Compression sleeves and socks are a great tool for helping to manage injury, improve performance and also speed up your recovery.
Ankle compression socks have become more popular in recent times especially within the active community, especially runners.
If you are particularly active and find that you need extra support for your ankles then these could be a great addition to your active wardrobe.
Ankle compression socks are also ideal if you are recovering from an injury or have suffered an injury as they provide support to the joint.
Whatever you use them for, this guide is to help inform you about different types of available ankle compression socks and also their features to that you can make the best choice before buying.
What are ankle compression socks?
We have taken a selection of compression socks which are available on amazon and reviewed them, they are all similar in the fact they support the ankle and calf. There are subtle differences between them and they all will have different features.
Typically, an ankle compression sock will be made from a breathable, stretchy material which fits over the ankle and foot and sometimes extend over the calf. Their job is to provide compression and support to the region it covers.
Anatomy involved
Let’s take a brief overview of what will be influenced by the use of ankle compression socks.
Joints: the ankle and foot joints will be supported and held in a tighter position which can be great if you have had a recent ligament injury. Ligaments hold bones to bones and if you have had the weakening of a ligament due to an injury, compression is a good way to improve joint stability so that you can continue to exercise.
Muscles: The calf muscles of the gastrocnemius and soleus will get compression from ankle socks which extend up on to the calf. The added compression to these muscles can help to improve performance and support recovery.
Tendons: The achilles and tibialis posterior are main tendons in the ankle region which are covered by compression socks. Keeping tendons warm and compressed can help to support them during exercise, especially long distance running.
Why use a compression sock?
- Performance – there is a body of evidence that compression helps to support muscular performance. Having the tight compression of your soft tissues especially around the calf has been reported to potentially help improve blood flow in these muscles which can be particularly helpful when being active/running for long distances.
- Injury Support – if you have been recovering from an injury to the calf and ankle, compression is ideal. Depending on what injury you have had and also what type of brace you have the tight compression can have benefits in different ways. Compression of the soft tissue helps to reduce swelling and inflammation but also to provide support to the ankle joint. This is handy if you have suffered an ankle ligament injury.
- Recovery – as previously mentioned, compression is great for soft tissues but it can be really great for recovery of tissues after exercises by aiding reduction in inflammation and improving circulation. This helps waste products to be flushed out of the muscles and to get you ready for your next bout of exercise.
- Blister Protection – when running, especially long distances, you may find that you will suffer from the unpleasant experience of blisters. Ankle compression socks help to provide that extra layer between you and your shoes which can prevent blisters due to the materials used.
- Medical Conditions – if you have recently had surgery then you may need compression socks to reduce the risk of developing thrombus / deep vein thrombus. If you have recently had a DVT you may also be required to wear these socks to aid the circulation to your lower limbs. Varicose veins do also benefit from the use of compression to the feet, calf and ankles. Poor circulation to the extremities with certain medical conditions can again benefit from compression.
Top compression socks available online
All of the socks below are available to buy on Amazon. We have included all of the key details and pricing to help you make the best decision.
Beister Compression Sleeve – £11.99
These ankle braces apply more pressure across the ankle joint which is perfect for any activity where you need extra stability – potentially a great brace following an injury.
The cross wrap holds the ankle securely in place to lower your risk of ankle injury. This would be an ideal support for use with sports and exercise. Despite holding your ankle in place – it will still allow you to move the ankle freely and fully.
As well as the joint support – the compressive element of the brace helps to support muscles of the ankle and calf. This support can be used for other problems such as general ankle pain and arthritis.
These ankle sleeves are made of spandex and rubber latex which is breathable and lightweight to make sure that you stay comfortable throughout the day. As with all supports – they help to wick sweat and not hold moisture or sweat to prevent any hygiene issues.
This support brace is carefully designed to give best support but allow maximum movement of the ankle, whilst also being very easy to put on.
Dr Sock Soothers Socks Anti Fatigue Compression Foot Sleeve – £5.77
These are more of a sock design which would be more beneficial for foot and ankle issues but not calf. The compressive element of this sock is aimed at the areas affected by foot issues such as plantar fasciitis.
These socks are machine washable, easy to wear and are made from breathable material to ensure great hygiene.
These socks are designed to provide support with compression to the soft tissues of the feet that you may have pain in but also to help improve circulation to the foot and ankle.
Toes & Feet Men’s and Women’s Anti Odour Quick Dry Compression Ankle Running Socks – £7.99
These are compression socks, in a trainer sock design specifically targeted at runners. They have an ant blister system built in to them with an enlarged back of the sock to ensure your achilles does not rub off the shoe.
The main feature of these socks are that they have an anti-odour claim which prevent your socks from getting smelly, which can be common when using socks for running.
As well as having the anti-odour feature there is a built in arch support to help provide assistance to the arch whilst running, an area which can get sore from longer distances.
The socks, again, like other provide compression which helps to promote better circulation to the feet. At 7.99 they are in the low price range and are a bargain for any runner.
Compression Running Socks – £10.99
This compression running sock features double stitched Fabric which add to the comfort of this sock. These socks are a low cut design, like a trainer sock. They are made with a compressive material for all of the circulatory and support benefits. These socks have to be the best on the list for design and choice of colours. Whatever your fashion preference, there is a colour to suit!
These socks are excellent for soreness of the feet, poor circulation or just general arch support. The compressive element of these socks can help to prevent tiredness in the feet which is a great feature if you are wearing them for a big hike or long walk.
The socks are easy to put on and are made of a breathable lightweight material which helps to wick moisture away and prevent odour and over soaking.
Calves Kelson – 2 pack of calf compression socks – £12.99
If you are a runner who is looking for foot, ankle and calf support then these could be the compression socks for you. The design of these is a sleek black but they do have a coloured heel which there is a wide range to choose from.
These compression socks come in a 2 pack and they come at a great price. The compression socks may help to promote leg blood circulation, prevent DVT and varicose vein symptoms. Compression socks can relieve fatigue and swelling in your legs which can be handy during long periods of exercise.
The socks can be hand or machine washed on hot or cold and will not damage the quality fabric. The fabric is designed to give maximum compression and support whilst also being breathable to prevent wetness from sweat
Running Graduated Calf Compression Sleeves – £9.95
This is a pure calf and shin compression sleeve which will be ideal for runners.
One of the main benefits advertised with these calf sleeves is the reduction in cramps, fatigue and affect they may provide on symptoms of shin splints.
The sleeves are 18-21mmHg compression which is optimal for increasing oxygen flow and boosting blood circulation in your legs. This helps with rapid muscle recovery in the lower legs. These sweat-wicking compression socks are made of breathable materials which prevent odour and wetness.
These compression socks may prevent you from getting soreness in the legs during activities such as running, gym work, triathlon and football.
They are also perfect if you are on your feet all day at work or if flying long distance – they are available in different shoe sizes to ensure you get the perfect fit.
These socks are made in Denmark – the design team develops these compression sleeves in Copenhagen and have been used by Danish handball player and Olympic Athlete Casper U. Mortensen.
Is there a Reason I Shouldn’t be Wearing Compression Socks?
Most people will be fine wearing compression socks but there is a small percentage of the population that may not be able to and should really check with their doctor for safety reasons.
If you suffer from peripheral artery disease or peripheral neuropathy which are conditions that cause skin lesions or dermatitis (skin irritation) – you should avoid using compression socks. This is because material which is tight and compressive on the skin can make you sweat and if you have more irritable skin you may find this will cause issues with your skin integrity.
It is also important to be mindful in all individuals that socks that are too tight can cause reduced circulation – so it is an absolute must that you find the right size for safety and comfort.
Conclusion
That finishes up our guide to the best ankle compression socks including what they are used for, benefits and what we think are some of the best available socks on the market to buy.
We hope that you have found this helpful and if you have could you please share it with someone who you know that may find it helpful.