If you have been to a running race or triathlon in the last year to eighteen months you have no doubt noticed the athletes in knee high socks. The first time I saw someone in a pair of them I didn’t know what to think, were tube socks from the 70’s making a comeback (and could headbands be far behind?) or was this some new super secret piece of performance clothing that would make me considerably faster?
The idea behind compression socks (or any compression clothing for that matter) is that the compression fabric increases blood flow, removes the waste, and gives additional support to the working muscles. According to a medical study conducted by (A. Ali, B.G. Snow & M.P. Caine 2003), 14 runners were tested in a fast 10 km pace and found runners wearing graduated pressure socks: Ran 1% faster despite being paced. Had lower pulse rates (2-3 BPM).Jumped higher post-exercise and recovered faster with 60% less post-exercise muscle soreness.
I became intrigued with the idea of compression socks and decided to do some testing to see what all the fuss was all about. I tested OxySox and CEP Compression socks in unscientific field trials by using the socks on my long runs and then wearing non compression socks every third week. I found that after the non-compression sock runs my calves were significantly more sore and tight and it took me longer to feel recovered. I also noticed a 10-15 second per mile increase in performance over my long runs. I did not notice a difference between the OxySox and the CEP Compression socks in comfort or performance, however the CEP Compression Socks were labeled for the Right and Left foot and the heel and toe were reinforced to provide a bit smoother ride, where the OxySox just had a padded sole. The CEP Compression Socks also seemed to be made of a heavier weight fabric and seemed to be a higher quality product. This is reflected in the cost with the OxySox retailing for $29.99 and the CEP socks going for $59.95.
As of now the Ali study is the only medical study that uses compression socks in an exercise environment and not in treatment of patients with phlebitis or deep vein thrombosis. There is not enough clinical evidence to draw a definite conclusion as to the effectiveness of compression socks during competition or in assisting recovery post exercise. That being said all of the anecdotal evidence from my personal use as well as athletes that I coach suggest that there are benefits to be had from wearing compression socks during and after competition. Just do not to forget your headband!
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