When gearing up for a marathon, many racers tend to focus their attention on their shoes and outerwear, while neglecting what socks they are going to wear. While socks' main purpose is to provide a buffer between a runner's feet and his shoes, compression socks go above and beyond, generally rising up above the calf and compressing the lower leg to reduce fatigue and aid in recovery. The best compression running socks provide a tight enough fit to aid performance while staying breathable enough to keep feet cool and dry on a run.
Oxysox
Oxysox performance compression socks utilize a graduated level of compression to provide support precisely where it's needed. The sock's compression is strongest in the foot and ankle area, where support is needed the most, and it tapers off as it moves up the leg, where good circulation is vital. In an article for Runnersworld.com in which writer and runner Peter Sagal listed the benefits of compression socks, he lauded Oxysox for their supple feel and tightly woven Lycra, which "(made) them easier to get on and giving them a grippier feel through the ankles."
Injinji Ex-Celerator Compression Toesock
Injinji's Ex-Celerator sock combines the benefits of compression socks with the blister protection that define Injinji's distinctive profile. Like most compression socks, Injinji's Ex-Celerators utilize a graduated compression profile, with the most support near the bottom of the sock and a looser feel in the calf area. But what makes them stand out is their individual toe sleeves, which sheaths each toe separately, preventing toes from rubbing against each other and causing blisters. Michael Lanza reviewed the Ex-Celerators for Runnersworld.com, saying that testers "who have toe-blister issues, go for distance or train in the cold couldn't stop raving about the Injinji's Ex-Celerator."
Sugoi R + R Compression Sock
Most compression socks are about knee length and covering a runner's lower leg in addition to his foot, but Sugoi's R+R (Rest and Recovery) Compression Ped Sock focuses exclusively on a runner's feet. The R+R's compression is focused on the arch of the foot, while dense cushioning at the heel and toe minimizes footstrike impact. In a review of the best trail-tested gear for Trailrunnermag.com, Elinor Fish lauded the R+R for its lightweight profile as well as its "snug arch-supporting fit."
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