If you don’t have time to read the entire review and just want to find out the compression socks for running, then we recommend Laite Hebe Compression Socks For Women And Men as the best choice.
Any clothing or accessory which can make running a more enjoyable experience is to be welcomed and in the case of compression socks for running, the benefits are plentiful.
Compression socks offer protection from injuries such as abrasions, they can promote improved circulation, can limit swelling, they keep your legs warm when running in cold temperatures, keep them cool when running in the summer months, and they even keep your legs clean if it’s muddy.
This article will review 5 of the best compression socks for running and also provide you with further information on what features to look for before buying.
We’re going to review the following compression socks for running:
- Physix Gear Compression Socks For Men & Women
- Laite Hebe Compression Socks For Women And Men
- Actinput 8 Pack Women’s & Men’s Compression Socks
- Laite Hebe 3 Pairs Men’s And Women’s Compression Socks
- HLTPRO Compression Socks For Women & Men
Best Compression Socks for Running Reviews
Physix Gear Compression Socks For Men & Women
If you like to have plenty of choices when it comes to the color of your running gear then you will be delighted to know that these compression socks from Physix, offer you no fewer than 9 color options.
Product Highlights
A primary benefit of wearing compressions socks when running is improved circulation in your legs, but that will only happen if the material used in the socks is effective.
These Physix compression socks are made from high-quality Lycra material which is ideal to promote good circulation due to the gradual compression from your feet all the way up past your calves.
Comfort is another consideration when you are running and with these socks that shouldn’t be a problem given that they feel great against your skin, and there is no sense that your legs are being squeezed by them.
The socks’ breathable material, which is also anti-bacterial, means that no matter how hot the outside temperature is your legs will stay cool throughout your run. This also helps any sweat which is created to evaporate quickly.
Durability is another feature of these socks thanks to the robust material and their double stitching, meaning they should last you for many miles of running.
What I Like
Compression socks are most effective if the compression is gradual as they go from your feet and up towards your knee, so the graduated compression within these socks is a highlight.
What I Don’t Like
The fact that these socks are very long, means they are not going to suit everyone, especially those who have shorter legs and as such the tops may need to be folded down.
Pros
- Double stitched for durability
- Breathable material
- Anti-bacterial to reduce odors
- Graduated compression
- Choice of 9 colors
Cons
- Large seam across toe
- Arch material is not great
Laite Hebe Compression Socks For Women And Men
These compression socks are suitable for male and female runners and will particularly appeal to those who want a clean pair every day, thanks to them coming in a pack of 8 pairs
Product Highlights
In many cases, a pair of compression socks will only offer one benefit, and that is they can help circulation due to the way the compression works.
These socks certainly offer that, with their laboratory tested design ensuring the maximum reduction in pain and fatigue caused by issues such as cramping or swelling
While these socks have great compression qualities, there is a lot more they offer in terms of features to help your feet and legs. If we start with your toes, they will benefit from the reinforced toe area which will help to prevent blisters.
Moving along your foot the arch support will appeal to many including those who suffer from conditions like plantar fasciitis. A reinforced heel is another great feature which provides a degree of cushioning in this area.
Meanwhile the fabric is designed to provide a high level of comfort thanks to its ability to allow air to flow in both directions to keep your legs cool and moisture free.
There is certainly no lack of choices in terms of sizes, pack options and colors with around 100 combinations which you can select from, and this includes both men’s and women’s sizes.
What I Like
The additional features which provide support and protection for your feet in the toe, arch and heel areas give these compression socks a huge advantage over those which do not.
What I Don’t Like
Disappointing that the material used for these socks is so thin. This raises the issue that their robustness might be less than if a more durable material had been used.
Pros
- Lots of options (packs/colors)
- Reinforcement for toes and heel
- Support in arch area
- Breathable material
- Laboratory tested
Cons
- Band around top can feel tight
- Prone to sliding down
Actinput 8 Pack Women’s & Men’s Compression Socks
This is another compression sock product where you receive no fewer than 8 pairs which will allow you to wear a fresh pair every day and have a pair to spare.
Product Highlights
These compression socks are suitable for both female and male runners, with the added plus that you can select them in either a small/medium size or a large/extra-large size to ensure they properly fit.
They are made from a combination of materials which in ascending order are 5% Elastin, 10% Polyester, and 85% Nylon. This mix of materials give the socks the elasticity they need, the durability required, and the ability to effectively promote oxygen and blood flow in your legs while you run.
Comfort is another aspect of compression socks that every runner wants, and these socks certainly tick that box. There are no seams in areas that might otherwise rub and cause irritation, and the fact that the high nylon content makes them breathable should allow your legs to remain cool during any exercise.
Another benefit of breathable socks is that they allow moisture, particularly sweat to evaporate more readily, thus reducing the likelihood of any unwanted odors
One last point is that these compression socks can be purchased in several combinations of pack sizes and colors.
What I Like
Getting value for your money is something that everyone looks for and the fact that you get 8 pairs of compression socks for the same price that others are selling just one pair, makes this an excellent proposition.
What I Don’t Like
Of all the compression socks we reviewed, these have the strongest ‘new’ odor when they are first used, although thankfully it diminishes after the socks are washed.
Pros
- Breathable material keeps legs cool
- Extremely comfortable while running
- Excellent compression to improve blood flow
- Value for money 8 pack
- Multiple color options
Cons
- Possibly too short for tall people
- Tendency to roll down
Laite Hebe 3 Pairs Men’s And Women’s Compression Socks
With this option, you have 3 pairs of compression socks which are suitable for running and other sports, as well as being ideal for those who have to sit or stand for very long periods at work.
Product Highlights
The combination of materials in these compression socks includes a high percentage of nylon, which provides them with an excellent level of flexibility.
This not only makes them comfortable when worn, but it also aids the compression element that the socks offer. This compression is graduated so that it can reduce swelling and promote blood circulation.
These compression socks have a breathable material that will help your legs stay at an optimal temperature during workouts and running sessions.
This will also help to promote the evaporation of any sweat which your legs produce which apart from reducing odors, will also make the socks more comfortable to wear while running or exercising.
The choices which you have available to you include two different sizes, various colors some of which are especially bright, and rather uniquely for compression socks, you can choose packs with very distinctive and colorful patterns which will appeal to those really want to stand out from the rest of the crowd.
What I Like
To make them effective and comfortable, compression socks need a high degree of flexibility, so it is great to see that the materials used in these socks give them the necessary elasticity.
What I Don’t Like
As you put them on, the socks stretch and as it does so the inner and out ribs of the socks appear to have different colors which may not please those who are wearing shorts or a skirt.
Pros
- Graduated compression improves circulation
- Very comfortable
- Breathable materials
- High level of flexibility
- Numerous color and pattern choices
Cons
- Sizes are longer and wider than stated
- Material is very thin
HLTPRO Compression Socks For Women & Men
While one of the top benefits of these compression socks is that they help your legs, another appeal of these is undoubtedly going to be the various color and pattern options which add a high degree of fun to them.
Product Highlights
Whether you are buying compression socks because you are a runner, play a sport or simply want to wear a pair at work to keep your legs pain free, these are highly effective.
They will produce a compression level of between 20 and 30 mmHg, which in plain English means they will support and stabilize your muscles while running and promote your circulation when sitting or standing.
The support these socks offer, extends to the foot area where arch support can aid sufferers of conditions such as plantar fasciitis, and the toe reinforcement will help minimize the chances of any blisters occurring. The heel is also reinforced to give that area some cushioning and reduce impact injuries.
Adding to your comfort is the way on which these socks allow moisture to evaporate thanks to their breathable material. They will also prevent moisture ingress when you are running in wet weather so that your legs stay dry and comfortable.
Finally, we must mention the cuff at the top of the socks which keeps them in place so that you do not keep having to adjust them or pull them up.
What I Like
Running and exercise should not only benefit your health they are also meant to be fun, so it is refreshing to find a manufacturer of compression socks who gets that by offering lots of colorful and fun designs.
What I Don’t Like
Frustrated once more that we have a product which is size-based but has an inconsistency in the actual sizes, even within specific pairs.
Pros
- Reinforcement and support for feet
- Breathable to keep legs dry
- No-slip cuff at the top of the sock
- Graduated compression
- Fun and colorful designs
Cons
- Not suited to wider calves
- Durability concerns
Buyer’s Guide
There is no denying socks are normally one of the simplest products you could possibly buy, and you might be asking ‘Why would I need a buying guide?’
It’s a fair question, but when it comes to compression socks for running, the choice you make can have implications for the wellbeing and health of your legs and feet, so more careful consideration is advised when choosing.
To help you compare the compression socks we have reviewed and to give you an even better understanding of their merits, we have produced this buying guide.
It will explain what the top 6 features are, and why they deserve to be considered to ensure that when you buy your compression socks for running, the choice you make is fully informed.
Materials
The material most used in the manufacture of compression socks is nylon. In a lot of cases, this is supplemented by polyester and an elastic type material to allow the socks to stretch. The other material used tends to be Lycra which is well known for its excellent elasticity.
Compression
Compression is the No. 1 reason that these types of socks are worn, and the benefits they provide you when running are the support of your legs, but more importantly, the compression promotes blood flow and circulation. Compression around your legs also stimulates oxygen flow which is essential for your muscles to function at their peak.
Support
The support that is provided to your legs when you are wearing compression socks not only makes running more comfortable, but it helps to prevent injuries. In particular muscle strains are less likely to happen, if you are wearing compression socks.
Fit
Just as it is important that you are wearing the correct sized running shoes, you should also make sure your compression socks are the right size too. Compression socks generally come in either ‘Small/Medium’ or ‘Large/XL’ sizes.
The Small/Medium sized socks tend to be suitable for men whose shoes size is 5-9 (US) and women who wear size 5.5 – 8.5 shoes. In the case of Large/XL, this equates to 10-13 shoe size for men, and 11-15.5 for women.
One important caveat is that every manufacturer’s sizing may differ slightly so always check their sizing guide before you purchase to ensure the size will be suitable for you.
Breathability
The last thing you want when running is for your legs to sweat excessively. This can be very uncomfortable plus you have the issues of odor and irritation.
You want to purchase compression socks that are made from a breathable material as this will allow moisture to evaporate. Most modern compression socks are breathable but make sure you check before purchasing.
Durability
As with any product, there will be a difference in terms of quality between manufacturers, which also means the durability of their compression socks will differ too.
One of the best ways to assess durability is to read the customers reviews for each product, and better still search for words such as ‘durability’ or ‘quality’ to highlight those reviews which mention these.
Best Compression Socks for Running FAQ
How do I put on compression socks?
With compression socks being much longer than normal socks, if you have never worn them before you might find it quite cumbersome to put them on.
The best way is to place your foot into the sock, and instead of simply pulling the sock up, you should roll it up. This way, when the sock is fully rolled up your leg it should be even, and without any kinks.
How long should compression socks be worn?
The normal advice for wearing compression socks of any kind is that you can wear them for as long as you want throughout the day but should always take them off at night.
In the case of compression socks for running this simply means that you can wear them for as long as you need to and for the duration of your running session.
What do compression socks do for runners?
Compression socks offer many benefits to runners, whether they are carrying an injury or not. They prevent swelling, keep your legs cool and dry, and most importantly they help to improve the circulation of blood in your legs.
What are compression socks for running?
Compression socks for running are long socks that normally fit all the way up to just below the knee. The materials used to make them are normally smooth and elasticated.
Why do runners wear compression socks?
The main reasons runners wear compression socks are:
- Improved circulation
- Support for joints
- Aids recovery from injury
- Prevent swelling
- Prevent strains and sprains
Final Thoughts on the Best Compression Socks for Running
Our reviews of the best compression socks for runner have hopefully given you an insight into some of the better ones that are available.
These reviews coupled with the buying guide and FAQ should at least have given you the opportunity to make an informed choice.
Talking of choices, we need to choose what we believe is the best compression socks for runners, and that accolade goes to the << Laite Hebe Compression Socks for Women and Men >>.
Apart from the exceptional value for money they give you by sending you 8 pairs of socks, they also provide excellent support across your foot. That you are able to choose from a large variety of color options and combinations is also a big plus.
