Don’t worry, because in this post we are going to share what you need to know about choosing the right sports socks.
The right size
Your socks should sit just below your knee. If they are too high then they will rub on the back of your knee, and too low then you won’t get enough compression.
Measuring your feet and lower legs ensures that you can choose the right pair of sports socks when ordering online and be confident in your purchase without trying them on first. You will need to take the following measurements and write them down before starting to shop:
- Measure around the widest part of your calf muscle
- Measure around your ankle at the narrowest point, but make sure your foot is flat on the floor
You should take these measurements first thing in the morning before your feet or lower legs start to swell up. If you purchase sports socks that are too big, you won’t get the benefits that you bought them for. If they are too small, then they can end up causing you a lot of discomfort and may lead to further health issues. They should be a snug fit that sit flat on your legs without any wrinkles in the material.
The right compression
All types of compression socks come in different pressures, and what might be suitable for someone else may not be the right choice for you. They are found in measurements of mmHg, which stands for millimetre of mercury, and this is important to check. The lightest pressure that you can find that is suitable for most people is 15-20mmHg medical grade graduated compression.
Top athletes that use compression socks on a regular basis find that having a lighter pressure to wear while working out allows for better flexibility in their movement, and then a heavier pressure works well for recovery periods when they are not active.
For you, this may mean choosing 10-15mmHg or 15-20mmHg compression socks to use while running or training and having 20-30mmHg for recovery time. It’s a good idea to talk to your medical professional first to get their recommendations on what will be suitable for your individual situation.
Feeling overwhelmed?
Our compression socks specialists at TXG Socks are on hand to answer any questions you might have to ensure you purchase the right socks for your needs. We’ll be happy to help you pick out the correct pair from our sports range, so feel free to give us a call on 0800 894 769 from 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.
Please note: The information provided here is for general information only and is not intended to act as medical advice. We advise anyone interested in this subject to seek qualified, professional advice.
