The Shoemaker Review: Compression Socks

by Jarrod Shoemaker

Until just a few years ago compression socks were confined to hospitals and rehab units for use in post-surgery, diabetes and people who needed to stimulate blood flow. The few athletes who used compression socks used them to combat dreaded “cankles” (pooling of blood in the feet and ankles during prolonged periods of sitting) on long-haul flights. Then suddenly, athletes were wearing compression socks in racing, from 5Ks to marathons to triathlons.

Since the increase in popularity of compression garments began, there have been numerous studies to determine how effective compression socks and sleeves are. Generally, the majority of the studies have come to the conclusion that they do not increase performance. But just because they don’t directly impact performance, doesn’t mean there aren’t a lot of other good reasons to use or try compression clothing.

Here are a few topline benefits for compression gear:
1) There IS evidence they do help promote recovery. The use of compression does help blood circulate as evidenced by the years of usage to combat blood pooling in hospitals and on flights.
2) Compression is an amazing recovery tool. Wearing compression garments after workouts can help speed recovery.
3) Use of compression during a workout can help reduce muscle vibrations. Muscle vibrations can cause delayed onset muscle fatigue, which is what makes muscles feel bad the day after a hard workout.
Ultimately it is about feel. Compression does not increase performance mainly because it does not increase your VO2 or amount of oxygen you can uptake.

Compression is not a “get-fast quick” trick that will cut minutes off your running or triathlon times. However, if you like the feeling of compression, you should wear it! If your muscles feel tired after a workout, it might be worth trying out a pair of compression socks or sleeves.

After visiting SwimOutlet’s headquarters in December, I tested out three different brands and types of compression garments carried by SwimOutlet.com during the past month.

I tested two calf sleeves and one sock. One of the most important steps to buying compression is to get the correct size. Every company has a different size chart, so make sure to measure your calves and buy the correct size, more compression is NOT better.

110% Play Harder Flat Out Compression Sock ($58.95)

Quick Take: A full sock that is a bit thicker than compression sleeves. Packaging is sleek and easy to understand. The socks have different compression zones to help accelerate blood flow in different areas.

My Analysis: Personally I like the feel of full compression socks and these are very comfortable and easy to put on.

CEP Calf Sleeves ($38.95)

Quick Take: CEP sleeves are thin and light and easy to put on. They are directionally aligned so placing them correctly on your calves is important. CEP provides a small booklet in their packaging explaining their product.

My Analysis: The calf sleeves are very thin and barely feel like you are wearing them. They are easy to put on correctly and the pressure feels just right.

2XU Compression Performance Run Sleeve ($44.95)

Quick Take: 2XU has invented the eye-catching compression sleeve. I tried two pairs, a vibrant blue and fluro orange, both of which are extremely visible. The 2XU sleeves are a bit thicker than the CEP sleeves, but have the same fit style with different compression gradients on the front of the leg versus the back.

My Analysis: If you are looking to make a statement, buy a 2XU colorful compression sleeve. The material is a bit thicker than CEP, but once on the leg it is not overly tight.

There are lots of great options for compression socks or sleeves on SwimOutlet.com and compression will help your recovery after hard workouts or while traveling. As an athlete having a pair of compression socks around is a must. Make sure to check the sizing charts and measure your calf girth before you buy them.