New Socks Made From Bamboo

We've just had an interesting new arrival in the OUTDOORSmagic editorial office, walking socks from Wynnster made with 80 per-cent bamboo fibre.

Natural, renewable materials are a big noise in the outdoors industry right now with recycled fleece and coconut-based materials popping up all over the place - see Susan's trends GearBlog article - but bamboo's a new one on us.

So what's it all about? Bamboo is a sustainable natural resource, but says Wynnster, the fabric also has performance benefits. It's highly breathable, is cool in the heat - around 2C cooler apparently - and warm when cold, has permanent anti-bacterial qualities, so shouldn't pong and is both soft and very strong.

The socks are shortish, have a low bulk rib knit leg, terry knit arch and underfoot areas, a cushioned anatomic heel and a cushioned toe box with flat seam.

They really do feel nice and soft against the skin and we're going to be using them for the next few weeks before reporting back. Price, once they're in the shops early next year, will be £7.50 per pair. Other new Wynnster sock designs will feature merino wool and other performance fibres.

More details of the Wynnster range of clothing and accessories at www.wynnster.co.uk.