Best compression socks

By Kate Milsom

Published: Monday, 23 May 2022 at 12:00 am

A good pair of compression socks should fill an essential spot in your running kit checklist. Not only do they provide support to the muscles, they also aim to prime them for exercise and speed up recovery post-session.

An easy no-effort tool to keeping you running injury-free for longer, it’s a no-brainer in our books. If you suffer with sore calves or shin splint woes, then read on…

How do compression socks work?

First and foremost, compression socks aim to increase blood flow and oxygen to the muscles which should help to speed up recovery post-workout. This is becuase the extra oxygen and nutrients help to repair muscle break-down after hard sessions, making you more likely to dodge any impending DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) or more serious niggles.

They can also help prime the muscles for extra stress by increasing bloodflow and readying them for effort. Those with shin splints often swear by a quality pair of calf sleeves to avoid or decrease soreness and support the shins during any high-impact activity like running. In terms of coverage, they can also provide an extra layer during cold runs, or extra sun protection when out in the elements.

What is the difference between compression socks and calf sleeves?

Both compression calf guards and socks have the same purpose – to provide compressive support and speed up recovery. However, long compression socks also wrap around the foot and some can provide extra arch support for plantar fascia and zonal padding to avoid uncomfy rubbing.

Calf guards are useful as they often stay in place better than socks, since the foot is not pulling the guard down. They can also be worn more before having to throw in the wash and some find them more comfortable as you can often choose the exact size for your calf circumference, particularly useful for extra slim or bulky calves.

Best compression socks for runners

Gococo Superior Compression

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Well known in the swimrun community for providing quick-drying and blister-free running socks, these long compression socks from Gococo are a good option for multisport athletes.

Gococo claims that the ‘37.5 technology’ yarn of the soles allows the sock to dry extremely quickly and helps to avoid chafing and rubbing and we did find these to be highly comfortable during long runs and swimrun antics.

Unlike other compression socks, these did not fall down thanks to the silicone dots places inside the sock which provide a secure grip on the shin. Overall, these socks felt supportive and good quality, the gradiated compression seeming to do a good job at reducing post-run inflammation.