I’ve been busy testing out the PRO Compression Marathon Socks.
Part of being a SweatPink ambassador for FitApproach means that I have the opportunity to review cool products for the blog. So I jumped at the chance for a free pair of PRO Compression Marathon socks to try out for review – I wanted to see what made PRO Compression a leading brand in compression gear.
When my socks arrived, I thought they might be a little bit of a squeeze to get on…
In fact, the company actually warns, “This design requires more effort to put on than standard socks. But it’s that extra effort and much-needed compression that make all the difference. Be patient and your feet will thank you.” They’re not kidding around – #KeepItTight is right! But the upside to the struggle of getting these puppies on is that once they’re on they feel amazing.
I tried them out both running and recovering.
Now, I know some people swear by wearing them out on their run, but I have to be honest, I didn’t really notice any difference running with, or without. I did both a 10 mile long run and a 4 mile easy run while wearing them. Someone commented on a picture of me running in them that they couldn’t imagine running in long socks in Summer – I can’t believe it, but that didn’t even occur to me! As soon as I put them on, they just kind of felt comfortable, so I didn’t notice them at all while running.
And no, that’s not me in the picture obviously, but it does look like somewhere I would definitely want to run. Plus I think the green socks are super cute.
Let’s talk about recovery: Why do they work?
Compression socks have been used for a long time for recovery from surgery, or for anyone with issues with circulation, like deep vein thrombosis, or edema. They’re often worn on long flights, or by anyone on their feet for a long time. (I really wish I had discovered them while pregnant!) It’s fairly recently that they’ve been assimilated for use in athletics, but the same science behind why they work for venous disorders is also why they’re effective for recovery. The compression design means improved blood flow for your muscles, essential for recovery. PRO Compression socks are true graduated compression socks, so they’re made just the same way as the medical grade – which means, simply, that they work.
In fact, a study into how compression wear affects recovery from eccentric exercise (the kind most likely to make you feel sore) found that using compression wear “decreased perceived soreness, reduced swelling, and promoted recovery of force production.“
And my anecdotal opinion? Wearing them after my longer runs, my legs didn’t feel as heavy and sore as usual. And you know that I’m usually immediately in mama-mode (walking, playing, chasing, constantly moving) after running, so anything that helps speed up the recovery process and prevents moaning about being in pain is a good thing.
Pros:
- These weren’t too tight around my toes. I’ve had issues with between-the-toes blisters from shoes with a narrow toe-box before, so I was a little nervous about how tight these would be – they felt like normal socks around the toes.
- They feel like they’re almost massaging your legs. Or hugging them. Or just making them feel cozy and secure.
- Once you have them on, you won’t notice them. They don’t pinch you around the top (there’s actually a wide cuff at the top to prevent that) and they don’t feel constrictive for movement.
- The socks are moisture wicking. This might be why I didn’t feel hot or uncomfortable running in them, despite the ridiculous humidity recently.
- They’re made in the USA. Always a plus! 🙂
Cons:
- They’re tricky to get on. They take a little bit of wrangling and maneuvering to get them onto your legs, that’s for sure.
- They’re also tricky to get off. But it’s worth the effort for how good your legs will feel.
I would buy these in a heartbeat, especially because PRO Compression has lots of cute patterns and colors to choose from on their website. If you’ve been on the fence about trying them out, today is your lucky day, because I have an awesome 40% off discount to share with you guys
Use the discount code PINK for 40% off your entire order at PRO Compression!
Disclaimer: I was sent a complimentary pair of PRO Compression Marathon Socks in exchange for review. I was not under any obligation to provide a favorable review, so all opinions in this review are my own.
Have you used compression socks before? For running, or for recovery?
What’s your go-to for recovery after a long run, or a race?
More from my site
Tips for Winter Running Gear (plus a huge giveaway!)
#BOSUstrong Challenge Week 3 – Stretch and Tone
#BOSUstrong Cardio Week Wrap Up – Live from Vermont!
Want to get #BOSUStrong with me? (Of course you do!)
VIM & VIGR Compression – The Getting a Hug for Your Legs Review
Running and Rolling: Moji Foot Review and Giveaway
Many people are doing a review on these socks this week. But 40% off is a great deal. I dont think any of them were that much off. Maybe I will have to try thes. I have the Z2U one and like them.
lacey@fairytaledandfitness recently posted…Stride Box Goodies!
These are great – I have another brand as well, but I feel like the PRO compression are a little tighter, so they work better.
I am a HUGGGEE believer in compression. I wear compression socks for every race and every workout actually. I am not sure if that part is just placebo effect, but I think it helps with my blood flow. I am so used to them that I forgot you would think they were REALLY tight the first time, but thats true, if you hadn’t tried them before, you would feel a little squeezed. Saucony makes a wonderful pair that I like, but I have heard great things about PRO.
Tina Muir recently posted…Elite Athlete Eats: First and only WIAW
I have been loving them post-running. I think if I was doing longer long runs (mine are around 10 or 11 miles) then wearing them during those would be worthwhile, too.
Thanks for the discount code. I was just thinking of trying compression socks, and now I just bought my first pair. Thanks!
Oh yay, I’m so pleased you used the code! It’s a great deal. You’ll have to let me know what you think.
I literally JUST bought compression socks. I’ve been getting a little bit of edema from sitting at work all day and I have a few flights coming up so I wanted to make sure I could maintain good leg and foot circulation. I tried them recently on a 9 hour flight and they helped.
Britt@MyOwnBalance recently posted…Favorite Prenatal Yoga Moves
Oh Brittany they must feel AMAZING for you! Seriously, I wish I had thought about them when I was preggo. I didn’t have edema, but I did spend a lot of time on my feet and walking around, since I was working full-time as a trainer.
I actually have noticed that they cut into the top of my legs just a bit – I do have big calves so I always just figure it’s going to happen:) I like them when I dod back-to-back long runs!!!
Kim recently posted…Door-to-Door Sales or Scams?
I tried them running again after I read your comment, but they don’t cut into my legs at all. I’m sorry they do that to you! But on the bright side, you do have killer legs! 😉
I too am reviewing next week, but I have the calf sleeves so I didn’t have to go though the push and pull of the socks!! I loved your little video on Instagram and I (mostly) agree with your review. I definitely love slipping on some compression after a run. I think I have three pair now, but I won or was given all of them 🙂
Allie recently posted…STOP Voting For My Runner’s World Cover Photo!
I kind of want to get the calf sleeves now as well, since it really is my calves that feel it most after a workout. Also, I saw someone on instagram showing a peek of their calf sleeve under jeans & with fancy shoes on, so she could continue recovery while she went out with friends! So awesome. 🙂
Pingback: Holiday Gift Guide for Fitness Lovers - Fine Fit Day
Pingback: Running Tips - Running Through Pregnancy - Fine Fit Day
Pingback: The Best Running Gear - 15 Things I'm Glad Were Invented - Fine Fit Day