Best Compression Socks for Running

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Sometimes our legs need an extra boost, especially after a long race or marathon.
Compression socks promote circulation in your legs, calves, and feet.

Find out more below about the benefits of compression socks for running, different levels of compression, as well as the best features of running compression socks.



How Do Compression Socks for Running Work?

Professional running compression socks have a reputation for boosting performance, aiding in recovering injuries, improving circulation, and protecting your feet and calves. Compression socks compress your calves’ veins, allowing the blood to move through smaller veins faster to your heart.

This prevents any blood from pooling in your feet. Compression socks for running have been associated with enhanced performance and have a history of helping bedridden patients be more mobile. Examples of medical conditions that are helped by compression socks are diabetes, edema, and varicose veins.

Compression socks for running are usually graded, using varying pressures throughout the sock to enhance circulation in targeted areas.

This makes it easier to put the sock on and feel comfortable. As a runner, you do not want a tight compression socks – the socks should fit and feel good on your legs.

Consult with your medical practitioner if you have any doubts or medical concerns. One should never sleep with compression socks unless advised by your doctor otherwise.


Related Articles on Running Socks


Different Levels of Compression

Compression socks have different types of compression, classified by the amount of pressure they exert.

  • High Compression – high compression is usually used at select points of a running sock, such as the ankles. A high compression sits between a range of 20-30 mmHg. Patients or those who travel a lot and always have blood pooling in their feet will enjoy socks with this compression level.
  • Medium Compression – medium compression lies between a range of 10-20 mmHg and is usually graded up the calf to a lower compression beneath the knees. Medium compression can also be found in the foot part of the compression sock, providing pressure relief to your feet.
  • Low Compression – the lowest compression socks provide a pressure of between 5-10 mmHg, only mildly alleviating parts of the lower leg and feet. In running socks, low compression socks can be better for those in a healthier condition or who do not have lots of blood pooling in the feet.

Features of a Good Compression Sock for Running

Some of the best features of compression socks for running are mentioned in this list:

  • Graduated Compression – graduated compression gives the best results when being active in your compression socks. You do not want a compression sock with purely high compression or too low. Specialized compression socks for running are constructed with compression points on your lower legs or feet unique to the brand.
  • Arch Support – Some compression socks for running come with arch support or compression beginning on the arch for support. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis or pain in the arches of your feet, a pair of compression socks for plantar fasciitis with arch support is the perfect pair for you.
  • Moisture Wicking – this term means that the compression socks will dry out very quickly, allowing your feet to remain fresh throughout the run. It’s essential to have moisture-wicking socks to prevent discomfort, blisters, or foot infections.
  • AntiMicrobial – an antimicrobial compression sock for running will prevent foot infections from happening, such as Athlete’s Foot. It also generally means that the compression socks are hypoallergenic and ok for sensitive individuals to use.
  • Seamless Socks – seamless socks don’t have seams and will ensure your toes or heels get blisters from the sock rubbing against your feet. Seamless socks are more comfortable than socks with seams in them.

Related Articles on Compression Socks


Reviews: Best Compression Socks for Running

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1
Reviewed by: Eliza Ward Score: 98.6

  • These running pressure socks are a favorite because they don’t pinch while effectively eradicating pressure on the foot and improving circulation.
  • Graduated compression throughout the feet and lower legs ensure that the socks keep your running game at optimal capacity.
  • The compression runs along the feet, the heel, and the calves without constricting your toes too tightly.
  • These socks’ moisture-wicking properties allow them to dry quickly, making them perfect for running on wet terrain or hot days.
  • The seamless toes ensure you do not get blisters while running in these compression socks.
  • The socks are also made from antimicrobial fibers to help lessen foot fungus and more!


Rating CategoryWeight %Score
Compression25%100
Improve Blood Flow25%100
Antibacterial20%95
Moisture Wicking20%95
Lightweight10%90
Total Score100%97


2

SB SOX® Unisex Compression Socks Graduated Running Performance Compression Socks


  • A true medical-grade graduated compression is inherent in these compression socks, ideal for running, hiking, or improving your circulation.
  • The Power+ Premium Performance Fabric is made with extra stretch to make it easier for you to get your feet in the socks.
  • Kinesiology Taping in the design gives your feet stability and enhanced circulation in the right areas.
  • Provide pressure relief to varicose veins, leg swelling, foot fatigue, and more!
  • It is ideal for runners, nurses, teachers, travelers, patients, doctors, and anyone on their feet all day long.
  • Up your game with a pair of these outdoor activity compression socks.

Rating CategoryWeight %Score
Compression25%100
Improve Blood Flow25%100
Antibacterial20%90
Moisture Wicking20%95
Lightweight10%90
Total Score100%96


3

Hi Clasmix® Unisex Socks for Running Graduated Medical Compression Socks


  • Designed for running, walking, gyming, and many other outdoor activities, these Italian compression socks have a unique patented design.
  • Unlike other compression socks, the compression begins in the feet’ arch for unmatched performance enhancement.
  • Graduated compression from the arches of the feet up the calves and just under the knee ensure the best support, relief, and circulation improvement.
  • The stretch Drystat fibers have been infused with silver, which destroys bacteria and fungus and combats odor.
  • These compression socks are seamless and reduce the incidence of blisters and friction.
  • Once you receive your first pair, they are ready to wear straight from the box, pre-washed in a chemical-free softener.

Rating CategoryWeight %Score
Compression25%100
Improve Blood Flow25%95
Antibacterial20%90
Moisture Wicking20%95
Lightweight10%90
Total Score100%94.75


4

Zensah® Unisex Running Compression Socks Shin Supportive Compression Socks for Running


  • Made from 18% Spandex, these stretch compression socks feel fantastic for those who could use better blood flow and foot support!
  • If you suffer from pain in the calves, heels, or shin pain, these compression socks are there to protect you with the best possible graduated compression.
  • The seamless toes in the design maximize comfort and prevent blistering while on the run.
  • The fabric blend allows these compression socks to be quick-drying, moisture-wicking, absorbent, lightweight, and very comfortable.
  • Ultra Zone ribbing on the foot’s underside provides arch support and prevents foot fatigue.


5

Pure Athlete® Unisex Compression Run Socks Elite Performance Compression Socks for Runners


  • This pack of 3 compression socks by pure compression is a reasonable price for the value these socks are worth!
  • The graduated compression of these socks’ calves will ensure your blood circulation remains optimal all day.
  • A breathable fabric was used to make these compression socks, allowing for the best moisture management and dry feet.
  • These compression socks are ideal for pain relief if you suffer from foot pain, or pain in the calves or shin.
  • Ideal for running, hiking, jogging, cycling, wearing to work, or post-operation.


6

CelerSport® Unisex Running Compression Socks


  • These compression socks are made of extremely lightweight fabric and Polyamide for comfortable wear.
  • It is made using a moisture-wicking Yarn and breathable mesh that pulls away sweat from the skin.
  • It offers targeted cushioning on the footbed for shock absorption and reduces the impact and friction when you run.
  • These 20-30mmHg compression socks are perfect for running, promoting blood and oxygen flow to the feet, and preventing cramping.


7

Iseasoo® Unisex Copper Compression Running Socks


  • These low-cut running compression socks are made to provide immediate comfort to the feet.
  • The socks come with Copper fibers to naturally rejuvenate blood circulation, with a 15-30mmHg compression.
  • It comes with a moisture-wicking arch, ankle compression to reduce fatigue, blister control, air-circulation, and cushioned heels and toes with an anti-slip design.
  • These socks also provide warmth and reduce swelling, cramping, and stiffness in the foot, ankle, or calf.


8

ACTINPUT® Unisex Supportive Compression Socks for Running


  • These socks come in a pack of 8 and offer durable compression.
  • They are made from 85% Nylon, 10% Polyester, and 5% Elastane for a soft and comfortable finish.
  • The socks do not contain unnecessary stitches to reduce irritation in the toes and are breathable and moisture-absorbent.
  • These 15-20mmHg compression socks offer a perfect balance between comfort and grip and help promote blood circulation and reduce swelling and inflammation.


9

Run Forever Sports® Unisex Running Calf Compression Sleeves


  • This premium Compression sleeve is designed to fulfill your everyday needs.
  • It is made of high-quality and durable materials and offers a perfect fit that is not too loose or tight.
  • The breathable compression sleeve is sturdy enough to promote blood flow, reduce fatigue, and speed recovery.
  • It offers a professional-grade compression strength of 20-25mmHg.


10

CHARMKING® Unisex Running Compression Socks


  • These compression socks combine technology, comfort, and fashion in one place.
  • It delivers a 360-degree stretch with enhanced Nylon and offers great flexibility and durability.
  • The breathable socks keep an optimal temperature and are lightweight.
  • It offers compression of 15-20mmHg and is available in two size options.


Index Table: Top Rated Compression Socks for Running



About the Author

Eliza Ward

Eliza Ward is a running enthusiast, nature lover, and full-time mother for three lovely kids in South Africa. She has always had a fetish for socks and has the best product recommendations for all her friends and family. So she turned what she loved into her full-time job - by testing and recommending the best socks for our online readers. Eliza is more than happy with the thank you notes she receives from her readers.