The premise is that the snug-fitting knee-high socks increase circulation, minimize fatigue and decrease the recovery time of challenging training runs or races. Some runners prefer wearing the socks while running, while others wear them afterwards during recovery.
While study results on compression socks are mixed, a lot of runners I admire use and love them, so I decided it was worth trying!
I came across a blog post of a running friend toting the benefits of the Tiux brand of socks. After going to their website, I couldn't help but wonder if these socks were too good to be true! Compression socks are typically really pricey. But Tiux keeps their costs lower by selling directly to their customers online, offering just three (fun) colour variations, and even providing free shipping.
Referring to their sizing chart online, I measured my ankle and calf to determine my sock size, and placed my order on their very easy to follow website. The hardest part was deciding what colour socks to get! Given the company is in the US, I wondered if the shipment would be delayed, difficult or costly due to having to cross the border. Well, I ordered on a Monday, and on Friday afternoon my socks were delivered in a cute little black box. No hassles.
I got to try out my new socks during a 15.5K long run this past weekend. The socks are specifically designed for left and right feet. I pulled them on and they fit perfectly with seemingly just the right amount of snugness. They felt soft and supportive of my legs. I liked how my feet felt in my shoes wearing the socks. A little different than with short running socks. I headed out for my run.
It was a hot and humid July day. I wondered if my legs would feel hot and itchy. The first couple kilometers I found that I was very aware of the socks. My legs felt somewhat heavy. After a short while I realized the feeling had been replaced with an overall feeling of leg support. I felt as if the socks kept my stride more focused and in line. Stronger. While it was a hot run, the socks didn't add to the heat or irritate. I arrived back home after 15.5K feeling like I could keep going. It's not too often I can say that after a long run on a hot day!
I am looking forward to giving my Tiux socks another try this weekend suring a 20K mock-race environment.
It's not too often that a company lives up to their promises and provide a wonderful product and excellent customer service. Kudos to Tiux for doing so. In exchange, I am happy to write an (unsolicited) review of the socks in hopes that others will be able to experience them as well.
Tiux has generously provided me with a discount code for 10% off (valid until December 31, 2015) which I am happy to share with my running friends and followers! Simply use this link to shop: http://tiux.refr.cc/7FCZ2VB