7 replies to this topic

[Pasty]

Anyone had any experience using thin Lorpen coolmax socks for trail-running?

Although I have run in the same brand and kind of sock for about 7 years I am considering a change.  The advantages I see are a) still coolmax fabric b) not white c) slightly better cushioning than the current brand I use.

I am interested in whether anyone uses them and how they wear with time and abuse. They are carried by a local outdoor store here in Melbourne that is also now carrying my favorite brand of trail running shoes. But almost fainted at paying $30- for a pair of socks...

pasty

[Suzy]

Haven't tried Lorpen sox sorry. But while we're on the subject - what are people's fave running sox? I'm currently using a pair of Asics coolmax sox which I find good. Also have some Zoot sox which are very thin so good for bike rides.

I'll be doing Sydney Trailwalker in May & was wondering if anyone has any ideas on good trail running shoes for this (as a novice, I'll probably do quite a bit of walking).

I agree that $30 for sox sounds a bit much - I don't like paying $15 for coolmax ones. But if they are comfortable & hardwearing I guess its worth it.

[Grey beard]

After one painful experience with shrivelled sox balling up under my feet, I now chuck out my usual cheap cotton sox before they perish. I also have one pair of Thorlos I wear on special occasions (when I'm going for a pb or doing a Half or longer). They cost me about $28. Never thought I'd spend so much on a pair of sox, but they have been worth it for comfort. Maybe a bit thick and warm compared with coolmax, but they're not white!

[kb]

I have never tried Lorpen socks for running but swear by them for bushwalking/hiking.

They kept my feet warm in freezing conditions for a month in Nepal and kept my constantly wet feet comfortable on the overland track last year (Tasmania where it snows in December!!!!!)

I always buy new socks when I buy new runnig shoes.  My current favourites are little soft Asics ankle socks.

WT

[trav]

I can not say I know anything about those sox. I use Thorlos, for Athlete's Foot @ $30.Thorlos are good at holding perspiration away from your foot!  :)

[Jeremy_B]

Personal favourite socks are Wigwam Ironman. Ten pairs, five years,all weather, any distance, no blisters and still going. Probably cost $20+ these days and worth it.
Not heard of Lorpen socks.

[flat feet]

I had a pair of Explorer sox that I used for about five years for work in Safety boots, rogaining and bushwalking.  Thats was 12 years ago.  I've bought one pair since and threw them away after one rogaine, nothing like globilisation and the race for the bottom.

Anyhow my opinion for what it is worth.  Is find thin seamless 100% cotton socks, as recomended for ski boots.  I used them for a number of years with no blisters caused by socks.  I used to buy a five pack from Gowings for about $25.00.

My blister problems are usually caused I think by pressure and pinch points caused by orthotics.  That and very poor ankle flexibility that places torsional loads on the soles of my feet.

I went for a run in a pair of fluffy lined white "sports socks last Saturday" and imediately blistered.  

I've used Thorlo's once for a 32 day trek in Nepal.  I do not think they are worth it.

Lately I've purchased Nike, Puma and Bonds sports socks.  All basically thin, ribbless in the foot and seamless all seem to work OK.

[Brownie]

Hi Pasty
Like Wildthing I have used Lorpen sox for hiking, I got them when I bought hiking shoes & found them to be great when bouncing around Spain -unlike average sports sox I didn't end up with sweaty, blistered or  shrivelled feet -particularly after having spent over 6hrs on my feet in approx 35c temps.  

Like anything though I think its trial and error what works for one person doesn't neccesarily work for others.