I first discussed compression socks a while back (when I bought my first pair in October), but a number of people have asked about whether or not they should wear compression socks/sleeves for long runs.
During the recent Olympic marathon trials, you may have noticed a number of men and women wearing compression socks during the race. Although I am by no means an elite runner, I too, wear compression socks for my long runs. Here’s why:
- Wearing compression socks allows the arterial walls in the lower legs to relax. This means more oxygen-rich blood flow to your legs. This increased blood flow can result in better race/training performance and recovery.
- Studies have shown that wearing compression socks can improve your race time by up to 5%- that’s pretty significant (especially when you are looking at a half-marathon/marathon)!
- By applying more pressure to the lower legs and shins, vibration is reduced. This translates into fewer microtears in muscle– which can result in shin splints or lower leg soreness.
- Because compression socks increase blood flow and circulation in the lower legs, they can help reduce the build up of lactic acid.
From my own personal experience, I can definitely say that I have reduced lower leg and foot soreness when I wear compression socks on a long run. I have yet to wear them in a longer distance race, but I will surely be sporting them at the Anthem Half Marathon in March! Here is a picture of a pair of hot pink CEP socks that I just bought!
Do you wear compression socks for long runs or races?
I don’t have compression socks, but have heard of the benefits of them. Next time I train for a race, I’ll be buying some!
I think they are definitely worth checking out!
I wear both socks & sleeves, and I haven’t had any shin pain/splints since.
If you had to choose one, would it be sleeves or socks? Just curious, because I haven’t tried the sleeves yet…
I have yet to try compression socks, but they are on my wishlist!
I think you will really like them Heidi!
Are they only recommended for long races? The most I have run is a 5K but am training for a 10K. Would they still benefit me?
Nope, you can still reap the benefits with shorter distances. In fact, elite athletes sometimes use them for speed sessions too!
I just got a pair for 50% off with an Active Schwaggle deal – they came in the mail yesterday, and I’m going to try them out on my 20-miler this weekend. My calves are always, always, always sore and tight, no matter how much stretching I do, so I’m thinking these will really help!
Bummer, wish I had seen that deal!
Good luck on the 20 miler, hopefully they help with the calves!
I started wearing calf sleeves to help me with a too tight/crabby calf and now I love running in them. My legs feel so much better in them.
Glad you love them! I think more and more people are discovering how helpful they can be.
Just bought my first pair of socks a few weeks ago – actually got the exact pair in your picture! I love them on my long runs!
I am loving the pink too!
I love your blog! I have been thinking about switching to WP too. Your blog is so well-designed and professional looking and easy to read.
Thank you for this info and for explaining how the compression socks work! Those are the exact same CEP socks I have and I love them. I have yet to try them out on a longer run too, though. I am wondering if they would help my feet (more than my legs) when they get painful on longer runs (sometimes, and I have to find out why that is!).
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Thanks so much Sara! Switching to WP is pretty easy, I can definitely help you if you need it. I think you should try the socks on your next long run. I have found that they help me a lot. I know some people even wear them at night after a long run!
I have used compression socks for several month. I oftern start out my race with discomfort in feet, ankle etc. With compression socks the pain goes away after a couple minutes. However, A unique problem I have experienced is that on my long races, I always end up with a blister under my right foot:( Never had blisters before. Any advice?