Compression socks have gained popularity over the last couple of years. Its approval has grown from a selected few to anyone interested in physical fitness than a regular one. The biggest difference between Compression Socks and Regular Socks is their performance.
So the key question is –What is the compression sock offers that regular socks don’t? Are tight socks the same as compression socks? Well, compression socks provide more benefits as compared to regular socks. They help increase blood flow, prevent injuries, avert fatigue, among other benefits. Stick with us for more differences.
Difference Between Compression Socks and Regular Socks?
Regular socks offer the basics, whereas compressions socks provide more than the basics. However, there are also many differences in performance, comfort, injury protection, and blood flow issues. More elaborative?
Socks length:
Compression socks are available in varying lengths. Calf compression socks extend from the foot, ankle and stop just below the knee. With calf compression socks, you don’t need to wear your regular socks on top.
Instead, it offers a similar function as your regular socks while boosting leg muscle performance. In short, you kill two birds with one stone. The right compression sock is the one with the right fit.
Regular socks are also available in different sizes and lengths. But rarely will you find regular socks that cover the entire leg. Most of them end at the calf muscle.
Compression socks aids in preventing muscle injuries, stopping inflammation, and relief of pain. Regular socks don’t provide such kind of protection and relief.
Fitting:
Most regular socks are either loose or too tight. It offers the basics, i.e., warmth, absorbing moisture, and preventing injuries. Compression socks, as highlighted above, go beyond that.
They provide the right fittings regardless of your size. On the issue of quality, compression socks are superior to regular socks. They are more elastic (stretch) and durable compared to regular socks.
Material:
The material used to create regular socks include; polyester, cotton, wool, among others. These materials have their pros and cons depending on the climate and your preferences.
For example, wool socks are warm but can make your feet sweat. It is therefore not ideal for warm weather. Compression socks have lightweight and stretchy materials, such as; spandex, lycra, or nylon.
These materials are breathable and can wick moisture away and still maintain warmth.
Compression socks promote blood circulation
One of the benefits of compression socks is their ability to improve blood flow. Studies have shown that compression socks can increase blood flow by 30 to 40%. You cannot achieve this with regular socks. Better blood flow equals increased nutrients and oxygen to the leg muscles.
This is vital during workouts, as it contributes to better muscle performance. Moreover, graduated compression socks offer varied pressure at different parts of the leg. For example, they provide more pressure on the ankle area and less on the knee.
Last words
Should I go for regular or compression socks? If this is the question you’ve been thinking about, then we hope you’ve got the answer.
Always go for a garment that meets your needs. Because the pressure differential helps push the blood up the leg to the heart. This inhibits fluid pooling in the legs, hence preventing leg inflammation.
