By Kerri-Ann Roper

Copyright walesonline

Finding the right footwear is essential for powering further and faster while running, but arguably, lining and protecting feet, calves and legs is just as important as investing in the perfect trainer. Compression socks have long been a popular choice for travellers for long-haul flights as they can help speed up blood flow in the veins, which can cut the risk of clots. But they’ve also grown in popularity among the sporting community, with many investing in specialist socks that can help to prevent painful blisters and chafing, cushion the feet against the impact of the pavement but also improve blood circulation to aid recovery. Back in 2015, the hunt for a decent pair of compression socks led to the formation of Danish Endurance , who now design high-performance, sustainable sports gear in Denmark. Company CEO and co-founder Nicolaj, an avid all-seasons runner, together with his brother Christoffer, founded the company and compression socks were the very first product they launched. The company says they remain a staple in the stable of products today. They’re designed to boost circulation, reduce fatigue, and support faster recovery for athletes and shoppers can now get 15% off their sports compression socks . Reduced online to £23 from £26 for one pair, these socks come in a really wide range of colours – from staples like black and white, to combinations like blue/yellow and yellow/white. They’re also offered in two pack pairs for £42, currently reduced to £38 . Because whether it’s chasing a PB at marathon level or if a newcomer to the sport, runners generally have one universal thing in common: feet and calf muscles can take a good battering during regular training sessions and these compression socks have worked for wearers who said they’ve made a ‘big difference’ to their longer runs. One customer said they can feel them working as they wear them. They are made with breathable, durable, anti-bacterial yarn and can be worn not just for sports, but for travel, recovery or even when standing for long periods. Their 21-26mmHg compression boosts circulation and reduces swelling, the brand says, while also providing ankle support and anti-blister cushioning. Graduated compression means they are firmest at the ankle (15–20 mmHg) and taper up to the calf, with a durable outer layer and an inner jersey layer that is comfortable against the skin, whether worn under trail boots or cycling shoes. Graduated compression means they are firmest at the ankle (15–20 mmHg) and taper up to the calf, with a durable outer layer and an inner jersey layer that is comfortable against the skin, whether worn under trail boots or cycling shoes. The mmHg indicates the level of pressure against the calf/ankle/leg. They come in sizes S–2XL and there are detailed ankle and calf charts to ensure precise compression levels. They go on with minimal effort, thanks to cuff elasticity and have a silicone‑print cuff grip to stop them sliding or moving, so they won’t end up pooled in a boot or trainer. The brand has a wide variety of other products too including calf compression sleeves, currently reduced to £20 from £24. They also have plantar fasciitis socks, for £22 reduced from £29, which they say offer targeted compression to reduce heel pain and enhance circulation. For other options though, Stox offer a comprehensive range of compression socks . Priced at £44.99, they come in a range of colours including white/black, black/grey and dark blue/bright blue, and have graduated compression of 23-32 mmHg (CCL 2), and have a padded toe and heel area for comfort. Decathlon has the KIPRUN 500 Running Compression Socks Black/Yellow for £14.99 and these come in a smoked black/fluo pale yellow. The description says these are more suitable for use during exertion, but not recovery and they advise customers to take calf measurements to ensure the best fit. But Danish Endurance customers have given plenty of feedback online, with one person saying: “I tried compression socks as when I run in shorts I find my calves ache. These socks have stopped all of the ache and I have no problems after my runs. Won’t run without them now.” They’ve changed up longer runs for one person too who added: “Excellent socks, have made a big difference on longer runs.” Someone else wears them at work, explaining: “My job means I am stood up all day. I would go home with swelling to my ankles and feet that felt tight and uncomfortable. I have just purchased these socks and worn them on 3 occasions. They really do work. You can actually feel them working whilst you wear them.” For one customer though, one colour fit was preferable, as they shared: “The black stockings are very good, helpful and in wonderful quality. But I cannot use the white pair, it’s much too tight. But in all a great quality.” Another person added: “They are almost perfect. If they had a little more cushion they would be 100%.”