Sooner or later, but at a certain stage of the career, all runners start feeling pain in their feet, their calves pop out, and later, cramps appear. If a runner’s legs constantly cramp and undergo unbearable pain, it is time to change the running duration or try changing the socks and shoes.
However, by taking some preventative measures, runners can prevent foot pain, sweating, blistering, and other such issues. Wearing tall socks, especially compression socks, is a great preventive measure. Another perk of wearing tall socks is that runners find warmth in these socks.
You can walk through this post to further understand why runners wear tall socks.
Why Do Runners Prefer Tall Socks?
- Long-running socks provide extra cushioning around the heel and foot, protecting feet from blisters and fungus.
- Knee-length socks are long socks that help the legs stay warm and enhance overall blood circulation.
- Tall socks are also suitable for runners who suffer from extra sweating issues. If runners wear tall socks, the sweat will not go into the shoes, ultimately protecting athletes from slipping and irritation.
- Athletes mostly wear shirts and shorts with tall socks, especially when it gets chilly.
- Long socks are also suitable for keeping feet tight into the shoes, allowing runners to complete the distance with full focus.
- Keep the feet comfortable and dry for prolonged running.
Choose Socks Carefully
Not all socks are of the same type; some are short, others are tall, some are thin, and others are thick. When it comes to socks for runners, a top-quality pair of tall socks can make a difference.
The right socks are essential for top performance, support, and ease because they are designed to enhance ventilation and better in soaking up sweat. Without good socks, blister and fungal infection chances rise, which is not good for the runner’s health. So, consider all particulars before picking tall socks.
Things To Check Before Buying The Tall Socks For Runners?
Although tall socks’ shape and material matter, their features can greatly affect the runner’s performance and comfort level.
Let’s take a close look at them!
Check The Socks’s Fabric
Generally, it is advised not to wear cotton socks as they can hold moisture that can lead to coldness in chilly weather and blisters in summer. The use of 100% cotton socks are also the reason for chafing in athletes. Instead, it would be better to use synthetic material to keep sweat away from legs and feet.
The recommended fabric for tall socks used by runners is merino wool, as it is breathable and good in soaking sweat. The great news is that they’re also anti-bacterial, which means they are better at fighting against germs.
Choose Double Layered Socks
Many runners prefer wearing double-layered socks to keep feet safe from blistering. These socks use helpful inner and outer layers; with an air layer in the middle, it can wick moisture and keep feet and legs dry.
Thickness
Another feature to check in tall socks is the padded soles which provide extra cushioning to heels. Some runners opt for socks having additional cushioning, while others choose thin socks to stay comfortable, especially on warm summer days. Other features include a seam-free toe region, which can lower your risk of blisters even further.
Compression Socks Are Best For Runners
Compression sleeves or compression running socks are getting popular among runners; in 2018, the market of these socks was valued at $1.6 billion, and it will dramatically increase in the coming years. These socks take time to wear but provide an excellent fit. Some compression socks are made using medical-grade materials, which help to improve the blood flow to the heart.
These socks are often suggested to runners after recovering from any injury. While some also wear them during training time. Before participating in marathons or other competitions, it will be good to wear them regularly to get used to them.
Medical professionals frequently advise knee-high compression socks to treat varicose veins, and they’re also perfect for treating peripheral edema or lower leg swelling.
Benefits Of Tall Compression Socks For Runners
Wearing compression socks is always beneficial for runners.
Let’s discuss some noticeable perks!
Minimize Cramps And Swelling
Tall compression socks lessen calf muscle movement and extra effort from runners’ legs, minimizing fatigue and boosting energy.
Provide Relief In Pain
Extra warmth and better blood circulation provided by compression socks reduce soreness quickly. Wearing them also keeps legs and feet comfortable, helping runners concentrate while running, even during marathons.
Protection From Injuries
The compression socks’ quick recovery and improved pain management decrease the risk of injury.
Improve Blood Flow
The socks narrow the runner’s veins, allowing more blood to flow and more quickly reach the heart.
Increase Oxygen Delivery
Most compression socks that are tight from the bottom and loose from the top offer gradual compression, ensuring blood properly flows aground and increasing the oxygen supply to the leg muscles.
Better For The Protection Of Legs
Another benefit of compression socks is the protection of the legs from scratches and abrasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Tall Compression Socks Help Runners?
Yes, tall compression socks increase blood circulation and help runners quickly recover from an injury.
Do Knee-High Socks Work Well When Running?
The snug-fitting, knee-high socks promote blood flow and reduce the lactic acid buildup in the muscles. In this way, runners’ muscles feel less strained after a run, and you won’t be as likely to have cramps on the track, the road, or the trail.
What Is The Best Material For Runner’s Socks?
The best material for runners’ socks is acrylic, merino wool, and polyester because these fabrics wick moisture better and keep skin dry.
Our Summary
Running consumes a lot of energy and effort, so runners participating in competitions prefer to choose specialized equipment and clothes for training and running. For many reasons, most runners prefer wearing special shoes and tall socks because they are ideal for soaking up sweat, keeping their legs warm, and avoiding blistering and fungus issues.
Compression socks are also widely recommended socks for runners. This type of sock brings particular benefits for users, as many of them are discussed in the article. You can read the post thoroughly to get encouragement for compression socks, and don’t skip them in the next competition to stay comfortable and protect yourself from injury.