LOOKING GLASS ARCH CLIMB

Any athlete attempting rock climbs, box jumps, or heavy deadlifts knows there’s a danger of shredding the skin of their lower legs. The Lifting Sock was designed to stay put throughout your toughest gym sessions, and we wanted Michael Miraglia to put this claim to the test.

Michael knows from experience that the foot lock required when climbing a rope puts a lot of stress on the shins. When he was first introduced to the Lifting Sock, he knew that the padding on the front of the sock and the promise of a no-slip design would mean the sock could provide protection and stability. Usually, athletes guard their shins with knee sleeves, but this option could provide easier protection. Michael knew he could easily take the Lifting Sock to the gym, but he wanted to get more creative.

Here’s where Utah comes into the story. Specifically: Looking Glass Arch, south of Moab. Sitting in the middle of native Ute land, Looking Glass Rock is visited by hikers and rock climbers alike. It’s a famous landmark and it’s considered a must-climb, even for novice climbers.

Often, thrill-seekers will rappel from the top of the 200 foot arch but no one has ever attempted to hang a rope and try to climb from the bottom without a safety line. Until now. Michael has a healthy dose of skepticism about the Lifting Sock before he starts his ascent, but only because the existing protective gear doesn’t always live up to the hype.

“Even with a knee sleeve, I get friction burns on my shins during a rope climb.”

It’s clear from the start this is going to be different. The construction of the Lifting Sock passes this field test with flying colors. Michael doesn’t have to think about it as he ascends, the built-in arch support and cushioning keeping his foot stable and secure. The durable nylon keeps the sock in place just below his knee. Instead of thinking about this gear, he can take in the views. It’s pure nature, without a town or cell service to be found for miles.

It’s windy and the rope itself is swinging more than anticipated, so Michael doesn’t go up the entire 200 feet to the top. He’s fairly certain if he attempted it again he’d be able to make it now that he knows the conditions. He’s convinced the Lifting Sock is the gear for the job. There’s no evidence on Michael’s legs that anything strenuous took place. No rips in the sock or Michael’s skin. No friction burns, no bruises. The socks have not only proven themselves inside of the gym, they can withstand nature, too.

“It was a blast. As protective as the socks are, they don't limit any movement. You can protect your shins and still have complete freedom of movement. There's no limit to what the socks are capable of."

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