We all know the compression stockings our grandmothers wore and those used on long-haul flights. But we often overlook the benefits that similar, purpose-designed products can offer in our sporting activities or hiking pursuits. Compression socks for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts do exist, and deliver remarkable long-term health benefits. They are now also an essential ally for athletes during the recovery phase after exercise.
What are compression socks for?
First of all, it's worth knowing that our legs have two venous networks for blood return. The first is deep and inaccessible to any compression, as it's the muscles themselves that — by contracting — compress the veins and promote venous return.
For the superficial venous network, however, the direct action of the muscles is weaker and it's the cardiac pump that does all the work of venous return. And so, sometimes, faced with nature's inequalities, it's clear that for some people this system works less efficiently. Hence the feeling of heavy, swollen legs, increased fatigue and, in the long term, the development of varicose veins — and the idea of giving nature a helping hand by compressing the calf during and after exercise.
When should you use compression socks?
During air travel
On flights, we're immobile around 90% of the time and venous return slows inexorably. By wearing compression socks on long-haul flights, you'll significantly reduce this problem, prevent the formation of blood clots (in the worst case) and also limit the fatigue caused by heavy legs.
During exercise
Wearing a compression sock during sport prevents fatigue from setting in quickly. It also supports and aids venous return, and above all speeds up recovery afterwards. On top of that, these socks are generally quite "supportive", providing optimal hold for the foot and heel — which very often means blisters are avoided.
During the recovery phase
Compression socks are highly useful during this phase: they help accelerate recovery, prevent cramps and reduce fatigue-related aches. You should wear them for a minimum of two hours after a sporting day to reap the benefits. If you didn't wear them during your activity, put them on as soon as you finish — especially if you have a car, bus or train journey ahead before fully resting.
How to choose your compression socks?
First, try to avoid socks with seams — over time, these will be uncomfortable and irritating. Next, opt for technical "stretch" materials that offer optimal comfort, and also pay attention to weight when making your purchase. You don't want a sock that's too heavy, but not too light either: overly light compression socks are likely a sign of poor effectiveness.
If you can try them on, check that they're easy to put on and that they stay in place. A compression sock must not move at all in order to deliver its intended benefit.
Finally, in use, a compression sock should not generate too much heat — otherwise discomfort is guaranteed. Today's materials allow the skin and muscle to breathe while maintaining strong compression of the calf.
At CimAlp, you'll find a range of technically advanced and comfortable 3D compression socks that meet all the criteria mentioned above.
An unbeatable value for money is an added bonus — an investment that, over many years of practice, will prove genuinely beneficial for the health of your legs.
