I’m a runner, gear tester, and editor in the outdoor realms, with thousands of miles of running, racing, and trail experience. To find the right size, measure the widest part of your calf and the narrowest part of your ankle, then consult the sizing guides on the manufacturer’s website to make sure you’re getting the right fit. This allows socks with a gradient compression to help push blood flow through the ankle and up the leg. Opt for over-the-calf socks for the maximum compression benefits. As for the other materials, we chose socks that’ll wick sweat and remain breathable while you run or recover, such as nylon, polyester, and merino. Lycra and spandex are necessary for elasticity. The percentage of elastane and the weave of the sock dictates both the pressure and the stretchiness of the sock. Like standard socks, compression socks can be made with a blend of cotton, merino, or nylon paired with a durable, stretchy material like spandex or Lycra. Your legs should feel supported, not constricted. If your compression socks are so tight that they’re digging into your skin or causing pins and needles, size up or switch to gradient socks. And most aren’t designed to be as firm as medical-grade models, so if you need compression socks for medical reasons, make sure to get a recommendation from your doctor or physical therapist. Not all running compression socks have gradient compression-many of them apply a more even level of pressure around the lower leg. This pushes blood flow and circulation up the leg and helps prevent swelling at the ankle. This refers to gradient compression, in which the sock has a controlled amount of pressure at the ankle that gradually decreases up the leg, as opposed to a consistent level of compression throughout. You’ll also see a range of compression in each listing. This level of compression is considered firm, but it won’t cut off circulation or feel uncomfortable for most runners.

We typically recommend runners choose compression socks with somewhere between 20 and 30 mmHg of pressure for running and recovery. What to Consider How Much Compression Do You Need for Running?Ĭompression is measured in millimeters of mercury, abbreviated as mmHg. Best Natural Fiber: Sockwell Circulator Compression Socks.Best Race Recovery: 2XU Recovery Compression Socks.Best Moisture Management: Swiftwick Aspire Twelve Compression Socks.Best Lighter Compression: Sockwell Modern Mountain Compression Crew Socks.Best Overall: CEP Tall 4.0 Compression Running Socks.Studies have even showed that wearing compression socks post-race can help you recover faster. This improved circulation pushes blood back to the heart, helping prevent blood clots and reducing swelling, muscle pain, and inflammation. “They put gentle pressure on your body to keep your lymphatic system functioning at the highest level.” “The best compression socks enhance the body’s ability to circulate blood and deliver oxygen to muscles and tissue efficiently,” says Kaitlyn McCrystal, accessories buyer at Fleet Feet. Some compression socks are made for running, others are best worn in the hours or days after a big race, and still others are for medical uses beyond running, like treating edema, varicose veins, and deep vein thrombosis. Like standard running socks, they also come in a range of heights. There are different levels of compression, gradients, and material blends for performance or comfort.

The right style of compression socks can improve blood flow, which helps reduce swelling and gives your legs an active, energized feeling. Compression socks are a deceptively simple accessory with a myriad of recovery benefits for runners, travelers, and people who spend all day on their feet.

Compression socks sockwell