We have tested these models in practice:
2XU Recovery Compression Socks
Sizes XS-XXL - Price 42,90 Euro
You have to be strong when you put them on: The Australians' recovery socks are so tight that you have to squeeze yourself into them. But once you're in them, your foot is given even compression up to the back of the knee. The footbed is anatomically optimised and the toe and heel reinforcements are good.
CEP Recovery Socks
Sizes II-IV - Price 39,90 Euro
CEP recommends its Made-in-Germany socks for travelling and regeneration. The thin material feels pleasant against the skin. Flat seams and reinforcements on the instep and heel ensure comfort. Size and compression are measured according to the ankle circumference. The compression is even, but not too strong.
CRAFT Body Control Socks
Sizes XS-XL - Price 24,95 Euro
The Body Control socks from Craft can be worn during or after sport. They are easy to put on as they are very stretchy and the compression is rather light. This means that the airy socks can also be worn in everyday life. However, the polyamide material pulls threads quickly. Good: the wide cuffs at the top.
SKINS Compression Socks Recovery
Sizes XS-XL - Price 40 Euro
The calf circumference determines the size of the Skins socks. However, as the calf is rather weakly compressed and putting them on is surprisingly easy, we recommend taking a size smaller. The workmanship is good. Skins uses antibacterial copper material on the heel and toes, which was recently criticised by ÖKO-Test.
X-BIONIC Effektor xbs.precuperation / recovery
Sizes 35-46/S-L - Price 59 Euro
Shoe size and calf circumference are decisive for the Effektor socks. As known from the Swiss, countless zones with a special effect are distributed across the cotton sock. The result: a comfortable fit with increased compression in the calf area. Unfortunately, the socks quickly pull threads.
Study on the effect of compression socks
In a 2014 study, scientists at Valdosta State University attempted to prove the positive effects of compression socks. The hypothesis was that the stockings help to reduce lactate and waste products after a two-hour running session and thus prevent muscle soreness. However, like some other studies, they found that the stockings did have an effect - but the improvements were not significant compared to the control group.
