It's no secret that I love compression, in various forms. One of my favorites is in calf sleeves and socks. I do enjoy a nice pair of tall compression socks, but I've always felt sleeves are more versatile. That versatility comes with the age old problem of finding the right socks. 2XU offers a 1-2 combo to to give you just that: compression calf sleeves teamed with a great pair of socks.
What's the gear?
This review is really the tale of two pieces of gear that compliment each other. First are the performance run calf sleeves. They offer the standard of compression calf sleeves: graduated compression for increased circulation for recovery and muscle performance. They're more than just simple sleeves though, they offer targeted support on the calfs and shins. They use PWX compression fabric to enhance power as well as high filament yarns to wick away sweat. The sleeves are even antibacterial and provide UPF50+ sun protection.
The second piece are the racing VECTR socks. They're an engineered little sock. They have 2XU’s X:LOCK support system for a "secure, ergonomic fit to the foot and stabilization of the ankle and arch". They deliver "maximum abrasion protection" and anti-blister technology. Like any good sock, they provide moisture management through dry mesh panels for ventilation.
The second piece are the racing VECTR socks. They're an engineered little sock. They have 2XU’s X:LOCK support system for a "secure, ergonomic fit to the foot and stabilization of the ankle and arch". They deliver "maximum abrasion protection" and anti-blister technology. Like any good sock, they provide moisture management through dry mesh panels for ventilation.
What does it all mean?
I gave you the low down on the tech in the products, but what does it all mean? How do they all really perform? The calf sleeve performed great. They offer snug compression, but are also quite comfortable. The graduated compression is not too tight for running comfortably in. They left my legs feeling good even after a longer run with hills. They are right on par with other standard compression sleeves I have as far as tightness with a slightly better fit. I have some that offer a tighter fit, but there are also higher level sleeves from 2XU as well, when that is the need.
The socks are really nice. They have a really great fit on the foot, of a snug, form fitting style. They have just enough fabric up the ankle for my liking. Enough to keep from any of the shoe from rubbing, including a little extra up the back to protect the heel. That is always the biggest pain point for me. They breathe well, never feeling damp or any hot spots from rubbing. Hypothetically, I may have even worn them two runs in a row because I may have forgotten to change them out of my gym bag. And in this hypothetical situation, they performed comfortably even then. Hypothetically.
The two work really well together. The problem with calf sleeves can sometimes be to find socks that fit well with them. The calf sleeves and socks come together perfect for me, providing me a great combo to run in or recover in. Sleeves are great because you can take the off and on as you need. Plus, unlike tall compression socks, they're easier to reuse that socks you sweat into.
The socks are really nice. They have a really great fit on the foot, of a snug, form fitting style. They have just enough fabric up the ankle for my liking. Enough to keep from any of the shoe from rubbing, including a little extra up the back to protect the heel. That is always the biggest pain point for me. They breathe well, never feeling damp or any hot spots from rubbing. Hypothetically, I may have even worn them two runs in a row because I may have forgotten to change them out of my gym bag. And in this hypothetical situation, they performed comfortably even then. Hypothetically.
The two work really well together. The problem with calf sleeves can sometimes be to find socks that fit well with them. The calf sleeves and socks come together perfect for me, providing me a great combo to run in or recover in. Sleeves are great because you can take the off and on as you need. Plus, unlike tall compression socks, they're easier to reuse that socks you sweat into.
The Takeaway
I love compression and I'm always looking for great socks, and both delivered. I put them to the test: warm and cool days, long and short runs, Mizuno and On Running shoes, and all came back feeling good. The sleeves are comfortable enough to run in but still provide great compression for recovery. The socks and sleeve compliment each other providing a full solution for your running legs. I'm personally interested in looking for some more colors to build my stock up with.
Do you wear compression sleeves? To run in or recover in?
#bibchat
As you may have guessed, this week's bibchat will again feature 2XU. Stop by on Tuesday, March 22nd at 9pm EST to join in the good times that is bibchat. Interact with the 2XU team, with other BibRavePros, and all the other like minded runners that participate each week. You can plan on a giveaway, as always, so there's always that added bonus.
Oh that great. I love your post in this blog.
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