give targeted support in all the areas that matter in ski socks for men and women. Our socks offer an elasticated instep. This prevents material from bunching up or wrinkling when moving. It will keep your feet secure and snug throughout the day, whether you're riding, walking or relaxing on a chairlift. The socks feature full ankle band support. This allows flexibility in the joint whilst keeping it secure. Added cushioning on the Achilles also gives plenty of comfort and durability. The long length of the sock and elasticated stay-up cuff stop the ski sock from rolling down during the day. Maintenance It is crucial that you follow the maintenance and cleaning instructions with your LÉ BENT ski socks. This means that you will be able to enjoy many years of use whilst keeping them fresh as the first day you wore them. Do not bleach, tumble dry, or dry clean these socks. This can distort the fabric and reduce the efficacy of the natural materials. You should machine wash the socks on a gentle cycle, using delicate washing products. When drying your socks, ensure you don't stretch the fabric out, as this can cause the socks to lose their shape and damage the fibers. Our Memory Stretch technology will ensure that the socks always revert to the original fit and mold to your feet when put on Find Your Perfect Ski Socks If you are going on a ski holiday soon and looking for the ideal ski socks, choose LÉ BENT. We have a great range of high-quality mens ski socks and womens ski socks to choose from. We have different options for different outdoor activities, including skiing, biking, and hiking. Remember to follow the care instructions to protect the performance qualities of the material. Check out our shop to find your best socks for skiing. Don't forget to sign up for our mailing list to get a great discount!
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LÉ BENT TURNS 10 - A LETTER FROM THE FOUNDERS
LÉ BENT is 10 years old this year. At least, it is on paper. In truth, it was born a long time before that. Our story as co-founders goes back to the early 80’s. Two toddlers stoked and throwing sand at each other in a sand pit behind a semi detached house in Sydney’s beachside suburbia. We grew up together by the beach and in the mountains and our paths crossed as we travelled the world and chased snow in search of memories and moments. We left corporate careers and professional skiing behind for the university of life. A van for a home, surfing, skiing big lines and snowboarding. We linked up again in Val d'Isere where Simon was chasing big mountain lines. Anthony’s short detour to catch-up, turned into a long detour, and he didn’t leave. It was here that big mountains and alpine good times were lived to the fullest, and importantly for Lé Bent, the synergy of a foot, a sock and a ski boot was finely honed in one of Europe's preeminent ski boot fitting labs. We fitted everyone. From hardcore skiers in the Boot Lab, to rock stars like Paul McCartney in his private chalet. To us, bootfitting and happy feet translated directly into more stoke and enjoyment on the hill. Working in the boot fitting trenches, we noticed the lack of consideration for socks, and how often a ski boot and sock ruined a day on the mountain. So uninspired were we by the available socks at the time, each season ended in the tradition of a bonfire of old synthetic socks. You could say Lé Bent rose from these ashes. We took inspiration from mother nature, partnered with Australia’s leading scientific body the CSIRO, and crafted our award winning Signature Blend of merino wool and bamboo rayon. Back home in Australia, the first Lé Bent sock was born to ensure a sock never ruined another epic moment in the mountains again. Both of us inspected every pair of socks we made in that first year. That was 5,000 pairs, scrutinized under a head torch, in a freezing cold garden shed in the middle of winter. Product quality was at the core from day one. Thankfully, they sold out. We visited 50+ factories throughout Asia, immersed ourselves in the production process and survived a high speed motorway crash when the driver fell asleep at 3am. We got haircuts and went to countless tradeshows. We were surprised to get invited back after the second one, when we rocked up with no product samples, only empty cardboard packaging. Somehow, we still doubled our sales and celebrated by drinking beers out of foot-long bamboo schooners – our other, thankfully less documented, brainchild. Despite our mothers saying it was the best socks they’d ever worn, it took the same message from professional skiers like Cody Townsend to convince us. We’ve since partnered with the world’s best and applied our Signature Merino Blend to all first-on-skin layers. Since the socks felt so good, it was logical to wrap the rest of our body in this goodness. Head to toe. Balaclavas, base layers and now, merino mid layers. After 10 years we’ve learned that a great sock and layer provides a feeling of stoke and anticipation when you slip it on. Plus, the knowledge that today is going to be a good day and comfort is guaranteed. It does its job selflessly, relentlessly, day in, day out, while you forget you’re even wearing it. Plenty has changed since 2012 when we pulled on a pair of our prototype socks and took them off four days later. What hasn’t, is our blend still suppresses odour like nothing else and is now enjoyed by thousands of feet all over the world, across ski slopes, dirt trails and single tracks. The best moments to us are still found outside, unplugged from the matrix in natural and urban playgrounds. From driving snow pelting your face while the wind whistles on wild pow days, to the unique sounds of Aussie bird calls in the bush as you snake down perfect dirt berms, to the smell of rain sizzling on the hot concrete in a summer storm as you pound the pavement. How do you make a sock? Bent. – Anthony and Simon, Co-Founders, Froth Lords, Merino Blend Barons
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THE LÉ BENT APPROACH TO FLOW
WORDS BY MATT WISEMAN PHOTOS BY CAM BATTEN Flow is a state of being. For psychologists like Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi – Flow States founding father — it is the point of “optimal experience”. To the American Psychological Association, it’s reached when one’s skills are “fully utilized yet equal to the demands of the task.” For skiers and snowboarders, it’s the apex of a turn, a perfect pole plant or a pow shot to the face but done dozens of times over, until the day itself has disappeared. To these people (read: us), the so-called ‘Flow State’ becomes less a state of being and more a reason for being. There’s a word for this too. It’s French and it’s one we throw around fairly liberally here at Lé Bent. It’s called ‘raison d'être’ – a reason or justification for existence. At first, our raison d'être’ was all about crafting the best snow socks we could. But now, it’s about crafting the best technical apparel we can, to help psychologists, skiers, snowboarders, runners and bike riders find their own flow. It’s counterintuitive but an item of clothing can help one do just that. But, only when they forget they’re wearing it in the first place. After all, to find flow, you must be deeply absorbed by something, far beyond the point of distraction. Such was the idea behind our new Merino Mid Layer range and its ‘Flow State Sleeve System.’ Beneath the alliteration and allusions to flow, lies a technical construction designed to work in harmony with your body and mind. Body-mapped sleeves and strategic panels of our Signature Merino Blend around the shoulder blades enable a seamless range of motion and proper articulation with the movement of your arms and shoulders, no matter if you’re leaning into berms or finding flow amongst the bumps. Designed with activity in mind, these layers will level up an experience, where others might obstruct it. According to Csikszentmihalyi, “the best moments in our lives are not the passive, receptive, relaxing times… the best moments usually occur if a person’s body or mind is stretched to its limits in a voluntary effort to accomplish something difficult and worthwhile.” “There’s this focus that, once it becomes intense, leads to a sense of ecstasy, a sense of clarity: you know exactly what you want to do from one moment to the other; you get immediate feedback,” Csikszentmihalyi said in a 2004 TED Talk. Csikszentmihalyi and research partner Jeanne Nakamura arrived at this conclusion by canvassing all kinds of people who knew their raison d'être, from mountain climbers to chess players, surgeons to ballet dancers. The best part is you don’t need to be a pro to find your flow. Since the flow state is reached when one’s skills are “fully utilized yet equal to the demands of the task,” a beginner can lose themselves in the flow of a green run at Front Valley just as Cody Townsend will find his flow state halfway through a line from The Fifty. Since one of the six criteria for flow is, “a loss of reflective self-consciousness,” there’s also no room for embarrassment on the road to the flow state. So, how do you find your own flow state? Well, you can’t manufacture it (unless it’s our mid layer). You have to earn it. Be present. Be in the moment. Make those turns, pole plants and pow shots count and shortly after, everything else will melt away, you’ll look up, and wonder where the day went.
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LÉ BENT WELCOMES MICHELE GRAGLIA TO THE TEAM
Michele Graglia competes in the gnarliest running races on the planet. When he’s not competing against others, he’s setting records and racing himself. To that end, he’s set Guinness World Records for running across the Atacama Desert in Chile (600 miles in 8 days) and after that, the Gobi Desert in Mongolia (1100 miles in 23 days). Mickey won the Yukon Arctic Ultra in temperatures below -40°C (-40°F), and he won the Badwater 135 in Death Valley, with temperatures above 54°C (130°F), making him the first person in history to win both the hottest and coldest foot races on the planet. It would be an incredible feat for someone who had cut their teeth — or rather, their feet — on trails from a young age. So it’s even more impressive given the fact Mickey was more familiar with runways than running as a former top fashion model and only took up trail running at 27 years old. INTRODUCING THE MICKEY GRAGLIA PRO SERIESZERO CUSHION 3/4 CREW TRAIL SOCK SHOP NOW We caught up with Mickey to officially welcome him to the Lé Bent team and figure out how he keeps putting one foot in front of the other. LB: Hey Michele, what’s up! We’re stoked to finally be able to share with the world that you’ve joined the Lé Bent trail team. Welcome!! MG: I really appreciate and super excited to join the Team! I'm looking forward to see what we can achieve together! We almost didn’t know where to stop when it came to listing your achievements above. We reckon you’d be hard pressed to find a more impressive ultramarathon resume than yours. There are so many to choose from but can you tell us which race or races in particular have left a lasting impression on you? I always found the most extreme races to be the most memorable. It's never really about the results for me and I love the challenge of course though the one thing that truly keeps me going back for more is the opportunity to connect with the most pristine, untouched and raw side of Nature. The senses are heightened and when I feel the most alive. Following these thoughts, and to answer your question, Tor des Geants, this September!! It is the hardest ultra trail race in the world: 330km through the most rugged trails in the Italian Alps. In addition to the many races you’ve competed in, you’ve also achieved a number of solo world records and FKT’s. How do these projects come about and how do they differ from racing for you? I love both racing and explorations as they all allow to stretch our boundaries and grow, although I found personal expeditions to offer a much deeper and personal experience. When the competition is removed they become unique opportunities to truly connect with oneself, to feel completely submerged in the experienced and fully present in the moment. Now, help us settle an office bet. Was it harder to run across the Atacama Desert or the Gobi Desert? Not just by distance but the Gobi was a way greater challenge than the Atacama.The Mongolian desert is ruthless and only gave hard blows. Facing strong, gutsy, incessant winds for days on end through a seemingly endless vast steppe.We went from desert dunes to high mountain passes and temperatures that could range daily between -10C to +40C. It was by far the hardest challenge I have faced up until then. We’ve got a fair few deserts here in Australia. Maybe we’ll have to get you down under to see how they stack up! It is a life dream of mine to cross Australia! I have always been fascinated and cannot quite honestly wait to start planning the crossing! Now running across deserts is a far cry from strolling down a runway. What drew you to trail running and made you leave what we can only imagine was a pretty cushy lifestyle as a top fashion model? Modelling began as my American Dream though the perks of that fast lifestyle soon showed their ugly side. While being at the top I had fallen to the bottom. I felt disconnected, lost and alone. During the most critical time in my life, I discovered trail and ultra running. Running through Nature showed me a new way of life. A new perspective. As cliche as it may sound, running did save my life and became an opportunity to reconnect with myself at the deepest level. You’ve developed a reputation as someone who can handle any environment, terrain and temperature. Did this happen naturally or did you seek out events with completely opposite temperatures like the Yukon Arctic Ultra and Badwater? I was drawn to them in a very primal and simple way. I wanted to feel for myself the power of the most extreme sides of Nature. There are some similarities with Lé Bent there as far as, cold and hot, snow and sand. What attracted you to Le Bent? The outstanding quality of the products! How have you enjoyed running in our Signature Merino Blend socks? I certainly love how comfy and soft they are! Also, I felt like the "wrap around" perfectly fits and supports the arch and the ankle too. I love them and keep them on all day, running or chilling. The breathability is an outstanding asset too as I can go for hours on end with perfectly dry feet! How valuable is something like a fresh pair of socks when you’re running for over three weeks straight as you did in Mongolia? Keeping the feet happy in long traverses is fundamental and a fresh pair always rewards you with a sense of renewed energy and light feel! Most valuable! Which characteristics of your new sock do you like the most? This sock is exceptionally breathable and ideal for long distance endeavours where you need to keep your feet dry. The merino blend fabric offers amazing comfort and the arch wrap around gives optimal support and stability. So, what else can we look forward to from you this year? I am going to run the Lavaredo Ultra Trail at the end of June, part of the UTMB circuit. In September I am going to face the Tor des Geants, in Valle D'Aosta, in the heart of the Italian Alps. I am then running the Gran Sasso, OneHundred World Series Final in October. I also have a couple of expedition options for the end of the year, but that's still a secret. ;) ABOUT MICHELE Age: 38 Hometown: Sanremo, Italy Nationality: Italian / American Sponsors: Le Bent, TransPerfect, LaSportiva, Garmin, SaltStick, ShPlus, Vespa, NW Curve Favourite Le Bent gear: the Terra Ultra Light 3/4 Crew Trail Socks or the shorter Ultra Light Mini Trail Socks. Follow Michele here: Instagram SHOP THE NEW MICHELE GRAGLIA PRO SERIES SOCK HERE
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WOMEN’S WEEK AT BALDFACE LODGE WITH LEONIE WOHL
Leonie Wohl had the pleasure of skiing up north this winter despite living down here in Australia. We’d be lying if we said we weren’t a little jealous of her last-minute trip when she pitched it to us, but we also wanted to hear all about it when she got back. If you also feel like a vicarious shred at a world-class lodge with a bunch of ripping women, read on! WOMEN'S WEEK AT A BACKCOUNTRY LODGE WORDS BY LEONIE WOHL PHOTOS BY LAUREN POWERS Maybe you were lucky enough to get some epic pow turns with friends this northern winter, maybe you’re dreaming about the same to come in the Southern Hemisphere (fingers crossed!). Well, I was lucky enough to get those pow turns, not only with one of my best girlfriends, but with a bunch of other women, across four epic days in a bucket-list location. Just over 50 women (including our female guides) came together, all with a different story and journey — some travelling with old friends, some travelling solo and making new friends along the way, and some even running into unexpected old connections in the departure zone of Nelson Airport. The one thing we all had in common was the desire to connect to like-minded lady shredders. We knew that the week would be full of those feel-good vibes, of lifting each other up and making memories and friendships to last a lifetime. Now, if you haven’t heard of Baldface Lodge or aren’t familiar with what’s on offer — it’s a private cat-skiing lodge just north of Nelson, in British Colombia, Canada. It’s well worth putting it on the bucket list! There is a waitlist of more than a year and it’s home to Stop #2 of the Natural Selection Tour (the stop that Lé Bent team rider Dustin Craven won this season). The Lodge has access to more than 32,000 acres of land for your shredding pleasure, set deep in the Selkirk Mountain Range. The terrain is epic and has it all — steeps, tree riding, open mellow fields and the one-and-only ‘Scary Cherry’ Natural Selection course. How did I get one of these limited spots for Baldface Lodge? It’s simple, take your friends with you! Now, I don’t mean just invite your crew on a weekend away. What I mean is, when the opportunity presents itself for your own success, networking and progression, pull your support network up to your level and bring them on the journey with you. And that my friends, is exactly how I got on this trip of a lifetime! Throwback to December 2021 — Australia is just starting to see the light at the end of the Covid tunnel, and international travel is becoming a thought we now dare entertain… it's within reach. And just like that, it’s like the universe in all her wisdom knew it was time. I got a call from my USA-based best girl, excited that we Aussies were finally getting let out… Her next sentence set me into a spin… “I got you a spot at Baldface for Women’s Week with me!” You’re kidding! Not only did my girl get on this trip, but she also got me and two others from her hometown on it too. And as she would say… "Duh, of course my girls are coming!" Fast-forward 3 months, time to dust off the board bag, dig out the base layers and jetset off to the other side of the world, crossing my fingers and toes that Mother Nature was on our side and had something up her sleeve in the form of April pow for one epic girl’s trip! What is Women’s Week all about? Women’s Week Baldface is about celebrating connection, it’s about coming together for a common love of snowboarding, it’s about sparkle parties, cocktails, bonfires, birthdays, and having one hell of a time making memories with all the #baldfacebabes — guests, guides and staff! It’s about sharing your story, your journey, inspiring others and being inspired in return. And this year’s gathering of shred sisters did not disappoint! There were your everyday ‘leisure athletes’ and mums taking time out from busy lives and jobs to do what brings them joy; there were aspiring, semi and retired pros; there were survivors of breast cancer and the incredible women who run B4BC; there were entrepreneurs carving their place in the world, bringing more options for women’s specific gear. We were young women and young-at-heart women, and then there were the boys of Baldface who were stoked to have the vibe of Women’s Week descend upon them. We were even lucky enough to have the one-and-only Baldface regular, Jess Kimura, spend the week with us — riding with us, sharing stories of building Scary Cherry in summer, and a special night sharing her story and movie with us. Having someone who is such a legend, who has done so much and is still pushing so hard for women in snowboarding, shredding alongside us all week was pretty cool and an absolute honour. But, what Baldface is really about, is the pow turns and Mother Nature, she delivered! So, now we have the vibe check, what does the week look like? After the heli uplifts and an afternoon of settling into the lodge, drinks, and setting up or waxing boards, we settled into a three-course dinner, a briefing on how the week would run, instructions for our first morning and a choice to either relax or kick on at the bar. Walking back to the chalet, snow started falling. About 5cm fell on the first night and would be the start of the snowfall that increased each day – thank you, Mother Nature! We spent the first hour or so completing an avalanche safety refresh and practised using our beacons. We got to know the guides and our cat driver. As cat #4, my group was the last to leave, at first thinking maybe we were missing out on precious shredding time, but we soon realised we had absolutely struck gold with our guides – the legendary ‘Walrus’ and Florida-girl-turned-Nelson-local, Tammy. Walrus, knowing all the best spots as a long-time guide for Baldface, had us on fresh tracks across all four days. Not just good for fresh tracks, Walrus also delivered on the bad jokes and witty Canadian one-liners throughout the day. We averaged around 3500 vertical metres or about 12 runs and rode from about 8:30 – 3:30 each day. Lunch was eaten out on the cat — tunes playing, absolute stoke, big smiles — then beers on the way back to the lodge. The post-ride schedule was full of aprés, dinner, massages, bonfires, a movie night, photo slideshows of each day, fireworks, one very epic sparkle party — rinse and repeat! Four days of pow shreds, good times, new friendships and belly laughs for days. I couldn’t have asked for a better bunch of women to share the week with! New connections, shared ideas and goals and promises of future — Women’s Week isn’t just at Baldface but all over the world. The week was exactly what you can hope for when such an inspirational and passionate bunch of shred sisters take over the ultimate cat-skiing destination. So, as we head into the Aussie season, I’m filled with ambition to bring more of that vibe to the Women’s Backcountry community, to grow the community and provide more opportunities for women to build connections and get out there! So, watch this space because who runs the world? Girls!
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Trail Runner Tom Batrouney's Ambitious Project To Run Forever
PRF UPDATE: WATCH THE NEWLY RELEASED FILM BELOW! Can you run forever in a few pairs of socks? Team Runner Tom Batrouney wanted to find out, so we slung him a bunch of fresh socks from our New Trail Collection, and cheered from the bushes as he literally ran laps around us at a local trail at Manly Dam in Sydney. Tom planned to run 10km laps around the Dam, for as long as he possibly could, maybe even forever. Three pairs of socks and 140km later, Tom called it a day — 36 hours after he started running. Below Tom writes about why he set this impossible goal and what running forever means to him. PROJECT: RUN FOREVER by Tom Batrouney I always wanted to run forever. Ever since entering the world of running on the school oval, it was always in the back of my mind. My body just wasn't built for speed. I knew this, but finding a distance long enough was almost as impossible as the concept of pushing myself to my very limit and beyond for, well, forever. Could I run forever? Haha, don't be ridiculous. That's what people would say so that's what I would say to myself. Then I stumbled into the world of ultra-trail running. A world not so much about speed but using your body and mind to travel through nature over absolute mind-blowing distances. I spent years in the bush training, on the physio table and in the gym, making myself indestructible physically and mentally. I spent time getting to know my body, what was strong and what was weak. A weakness in everyday life is fine but a weakness over 36 hours of running with no sleep will become the most painful experience of your life. Tom hitting his stride during one of the easier sections of trail in his Run Forever route. Nature has been a constant in my life. From watching every single animal documentary sitting on my Dad's knee to dedicating my life to protecting and promoting it, nature has always been there. Every single thing I have in my life has come to me, not by luck but by impossibly hard work and lessons learnt in nature. Nature has taught me when to be hugely powerful and confident but that it can reduce me to an adult man curled in a ball on the ground crying. It demands respect but needs care and there is a way to harness it to allow for all that is good in this world to flow into your life. The key is not nature, stay with me, the key is you, yep you, people are the key. There was a rotating crew of trail lovers and friends who came down to support Tom in his attempt to run forever. Absolutely everyone can do absolutely anything. It all just comes down to what you listen to, what you think and what you tell yourself. Is running forever ridiculous? If so, why? What about when you were a kid and you didn't care what people thought. Was it ridiculous to climb that tree that everyone said you couldn't? Things can only be ridiculous until you say you're doing them and then once you do that they go from ridiculous to an action, a movement or a conscious 'thing' you are doing. They transcend words and talk and enter the world as physical action and this is where I get really excited. Tom hydrating and stretching the hips at the aid station after lap number 4... that is, over 40km into his run. So why would I run forever? Why not — is really the best answer in the world. Why the hell not. All of the reasons not to, can become reasons to, if you attack them one by one, throw fake caution to the wind and are willing to face fears head on, over and over and over again until they become your best friends. I set out at 7am on April 8th to run continuous 10km loops of Manly Dam on what was potentially the wettest day on record and my plan was to run forever. What better way to test the new trail range. Lé Bent team runner Vlad Shatrov joined Tom for a few laps and wore the new Terra Ultra Light 3/4 Crew Trail Socks. After 30km — much of which underwater — they were not so 'winter white'. Tom's in the background wearing the slightly more cushioned Terra Light 3/4 Crew Trail Sock in Konbu Green. I wanted to push myself so far beyond my physical and mental limits to show both myself and those I can reach, that our planet is worth fighting for. Not to sacrifice myself like a martyr but to show myself in my rawest, most beaten down, pure form because that is where the power is. PROJECT: RUN FOREVER was something I could DO. “This loop is, without doubt, one of the most challenging trails out there! It's constantly changing incline, direction and surface making rhythm difficult and adding to the difficulty of the challenge. Then add in the conditions encountered, flooded, wet and rutted out! Constant focus was needed so as not to fall or get injured, sections of thick mud added additional fatigue, harder than the UTA100 for sure and reminded me of the 2018 Tarawera mudfest!." - Vlad Shatrov Tom and Vlad quickly discovered what condition the trail was in — or rather, how much water it was under — after just 3km. We set out with 3 goals, to keep me moving for as long as my body and mind would allow, to bring a community of people along for the ride and to raise a huge amount of money for two environmental groups doing critical work for the future of our planet. Spoiler alert, we did all three! The first environmental group was For Wild Places. They are engaging the running and outdoor community to fall in love with nature and fight to keep wild places wild for future generations. It's a new brand of sports activism and man is it important. The other group is Seabin, who are cleaning up our oceans. They're using upstream solutions to catch and analyse rubbish at the source, so that we can, for the first time in history, actually know what is in our harbours, rivers and lakes before it's out into the ocean where it becomes a vastly more difficult problem. I grew up in the ocean surfing and have moved in and out of running on trails and have seen the effect of, well us, on these ecosystems. The relationship between land and sea is something I'm involved with daily and the small thing that I can do is to raise money and awareness for something that everyone cares about but not everyone knows about. “To see the community of runners join in to do their bit was special! My team got so much out of it as I know Tom did too! A collective of like-minded individuals brought together on an awesome adventure." - Vlad Shatrov People are great and I love absolutely everyone. I don't care what you do, what you look like or what the world thinks of you. We are all people, all the same, and love is really where everything that is good starts. If you love someone, you care about them, and if you care about them, then you care about what might happen to them and that right there is the best brand of environmentalism. I’ve competed in and witnessed a few runs for environmental causes now and something really special happens when the purpose of the endurance feat lies far beyond the finish line. It’s difficult to put into words. Tom slipping on a fresh pair of Light 3/4 Crew Trail Socks after 70km's in the Terra's. Another Lé Bent team runner, Paige Penrose, joined Tom for a jaunt and to offer moral support. "The look in Tom’s eyes after lap 5 was not that of someone who had run 50km of definitely not flat, dry trail and who had potentially hundreds of kilometres left," Said Paige. "It was excitement!" “The humans surrounding him handing him potato after potato, topped with a banana or two, finding him dry clothes, taping his feet, doing live videos with various brands and companies or arranging tv news coverage to spread the word further fed off and emulated that drive. Yes, Tom achieved an immense physical performance but the message was clear without words — do not underestimate the power of individual action in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. Especially when it comes to the planet." - Paige Penrose Tom's young son cheering him over the start line for yet another lap. When you're running forever, there's no such thing as a finish line. I love you! I love you so much that I want to fight so that you will at least have a chance to experience what I have in nature. I ran for 140kms, 36 hours and pushed my body and mind to absolute breaking point. I did it for me, so that I can learn and grow and be the change I want to see in the world and I did it for you to inspire you to do something that scares you knowing full well that you have absolutely no idea what you are truly capable of. PROJECT: RUN FOREVER was a lifetime in the making and it was, without doubt, the hardest thing I have ever done in my life. It was terrifying, horribly painful and dark but none of those things will kill you, they will just make you a much better version of yourself. At the time of writing this, we are around $4k short of our $30k goal and donations are still open. Can you spare $23 to remove 250 plastic straws from Sydney Harbour or $250 to inspire a future sports activist? Donate To Project: Run Forever Some final stats from the run: 140kms run 36 hours on feet 30 potatoes consumed 1 pair of shoes worn 3 pairs of Le Bent Trail socks 0 foot issues
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LÉ BENT WELCOMES XAVIER DE LE RUE TO THE TEAM
The acronym G.O.A.T gets thrown around a lot in professional sports. So, perhaps adding the word ‘Mountain’ as a prefix more accurately represents what Xavier De Le Rue is to modern professional snowboarding. A 3 x Freeride World Tour champion and 4 x World Boardercross Champion, Xavier has seen, and probably ridden, it all. Xavier joins Pro Team riders Cody Townsend, Sammy Carlson and Elyse Saugstad and will be flying the Lé Bent boarder flag from the highest peaks. From the Kuril Islands to Antarctica, Vanuatu to Svalbard and Spain, Le Rue arrives at Le Bent HQ with plenty of stories from his many years spent in snowboard boots. “I tried the Lé Bent products for the first-time last year and was super impressed by the quality,” said Xavier. “I saw what my buddy Cody was doing with the guys and wanted to join in!” “We had the idea to make a splitboarding / snowboard specific sock that really fits my riding which I found very appealing.” Taking learnings from the existing Pro Series Socks, Xavier’s snowboard sock which is currently in the final testing stage (you can stay up to date on its development here), will see some unique snowboard specific considerations to ensure a sock, according to Xavier, “without any pressure points where all the binding straps apply pressure.” “I like a sock that is not too thin for touring and with a padding that is different from skiing.” Now making his home in Verbier, Xavier knows the ins and outs of more European big mountain lines than most. However, his exploits have taken him all the way to the poles. When asked where the wildest place his board has taken him? "Antarctica is definitely the one," he says. "5 days in a heavy metal boat, riding through the roughest seas on the planet, and at the end of it, the most magical and powerful mountain environment that I have had the chance to witness." Closer to home, "When I want to go more wild , Chamonix offers a pretty unique access to high alpine mega runs and that is quite special as well." It's also not far from where Le Bent co-founders Simon and Anthony cut their teeth fitting ski boots for over a decade in Val-d'Isère. With such an incredibly rounded snowboarding CV, we asked Xavier what he was most proud of in his career to date — Was it his 3rd FWT world title in a row? An epic first descent in Antarctica? Or being a four time winner of the Verbier Xtreme? His answer actually surprised us, and speaks to his humble reverence for nature and the lines he's ridden. “I think that all the ice riding shots we did for a while are quite a good memory for me as it really launched a new window of runs in the high alpine. I have always tried to think outside of the box and try new things to broaden our spectrum as snowboarders and I am proud to have influenced the sport in that way.” - Xavier De Le Rue Nowadays, Xavier's mission extends beyond riding the steepest, iciest lines — although he's still doing plenty of that too — into the realm of sustainability, within and beyond snowboarding. Having recently attended COP26, Xavier is focused on working with brands to lessen their environmental impact, something we're welcoming from him here at Lé Bent. “I am really trying to influence as much as I can my partners to gradually shift the production of all the products towards a more sustainable version.” “After 22 years of amazing opportunities through snowboarding, my goal now is to pass on my knowledge, in order to inspire others to get out there and enjoy their own adventures.” That goal starts with Lé Bent helping snowboarders find a better fit, so they can take their riding to new heights. Stay up to date as we unveil our new creation with XV here.
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Lucy Bartholomew on Running The Larapinta Trail - Watch Now
Lucy Bartholomew ran the Larapinta Trail and has the crazy stats and a new film to prove it. Those stats include, 231km of Larapinta trail. 20km of wrong turns and dead ends. 54 hours of running. 5 minutes of sleeping. 2 pairs of shoes. And of 5 pairs of Le Bent socks on rotation. In total Lucy ran 250km. It’s safe to say she learnt a few things about socks, shoes and about herself in the process. We caught up with Lucy this week in the build-up to the release of her film: Running Out Movie. Rent or download the full film now here: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/runningout LÉ BENT: Hey Lucy!! It’s been a few months since you ran into Alice Springs during the middle of the night after running the Larapinta. Now, it’s been tough for us keeping much of that story under wraps until now, how excited are you to finally share your documentary of the trip? That must almost feel like another finish line, right! I am so happy. When I crossed that non-existent finish line in Alice Springs, stopped my watch and took my shoes off; I was done. What I didn’t realise is that Bryans (the filmmaker, among other things) own ultra was just beginning. The edit. For 6 months we have gone back and forth with options for the film and ways to tell the story. It is really incredible to see the trip be shared in an incredibly beautiful and authentic way through the film and I just hope that people know that whilst it is a movie about running, the message is deeper than just running. (Top) A young local leads Lucy across the 'finish line' and the emotions and community spirit overflowing afterwards (bottom). Pic cred: Josh Lynott Obviously you and your team (Photographer Josh Lynott and filmmaker Bryan Hynes) were sharing content and updates during the run and afterwards, but do you think there’s a lot that people might not know about the project? Absolutely. I hope this story is shared far beyond the people we, as a team reach on our daily basis. Social media is such a cool tool to connect with people around the world and we really felt that before, during and after. I hope the people that see the film after following along back in March feel like it is a long lost memory for them as well. Like they were there, they were part of the team. The team planning and chatting Larapinta. Pic cred: Josh Lynott For those that find the film with no idea who we are or what we do, I hope they virtually meet us in the Northern Territory, come on this journey with us and appreciate the raw, authentic and human story we are telling and resonate with something along the way. And what a story it is! Is there a single moment that you remember as being particularly gruelling? Oh, so many it is hard to pick!! I distinctly remember leaving the boys after a refuel point and making the decision to carry less water knowing I was going into river beds which had previously been full from some insane rainfall. I remember cresting a mountain ridge and looking out at the river beds below and looking for a glimmer, a reflection of water in the landscape and I saw nothing but dry, hot, Aussie bush. All I could do in that moment was focus on what I could control which was my effort and attitude but I have never had to focus so much on just taking one more step forward. A battered and bruised Lucy somewhere around the halfway mark — Which is already an Ultra Marathon in itself. Pic cred: Josh Lynott You obviously learnt a lot about yourself and your ability to persevere. What are you most proud of from the project? I am certainly most proud of my team and the community of Alice Springs. I have come to know what I expect of myself and what I am capable of. I know I can be stubborn, can suffer and when I commit and care about something not much will stop me. But I didn’t think I would lean so heavily on Josh and Bryan and the community. It was a great lesson for me to ask for help and what gives me the most goosebumps in the film is watching everyone rise up, show up and not give up. I couldn’t have and wouldn’t have wanted to do it without everyone that was there. Lucy getting some warm up runs in around Alice Springs. Pic cred: Josh Lynott In addition to learning about yourself and other people, it sounds like you learnt a lot about running equipment in some pretty harsh conditions too! We know it wasn’t all red desert sand on which you were running… Are we right in thinking there were sections of trail you actually had to swim? We saw the Larapinta trail in some of its most lush, green and water-filled ways it has ever been. The locals that had grown up there said they had never seen it this way so it was a treat to see the river beds full (briefly) and the flora and fauna thriving. The river beds that were full during the run became swims up to chest high… it was incredibly nice to cool off but because it never happens all the trail markers were under water and I was always going too far down the gorges. It's lucky I'm a good swimmer as I held my phone above my head to keep dry and navigate whilst doing one-armed freestyle. Trail runner turned trail swimmer... Pic cred: Josh Lynott You’ve done some serious product testing for us in the past, but it sounds like this might take the cake! What did you learn about the Le Bent threads in the process? I have always loved using the Le Bent sock range and proud to be on the team but I don’t think I have ever had the same level of appreciation for the material I put between me and the ground. I had 5 pairs of socks with the boys to alternate between depending on how my feet were feeling (cushioning) and protection from the trail (heights) as well as the classic stink test. A snapshot of the socks Lucy employed to run over 250km. The Trail Ultra Light Mini's (Top), Outdoor Light Mini Socks (Left) — predominantly hiking socks that provided bonus cushioning underfoot when the going got tough. And our Run Ultra Light Micro Tab Socks for training runs before the big dance in the burning sun (right). Pic cred: Josh Lynott “The best thing about the Le Bent socks for this adventure was the material of the socks; being a blend of bamboo and merino wool it allows for breathability as well as softness and moisture wicking.” I was in and out of water and needed something that dried as fast as my shoes, didn’t make my feet hot for the hours of relentless heat in the day, kept my feet warm in the full moonlit nights we had and lastly didn’t rub, cause blisters, irritate me… not an easy list to fulfil hey? “54 hours and 250km later and there isn’t just one sock but the whole range from Le Bent that ticked these boxes.” - Lucy Bartholomew The ever reliable Lucy Pro Series Sock (Top) with its ultra light cushion and 3/4 crew cut was a staple throughout the run. It was on Lucy's feet at the start and finish line. (Bottom) Lucy promptly asleep in the back of the team 4x4 after completing the run. Pic cred: Josh Lynott Now we all know how much you inspire people to run trails. What advice would you have for a complete beginner and on the other end of the spectrum, what advice would you give to someone wanting to run an Ultra? I would have so many things to say, and so would everyone else; I suppose my advice would be not to try and do exactly what everyone else is doing, wear what they wear, eat what they eat, run how they run — you do you. Find what works for you and find YOUR ‘why’. Why do you want to run an ultra? Why are you going to strive to continuously find time in your day to lace up and run? The most powerful thing my coach said to me before running the Larapinta was uninjured and stoked are all you need to be to make this happen. Be that, and you can do anything. And is there a particular Le Bent sock you’d recommend to either? After working with the Le Bent team to design the Le Lucy Pro Sock I will never look past this sock that has taken me on short runs, long runs, mountain runs, desert runs and road runs. They haven’t failed me and I hope the same for you! The Lucy Pro Series Sock has now won the Ultra Trail Australia and run across much of Central Australia. An ultra tested sock. Pic cred: Josh Lynott
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