Compression socks work by providing pressure to some key areas in your feet and legs as you move. This pressure improves circulation and helps your feet feel things better. That means better balance and stability, less fatigue, and more power.
Compression Socks for Specific Sports
We'll list out how compression socks can help individual sports below.
Compression Socks for Weight Lifting
While there's limited evidence supporting the immediate benefits of wearing compression socks during weightlifting, several studies suggest they can be beneficial post-exercise, aiding in muscle recovery, reducing soreness, and improving muscle function indicators (Mota et al., 2020)
Compression Socks for Running
Wearing compression socks during a run has not been shown to significantly improve endurance or power output. Research indicates that while compression socks may provide some comfort and support, they don't have a measurable effect on running performance, such as increased speed, stamina, or strength.
However, compression socks can be highly effective when worn after a race. By applying graduated pressure, they promote blood flow back to the heart, reducing muscle soreness, inflammation, and swelling in the legs. This improved circulation helps flush out metabolic waste products like lactic acid, speeding up muscle recovery and allowing you to bounce back more quickly for your next run (Ali et al 2006).
Compression socks are more beneficial for recovery than performance during the run itself.
It's worth noting that compression socks have proven to help with balance and stability so you stay sure-footed and stable (Sun et al 2021)
Compression Socks for Field Sports
Compression in field sports like: Soccer, football, rugby, hockey, ultimate frisbee, field hockey, basketball and any sport that involves a big field, and moving oneself around it.
Compression socks have been shown to increase average power output when fatigued (Gimenes et al 2017). That means you've got more juice at the end of a tough game, when you need it.
Specifically re: Migs and working out
We used a form of nylon in Migs Compression Socks that helps wick away sweat, reduce odor, and stay breathable against your foot. These athletic compression socks keep your feet cool and breezy when you're going for it.
More Info
Check out this post on the various types of compression socks that are out there. Here's a guide on how to choose the right compression level for you. If you've got a long flight or a road trip coming up, check out how Compression Socks can help during Travel. Here's a list of the symptoms compression socks can help with.
If you're really curious, checkout our Complete Guide to Compression Socks for answers to every question you might have on compression socks and how they can help.