Best 2XU Compression Socks Reviewed
Launched in Australia in 2005, 2XU has become a favorite sock of choice for many professional athletes and sports players. 2XU stands for ‘two times you’ and their tagline is human performance multiplied. 2XU Compression Socks are developed in consultation with leading universities and sports scientists around the world.
In this article, we hone in on the best products in the 2XU Compression Socks line-up. We then compare them with leading competing brands. Be sure to check out all the great information about the Best 2XU Compression Socks we have here for you!
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Zoned Breathability Panels
Graduated Compression
UPF50+ Sun Protection
Bright, Vivid Colors
High Filament Yarns
10 Best 2XU Compression Socks
1. U Women's
Zoned Breathability Panels
Graduated Compression
UPF50+ Sun Protection
Bright, Vivid Colors
High Filament Yarns
Sizing Chart Is Inaccurate
The 2XU women’s compression socks are a very responsive sock that is ideal for sportspeople, especially those involved in running, triathlon and fitness training. It features zoned breathability panels that enhance the ventilation of this sock so that it is very airy and has a high moisture-wicking ability.
Read moreAs a result, the sock delivers an unprecedented level of dryness and comfort. The linked toe cage design gives you a higher level of padding and support. This kind of 2XU Compression Socks provides you with graduated compression, with the higher level surrounding your ankles and heels. It is made from a unique PWX compression fabric that delivers enhanced support and power to the shin calf, ankle, heel, and foot arch. It has antibacterial properties, along with UPF50+ sun protection. The high filament yarn makes this a very dry and cool sock.
"2XU Women's" is one of the best 2XU Compression Socks on our list!
2. U Hyoptik
High Compression
Linked Toe Cage
Moisture Management Technology
Reflective
Lightly Padded Footbed
Expensive
The 2XU Men’s Hyoptik compression sock is a high compression full-length sock that is made from Invista lycra to provide a very high level of flexibility, stretchability, and compression. The graduated compression fast tracks the blood supply to your lower legs to provide a faster recovery. It is a great active recovery sock that is ideal for wearing during and after you play sport, run or workout in the gym.
Read moreThe 2XU Men’s Hyoptik compression sock has a linked toe cage along with extra padding through the heel to provide you with a higher level of support and comfort. It also features three reflective strips to enhance visibility at night. Moisture management technology is built into this sock. It also provides you with SPF50+ sun protection. This kind of 2XU Compression Socks is provided with a 12-month warranty when you purchase this product.
"2XU Hyoptik" is one of the best 2XU Compression Socks on our list!
3. U Men's Performance
Breathability Zones
Padded Zones
Graded Zoned Compression Panels
Anatomical Left And Right Sock
Stretches Out Of Shape
The 2XU Men’s Compression Performance Run Socks features zone breathability panels for maximum airflow and breathability. The PWX compression fabric has extra thickness to protect the shin, calf, Achilles, ankle, and the arch of the foot. These 2XU Compression Socks also features a linked toe cage and light padding for extra comfort. The high filament yarn of this sock will ensure sustained dryness while wicking away sweat from the skin.
Read moreThe seamless gradient zoned compression panels increase blood flow while also ensuring maximum muscle containment to increase your power and enhance your recovery time. You will experience reduced fatigue in your lower legs through less muscle oscillation. Finally, the seamless construction of the sock ensures that you experience maximum comfort while you are replenishing your lower legs.
"2XU Men's Performance" is one of the best 2XU Compression Socks on our list!
4. U Women's Recovery
Proprietary Padded Zones
Vented Toe Panels
Graduated Compression
Circular Knit Construction
Calf Compression Lessens Gradually
The 2XU Women’s Recovery compression sock makes use of proprietary padded zones to provide extra support to the arches and Achilles tendon. It is an extremely durable sock that is also incredibly lightweight. The vented toe panel makes this a very breathable sock with superior moisture wicking capability. It is constructed from medically engineered circular knit construction, which has built-in antibacterial properties as well as providing SPF50 sun protection.
Read moreThe 2XU Women’s Recovery compression sock makes use of graduated compression to deliver enhanced blood circulation with an emphasis on the ankle area. The foot-bed has been ergonomically designed to provide anatomical contouring. Vented panels on the top of the foot provide an extra level of protection and comfort. This sock will keep your feet dry while protecting them from foot impact. It is ideal for exercise recovery as well as for workers who spend a lot of time on their feet.
"2XU Women's Recovery" is one of the best 2XU Compression Socks on our list!
5. U Women's Elite
Invista Lycra
Medical Circular 360-degree Knit
Reduced Vibrations And Oscillations
X:Lock Support System
Moisture Wicking
On The Pricey Side
The Women’s Elite compression socks were made for all of your outdoor adventures, hiking and mountain climbing included. That is just what they were made for! But that doesn’t mean that you can’t wear them when you exercise in your gym. These 2XU Compression Socks do a great job at containing your muscles, reducing their vibration and oscillation while minimizing fatigue and muscle damage.
Read moreThese 2XU Compression Socks are knee-high and are equipped with graduated compression, for an even faster recovery. The socks can’t be worn on both feet equally, thanks to their anatomical construction. It means that there are a left and a right sock, making them even comfier in the long run. The arches and ankles will be locked into place by the x: lock support system. The shins and footbed are lightly padded, for greater comfort. These socks wick away moisture like champs and have a seamless toe cage for supreme comfort. Invista lycra and medical circular 360 degrees knit construction create powerfully, but constant pressure.
"2XU Women's Elite" is one of the best 2XU Compression Socks on our list!
6. U X
Nylon And Elastane Blend
Completely Seamless
Anatomical Construction
Lightly Padded
Multidirectional Stretch
Lack Of Color Options
The X will mark it’s spot on your feet, giving them support and helping them heal faster. These 2XU Compression Socks come in either super bright neon colors or a neutral gray hue, so you can either stand out from the crowd or blend in like a ninja. The nylon and elastane mix create the optimal level of compression, comfort, and breathability.
Read moreThe compression is, of course, graduated, being slightly weaker around your calves. There are zoned breathability zones around the shins and the top of your feet. It lets excess sweat dissipate, leaving you dry and odorless. The construction is completely seamless, so there will be no seams to pinch and rub your skin, potentially creating blisters and irritation. These 2XU Compression Socks are anatomical, with both the left and right sock fitting perfectly on your feet. The footbed is zoned as well and is equipped with light padding that supports the motion of your feet. The PWX fabrics are light and durable. The stretch of these socks is multidirectional, allowing you to move around naturally. The socks are antibacterial too, and have UPF 50+ Sun Protection, guarding you against both inside and outside factors.
"2XU X" is one of the best 2XU Compression Socks on our list!
7. U Men's 24/7
For Everyday Wear
Padded Zones
Lightweight PWX Fabric
Antimicrobial
Sizing Is Off
The 24/7 sock can be worn all the time, every day, just like the name suggests. It is because of the excellent material blend and construction, paired with the padding and great compression rates. These 2XU Compression Socks are made out of a mix of nylon, cotton, and elastane, making them light, breathable and soft.
Read morePadded zones around the heels and balls of the feet exist to bring you comfort and softness. The toe cage is seamless and linked, giving your toes more wiggle room. A vented panel exists, promoting airflow and cooling you down. The lightweight PWX fabrics were produced on the most advanced needle count sock machines, giving the socks excellent construction. The multidirectional stretch paired with the flexible and breathable fibers makes these socks very pliable and stretchy, even though they do apply pressure to keep you compressed. They have UPF 50 + sun protection and an antimicrobial layer that keeps bacteria and fungus at bay!
"2XU Men's 24/7" is one of the best 2XU Compression Socks on our list!
8. Mojo Recovery And Performance
Graduated Compression
Removes Lactic Acid
Contours To The Foot
Unisex
Top Band Too Tight
The Mojo Recovery and Performance sock is a graduated compression sock, with a range between 20-30 mmHg. It features a unique zone construction to provide an enhanced ergonomic fit. Extra padding is strategically positioned around the sock to give the additional support just where you need it. A seamless toe design makes for an enhanced feel against your shoe’s toe box, preventing abrasions and friction.
Read moreMojo Recovery and Performance sock is a smart choice for exercises, allowing for speedier recovery by quickly removing lactic acid and replacing it with nutrients and oxygen. It is a part of the Mojo Elite series, which provides enhanced support and protection for athletes and recreational sports people. It comes in a range of colors and offers a 100% money back guarantee.
"Mojo Recovery And Performance" is one of the best 2XU Compression Socks on our list!
9. Vitalsox Graduated
Extra Arch And Heel Support
Made In Italy
Drystat Fabric
Patented Compression
Socks A Little Too Long
The Vitalsox VT1211 full-length compression sock is made from a unique Drystat fabric material. Drystat is amazingly responsive, combining a high degree of flexibility with superior thermostatic control. The result is a sock that is incredibly lightweight and comfortable.
Read moreIt also incorporates anti-static and anti-odor properties, so you will never have to deal with smelly socks. Extra padding support in the arch and heel give you more protection from foot strike. The Vitalsox VT1211 full-length compression sock is made in Italy and manufactured under stringent factory conditions. The graduated compression does a great job of providing relief from overuse foot pain, making this a right choice for workers who are on their feet all day long.
"Vitalsox Graduated" is one of the best 2XU Compression Socks on our list!
10. ZaTech Plantar Fasciitis
Targeted Compression
Breathable Mesh Zones
Seamless Toe Enclosure
Second Skin Fit
Too Much Elasticity
The ZaTech Plantar Fasciitis sock is a low profile graduated compression sock that emphasizes the ankle area. It is a great sock for people suffering from plantar fasciitis injury. It features breathable mesh zones that offer a high level of ventilation, along with superior moisture-wicking capabilities.
Read moreAn 85% polyamide, 15% spandex material blend makes this a very flexible, responsive sock that is extremely comfortable. The ZaTech Plantar Fasciitis ankle sock features a seamless toe to provide a smooth and natural feel against your shoe. It is a very responsive sock that works with any footwear. It is a smart choice for those recovering from an ankle injury as well as sportspeople and athletes who want to recover faster from their training sessions.
"ZaTech Plantar Fasciitis" is one of the best 2XU Compression Socks on our list!
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Fit
The very first thing you’ve got to make sure is right when you first buy your compression socks is the fit. Compression socks will feel tighter than your regular socks, especially around your feet. The fit will be looser around your legs, usually, although the compression rate can be high around your legs as well.
The standard fit for compression socks does not exist, so your best bet is to use a ruler. You will need to measure your legs and feet around several areas, like your calves, ankles, thighs, and even the distance from your knees to the floor. The length of the compression socks you will be buying will depend on what will you use the socks for. Usually, knee-high socks are much comfier than thigh-high socks, or ankle socks. If you are using the socks to work out, and you probably are, your best option is the knee-high sock, and then if you need more or less compression, you can change the length. If you are getting the socks for a medical reason, your doctor will know what length you need the best. You should also wear them all the time, first thing in the morning throughout the whole day, taking them off when you take a bath or go to sleep.
Sometimes, even getting the socks on can be a problem. They are very tight and even firm, so you might have issues pulling your leg through. If you struggle, we will tell you a few easy tricks you can try to put them on. Make sure that you hand wash the socks before you wear them. It will make the socks more flexible and easier to put on. You can even buy a second pair to wear while you wash and dry the first one, so you always have a clean pair on your hands. If you have any open wounds, make sure that you put dressing on them before putting on the socks. Keep the socks by your bed! This way you can put the socks on as soon as you wake up, because putting them on early in the morning before any swelling occurs will be the easiest way, and you will also prevent swelling from even happening. Before you attempt to put the socks on, sit on the chair with a back, so you have something to lean on. Hold the top of the sock in one hand, and then push your other hand through the sock all the way in and grab the toe area. Once you grab the toes firmly, pull your hand back and flip the sock inside out, but leave the tips of your fingers in the toe area. Put your toes where your fingers are now, and then roll the heel area over your heels. Then gently and carefully slide the rest of the socks over the rest of your legs. Make sure not to pull on the top! It can tear the socks open.
If you still have trouble putting them on, put rubber gloves on your hands, and then try to pull them on. You can try putting talcum powder or silicone gel on your legs to lower the friction. Do not apply lotion before putting your compression socks on, since the extra moisture can make it challenging to pull the socks on. If you still have trouble, the compression socks you bought might be a bit on the smaller side, and you might want to look into purchasing a larger size.
Effectiveness
2XU Compression socks are beneficial, and you only have to buy a pair to see and feel the benefits. But we will let you know what the benefits of wearing compression socks are, and just how effective they truly are.
When used as medical devices, they help fight varicose and spider veins. Vein disorders cause fatigue, swelling, itching, burning, and even leg cramps. When you wear compression socks all the time, you can effectively fight these symptoms, and slow the progression of the disease. Compression socks promote blood flow back into the heart, fighting gravity along the way. 2XU Compression socks even reduce the risks of blood clots forming. You must remember to wear socks all the time, except when bathing or going to bed. Make sure to wear the right compression levels, and you will see improvement in time.
Athletes can feel other benefits when working out with compression socks. Compression socks can reduce the fatigue you feel after a tough workout. They can reduce muscle soreness as well, both before and after you exercise so that you can work out longer and more effectively. Compression socks can even prevent muscle strains and sprains by acting as a brace. They keep the muscles and surrounding tissues in check and can promote healing if you do manage to hurt yourself. Your muscles need more oxygen when you work out compared to when you’re sitting or merely walking to function well. Compression socks promote blood circulation to the heart and lungs, which in turn increases the oxygen levels in the blood. And of course, compression socks are comfy! They can keep you both cool and warm, depending on the type. The compression socks can also prevent chafing and friction as well. It keeps your mind away from the awful pinching, blistering, and irritation that can start to develop when you work out, and instead keeps you focused on the workout.
Materials
The materials your socks are made out of can affect the overall comfort, fit, breathability and elasticity, so it’s vital that you think twice about the materials used before you buy the pair. Different materials are used to create different kinds of socks. As an example, merino wool is used to create thick, plush winter socks, and cotton makes up the light and breezy socks ideal for the summer. Compression socks can be made out of both natural and synthetic materials, either alone or blended.
Synthetic materials are made by us and are usually derived from plastic. It does not make them bad, and they do have many benefits we can always feel. Compression socks are generally made out of polyester, nylon or spandex. Typically, these materials are thin and lightweight and are extremely good at wicking away moisture, keeping you dry and odor free. These materials are also not bulky, so they will feel comfy and breezy, and won’t make wearing shoes uncomfortable. They can also withstand a huge temperature range and will keep you safe both indoors and outdoors. But when these materials get wet, they will get cold, and they may not keep you that warm dry in the first place. But you will probably be inside the gym or in your own home, so this is not such a big problem.
Cotton is natural, and t comes from a plant wearing the same name. You will rarely find socks that are 100% cotton, because cotton alone is not so sturdy, and it stays wet for a very long time, so you will have socks that are torn open and damp almost all the time. Cotton is very comfy and soft and feels very nice when it hugs the skin. It’s also quite cheap, takes on the color well, and is elastic, so cotton is generally an excellent material choice for socks. But because of the drawbacks we just mentioned it’s properties shine when it’s combined with polyester, spandex, nylon, or all of them at the same time. This way, you will have a light and breathable sock that wicks away moisture and keeps you safe from blisters, bacteria, fungus, and bad odors!
Durability
A good pair of socks has to be sturdy. It is because a flimsy pair of socks won’t provide the same level of compression and support throughout its life, and will start to give in very fast, which is the very last thing you need. The stitches need to be able to hold it together, no matter how hard you workout and your legs need to stay compressed.
Your pair will be durable if it’s made out of a premium material blend. Cotton socks are not durable, and nylon socks are not so sturdy either, but when blended with polyester or spandex, their durability improves, and you will have a hardy pair of socks. The way your socks are stitched will also play a role. Flimsy stitches will tear open quickly, and your toes will wiggle free in no time. But if the stitching is reinforced, your socks won’t tear open at the first sign of trouble.
Compression
Compression stockings have four or even five different levels of compression, which describe the pressure (the measurement being millimeters of mercury, or mmHg) that squeezes your legs when you wear the socks. Logically, the higher the number is, the greater the compression will be. Also, graduated compression can be seen in many socks, fitting tighter around the ankles and feet, and gradually becoming looser around the thighs and calves. Usually, healthy people shouldn’t go for compression above 15 mmHg, which is very light or mild. This level of compression helps people that feel fatigued suffer from minor swelling, and need to keep their feet in check when they exercise. This type of compression can also help pregnant women that have tired legs and feet. A moderate compression, ranging from 15 to 20 mmHg, can hinder deep vein thrombosis from developing, even in airline passengers. This type of compression can stop minor spider veins from spreading, and it can keep them in check, and also help with swelling and fatigue. It’s also commonly used when traveling.
Higher compression levels (20 to 30 mmHg, 30 to 40 mmHg, or even more than 40 mmHg), or “medical-grade” as they are often called, are used for serious cases that need the help from the socks for better health. It is at these levels that socks get graduated compression levels since the extreme pressure can cut off circulation entirely if it stays the same throughout the whole sock. If you are looking for compression socks to work out in them, then you should skip out on these socks, since they will only hinder your progress. It is not true if you have health issues, though - they can be very helpful then.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Compression clothes, socks included, are nothing new, and they have been around for thousands of years. In fact, compression therapy goes back way into the Neolithic period! Yes, you read that right - cavemen were the first to realize that applying pressure to our body has health benefits. There are some cave paintings, dating back to 5000 BCE, that show ancient soldiers being cared for with tight bandages. We’re not quite sure that this is conclusive evidence showing that compression was used as therapy back then, but this is still considered to be the very first time we resorted to compression. But one document from the 1600 BCE shows us that compression therapy has indeed been used back then! Even Hippocrates wrote about using compression bandages to stop blood from flowing into the legs of patients. And fast forward to today, we have compressive garments that not only keep our health in check but also help us perform better!
Other Factors to Consider
Bottom Line
2XU Compression socks are an Australian brand that has made a great splash on the compression sock market. Their products are truly marvelous, but we thought that a few alternatives to this brand deserve the spotlight as well, so we decided to show you a few more brands next to 2XU Compression socks. All of these socks will keep you strong and healthy and will help heal your injuries and minimize swelling. You have to make sure that you have the right length for your needs, and that you chose the correct compression level. We hope that our guide has helped you understand compression socks better and that you managed to find a new pair!
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Should I wear compression socks at night?
Once you see the lovely benefits compression socks provide us with, it’s easy to get addicted to them, and want to start wearing them even to bed. It is a good idea for people who suffer from serious deep vein thrombosis, spider veins, leg fatigue, and swelling or any other medical condition that requires your feet to be squeezed all the time. But if you are a healthy individual, you might want to skip out on this one! Wear the socks when you know you will stand around all day, or when you are getting ready for a particularly tough workout session.
q: Can compression socks harm me?
You must have wondered before whether having your legs squeezed all the time can be detrimental to your health. To experience minor side effects or no side effects at all, you first must make sure that you are wearing the right size for you. Of course, the very first side effect is discomfort, pain, numbness, and other unpleasant sensations related to being squeezed way too tightly for a longer period. It is why it’s usually the best for you to take the socks off during the night. Gravity will do the same thing the socks would when you lay down in bed, so there’s no need to have them on while you doze off. If the socks are way too tight, you can develop blisters, corns, and calluses. You might even feel knee pain! Your toes could also spasm and swell, so observe your body and let it tell you whether you need a different pair or not.
q: Can I wear compression socks while working out?
It is why you came here in the first place, right? Of course, you can! Wearing compression socks when you work out can result in less fatigue and muscle soreness, better blood flow, and more oxygen flowing to your muscles. It will help you exercise better and more effectively, so you could always try working out in compression socks. But if you feel like compression socks are not helping you when you exercise, and instead only hinder your performance by being tighter than what you’re used to, you can always not wear them at all.
q: Do I wear my regular socks with compression socks?
Wearing two pairs of socks at the same time is widely regarded as a bad idea. The extra tightness and pressure, paired with friction and rubbing are all reasons why you shouldn’t wear two pairs of socks at the same time. But compression socks are not regular socks! They hug your legs tightly, and as such act as a second layer of skin, instead of acting like a regular pair of socks. If you can comfortably slide your regular socks over compression socks without them being even tighter, and without the regular socks creating trouble, you can safely wear them over your compression socks!
q: What level compression socks should I wear?
When you first look at 2XU Compression socks, it’s easy to get confused by all of those numbers representing different compression levels. What do they mean, which one should you wear? Well, those numbers only represent the amount of pressure that will be squeezing your legs. Your health status will determine the amount of weight you need. If you have no circulation and swelling issues, you need to go for socks that have 15 mmHg and under! Everything above that could be bad for you. But if you have any health problems related to circulation, or if a doctor recommended that you wear 2XU Compression socks, go for everything above 15 mmHg and you’ll be good to go!