Do You Compress?

7.31.2014


I've talked before about how much I love ProCompression calf sleeves in my post on "6 Tips for Faster Post-Run Recovery." It was tip #5: compress your calves. I've found this to be fantastic for recovery after a particularly long or tough run.



I am a Sweat Pink ambassador, and recently I was offered the chance to review a pair of ProCompression socks. As I said, I love my calf sleeves, but I was excited to try out the socks. Especially because (spoiler alert) Beka and I already bought a couple pairs to give away in a future Runners Tell All post! That's right. You're welcome.


Here's the deal: I personally don't like running in compression socks, but I know a lot of runners who swear by them, so it's just personal preference. I feel like they make my calves feel WAY too tight. However, these socks and calf sleeves make my legs feel awesome when I put them on after a run. Awesome.





ProCompression socks are a quality product. They are made in the USA and built for comfort with moisture-wicking material to keep blisters away. Which would be useful if you were the kind of person who liked running with compression socks.

If you want to snag yourself a pair, use the code PINK for 40% off your order at ProCompression. Seriously, these babies are usually $50, so you should get on this like yesterday. Consider signing up for their email list too. I know you probably don't want more spam in your inbox, but ProCompression has a "sock of the month" that is a fun color or design and is usually discounted. Holler.

Tweet: I #KeepItTight w/ @PROCompression! Use the code PINK for 40% OFF your entire purchase! http://ctt.ec/W2UDL+ @fitapproach #sweatpink


Do you run with compression socks? Love em or hate em?
Have you ever tried wearing them after a run for recovery?
Anonymous said...

I've never tried them before. I'm curious what the science behind it is. What exactly are they doing for your calves/body? Are they increasing circulation? Just wondering--thanks for sharing!

The Lady Okie said...

Good question! So, I obviously don't know the exact science behind it, but (and this is copied from their website) "true graduated compression promotes circulation by pushing fluid up from your feet and ankles to toward your knees. This design also helps reduce swelling and inflamation while providing critical support to muscles and tendons." Like I said, I personally don't like running in them, although I know a lot of people do. People who run in them say it helps circulation and keeps their legs from swelling. I think it's too tight on my calves. But after a run, I put them on, and it just makes my legs feel better. It's like they are compressing my calves, and it kind of feels like a massage. I know people wear them on plane flights and car rides after a run to help with circulation. Hope that helps!

Becky said...

I don't really like wearing them while I'm running either but I could hang out in them for days after a long run! I already have 4 pairs... :)

Kristen said...

I have never looked into them, but I keep seeing them around so maybe I will... I know my Nana wears them on flights!

Kate said...

Ok, this is going to sound completely ridiculous, but this IS me we're talking about... I've wanted to try compression socks/calf sleeves, but I haven't "allowed" myself.

I've gone so long without them, and I don't want to find out that I suddenly love them. It's like.. I don't want to add something else to add to my growing expensive list of running gear. HA!
It's kinda like.. I was ok running in crap shoes when that was all that I knew. When I learned what GOOD running shoes felt like, I can't go back to the crap shoes. (For good reason.) But good shoes are expensive. Good gear is expensive.

So basically... I don't want to find out how much I love compression socks because I don't want to pay for them. bahahaha. What is wrong with me?

Carson said...

Oh, how I love Pro Compression. I run in them, recover in them, and even wear them to work. I expecially swear by them as a nurse. I can tell a huge difference in how my legs feel after a long shift in them.

Kerry @ Till Then Smile Often said...

I don't like them when running but I love them for after too!

Helene in Between said...

honestly, I didn't really know this was a thing but it makes so much sense!

Beka @ Sunshine to the Square Inch said...

Guess what I feel like I need these for?! ASIA! With all the walking I guarantee my legs are going hurt + the 30 hour flights always make my legs a little big and swollen.

Rebecca Jo said...

I try to find things to compress my upper arm with my bicep tendon. My husband lives in compression socks when he can.

Katie said...

i've never tried them but have been super interested in them! i want a pair!

Ali said...

I love my PROCompression socks. I wear them after long runs, and I really do think they make my legs feel better. I haven't worn them while running yet - maybe just due to habit? I'm not sure I'd like them while running either.

Caroline @ In Due Time said...

A friend at the gym who does ironmans told me to get some compression socks, but I never have!!! Thanks for sharing more about them! I bet they do make a huge difference!

Al@PolkaDotsandPaisley said...

I compress regularly for my perm-cankle but I've never used my socks for running or recovery. I don't think I'm quite that hardcore yet.

Amy said...

I have horrible blood flow from what I can tell during a run (my toes/feet will go numb after a certain amount of time). I used to use compression socks on long runs, and I honestly need to get back into the habit of it. I've currently got some calf strain/sprains going on and the recovery time (from what I've read) is anywhere from 4-6 weeks or THREE MONTHS> bleh talk about being frustrated. sooooo I'm taking it easy when it comes to running.

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