Product Review: Thorlo Experia Socks

When I started running way back in 2006, the only pair of socks I used were thick and long Thorlo socks that I had used way back in college for hiking. (Stop laughing!) As a newbie, I knew little about using runner-specific socks and I relied on the knowledge that Thorlo was a well-known, credible brand (almost like Cole Haan for shoes).

As I progressed as a runner, I preferred thin rather than thick socks to avoid blisters. I learned that it’s not really running shoes that cause blisters, but the socks. Hence, choosing the right pair of socks for us runners is just as important as choosing the appropriate shoe for our foot type.

Last month, Thorlo provided me with Thorlo Experia Socks for testing. I was flabbergasted. I hadn’t really thought of using Thorlos again since I knew them to be thick and hot. But, these Experia socks were thin in most areas and provided extra padding in places that need extra cushioning.

I ran 12k this morning using the Thorlo Experia socks and my Nike Pegasus 28. Here’s my review about Thorlo Experia Socks.

PROS:
– Comfortable fit. I’ve never felt socks more comfortable than Thorlos. I felt like I was walking on clouds.
– Extra padding at the right places. The additional padding are on areas where runners need it most: where our heel strikes and at the balls of our feet. There’s even padding for my bunions! (Thank. You. Lord.)
– Uses coolmax. This means that it uses technical fabric that is moisture-wicking and it will prevent blistering.
– Breathable. Despite the padding, the entire sock is made of thinner material which allows for ventilation. Perfect for the summer heat.
– Lightweight. The socks don’t feel heavy even with the extra padding. Should it get soaked in rain water, the thin material won’t make the socks too heavy as well.
– Attractive colors. I like the bright colors. A welcome change from my white or black socks.

– Extra padding at the ball of the foot –

– Extra padding at the heel –

CONS:
– A bit pricey at P799.75. I haven’t tested the durability of the product, but if it lasts as long as my Thorlos from college then perhaps it’s worth the premium cost if you can afford it.
– If you prefer thin, barely-there running socks, then this may not be for you. While the material is thin and comfy, I’ve tried other brands that have been thinner.

Thorlos are available at the following outlets:
A Runner’s Circle (Roxas Boulevard)
Planet Sports (Trinoma, Rockwell, Shangrila, Newport, Alabang Town Center)
Riovana (BGC, Katipunan)
ROX (BGC)
RUNNR (BGC)
Rustans (Gateway, Makati, Shangrila, Alabang Town Center)
Secondwind Running Store (Ortigas, Greenhills, Matimtiman, QC)
Sports Warehouse (Mamplasan)
The Athletes Foot (Galleria, Glorietta, Alabang Town Center)
Tobys (Alabang Town Center)