The Very Best Compression Socks For Running To Boost Recovery

Materials: 83% polyamide, 17% spandex | Compression: 20–30 mmHg | Sizes: 2, 3, 4, 5

Pros:

• Targeted arch and ankle compression
• Air channels boost breathability
• Treated with silver to reduce odors

Cons:

• Expensive

Ask any longtime runner to name a few of their favorite compression socks and it won’t be long until someone mentions CEP. The European brand sells a vast selection of athletic apparel, but it’s the Run Tall Compression Sock 4.0 that steals the show with its technical, graduated compression. Made from a breathable blend of polyamide and spandex, the fabric makes use of small channels to funnel air through the calf and footbed to prevent overheating, while a silver treatment prevents the buildup of funky odors and bacteria. In terms of compression, the sock gently constricts around the arch, ankle and calf to improve blood flow, and that same compression relieves pain from plantar fasciitis, shin splints and tender Achilles tendons.

Of course, the obvious drawback to such a popular, effective compression sock is the sticker price. At $60, the Run Compression Tall Sock 4.0 is the priciest option in this guide, and it’s one of the more expensive compression socks on the market today. Still, I think the superior combination of comfort, quality, breathability and compression justifies the price if you’re looking for a running compression sock that checks all the boxes; it’s one that’s sure to meet the needs of most runners.

Materials: 54% nylon, 39% polyester, 7% elastic fiber | Compression: 15–20 mmHg | Sizes: S, M, L

Pros:

• Design reduces friction and prevents blisters
• Soft fabric
• Great value

Cons:

• May be difficult to put on

If you’re trying compression socks for the first time or need a basic pair for around the house, this option from Rymora should do the trick. Made from a blend of synthetic fabrics with a hint of elastic fiber for added stretch, it’s a comfortable and sporty style that provides no-frills relief. And while it isn’t outfitted with air channels for breathability or silver for odor control, the Rymora compression sock does eliminate any seams, so you won’t suffer from unwanted blisters in the middle of a long run.

Realistically, my biggest concern with this sock is long-term durability, but it’s hard to beat the wallet-friendly price at $16 (or less when it goes on sale). For that reason, I recommend wearing this sock after workouts instead of taking it out for long-distance efforts. Get to know how it feels, keep an eye on the fabric over time, and use it for short runs around the block or longer runs if the fabric holds up.

Materials: 49% merino wool, 12% nylon, 31% recycled nylon, 8% elastane | Compression: 20–30 mmHg | Sizes: S, M, L

Pros:

• Extended durability zones
• Mesh patterning for breathability
• Odor-free benefits of merino wool

Cons:

• Expensive

As a big fan of merino wool, I’ve worn Smartwool’s Run Compression Socks for a little over a year, and in spite of taking them on long-distance hikes and runs up and down the West Coast, they haven’t so much as broken a sweat (even though I certainly have). While the design makes use of nylon and elastane, merino wool is the star of the show here because of its breathability, durability and long-term comfort. Whether I’m gearing up for a day in the mountains or kicking back on the couch to recover, the soft fabric and moderate compression feel great for hours, and the fit is spot-on as well. And because merino wool naturally fights odor-causing bacteria, these socks won’t smell even if you’re wearing them for an ultramarathon or a weekend backpacking trip.

In my experience, the biggest problem most people have with merino wool is how much it costs, but I recommend thinking of it as an investment. Sure, budget-friendly socks or thermal underwear have their place, but if you’re willing and able to invest in apparel and accessories made with high-quality fabrics like merino, they’ll last longer and offer more comfort.

Materials: 79% nylon, 18% olefin, 3% spandex | Compression: Firm | Sizes: 3–16.5

Pros:

• High-visibility colorway for safety
• Ultra-thin fabric improves feel

Cons:

• Little cushioning

Whether it’s a matter of comfort, style or some other personal preference, you might not want to wear a knee-high compression sock—but because you’re probably still looking for some compression above the ankle, I recommend the Swiftwick Aspire Crew. Featuring a thin, breathable fabric blend that offers “firm” compression about the ankle and lower calf, the Aspire Crew is a multipurpose option for running, cycling or almost any other activity. What I like most about this sock is the thin fabric that makes it easier to feel where your foot is in space, and the fact that Swiftwick offers it in a high-visibility neon yellow to help others see you on the road or trail.

The only issue you might have with such thin fabric is the lack of cushioning, but not to worry: If the Aspire Crew doesn’t offer the underfoot support you need, consider the Flite XT Mid-Crew with moderate compression and cushioning that’s a bit more stable as well. And if the lack of cushioning isn’t a problem, your legs will love the Aspire’s blend of stretchiness and support.

Materials: 80% microfiber nylon, 20% elastane | Compression: 25–28 mmHg | Sizes: S, M1, M2, L1, L2, XL

Pros:

• Padded zones underfoot improve comfort
• Seamless toe prevents blisters
• Vented for breathability

Cons:

• Expensive

While all of the compression socks in this guide are designed to help your legs recover after running, I specifically like 2XU’s Recovery Sock for its length, graduated fit and padding. In terms of length, it sits just below the knee to compress your entire lower leg, so you’ll feel the constriction from every angle, but it isn’t too tight. That’s because 2XU designs this sock with a graduated fit that applies the greatest degree of compression at the ankle, and it decreases towards the calf to improve circulation. From there, padded zones add cushioning to the heels and balls of your feet, ensuring you can run, walk or lounge around the house in total comfort.

Again, the biggest drawback here is the price, but it’s admittedly hard to put a price on recovery. The other complaint I hear most often is that the socks are hard to put on and take off, but this comes with the territory. Make the upfront investment and choose the right size, and these socks will provide the support and recovery that your legs need.

Materials: 70% cotton, 15% polyester, 9% elastane, 6% nylon | Compression: 15–20 mmHg | Sizes: S, M, L

Pros:

• A Goldilocks degree of compression
• Versatile enough for exercise, travel, pregnancy and more
• Bombas donates a pair of socks for every pair you buy

Cons:

• Not specifically a running sock

Sometimes the firm and extra-firm compression that most compression socks provide can feel overwhelming, which is why I recommend Bombas’ Everyday Compression Socks for soft, light compression. While most of the other socks on this list offer 20–30 mmHg of compression, Bombas dials that figure back to 15–20 mmHg, so it feels more like a gentle hug than a firm squeeze. When paired with a honeycomb arch support, soft cotton fabrics and fun colors, the Everyday Compression Sock is easy to love and even easier to wear.

With that said, it’s worth noting this isn’t a true running compression sock. If you’re looking for a Bombas sock that’s built specifically for exercise, the brand’s Performance Compression Sock is the way to go: It offers 20–30 mmHg of compression, airflow technology and more durable fabrics. But if you simply want light compression that transitions from a workout to a weekend of travel, this sock can’t be beat.