Product Review: DeFeet Levitator Socks

By Dave Osborne
Jun 22, 2005, 10:39

It seems like the only time I pay attention to my socks is when they get holes in them or they are not comfortable.  I’m here to say now is the time to take a look at the DeFeet Levitator socks, which are new for 2005.  I’m sure all of us already own Defeet Aviator Socks, which were created in 1992 by Shane Cooper.

DeFeet Levitator socks. Photo copyright Roadcycling.com.

To begin with, the tried and true fabric of the DeFeet Levitator Socks is CoolMax.  There is no annoying seam around the toe box area and the added thickness of the toe box passes beyond the ball of the foot adding stability.  The design of the CoolMax mesh weave allows for additional airflow and more efficient moisture transfer.  If you’ve ever wondered why the cuff of DeFeet socks maintains the support of the sock, it is because of the new SeXeHedron cuff channels.  Look closely at the cuff of these new socks and you would actually see a hexagonal pattern around the cuff, which helps maintain fit without having to add additional bulk to the sock.  You can get the Levitator in either the standard style, the low cuff style, or the “No See Em” style.  Another interesting feature of the Levitator is the “Ambi-Fit” style of the sock.  The knitting is done in such a manner to anatomically accommodate either the left or right foot, which essentially means it seems as though the sock is tailor made no matter what foot you put it on. 

Enough of the frills, it was time to put these to the test.  The Levitators were very comfortable during my bike rides and there was no noticeable slip or friction between the sock and the shoe and my foot.  The cuff area was comfortable around my ankle and did not interfere or bind with the cuff portion of the shoe.

To be honest, I don’t feel it is much of a test for the sock while pedaling a bicycle as there is not a great deal of movement with the foot within the shoe.  I decided I would add a little challenge to the socks by wearing them while participating in my second most enjoyable sport, which is racquetball.  If any knows about court sports, there is a great deal of stop and go, forward and back, and lateral movement.  Instead of normally wearing two pairs of socks I decided to go with one pair of the Levitators.  After two hours, I determined the function of these socks was outstanding.  Their wicking properties were exceptional and they maintained their position on my foot and did not bunch up in any areas.

DeFeet states the elements of spirit, strength, and craftsmanship exist to create the best performing product of their kind.  They continue to say they are “made for driven souls”.  In addition, DeFeet says to think of the new Levitator as a Formula One sock for your foot.  I could find no reason to dispute this claim as the socks performed exceptionally well.

DeFeet Levitator socks. Photo copyright Roadcycling.com.

It is not that often that I cannot find at least something with a product that needs improvement.  DeFeet has met that challenge.  There is no doubt that the engineering and design of this sock can easily be taken for granted.  So, next time you go to your local cycle shop or sporting goods store make sure you pick out your favorite design and color of the new DeFeet Levitator Socks and remember you can choose from four different sizes for an even better fit.

Visit DeFeet online at http://www.defeet.com/.

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