TOP 5 BEST
Compression Socks for Wide Calves
I can’t be the only one who broke out in a sweat trying to get my compression socks on…
When I started to get severe foot pain about a year ago I went to my doctor and he suggested I try wearing compression socks to work. I mean I would be lying if I told you I was excited to wear compression socks (they aren’t the sexiest thing on the planet).
BUT I learned that foot pain is something almost every American experiences at some point during their life…so I was not alone! Phew!
So, I took my doctors advice and purchased some compression socks on my way home from the appointment. I got home and decided I should start the healing process right away! Queue *sweating*... how do they expect people to get these on. I was dripping sweat and my hands were killing me from struggling to get the socks up my calves.
Needless to say I didn’t wear these socks very much cause they took me way too long to get on (and I don’t need a workout while putting on socks.. thanks).
So, I started my hunt for the best compression socks that were designed for wide calves! Here is the list I came up with.
#1 - Alpha Sole
The difference between these compression socks and others that I’ve tried is astonishing! It truly is like night and day. It's amazing how easy and simple it is to put them on (and take them off) and feel the pain vanish. They also offer size small-xxxl...FINALLY a company that is inclusive of wide calves.
Their socks are proven to improve blood circulation, swelling, revive tired feet and legs and control odor using brand new copper infused technology! They also come in a range of sizes for all body types and they are 100% machine washable.
One small downside is they don't offer a ton of colors/patters - hopefully soon!
#2 - Pro Compression
Pro Compression was rated really high among runners but they recently came out with a wide-calf compression sock that I needed to try! I found these were really comfortable once you get them on (they are a bit of a struggle to get on). Their advanced design gives tons of support to critical muscles and tendons...and man I could feel it!
Overall I was happy with these socks but I don't reach for them as much because they are harder to get on. They were also almost double the price of Alpha Sole.
#3 - SB Sox
The SB Sox were awesome for my hiking trips this past summer. They are amazing at wicking away sweat and moisture which is essential (I didn't get any blisters!!). I also like that they came in 11 different fun colors and 4 different sizes to ensure you can find something that works for you (this makes them easier to get on and off!).
I did find the quality of the sock not as great - they don't wear as nicely as the first two companies do.
#4 - Dr.Scholl's Circulatory Texture Socks
I decided to try these out because I thought they would look nice with my work slacks. My first impression was they were VERY comfortable. The top elastic binding is made from a soft material that gently molds to your skin without digging in (hallelujah)! I also really liked the feeling of the material, it was really soft and comfortable against my skin.
One downside about these socks is that they only have 1% spandex so the compression intensity is a lot less than the others I tried (my legs didn't feel as energized at the end of the day).
#5 - Zensah Pop Tech+
My friend suggested these to me because they are designed with 18 percent elastane, making them a great choice for anyone with wide calves. With the higher amount of elastane they were easy to get on my calves and felt pretty comfortable. I also really loved that they are temperature regulated...they make for the perfect walking or hiking sock because your legs/feet don't overheat.
A huge downside for me was the band of the compression sock dug into the top of my calf quite of bit. This gets uncomfortable pretty quickly if you have larger calves.
After about a month of wearing the various compression socks above everyday, I noticed my varicose veins were improving! They didn’t throb as much after a long day and the dark blue color was starting to get lighter and lighter.
My husband even pointed out that my legs looked great and asked if I was getting laser treatments done on my veins. It was like music to my ears.
It might have been a mix of wearing the socks and adding exercise back into my routine, but either way, my legs haven’t looked or felt this good in years!
If you’re planning to try compression socks to get foot or leg pain relief, I highly recommend you start with the Alpha Sole Compression Socks!
- Tina.M