My lower legs are always sore after a long hike or tough trail run… and I finally decided to try out a pair of compression socks.
Compression socks are designed to help improve circulation, which helps with muscle recovery.
Recently, after trail runs and long hikes, I’ve been slipping on my pair of UnderArmour Recharge Compression Socks, and they definitely make my legs feel great!
Now I know why athletes use compression socks!
Features of the UnderArmour Recharge Compression Socks
- Moisure wicking. They’re made of 93% nylon and 7% spandex, so do a great job of wicking that post-hike sweat off my tootsies!
- Reasonably priced. One pair retails for $19.99, but that is half of what some other brands cost.
Fit?
These socks are unisex, so they come up to my knees. I just fold the top bit over so that the socks sit just below my knees. They are called Men’s socks at most stores, but like most UnderArmour socks they are unisex. I wear size medium, which fits women’s shoe sizes 7 – 10.5.
Do you year compression socks after hiking or running? I’d love to hear what you think in the comments below!
Treat Your Feet Right! Hiking Lady’s Tips:
Just bought a pair today. On longer hikes and mountain climbs my toes cramp terribly. I know my circulation isnt great so someone suggest compression socks. I got a great pair of hot pink ones. Hope they work.. They sure feel amazing.
Melanie, do you wear them:
1. While hiking? If so do you wear them all day long and everyday?
2. Only while setting up camp and dinner?
3. In your sleeping bag? If so, do your feet get cold?
Finally, does anyone find that they itch?
I was told to wear compression socks at work but they were so tight, I couldn’t stand them and they itched terribly. On the other hand, my ankles and feet swell a lot after the 1st week of hikking and I wondered if I should take the socks along and if so when to wear them.
LOVE compression socks!!!!!!! Now that I am in my mid 50s I can get five additional miles of hikes without any leg pain.
I like to wear mine for just a few hours at a time. I personally like to wear mine from the time I get to camp and during dinner, then I change into warmer socks before I get into my sleeping bag.
So quick question about them….while on a backpacking trip would they be good to wear while you are hunkered down for the night, or are they only safe and comfortable for certain period of time?
Great idea on the powder, Snowbird! Thanks for sharing.
Brilliant idea! Compression socks are excellent, just be sure they aren’t tight or constricting at any time around the back of your knee – if they are, REMOVE THEM. Also, don’t cross your knees or legs when you sit while wearing them.
They will also work to keep feet from swelling if you wear them some of the time while hiking. You just have to exchange them for regular socks (and back and forth) every 2 hours or so. This keeps your feet aired out and the socks working for you.
If they’re hard to get on and off, try a little light powder on your legs before pulling them on. It makes it MUCH easier to get them on, and off again.
Hope this helps!
Thank you for your comment, Belinda.
I’ve worn compression leggings before, and love them. Socks would be much more convenient cause they’re easier to slip on and off. I like them for airplane travel, and now will have to consider wearing them after hiking. Great idea!!