FIRST… A WORD ON WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
There are a couple of important things to think about before purchasing a set of compression socks. Not least of which is what they in fact are and how they work.
Compression socks act almost like an additional layer of muscle on the body, using pressure to particular locations to help the return of blood back to the heart. This reduces lactic acid production and may help to increase VO2 Max. It makes your blood flow more efficient.
A lot of socks use what we call gradient pressure, which means less pressure is applied to the leg the higher up you get. Now because people have different shaped legs and feet, along with different levels of flow, you’ll need some self-assessment to look for socks that use pressure at the best level depending on what you need.
You’ll discover a range of different fabrics. Some will combine compression with thermal layering to keep your feet warm, others use moisture wicking technology to do the opposite. So it’s important to think of when and where you’re more than likely to utilize them.
Best Overall
Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks for Men & Women
Made of a comfortable, highly-breathable and durable material, these socks can be worn throughout the day to help in reducing tiredness and swelling in your lower legs. The fabric is likewise moisture-wicking, which helps keep your feet dry and blister-free.
With the correct amount of support and compression in the heel, foot, calves and toe areas, they can provide relief for shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and other lower leg conditions. Their stay-put cuffs keep these socks from falling down, without pinching or feeling too stiff. You can use these socks throughout exercise or put them on when you’re completed to improve your recovery.
Best For Runners
Vitalsox Compression Socks
Vitalsox Compression Socks are exceptionally popular with runners, however they’re an excellent choice for anybody who works out regularly, is pregnant or handling foot or calf discomfort, or spends a lot of time on their feet. They’re lightly padded at the ball and top of the foot, however not too large, so you can easily wear them with any athletic or work shoes. The padding offers extra comfort and helps to prevent abrasion and foot tension from impact sports like running.
The socks’ unique Drystat product manages wetness while also reducing bacteria growth, to lower your threat of blisters and smelly socks. The compression starts around the midfoot, providing arch support while keeping common injuries, such as plantar fasciitis and shin splints, at bay.
Best for Plantar Fasciitis
Bitly Plantar Fasciitis Socks
If you suffer from or have been prone to plantar fasciitis, you should absolutely consider the Bitly Plantar Fasciitis compression socks. By offering targeted compression and support to your arch and ankle, these socks can help alleviate your arch and heel pain and promote healing blood flow to speed your recovery. The moisture-wicking, breathable material promotes temperature level guideline, so your feet will remain cool and dry.
Best For Improving Running Form
Falke Impulse Compression Socks
Many compression wear is created to help circulation throughout the body, however the Falke Impulse likewise aim to help affect your general posture. Whether you pronate or supinate, the socks boast targeted sensing units that stimulate receptors under the skin that can influence the way you run. Nodules on the sole of the foot work to fix your overall posture, while those on the outer calf protect against supination and pronation. They also have humidity regulation, quick drying and support for maximum convenience. A premium alternative, in every sense.
Best for Shin Splints
Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks
If you’ve been dealing with shin splints or calf cramping, these Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks may provide you some relief, while also assisting to enhance your comfort and performance prior to and after exercises. These socks include graduated compression to help enhance blood flow and oxygen circulation, lower leg fatigue, and support muscles. Made of a light-weight, moisture-wicking, and thermal-regulating material, these socks feel comfortable versus your skin and the smooth technology lowers blisters, rubbing and inflammation. They likewise include a rubber band around the foot to help support your arches. Runners enjoy the no-slip cuff, which holds the sock in place, no matter how fast you’re running.