Improve Blood Flow While Working Out With These Cool Compression Socks for Men
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When basic workout socks just won’t do, compression socks are your best bet. These socks are designed to serve as a barrier between your foot’s bare skin and your shoe, just like your regular cotton socks from Bombas, but they do so much more than that. They’re great for stimulating blood flow and engaging in your foot, ankle and calf so you can perform your best. This is what makes them popular amongst endurance athletes, marathon runners and those challenging their physical limits. Let’s dive into what compression socks are, what they do, and take a look at some of our favorite pairs available on the web.
What are compression socks?
What exactly are compression socks? Compression socks or “compression stockings” as they’re called in the medical field, are snug-fitting socks that gently squeeze your legs for a tighter fit. They’re worn by folks for a variety of reasons, including comfort, travel, improved performance in sports and even preventing certain medical conditions.
The best compression socks for me are often tight-fitting and conform to the contours of your legs. That said, there are many different types of compression socks. It’s a good idea to pay attention to the materials used, and the overall design of the pair you choose.
What do compression socks do?
They’re designed to reduce pain or swelling in your legs and feet. They can improve circulation and prevent blood clots. By putting extra pressure on your legs, compression socks help promote better blood flow. Athletes say they also help curb burnout, and helps them exercise longer. This is one of the reasons that makes them so popular for activities like long distance running.
Copper compression socks are just one type of compression sock available. As the name suggests, copper compression socks for men are infused with real copper, which is an EPA-approved microbial material. In other words, copper socks naturally help eliminate odors. There’s also been a lot of talk about copper offering its own healing and therapeutic benefits. There hasn’t been enough scientific data to support that theory.
How tight are compression socks?
Compression socks should fit snugly on the foot and the leg. If experiencing pain or discomfort, it’s recommended to stop wearing them. Compression levels in socks are measured by mmHg (millimeters of Mercury). Below are the types of compression socks and their corresponding activities.
- 8-15mmHg: light support. This is good for everyday activity. Can also be used for travel
- 15-20mmHg: moderate support. These improve circulation when working out, running, hiking or a long day out walking.
- 20-30mmHg: For endurance sports, sports recovery, medical recovery, and long haul flights. Can also be used to manage mild varicose and spider veins.*
*Generally speaking, wearing compression socks that are higher than 35mmHg should first be discussed with a doctor before usage. Some high mmHg socks do require a prescription.
Whether you’re looking for knee-length compression socks, ankle compression socks, no-show compression running socks, or generic (everyday) compression socks, this list has you covered.
BEST OVERALL
1. Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks
Looking for a solid pair of compression socks that’ll keep your feet feelin’ fine while you run? Physix has you covered. Made with a mix of 70% nylon and 30% spandex, these compression socks are designed to fit nice and snug without ever feeling too tight or restricted. They’re excellent to wear on long-haul flights. Great for helping with varicose veins and swelling issues, they come in a range of different styles and colors, so you can mix and match
BEST COPPER COMPRESSION SOCKS
2. Copper Fit Energy Unisex Knee-High Compression Socks
These compression socks are copper infused for odor reduction and are designed to provide support to your arches and ankles specifically. They’re designed to provide the support that comes from snug-fitting compression socks, while being easy to take on and off.
BEST FOR HIKING & BIKING
3. Sockwell Modern Mountain OTC Moderate Graduated Compression Sock
This handsome compression sock looks like a traditional hiking sock, doesn’t it. That classic pattern belies a secret: it has graduated compression throughout its design. It has four zones of compression that range from 15- 20mmHg. Made with a blend of Merino and Alpaca wool, it’s perfect for one-bag adventures. It has a built-in arch support, seamless toe box, and a medium cushioned sole.
BEST HYPOALLERGENIC
4. Pear Tan & Black Knee High Compression Socks
This unisex knee-high sock offers 15- 25mmHg compression. Made without seams, the sock’s construction prevents hot spots and blisters. This neutral-colored sock works with suits and jeans.
BEST SPLURGE
5. Bombas Performance Compression Sock – Three Pack
Bombas is a favorite brand here at SPY for their super high-quality socks. These are made with a medium level of compression, so they’re not too tight. They’re made to be snug-fitting all day, and keep your feet from getting restless or tired during travel or a long day on your feet. They have a compression level of 15-20 mmHg and are made with durable yarn resistant to wear and tear. The Y-stitched heel forms a comfortable cup around your feet, and is designed to prevent blisters.
BEST FOR JOGGERS
6. Road Runner Sports R-Gear CEP Compression Socks – Three Pack
Long distance runners, triathletes, skiers, and marathoners embrace CEP compression socks. While tight, they keep blood flowing and prevent swelling while feet are pounding pavements or trails. These no-show socks have a two-way moisture wicking system that keeps feet dry and the seamless toe closure helps prevent blisters. They’re perfect for morning or evening runs. Designed with a right/left fit, these socks are guaranteed to last over 150 washes. They come in black or white.
BEST FOR GOLFERS
7. Pro Compression Trainer Low Two Pair in Royal Blue
When you’re off to hit the links, you’re in for a long day on the green. These low compression socks are designed to be comfortable when wearing golf shoes, and sneakers too. They’re designed stabilize the foot, not slip at the ankle and have under ankle compression as well. They use moisture-wicking materials. The fabric aslo prevents chafing at the achilles and frontside of teh ankle. these compression socks come in over 20 colors.
BEST XL SOCKS
8. SB SOX Compression Socks
When large isn’t large enough, these sturdy SOX socks come in a range of fun colors and offer a solid 20-30mmHg compression with every wear. Designed to provide better oxygen circulation, you’ll probably be surprised by just how soft they feel. Of course, they’re also available in different sizes, but the extra-large option is one of the best we’ve seen.
BEST FOR TRAVEL
9. Comrad Socks Companion Three Pack Socks
Designed to feel like dress socks, these striped compression socks have moderate, 15-20 mmHg compression. That level helps decrease lactic acid build up and can be worn for travel, post-workout recovery, and standing for long periods of time. The fabric is moisture-wicking and is treated with silver ions that prevent odor.
BEST FOR PAIN RELIEF
10. MudGear Premium Compression Socks
For when you need a pair of compression socks that really hug your legs, these MudGear socks are a must. Made from a hearty mix of nylon, polyester and spandex, they’re designed to fit extra snug so you can do what you do best without having to deal with aches and pains. These socks also feature a smart moisture-wicking technology that helps soak up water and sweat at a much better rate than traditional wool.
BEST FOR SHIN SPLINTS
11. Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks
You know shin splints — the painful reminder you’ve been running too much, or haven’t trained enough for the task at hand. These compression socks are designed to help stabilize the muscles around your shins and calves to help prevent splints and calf cramps before they happen. This happens through enhanced blood flow, among other benefits to wearing compression socks. These socks are also made with a seamless toe for preventing blisters and chafing, and have an anatomical fit for maximum comfort.
BEST ANTIMICROBIAL
12. Balegas Silver No-Show Running Socks
This no-show compression sock has microfiber ventilation and fibers encapsulated in silver ions. This combination provides antimicrobial and antibacterial, and mositure-wicking protection. No matter how long the run is, feet will still stay sweet. There’s a compressive sock arch, extra deep heel pocket and a seamless reinforced toe.
BEST VALUE
13. 8 Pack Copper Knee High Compression Socks (Unisex)
These copper compression socks are definitely a great value. For under $20, you get eight durable socks that are sure to stand up to the elements. Designed to provide a 15-20 mmHg compression, they’re made to help promote better blood flow and help relieve pain instantly. And unlike other socks, these ones feature a smart anti-itch fabric to prevent chafing and causing an itch to scratch. At this price point, it’s hard to find any faults.
BEST HEAVY DUTY
14. ZFiSt 3 Pair Medical Sport Compression Socks Men
When compression is simply not enough, these super stylish socks offer enough flair to help them match any and every workout outfit you can pull together. Sold in packs of three, these socks come in a few different color schemes and feature an extra-strong 20-30 mmHg compression down in the ankle area to help increase oxygen flow and improve circulation. These socks are also designed to help reduce lactic acid buildup, which will definitely come in handy during those long runs.
BEST CREW SOCK
15.Bullant Six Pair of Compression Socks
Prefer a crew sock when working out, this six pack of compression crew socks have a compressive arch support band, stay up, and have a reinforced toe and heel. The material has moisture wicking properties. They come in all white, all black or a mix of the two colors.