By squeezing blood vessels, athletic compression socks aim to allow more blood and oxygen to be transported to the muscles so that oxygen and energy substances can enter the muscles faster, and also help metabolic waste and carbon dioxide to be expelled from the muscles faster. In theory, this will help improve energy production efficiency, allowing runners to run faster.
(1) A study by the University of Newcastle in the United Kingdom found that in high-intensity endurance running, lower limb compression support clothing can increase blood flow and reduce heart rate. That is to say, this research supports the selling point that compression support equipment can improve athletic performance.
(2) A study by Massey University in Auckland found that after running 10 kilometers at a fast pace with athletic compression socks on, delayed muscle soreness will be reduced within 24 hours after that. Interestingly, this study found that calf pain is the most reduced, indicating that compression support socks will work in the specific area covered by it.
The study found that 93% of runners who did not wear compression support socks had calf soreness the next day after running, but only 14% of runners who wore compression support socks had similar calf soreness.
