Over the years I’ve trained and raced in various pairs of compression socks from numerous manufacturers – CEP [reviewed here], Feetures, SmartWool and Zensah, to name just a few. However, since switching exclusively to Injinji toesocks early last year, the compression socks have been relegated to the back of my running gear drawer and nowadays I either wear compression calf sleeves in conjunction with Injinji socks, or more recently Injinji Compression socks on their own. Today I’ll be reviewing the Injinji Compression 2.0 OTC (Over the Calf), and launching a FREE giveaway with one pair of Size Medium Black Socks up for grabs. Retail value is $49, so definitely worth entering!
From the Injinji Website:
Powered by Injinji’s 5 Toe Fit System™ and featuring a lower leg graduated compression design, you’ll experience the ultimate in enhanced circulation and recovery. The Compression can be worn before, during or after your activity to reduce swelling and revive your feet and lower legs. The 5 toe design offers unmatched blister protection and toe mobility, further increasing the blood flow which is critical for better health and comfort.
Benefits:
*Natural Toe Splay
*Blister Prevention
*Superior Moisture Management
*Minimizes muscle soreness
*Enhances Circulation
*Promotes healing
*True left and right anatomical design for proper fit
*Better gripping and balance inside shoe
*Toe mobility which allows stronger, healthier feet
Features:
*Graduated compression design
*Mesh top for maximum breathability
*Arch support for secure and stable fit
*Superior fiber construction wicks sweat to keep feet dry and comfortable
*Enhanced cuff with increased compression holds sock in place
*Anatomical left and right foot design enhances fit
*5 Toe Fit System™ Technology
Review:
My first comment would be to set aside a few extra minutes to actually put the socks on, as the combination of individual toe pockets and graduated compression make for quite a workout in itself. However, once on, the socks are really comfortable with no tightness or excess pressure points. My advice would be to sort the foot portion of the sock first, starting with the big toe and working methodically through the others, then work on the ankle/heel before finally pulling the sock up to just below the knee.
In true Injinji fashion, the socks are designed with an anatomical left and right fit, so there’s no way you’ll put them on the wrong feet, and, as noted above, the sock features graduated compression that increases from the ankle through to the welt band. The heel is slightly padded and there’s a nice arch support built in to the sock, along with a mesh top for great breathability.
I’ve completed numerous training runs in the socks (longest to date is a 24 miler) with fine results – zero blister issues, zero overheating, zero sock slippage and none of those “Wish I could change socks” thoughts. They perform equally well in wet and dry conditions, and appear to breathe well and wick away moisture/wetness quite effectively.
In addition to training in the socks, I’m also a big fan of compression for post-run recovery, especially on the weekends when mileage is typically higher. I haven’t raced in the Compression 2.0 yet, and for longer events would probably stick to regular Injinji socks coupled with calf sleeves in case a quick sock change mid-race was required.
The Compression 2.0 socks launder well, but make sure you don’t dry clean them or stick them in the drier. Line drying is recommended.
Aside from the slight awkwardness in getting the socks on (which does improve the more you wear them), the only other negative for me would be sock length. I wear a size medium (shoe size 9.5), and although the foot portion fits great, the length of the sock creeps just a little bit too high at the knee.
To conclude, the Injinji Compression 2.0 is definitely my go-to compression sock right now. Their graduated compression is certainly on a par with any of the other compression “technologies” I’ve tried, with the unique Injinji 5-toe-system being the deal breaker.
Injinji Compression Socks are available for purchase online at Injinji.com
Giveaway:
Up for grabs is one pair of Size Medium Black Injinji Compression 2.0 Socks. The giveaway is hosted by Rafflecopter and will remain open through 3/8/15. So, get Tweeting, Sharing and Liking to maximise your chances. Good luck!
For me its a touch too thick to run in and feel comfortable but love them for post run. I also make them my travel sock when flying. If they could have a light weight version like they have with the no show socks, that would be great.
I have never worn compression socks, but I really want to try them for when I jog.