Teko EcoPoly Light Hiking Sock Full Review
Posted: 13 March 2008 by Mark Harris
There's a lot of talk of carbon footprints around but here's one range of products that puts its foot where its mouth is -- in a good way. Teko is a US company that aims to make the most environmentally sound 'performance' socks -- for hiking, running, cycling and skiing -- on the planet.
This hiking sock is home to the usual technical features you'd expect from a walking sock: breathable vents and arch bands for comfort; shaped heels for improved fit; a (tight) cuff to stop bunching; and seamless toes for durability.
It's made from 77 per cent Ecopoly, which is created from post-consumer and post-industrial plastic waste (like drinks bottles). The remainder is Lycra and nylon. Ironically, considering its origins, it has excellent moisture transfer, making it ideal for sweaty feet and helping to prevent blisters on longer walks.
The sock itself is quite light -- not recommended for mid-winter expeditions -- but is impressively soft. Teko also produces socks made from Eco-Merino wool, organic cotton and Ingeo, a man-made plant fibre. Teko doesn't specify the grade of Ingeo it uses -- some varieties contain genetically modified organisms, or GMOs.
But Teko's natural products all do meet or exceed organic specifications, including Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and International Association Natural Textile Industry (IVN) guidelines. All fibres are processed with eco-friendly, chlorine-free treatments.
Teko uses 100 per cent renewable energy in its North Carolina factory, and even offsets the carbon cost of shipping its socks to the UK. Socks come very minimally packaged in 100 per cent recycled cardboard. A genuine treat for the feet.
Quality
Value
Ethics
Green
