Moments
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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Reasons to Get 3/4 Base Layer Bottoms for Men
There were around 61 million ski visits in the United States during the 2021 and 2022 seasons. That percentage was up nearly 3.5% compared to previous years. One of the biggest reasons ski numbers have increased is that the recent COVID-19 pandemic pushed more people to try outdoor activities. Whether you are a skier enthusiast or are just starting out, you likely know the discomfort and struggles of staying warm and comfortable inside ski boots. What if we told you that 3/4 bottom base layer pants were your solution? These refined base layer pants are versatile and comfortable and can make a difference in your upcoming ski season. Better yet, purchasing them now gives you a chance to try them with other outdoor activities before winter comes full swing. Luckily, in our complete guide, we will review the benefits of 3/4 bottoms for skiing and snowboarding and why they are increasing in popularity. Rising Popularity of 3/4 Bottoms for Skiing When shopping for men's base layer pants, you have likely encountered the 3/4 length base layer pants. A base layer under ski pants or other outdoor clothing is critical for maintaining ideal body temperature while helping you move across the mountain. Bamboo and merino wool are two materials ideal for 3/4 base layers. Rayon from bamboo is softer and more breathable than 100% wool products. It also works at diffusing static, helps those with skin sensitivities, and blends seamlessly with merino wool. Merino wool comes from the Merino sheep and is softer, more elastic, and more breathable than traditional wool. It is also more comfortable and has top-tier odour-resistant properties. By combining both merino wool and rayon from bamboo, you are treated to the best of both and the perfect material for a first-on-skin base layer. Reason for the 3/4 Base Layer Hype Choosing a 3/4 base layer has several advantages, including better fit, comfort, breathability, circulation, and more. The LÉ BENT base layer for men stops mid-calf, allowing for higher footwear or ski boots. The versatility of a 3/4 base layer allows you to wear it under shorts or on its own for cooler outdoor jogs or cycling. High-quality base layers will also have seamless designs, eliminating chafing or itchiness. Ultimately, the 3/4 base layer is ideal for multi-purpose outdoor activities and is more comfortable and versatile than many full-length designs. 1. Helps Maintain Blood Flow to the Feet When you shop for ski base layer pants, you understand the importance of helping maintain blood flow to the feet. If the clothing or footwear is too restrictive, it can limit circulation and lead to discomfort in a short time. A ¾ cut will ensure proper blood flow in the lower limbs. 2. Keeps the Feet Warm Merino base layer pants are ideal for keeping you warm in sub-zero temperatures. By improving blood flow to your feet, you will also notice that your feet will stay warmer. Base layers should be lightweight, moisture-wicking, and insulating. You can choose from several base layer weights or ‘thicknesses’. Typically, the lighter the base layer, the more it is suited for higher-intensity activities or milder temperatures. Conversely, the heavier weight, the more insulation the base layer provides. Picking a lightweight 3/4 base layer gives you the flexibility of using it for cold ski trips, running, outdoor cycling, hiking, and more. 3. Eliminates Blisters, Hotspots, and Chafe One of the primary ways 3/4 ski pants prevent blisters and hotspots is the absence of folds. Being a ¾ cut already, these base layers are built to be ‘boot friendly’ and don’t require you to roll up any of the material to be above the boot — as the length naturally concludes around the mid-shin. Chafing happens when fabric or clothing rubs against the skin and typically occurs near the inner thigh, groin, or buttocks. While there are several home remedies you can use to combat chafing, one of the best ways is to choose high-quality clothing with a soft fabric composition like merino wool and bamboo rayon. Best Socks to Pair With Your 3/4 Base Layer Ultimately, your base layer pants can significantly affect how your feet feel in cold temperatures. Pairing them with quality material socks can be a game-changer for your ski season. Look at ski socks that cover up to your mid-calf, slightly longer than the length of your ski boot and be sure never to wear your socks over your base layers. You want to keep both separate to avoid bulk and the potential of rubbing in ski boots. Get Your 3/4 Bottoms Base Layer Pants at Le Bent! Have you wondered if a 3/4 bottom base layer is worth it? In short: yes! These newly redefined base layers help circulation and warmth while avoiding chafing and blisters commonly seen around skiers' shins, calves, and feet. You can ride more comfortably on the mountain and have a versatile base layer bottom you can wear on your outdoor jobs or other adventures. LÉ BENT specializes in quality outdoor gear, including socks, baselayers, headwear, and much more. Are you ready to see the difference? Check out our products to get started today!
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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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