Painkiller Socks

Intended Use: Skateboarding.

Recommended For: Keeping you shins sexy and your leg modeling career dreams alive.

Review Date: April – September 2016

About Footprint Insole Technology:
Jason Guadalajara grew up skating in Los Angeles. After tearing his ACL, his surgeon told him that his feet were so flat that his knees had been taking the brunt of the impact when he jumped down things—which was a big part of the reason for his injury. After the surgery, his doctor sent him to a podiatrist that made him a foam custom orthotic. The difference was so noticeable that Jason knew he had to bring this technology to skateboarding—which is how Footprint was born.

Painkiller Socks Specs:

Embedded with Artilage (Artificial Cartilage Foam)
Quality construction for lasting durability
Shin and ankle protection

Painkiller Socks Review:

Let’s face it getting hit in the shins with a skateboard is painful at any age. When I was younger I had a board slide on a handrail go awry. The board nailed me in the shin so hard I ended up with a hairline fracture. I couldn’t skate for about a month and had to skate with a big bulky shin guard. I know for myself as I get older I am unfortunately less tolerant of pain. I’m always on the lookout for ways to extend my skate life. I’d used Footprints King Foam Insoles and came across their Painkiller Socks. They come in two lengths, a knee high and a crew. They also now have the option to just buy the pads and insert them in socks that they offer. I prefer a taller sock so I chose the knee high.

My initial impressions of the painkiller socks was that they looked like a normal sock, and you cannot really tell the pads are there. They are a little tough to get on as the sewn in pads make the sock a little stiff. You have to do some repositioning to align the ankle disc pads up correctly. I wasn’t really sure what to expect skating in them but after a few sessions, these socks are amazing. Wearing these socks, I’ve hit my shins hard and you feel the impact but thats all…no pain…no bruising. The ankle pads are bonus as well, no more painful hits the ankle bone. They can be a little warm on those hot summer days but the protection they provide is totally worth it. If you’re a bigger guy, I’d highly recommend the knee high, as the crew socks are on the small side and will not adequately cover your shin.

Summary:
Young or old, I highly suggest these socks. I’d recommend picking up a few pairs because you’ll want to use them every time you go out skating. I was able to really push my limits knowing my shins and ankles are protected. My 11 year old has a set now too, he won’t skate with out them.

Pros

No more shinners.
Looks like a normal sock.
Priced right for the benefit

Cons

Kind of tough to put on

Price:	(4.5 / 5)
Construction:	(4.5 / 5)
Performance:	(5.0 / 5)
Overall:	(4.7 / 5)