I am big proponent of compression socks and calf sleeves for longer distance runs and for recovery. Most marathons and long races I run in calf sleeves but wear compression socks almost on a daily basis for recovery.
Note: They provided me with a pair to review for this blog.
This is the pair I received (one of the 3 different colors in their product line in size L):
I wore these for several hours before I went out for run to see how they felt. The first thing I noticed is that they are much softer fabric than many compression socks and easier to put on. They have nice padding on the heel, toe and sole but not too much where it felt bulky. The large size fit me perfectly in that I did not have to roll over the top (I have big calves but my legs aren't that long). In addition it did not have the overly restrictive band at the top like many of the other brands have that causes a circular line around the area right below your knee.
After wearing them for a few hours I took them out for a first run and they felt really good. The provided good foot support and with calf compression while not being overly restrictive. Many socks feel too tight the longer you run in them, these did not. The best thing I can say is that they were so good that I didn't notice I had them on.
Since that first run I have worn them a few times for most of the day aid recovery and they are very comfortable.
I have run, recovered and washed them several times and they have held up very well in keeping their shape and their compression (full disclosure - I am wearing them right now as I write this).
One of the best things about these socks is the price: 35.00 (which includes shipping and handling for those in the US and Canada). That is less than any of the compression socks I currently own. I am guessing the price is lower most likely because they only sell them online?
Would I purchase these socks? Yes, I would buy another pair because the combination of comfort, wear-ability and price makes them a really good buy. In addition according to their website they are donating 1% of their revenue to MAG (Mines Advisory Group http://www.magamerica.org/), I like supporting companies that have pledged their support to charitable organizations.
If there is one drawback it is that there are only 3 different color options right now. I would expect they will add more colors as they get more established. Also I would like them to consider making calf sleeves if they wanted to branch out.
In summary I would consider buying a pair if you are in the market for a pair of compression socks.
