2XU products are one of the most advanced compression socks on the market. We went searching for the truth and reviewed the most popular 2XU socks. Are they just a fad, or do they really work? In our 2XU compression socks review we found them to be the real deal. Their high-end compression is effective, they are comfortable and well worth their price. Let’s take a look at the pros of the 2XU compression socks.
Overall, during the 2XU compression socks review we found that they are the best designed, most scientifically sound compression socks line on the market.
The company is a global leader in performance and sports clothing. Founded in 2005 in Australia, they slowly built their market share, and have a reputation of manufacturing high quality compression products. They partner with the Australian Institute of Sport, so all their designs and products are backed up by independent scientific research.
2XU Compression Socks
There are several types of 2XU Compression socks on the market. These are:
- Regular 2XU Compression Socks
- 2XU Compression Performance Run Socks
- 2XU Fight Compression Socks
- 2XU Vectr Full Length Socks
- 2XU Calf Guards
2XU Compression Performance Run Socks
As their name suggests, these socks were designed for runners. These run socks for men are perfect for aiding performance and recovery. With over eight different colors to choose from you are guaranteed to find your style. As far as sizing goes, the socks are available in five sizes from extra small to extra large. Padded zones in the footbeds give you greater cushioning. The toe cage is without seams for greater comfort. Hygiene is a top priority when choosing compression socks. The vented toe panels and additional panels provide constant breathability. These socks are definitely on the tighter side. Pay extreme attention to the sizing chart.
- Users claim to feel immediate results. Great for stopping achilles pain.
- Excellent feeling, immediate results in the calves and shins.
- Difficult to get them on due to high compression.
- However the strength of compression is like with no other brand.
- The toe cage protects your toe nails during long runs.
Features of 2XU Compression Socks
No matter which model you choose, 2XU compression socks have some features that are common to every model.
First of all, they are known for being tight. These are not poor quality socks that put barely any compression on your legs. Even though they are tight at first, after the second use they comfort perfectly to your legs and they are much easier to put on.
They are one of the highest performing socks I have seen on the market. Overall they are between 10-20 mm Hg compression range. This is just the sweetspot for getting the most out of your socks. However you can expect the socks to work on this level consistently.
Compression socks are the best when you don’t even notice them. You can’t concentrate on training if you feel tightness in your legs while running. If you feel drained or sluggish after trainings, you will not use the socks as much as you should. During my 2XU compression socks review I never felt them on my legs. I simply felt fresh for longer. The biggest surprise was how recovered I was the next day. Normally a ten mile run makes me sore for 48 hours after. Now I felt the run the next morning a little, but nowhere near as much as before. I felt like I could go on an easy, steady run again the next day.
They are very tight, streamlined fit. They are definitely not your grandma’s thick socks. As a result they take a little practice to get on. Also you will need to wear them a few times before they finally adapt to the size and shape of your calf.
As with any product, you want to look good in them. The most popular 2XU compression socks we reviewed all come in at least 8 different colors. Some have double this. Certain models are unisex, while others have different models for men and women.
Pricing
These socks are definitely in the higher price range. They can get as high as $50-$60 a pair. For this price you can get multiple pairs of the Physix Gear Sport socks for example. However for the higher price, you also get premium quality. The durability, performance and comfort of the 2XU socks is second to none. If quick recovery and comfort are a priority to you, these socks are worth it.
2XU Calf Guards
These are one of the best calf sleeves on the market for reducing injury rates and keeping your calf muscles fresh. A calf compression sleeve might look simple, but it is strategically designed to contain and keep in place the calf muscles during trainings. The compression technology reduces soreness in the calf and shin by promoting blood flow to these areas. The sleeve contains the muscles and thereby reduces vibrations. This promotes more ergonomic movement patterns. This leads far less oscillation and muscle vibration. This greatly reduces muscle damage.
Calf sleeves are effective tool for preventing shin splints. These are one of the nasties running injuries. They are a side effect of steady, hard training or long races. You can read more about compression calf sleeves here.
Made with flatlock seams to prevent any damage to your skin. The powerful graduated compression promotes warming up before running, and speedier recovery after the exercise. The sleeves are machine washable.
They are unisex sleeves, available in sixteen different colors. You will find the style that fits you no matter what you like.
2XU Vectr Full Length Socks Review
The 2XU vectors have one of the most modern designs out of all the compression socks on the market. The big selling point of the 2XU Vectr is the X-Lock compression technology. It locks the foot in place while optimizing movement patterns. Even more importantly it adds advanced plantar fascial and arch support. The socks work with medium, graduated compression.
The second selling point is comfort. The soft, machine washable materials provide protection against the impact of your steps on the ground. Most socks with added foot protection are bulky, but not the 2XU Vectrs. They are so thin and soft, you will hardly feel them on your feet. The seamless toe design keeps you free of blisters, cuts or any other skin damage.
The socks are put together from multiple panels for maximum comfort and hygiene. The upper foot of the socks contain mesh panels, giving you zoned ventilation. The socks are made of polygiene antibacterial, anti-odor control. The anti-abrasion toe panels make it feel like you are walking on clouds when you wear these socks.
- Graduated compression to enhance circulation
- Available in full length and no show versions
- Light, thin material with extra cushioning for comfort
- Minimizes the impact of your steps during runs
2XU Flight Compression Socks
Air travel is fast, but comes with its own challenges. The pressure difference in the cabin causes swelling. Most travelers wear compression socks for comfort. Just like with other models, 2XU really did all they could to design the perfect product.
This is one of the best flight compression socks when it comes to comfort and speedy recovery. The socks fit your legs perfectly, although they are a little tight and take some time to put on the first time. Padded zones and the footbed and a seamless toe cage give your feet maximum comfort. The smooth, cotton-blended fabric feels great against your skin.
- Ultralight, cushioned material with cotton
- Vented toe panel
- Seamless toe cage
What size 2XU Compression Socks Do I Need?
When it comes to compression garments, sizing is the key. If the socks are loose, they will not put adequate pressure on your skin, and the compression technology is useless. If they are too tight, they will put so much pressure on the legs the blood will be choked out of your calves. Again, not exactly what we want.
You have to measure the circumference of your calves. Your shoe size matters too, but more important is the size of your calves. Check out the sizing guide on the 2XU website.
Some people have extra muscular calves. For them companies create special compression socks.
As you can see, 2XU compression socks are high quality products. In this 2XU compression socks review, we recommended socks for running, flying as well as general at home wearing. No matter what your needs are, this company has the product you need.