There is a great little running store in Providence called Rhode Runner. I love this store for a number of reasons: 1) These stores are becoming few and far between as they continue to fall prey to larger outlets like Sports Authority and Dick’s 2) the people who work in the stores are runners themselves, so they are very familiar with all of the shoes and equipment they sell 3) they have a treadmill in the store and will let you lace up the shoes and take a quick run in them before buying 4) They have great customer service. I have had to return a pair of shoes that didn’t work for me and they didn’t ask any questions, just let me exchange them for a different brand and style. 
Today I was on a mission to buy a pair of compression socks. I must admit, when I first saw people showing up at races wearing compression socks, I thought to myself that they looked pretty ridiculous. But since they have continued to increase in popularity, my curiosity has been piqued.
I wanted to know what exactly compression socks could do for me and my running. Compression socks are supposed to stimulate blood flow to the lower legs which helps the muscles there to recover faster. I am anxious to see if they can help with the lower leg soreness in my feet and legs after completing long runs.
You can also use them for track workouts to help speed muscle recovery. So, I am a little late to hop onto the compression sock bandwagon, but I am going to give them a try for this weekend’s 13 miler and will report back.
I ended up choosing the Saucony Elite compression socks in black–they come in three sizes and offer a little padding in area that are blister prone, which I think is pretty cool too. Happy running to those of you running this weekend!
I look forward to hearing about them as I felt the same way. I did my 13 miler this morning and have been experiencing a lot of tightness and a little irritation with my sciatica (okay more than a little). I did an ice bath for the first time and it made a big difference!
I’ve looked into getting some but haven’t yet pulled the trigger. My running friend swears by them. How did they work out?? Oh- and I LOVE the “mom and pop” stores too!!!
I loved them Paula (see today’s post)! The pair I got were about $25 which are on the lower end compared to some I have seen online. I think the padding helped prevent blisters too. I usually get one on the arch of my foot after long runs, but not this morning!