Compression socks

I started running with compression socks/calf sleeves about 6 weeks ago and have not run once without them since. I see a huge difference in lower leg pain and fatigue, things I have struggled with in the past. I was coming back from a 6-week injury hiatus and wanted to have the extra support.

I primarily run in the 2XU calf guards. They aren't socks, but rather sleeves sort of like arm warmers. You can wear whatever socks you like with them. Plus I put them on over tights today since it was really cold. I just got the Sugoi R&R socks and ran 20 miles in them. They felt good, but I don't think the compression is as strong as the 2XU.

I also have the 2XU recovery socks and wear those the night before a long run/race and then after.

The Chinese were making fun of them

As for not wearing compression socks, it was 85+ degrees F at the end of the marathon. That could explain not wearing them.

Compression socks are really, really great. I started using them about twelve months ago. During long-ish runs (7+ miles) during my 5 and 10K training, my calves would tighten up during high mileage training. Compression socks got rid of them entirely. My team made fun of them, but I told them they worked. Eventually, two other runners tried them out and said they helped. I haven't had a problem with my calves since. It definitely takes some getting used to. With some items, like running shorts, you can fake the sizing. Unforatunely, you CANNOT fake sizing on these. If you buy 'em, take 'em out and make sure they work.

You can't tell a guy to go to a store and buy something that you refer to as "hose."   

'Cause the benefit is merely psychological and if you can't get motivated to do your best at the Olympics, then you shouldn't be running ......

Socks - 2008-10-23 4:45 PM For a cheep alternative to try go to any pharmacy and ask for knee high ted hose....They might cost you $5 and are basically the same thing. If you like them you can invest in the more expensive versions...or just stick with the cheep ones

I bought the $4.99 ones at Walgreens after my marathon on Saturday.  I was very skeptical that they actually worked, but was willing to try them at that price given how much I felt it in my calf muscles and feet during and after the race-the hills absolutely destroyed my legs (I also got a massage after the race).  After showering, I wore them that evening, overnight, and on the long drive home the next day.  My calf muscles were fine two days later, and I could have run that day.  My legs seem to have recovered quicker that after previous marathons (which could also be due to experience). 

For $4.99 and wearing them under pants after the race, were they worth it in my experience?  Yes.  Would I spend $50 on them and look like a complete dork during the race?  No. 

amiine - 2008-10-24 9:27 AM

turtlegirl - 2008-10-23 9:31 PM after some research I got the CEP socks.  Honestly, I don't feel any differently than without...and I've got an ongoing calf issue.  May try the Zensah sock sleeves.....they only have the TEDs here in too big a size, or I'd get the cheap versions.

try the cheap version they sell at wallgreens, I think the brand is called futuro and they cost like 15-20 bucks. I also got the Zensah and they are nice for travelling but not as tight (maybe cuz I have skinny chicken legs )

You can say that again!

Yep, I got the $4.99 ones at Walgreens.  They have the same 20-30mmHg as the more expensive "firm" version of the athletic socks.  I have used them after my long runs and have noticed a perceived faster recovery.  Could be placebo, but I keep doing it and like the way they feel after long runs.  Since I will be traveling on a plane for 4 hours the day before a marathon, I will wear them during the flight and before.

Would I buy the more expensive ones?  Probably not.  Would I race in them?  Don't think so.  but I think there is some benefit in recovery and pre-race.  My $.02, your mileage may vary.

BTW, on my pic I am wearing the Zensah calf compression sleeve for the Cancun 70.3 as I've been battling with calf/tendon issues all year. I used it on some training runs and the only thing I noticed is that it keeps my calf more tight, secure from bouncing and it helped a bit with the injury.

I usually not one to go crazy with new training gadgets, I can't tell either whether the compressions socks enhance recovery or not, but they have worked for me to helping with my leg issue.

Yes. I bought a pair of oxysoxs from Revel sports last year online. I find them very helpful. I wore them for GA ING marathon and have broken them out again recently now that the weather is cooler and I am doing much higher mileage (for me that is 50+ mpw).

Edited to add that I've been struggling with lower leg issues in my calf and ankle. I have large calf muscles and small ankles. I think the compression helps hold the calf muscle in place and doesn't make my ankle have to over compensate. However, I do still struggle with the calf/tendon issues--which I have to assume is from over training. I only have one pair and reserve them them for long runs, and races-- and maybe a recovery run after a particularly long run when my calves are still tender.

Just wanted to say they are not a solution but do help me some. And I find them uncessary for me when I do lower mileage (which for me is less tham 50 mpw). I also don't wear them when it is hot.

I am just saying if you don't have lower leg issues and are not running high mileage--however you define that for you--I am not sure it is worth it to spend the $$$. I haven't tried the walgreens but I think  might have to. FWIW I got mine for $19 last year. Twice as much as my Hera Asiacs but they do more for me.

Started using the drug store versions last week after runs and saw an immediate improvement in recovery.  I don't walk like OJ when I get out of bed in the morning and the calf tenderness is gone.  When I get over the "$50 for socks!!" thing, I'll probably try some of the running specific kind.