Injinji Compression Toe Socks

Stephen,
Do you have any thoughts on how these would work as ski socks? The thin fabric sounds potentially perfect.

And thanks for the blog. I enjoy checking in from time to time to see what’s new.

Stephen – I second Keyvan’s question about ski socks…I’ve been frustrated with ski socks for years. How smooth is the surface (I’ve been wearing SmartWool ultra-thin’s which are great but leave a dimpled like texture on my skin)? Do you think the toe separation will lead to cold toes? How do they compare to the CW-X socks?
Thanks!

I can’t speak to the compression aspect of these socks, but I can speak to the blister prevention. I use the coolmax crew version of these as liner socks for backpacking. I used to get lots of blisters between my toes, but the injinji toesocks have ended that problem. I dont think I will be trying the compression socks anytime soon, but I have gone through several pairs of these for backpacking and I can only say good things about them.

I have not tested them in alpine ski boots. (Used them mainly for running and hiking this fall.) Not sure if the compression technology is appropriate or needed in the confines of a tight boot. For warmth, there are definitely warmer socks on the market. Like the old gloves vs. mittens debate, the separation of the toes is likely not as heat conducing as a regular sock. Anyone else have experience in cold weather with Injinji?

I wonder if the compression’s promise of increasing blood flow would lead to warmer feet while skiing. I have never found that thicker socks (besides being worse for boot feel) have never been much warmer for me – they tend to bunch and then cut off circulation. Another leading compression company seems to offer compression socks specifically for skiing: http://www.cepsocks.com/cep-skiing-o2-sportsocks.html

Not made for the cold! Tested today on a winter mountain-bike ride (20 degrees, covered bike shoes, about 25 miles). Toes FROZE! Then switched to regular socks, and was fine.

Stephen, Thanks for the update on their use in cold weather.

Ryan, thanks for the link although I am not ready to spend $60 on ski socks.

I thought that these might be a modern day version of the old blaxsox. I have one pair and love them; they are incredibly thin, use compression in key areas, and my feet stay warm.

We have a ski sock. Contact REI or backcountry.com. They should have them soon.

Aloha,

Do you have gradient compression stockings (8-15mmHg) with a separation for only the big toe? I don’t even know if they exist. I wear sandals that have a toe loop or sandals that are the thong style. I don’t want toe stocking with indiviual toes (like gloves).

Thanks!

Aloha,
Sandy