Review – CEP Compression Socks

Continuing the gear review theme on the blog, I was recently approached by the marketing folks at Sports Compression asking if I’d be interested in trying out some of their compression gear. As an existing fan of compression for both performance and recovery, I jumped at the chance…

The product I received from Sports Compression was a Classic Design Running Compression Sock – color white/orange, size III, which is suitable for calf sizes 12.5″ through 15″. Before I get into the review, here’s a little background info on the company behind the socks, and some techie info about the product too:

CEP Compression Company – Information & History

Company information: CEP Compression is made by Medi-USA, a world-leading manufacturer of medical compression products. The birth of compression in the medical field is now being translated into every CEP product. By providing the athlete with improved circulation, muscle response and regeneration of lactic acid in the blood stream you can peak performance of any athlete. Whatever your sport may be you can take advantage of CEP Compression.

CEP COMPRESSION SOCKS INFO:

For all Runners and Endurance Athletes: The scientifically optimized pressure flow provides muscles with the maximum amount of oxygen and energy during performance and recovery.

The times when the sole purpose of socks and stockings was to protect feet from blistering, are over. CEP provides the first functional sport sock with a unique compression profile, scientifically proven to increase blood circulation, and consequently, increase performance.

Achilles Tendon Support: Additional support of the Achilles tendon protects and prevents irritable tendons.

Padded Foot Soles: Special support of the foot sole prevents irritations caused by pressure spots.

Ventilation Channels: For a pleasant foot climate and reduced friction.

3-D Fit: The socks adjust to the anatomy of the leg and foot for a perfect fit, thanks to the three-dimensional manufacturing process.

Prevent:

• Shin Splints
• Cramps
• Achilles Issues
• Fatigue
• Micro Muscle tears
• Vibration trauma
• Blisters
• Blood clots from travel

The CEP socks are the first compression sock I’ve ever owned. As stated above, I’m used to wearing compression calf sleeves from various companies – Zensah, Tommy Copper, Skins and Saucony, for example – all of which are very easy to slide on/slide off. The compression socks were much more of a challenge until I watched the video below. For me, the natural thing to do was roll up the sock before putting it on – this caused compression over compression and made it almost impossible to get my foot into the sock opening. Hopefully, the video will help you find the right technique so you don’t struggle too much.

Once the sock was on, it felt VERY comfortable, although the size III is just a little bit long on my lower leg. Not sure if there’s a solution to this, as CEP recommend NOT to fold the excess material down as it will create a tourniquet effect below the knee…. The socks are labelled “left” and “right” for a great blister-free fit, and there’s enough padding on the foot sole to prevent hot spots. The remainder of the sock “grips” the achilles, calf and shin for a really snug fit.

I’ve completed several training runs (no races at this point in time) of various distances in the socks with good results. However, whether compression technology actually increases performance on these training runs is up for debate. A quick search online throws up a whole host of articles – some massively in favor, and some very much against the current compression trend.

Personally, I’d like to think that compression sleeves/socks help improve circulation and regeneration of lactic acid, and keep fatigue at bay when the going gets tough. I’m also a big fan of compression after a tough workout/race, and can’t think of a reason not to slide on a pair of socks/sleeves to aid recovery.

The CEP Running Socks launder well at 40°C, and although low-temperature tumble drying is allowed, I prefer to let mine dry naturally. The socks also come with a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee if you’re not entirely satisfied with the product.

As part of my agreement to carry out a blog review, Sports Compression are pleased to offer a 15% OFF coupon code for use at their web site. Just head over to www.sportscompression.com and use coupon code BLOG15 on check out. Not only will you receive 15% off your order, shipping will be FREE too. Enjoy!

Like Sports Compression on Facebook.
Follow Sports Compression on Twitter.