Should Runners Wear Compression Socks?

Compression socks are tightly fitting socks that gently squeeze the feet, ankles, and calves. Their tight fit results in compression of the veins on the surface of the leg as well as the leg’s muscles and arteries. 

Compression socks have long been used to treat a number of medical conditions, including circulatory problems, leg swelling, varicose veins, and diabetes. Recently, however, they’ve become increasingly popular with athletes, especially runners. 

If you’ve run a race in the last few months, you’ve probably been surrounded by people wearing them and wondered whether it’s something you should add to your gear list. Here’s why the answer to that is a resounding yes.

Improved Circulation 

Compression socks provide graduated compression to your feet, ankles, and legs. What this means is that they’re tighter at the bottom, around your feet, and gradually loosen towards the knee. This type of pressure helps to improve circulation, essentially pushing blood back up your leg and to your heart. It’s like the sock is counteracting gravity and the impacts that running has on your legs and circulation. 

The result is that compression socks can improve your overall circulation and keep oxygen-rich blood flowing to your muscles. This can help to reduce fatigue and improve performance. 

Reduced Soreness

Lactic acid is a waste product that’s produced by your muscles during intense exercise. It can build up and lead to muscle pain and soreness. However, compression socks reduce the accumulation of lactic acid by improving circulation and ensuring that blood and lactic acid move towards the heart at a higher velocity. This reduced buildup of lactic acid means less soreness and faster recovery after a run. 

This can be particularly important for runners that are increasing their mileage or training for a big race. No one wants to miss an important training day because of soreness nor do you want to be hobbling around after a big training run.

Reduced Swelling and Cramping

Another way that compression socks help keep you comfortable during and after a run is by reducing the risk of swelling and cramping. Because of the pressure applied by the compression socks, there is less build-up of fluids in your feet, ankles, and legs. This helps to prevent the feet and ankle swelling that many runners experience after a tough workout. 

Additionally, compression socks minimize the movement of calf muscles, which can reduce muscle fatigue and prevent cramping. Few things are more frustrating than being sidelined with a bad cramp during a run. Compression socks are one way to reduce the likelihood of that happening. 

Find the Compression Socks That You Need

The clear takeaway for runners is that compression socks are a good addition to your workout gear. They can help to improve performance, comfort, and recovery. While they’re not a cure-all and won’t solve all your pain problems, they can help keep you feeling and performing better before, during, and after your workouts. 

Plus, there are a number of different types and styles of socks - including true graduated compression socks, elite runner socks, and compression sleeves -  to make it easy for all runners to find socks that are comfortable for them. 

At Crazy Compression, we offer quality socks in a variety of styles. And, we believe that fun gear is, well, more fun. That’s why we offer a little extra color, fun, and personality in all of our socks. Check out our online store today to find the socks that are right for you.