The best compression socks for running are also good for other sports people as well, but mainly for athletes who use their legs during their workouts (not surprisingly). Whether you’re an ultra-runner or you dabble in a weekly park run, a pair of compression socks could help you run better and recover faster.
Apart from helping your lower legs feel more oxygenated during your runs, compression socks for running can also hold your ankle in a firmer position. This helps in reducing the risk of ankle sprains. This doesn’t mean you can just forget paying attention to your running technique, but a bit of extra protection never hurts. However, if you want something less compressing for your feet, we also have a guide to the best running socks of the more standard variety.
Studies have shown that slipping into the right pair of socks can help your muscles work harder for longer and repair faster after a run. So if you want those kinds of marginal gains, we have researched the best pairs of socks to put on while hitting the tracks.
HOW TO BUY THE BEST COMPRESSION SOCKS FOR RUNNING AND SPORTS
There are a few important factors to consider before buying a pair of compression socks. Not least of which is what they actually are and how they work. Here are few things to take note of:
1. The idea of compression socks is that they act as an extra layer of protection on the body, applying pressure to specific areas to help the return of blood back to the heart. This allegedly has the side-effect of lowering lactic acid production and even increasing VO2 Max.
2. What does that mean for us? Well, in addition to making your lower legs look extra colourful, compression socks make blood flow more efficiently. This is the same reason people wear them during flights, to help prevent DVT (or deep vein thrombosis).
3. Most socks apply what we call gradient pressure, which means less pressure is applied to the leg the higher up you get. However, because different people have different shaped legs and feet, as well as different levels of circulation, you need to look for socks that apply pressure at the right level, to the areas that are going to help you.
4. The level of compression varies too. If a brand lists the grade of compression (rated in mmHg), it’s a good sign you’re getting real compression rather than something that’s just a bit tighter. Unfortunately, many brands do not provide this information.
5. You will find 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 about when and where you’re most likely to use them.
6. It’s also worth thinking about thickness and how they’re going to feel in your running shoes. All the compression in the world won’t help you if you’ve got blisters because your shoe-socks combo has eaten up all the wiggle room for your toes.
7. To get the best fit, measure your calf circumference at its widest, you will need this number (in either centimetres or inches) to find the best fitting compression socks for your legs.
THE BEST COMPRESSION SOCKS FOR RUNNERS
These knee-high socks for sports will help you stay injury-free for longer and improve your performance during running activities.
The 2XU Vectr Cushion socks designed for plantar fascia, arch and ankle support, and blister prevention. Best compression socks for all-round training
PRO
- Great for a wide range of activities.
- A lot of tech packed into one pair of socks.
CON
- Not really for colder conditions.
2XU have long been one of the leaders in compression gear. That’s because they pack an enormous amount into their products. With support specifically designed for plantar fascia, arch and ankle optimization along with blister prevention, cushioning to support push off and heel impact as well as antibacterial and anti-odour technology, you can see why the Vectr Cushion socks are a great option if you want to tick all imaginable compression-related boxes.
2. ROCKAY VIGOR GRADUATED COMPRESSION SOCKS
The Rockay Vigor Grduated Compression socks has all the compression you’ll ever need. Eco-friendly compression socks by Rockay offering 16–23 mmHg graduated compression, anti-odour tech, and breathable mesh.
PRO
- Tight compression.
- Polygene anti-odour tech (less washing).
- Uses recycled ocean plastic in yarns.
CON
- Most expensive model on the list.
If you care about the planet as much as your feet, you should get Rockay socks. The Rockay Vigor, for example, not only applies ample amount of pressure in all the right areas (graduated compression 16-23 mmHg) but it’s also made using Econyl Regenerated Nylon yarns. These yarns are made of recycled ocean plastic and therefore super sustainable.
Another technology is used in the Rockay Vigor Compression Socks to aid sustainability: the Polygene treated socks need less washing as long as they are laid out to dry in between use. Polygene absorbs odour-causing bacteria and as long as the socks are dry, it will do its job. Less washing equals more environmentally friendly socks.
The Rockay Vigor Graduated Compression Socks’ compression level is on the tight side, but not in a bad way. They are also on the high side of the scale so the socks run all the way up to knee-high. Despite offering loads of compression, the Vigor still has breathable mesh zones for extra breathability. These socks really have it all.
High-performance CEP Run Socks 3.0 made with smart temperature control and improved compression profiles for runners. These socks will aid recovery as well as keep your feet in top form.
PRO
- Improved moisture management.
- Improved durability.
- Great fit.
Developed specifically for runners, the CEP Run Socks 3.0 has improved on all features, compared to its previous iteration. The improved compression profile gets less tight the further up you go, holding the feet and ankles the most.
It also has improved moisture management; thanks to the Feran ICP finish that promotes moisture wicking. Coupled with a breathable running shoe, like the On Cloudflow 2019, the CEP Run Socks 3.0 can effectively keep your feet dry.
Comfort is further enhanced using the Smart Dry Yarn and HeiQ smart temp technology that will keep the feet insulated yet cool. The CEP Run Socks 3.0 are made of 85% polyamide and 15% spandex so this is not a merino wool garment but these socks will make your feet feel fresh nevertheless, mile after mile.
The CEP Run Socks 3.0 also uses filament fibres for improved durability. The only downside of these otherwise excellent socks is the price: premium features still come at a premium price, unfortunately.
The Swiftwick Apsire 12 sock is made for extra compression. It is built with 46% Olefin, 43% Nylon and 11% Spandex to enhance breathability and durability. Swiftwick Aspire 12 socks built for strong compression, moisture management, and reducing fatigue during long-distance runs.
PRO
- Super tight.
- Even support all the way through the socks.
CON
- Maybe too tight for some users.
Do you prefer even compression all the way through your knee-high compression socks, not the gradual compression variety? Are you looking for stabilization and improved blood flow? Do you need those calves to ready for a sprint, even after running a 10km?
If the answers to the above questions are a resounding yes, then you’d love the Swiftwick Apsire 12. Swiftwick socks are renowned for their moisture-management and sweat-wicking properties – hence the name ‘Swiftwick‘. The Aspire 12 indeed does a full job in removing the sweat away from your lower legs.
Thanks to the very firm compression the Swiftwick Aspire 12 provides. These socks can efficiently reduce fatigue and improve performance. Although given the high pressure in the socks, people who haven’t used compression socks before might find it a bit too tight.
The Swiftwick Apsire 12 sock is especially recommended for long distance running and even for non-performance related activities too, like flying.
5. RUNDERWEAR COMPRESSION SOCKS
Runderwear Socks are designed to fit perfectly for minimal chafing. Runderwear socks using graduated compression and moisture-wicking fabrics to aid recovery during marathons and long runs.
PRO
- Reinforced fabric for optimum comfort in the right places.
- Good for minimizing blisters.
The Runderwear Compression Socks for running use graduated compression from the foot upwards to help stimulate blood flow which aids fast recovery and increases performance – ideal for distances up to ultra-marathon.
These socks also provide excellent support and have a highly-moisture wicking technical fabric for added comfort.
6. FALKE IMPULSE RUNNING SOCKS
Falke Impulse Running Socks with embedded sensors to influence posture, reduce pronation, and provide fast-drying support. Best compression socks for helping with running form.
PRO
- Advanced technology actually helps you run better.
Most compression socks are designed to help circulation throughout the body, but the Falke Impulse also aims to help influence your overall posture. Whether you pronate or supinate, the socks boast targeted sensors that stimulate receptors under the skin that can influence the way you run. Nodules on the sole of the foot work to correct your overall posture, while those on the outer calf protect against supination and pronation. They also have humidity regulation, fast drying and support for optimum comfort. This gives a premium option in every sense.
X-socks energizer is best for keeping your feet sweat-free. X-Socks Energizer designed with technical cooling fabrics, airflow zones, and cushioning for runners in warm climates.
PRO
- Advanced technology to keep your feet cool.
- Cool range of colours.
X-bionic, the team behind X-socks is masters at creating technical fabrics for temperature control so it’s no surprise about this sock. Made with medium level graduated compression from ankle to knee, it is a good all-rounder with a clever cooling design that pays particular attention to increasing air flow through the fabric. Perfect for runners who suffer from sweaty feet or mainly run in hot conditions. If you can cut the moisture in the socks, you can reduce risk for blisters.
As well as having a good level of cushioning in the areas that you need it, the range comes in an impressive selection of colours that should fit any run club or race kit you need to colour-match.
8. VITALSOX GRADUATED COMPRESSION SOCKS
Vitalsox is built for keeping your feet hygienic. Vitalsox socks with DryStat antibacterial fabric, varied compression levels, and a four-way stretch fit for all runners.
PRO
- Anti-bacterial technology.
- Great colour range.
Unless all your running socks are compression socks, chances are the ones you invest in are going to see a lot of miles, which could make for some smelly footwear. Vitalsox want to prevent that unpleasantness, with DryStat fabric that inhibits the bacteria growth that causes those nasty odours.
Unlike other socks, the compression also starts at the foot and not the ankle. It has a varied level of pressure across the socks to maximize circulation benefits across the whole of your lower limb. They also do not require you to measure your calf for perfect fit, thanks to a four-way stretch fabric that accommodates all runners.
CONCLUSION
To have a good run and a healthy one, the theory behind the performance benefits is that graduated compression increases oxygen delivery to the muscles, improves blood circulation to the heart and speeds the removal of lactic acid. According to The Science of Running, another theory is that compression socks may decrease muscle vibration caused by impact. They provide stability and support for your lower leg. Compression stockings help to alleviate the bone and muscle strain caused by shin splints. While it is not a magical cure, this added step in recovery can get you back to your favorite athletic activities more quickly.
