You may not think much about the socks that you buy, but if you run regularly, then that is an important decision to make. Compression socks are often the best choice for running because they help to stabilize you during the activity and prevent injuries. For those who are unfamiliar with this type of site, compression socks simply squeeze tight to your foot and ankle to help keep bones in muscle in alignment as you run and prevent injury, promote healing, improve blood circulation and relieve inflammation. But in order to choose the right running compression socks, you should know what to look for. That’s why we have created this buying guide along with some reviews of the best running compression socks out there
Finding the Right Compression Socks for Running
When it comes to buying compression socks, there are certain things that you want to keep in mind. Compression socks are a little different than ordinary socks, and the concerns that you have when buying them will be a little bit different than the concerns you have buying regular socks.
Type & Purpose of the Compression
One of the first things that you’re going to look at is what kind of compression you need and that goes to the purpose of the socks. If you are just looking for a pair of compression socks that will prevent injuries, then you can have them cling a little looser to your legs than medical grade compression socks which are intended to support strained muscles and allow you to do activities without further injuring yourself.
Stockings, Socks & Tights
Another thing that you need to look at is whether you want socks, stockings or tights. Each of these are a little bit different. No matter what you get, if you plan on using them for running, then you definitely need a feature called moisture wicking. Moisture wicking means that the socks are made to soak up sweat and will prevent slipping around due to your legs getting sweaty. Socks are generally the thickest followed by tights and then stockings which can be very thin.
Ensuring They Hold up to Activity
You also need to be concerned about how they hold up to activity. You don’t want compression socks are going to be falling around or slipping around when you run. You want ones that are going to stay in place the entire time. The ones that we have reviewed here are all really solid choices that are going to stay in their exact position during your entire run.
Top Compression Socks for Running in 2021
1. ACTINPUT Compression Socks
Highlights & Specs
Summary
This is the perfect way to start your collection of compression socks for running. This package comes with no less than 8 pairs of compression socks specifically made for activities like running. There are several things that makes this a great choice for your first compression socks, but the fact the you get eight different pairs for a really decent price is definitely among the top reasons. They are also constructed mostly of nylon so they are very comfortable and you get two sizes to choose from. Let’s look at the other details.
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2. Physix Gear Compression Socks
Highlights & Specs
Summary
These socks have a lot going for them, but chief among those things it the fact that they come in 18 different color combinations so you are able to pick exactly the colors that you want to wear and match the rest of the outfit. Besides all of that though, they are constructed of a really comfortable material and have reinforced heel and toe areas. If you need a pair of compression socks to get you started running, then these definitely should be considered because they are perfect for athletics and will stay up during your jogging sessions or any other physical activity. Let’s take a look at the other details.
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3. Copper Compression Socks
Highlights & Specs
Summary
Another great starter kit when it comes to compression socks are running is this set of three pairs of compression socks from Copper. What really makes this unique and stand out among all the other ones listed here is the fact that first, you get three pairs of high quality socks that are specifically intended for running, and second, there are more than 20 different color combinations to choose from and they are all bright and vibrant colors. You are really going to stand out with the socks and they are perfect for activities. Let’s check out some of the other details.
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4. BLITZU Compression Socks
Highlights & Specs
Summary
These running socks are unique in that they are the first ones on here with the mmHg rating to qualify as medical grade. 20-30 mmHg is considered medium or medium-high compression and also the minimum needed for medical grade. That means that it can treat conditions like varicose veins and inflammation. Compression socks can often help with certain conditions, but they can also protect your muscles and keep them from getting injured while you are running. Medical grade compression is usually the minimum that is required for this to happen. Let’s take a look at some of the other specs.
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5. Hoperay Men’s Running Compression Socks
Highlights & Specs
Summary
These are some terrific looking compression socks that are made for men and intended for physical activity. If you want men’s socks that are strong enough to soak up all that sweat and still do their job as compression socks, then you really can’t beat these when it comes to the single-pair category. They are constructed with high-quality standards, medical grade, two-tone colored and have reinforced toes and heels to make them last for a very long time. Let’s check out some of the other details about these men’s compression socks.