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The Best Shin Splints Compression Socks in 2024

last updated: Mar 25, 2021

Shin splints refer to any pain that you experience along the shin bone which runs from the knee to the ankle. Runners are particularly likely to experience shin splints, but this painful and aggravating condition can affect anyone. If you are affected by shin splints, you should definitely invest in a quality pair of compression socks. They can bring immediate relief through the power of graduated compression.

In this article, we consider the 10 top-performing compression socks for shin splints.

In a Hurry? The test winner after 12 hours of research:

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Rockay Vigor
98/100 our score
Fit
99
Compression
98
Effectiveness
99
Durability
97
Materials
97
Rockay Vigor
Why is it better?

Graduated compression aids in reduced recovery time

Improves blood flow to help reduce fatigue

Made from recycled materials

Solid option for running, Crossfit, and other sports in addition to weightlifting

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Researched Sources
11
Researched Sources
Reviews Considered
10.5k
Reviews Considered
Hours Researching
12
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
14
Products Evaluated
Sorting Options
Fit Compression Effectiveness Durability Materials By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98
Fit
99 %
Compression
98 %
Effectiveness
99 %
Durability
97 %
Materials
97 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (18.03.24)
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
97.2
Fit
97 %
Compression
98 %
Effectiveness
98 %
Durability
97 %
Materials
96 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (18.03.24)
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92.4
Fit
93 %
Compression
92 %
Effectiveness
93 %
Durability
93 %
Materials
91 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (18.03.24)
Amazon Link
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
90.2
Fit
91 %
Compression
91 %
Effectiveness
90 %
Durability
90 %
Materials
89 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (18.03.24)
Amazon Link
$19.99
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.8
Fit
87 %
Compression
88 %
Effectiveness
87 %
Durability
89 %
Materials
88 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (18.03.24)
Amazon Link
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85.2
Fit
84 %
Compression
86 %
Effectiveness
85 %
Durability
86 %
Materials
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (18.03.24)
Amazon Link
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.8
Fit
82 %
Compression
84 %
Effectiveness
83 %
Durability
83 %
Materials
82 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (18.03.24)
Amazon Link
$19.95
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80.8
Fit
80 %
Compression
82 %
Effectiveness
81 %
Durability
81 %
Materials
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (18.03.24)
Amazon Link
$22.95
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
77.2
Fit
76 %
Compression
78 %
Effectiveness
77 %
Durability
78 %
Materials
77 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (18.03.24)
Amazon Link
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
75.6
Fit
75 %
Compression
76 %
Effectiveness
76 %
Durability
75 %
Materials
76 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (18.03.24)
Amazon Link
$29.99

10 Best Compression Socks For Shin Splints

1. Rockay Vigor

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98
Fit
99
Compression
98
Effectiveness
99
Durability
97
Materials
97
best offer for today
Pros:

Graduated compression aids in reduced recovery time

Improves blood flow to help reduce fatigue

Made from recycled materials

Solid option for running, Crossfit, and other sports in addition to weightlifting

Cons:

Limited color choices

Although super new to the market, These socks are performance-focused from the beginning it seems. The graduated compression, which is what really works the magic here, is spot on regarding the overall fit and function. Sometimes you might get a pair of compression socks that hold compression, but perhaps not consistent throughout. We didn't see this happen with Vigor.

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A fairly new product from Rockay, Vigor provides a consistent fit throughout the entire sock. A lot of times you might get a compression sock that holds tight, maybe too tight, around the calf, but then loses that glove-like fit further down around the ankle and foot. We didn't get this issue here.

With compression also added to the midfoot arch support, these socks are good for more than just helping with pesky shin splints. The improved blood flow provided will also help to reduce overall recovery time and help to prevent fatigue.

2. Blaze Calf & Shin Sleeves

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
97.2
Fit
97
Compression
98
Effectiveness
98
Durability
97
Materials
96
best offer for today
Pros:

Premium Quality

Ventilation zones

Guaranteed for life

Polygiene stay fresh

Cons:

May Be Too Tight

Rockay is a company known for creating excellent running gear, and the Blaze compression sleeve is no different from that. These sleeves come to us from Europe, made out of hand-picked materials that make these sleeves very effective.

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The Rockay sleeve has unique compression, ranging from 16 to 23 mmHg. These odd numbers were documented to be very helpful, and so Rokcay implemented them into their sleeves. This also helps wick away moisture and sweat, while reducing the vibrations your calves feel, allowing you to run longer and better. The sleeves have been treated with Polygiene Stays Fresh technology, fighting bad odors and bacteria. After you're done with them, you just need to hang-dry them and they're ready to be used again!

3. Zensah

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92.4
Zensah Compression Socks for Shin Splints
Amazon Link
Fit
93
Compression
92
Effectiveness
93
Durability
93
Materials
91
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

V-shaped ribbing

Reduces calf vibration

Top band

90% Nylon

Cons:

Pricey

The Zensah shin splint compression sock does an effective job of reducing the vibration level of the calf, which will reduce shin splints. The sock has a top band that keeps it in place, preventing it from bunching up or slipping down. It also has moisture-wicking and anti-odor properties.

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Zensah’s Shin Splint socks have been specifically made to treat shin splints. It has been designed by athletes and physiotherapists to get straight to the cause of shin pain. V-shaped ribbing does an effective job of simulating the tight pressure that you get from wraps. This will greatly improve the compression of the sock, with the result that blood circulation will improve. The increased oxygen and nutrient supply will bring immediate relief to shin splint pain.

4. Meister MMA Graduated 

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
90.2
Meister MMA Graduated 20-25 mmHg
Amazon Link
Fit
91
Compression
91
Effectiveness
90
Durability
90
Materials
89
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$19.99
Pros:

20-25 mmHg

Flexible and responsive

Well ventilated

Moisture-wicking

Cons:

May cause rash

The Meister MMA Graduated Compression sock is very well ventilated, preventing overheating and increasing breathability. It will wick away sweat and moisture, as well as removing odor and heaving anti-static properties. This is a multi healing sock that will effectively bring relief to shin splints.

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The Meister MMA Graduated Compression sock is a 20-25 mmHg support that is a full sock, providing graduated compression to the entire lower leg, including the heel and ankle. The high level of compression will speed up blood circulation to deliver fast relief to shin splint pain. The design of the sock provides a high level of comfort. It is very flexible and responsive, allowing you to get a full range of motion for your daily activities.

5. Be Visible Sports Calf Sleeve

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.8
Be Visible Sports Calf  Sleeve
Amazon Link
Fit
87
Compression
88
Effectiveness
87
Durability
89
Materials
88
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

14-23 mmHg graduated compression

Lightweight and breathable

Very durable

Super bright

Cons:

Too Tight

The Be Visible calf compression sleeve is a good introductory sleeve for people who are new to compression supports. They are very lightweight and breathable while also being responsive and flexible, allowing you to play sport and move around naturally.

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The Be Visible Calf Compression sleeve is very popular among athletes who suffer from shin splints. The graduated compression that the sleeve provides reduces the impact of each stride on your shins when you are running. It also gets rid of lactic acid which causes pain and speeds up the supply of nutrients and oxygen too fast track the healing process. Compression is in the range of 14-23 mmHg delivering a high quality of relief.

6. Advanced Orthopedics

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85.2
Advanced Orthopedics Mens Compression Socks
Amazon Link
Fit
84
Compression
86
Effectiveness
85
Durability
86
Materials
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

30-40 mmHg graduated compression

Generous toe space

Responsive and flexible fabric

Non-binding

Comfy Top Band

Cons:

Sizing chart incorrect

The Advanced Orthopedics Men’s compression sock is a very durable yet flexible sock that will allow you to enjoy your normal range of motion. It provides a non-binding top band that prevents the sock from slipping down or bunching up. The sock comes in at a very good price point and has a stylish look to it.

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The Advanced Orthopedics Men’s compression sock delivers the highest compression level of any sock we have reviewed, with 30-40 mmHg. That compression is graduated through the length of a full sock, with the bulk of that being focused on the lower leg. This high level of compression eliminates vibration in the calf, along with reducing shin splint pain. It also provides a constant massage along the entire length of the shin.

7. SB SOX

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.8
SB SOX Compression Socks
Amazon Link
Fit
82
Compression
84
Effectiveness
83
Durability
83
Materials
82
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$19.95
Pros:

No-Slip Cuff

Reinforced Heel & Toe

Arch Support

Moisture-wicking

Ankle Protection

Cons:

Uncomfy Toe Seams

These socks are super popular among athletes, and it's up to you to see why. The level of compression on these socks ranges from 20-30 mmHg, so you might struggle a bit with it if you're not used to that tightness. You can actually choose the calf circumference here, so the socks will fit you to the tee.

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The heel and toe areas are reinforced and cushioned to provide you with all-day comfort and supreme durability. The cuff is non-slip, preventing the socks from sliding around and falling while you're going about your business. The fabric is moisture-wicking, saving you from moisture and sweat buildup. The ankles have extra protection, enhancing the circulation around them and keeping them safe when you exercise. These socks also support your arches, reducing the pain related to plantar fasciitis.

8. Doc Miller Premium Open Toe

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80.8
Doc Miller Premium Open Toe Compression Socks
Amazon Link
Fit
80
Compression
82
Effectiveness
81
Durability
81
Materials
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$22.95
Pros:

Super Lightweight And Comfy

Nylon And Spandex Blend

Open Toed

Great Fit

Cons:

Pinches Skin

These open-toe socks are made out of premium materials that promise durability and comfort. The nylon and spandex blend works in perfect harmony, giving just the right amount of compression, boosting circulation and helping with pain and injuries.

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The compression of these socks ranges from 30 to 40 mmHg, so if you do not have any health issues, this might be a bit too strong for you. They have an opaque look that makes them almost invisible, if you feel like hiding them away, or if you care about looking super professional. The socks are breathable and lightweight, wicking away moisture as soon as it appears. If you feel like these socks are not meant for you, Doc Miller offers a 100% money-back guarantee promising an ideal fit and satisfaction.

9. Mojo Recovery

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
77.2
Mojo Recovery
Amazon Link
Fit
76
Compression
78
Effectiveness
77
Durability
78
Materials
77
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Graduated compression

Removes lactic acid

Contours to the foot

Coolmax Nylon

Cons:

Top band is too tight

The Mojo Recovery and Performance sock is a lightweight and flexible sock that provides you with a natural range of motion and doesn’t inhibit sports movement. It contours perfectly to your body, making it very comfortable to wear and easy to put on. The sock has moisture-wicking and anti-odor properties.

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The Mojo Recovery and Performance compression sock is a full-length sock that delivers 20-30 mmHg graduated compression to bring immediate relief to shin splint, calf and ankle pain. This sock provides you with an enhanced level of padding through the midfoot and ankle, which are hot spot areas for athletes and people who spend a long time on their feet. A seamless toe design provides a natural, free feeling through the toe area.

10. Sockwell Elevation

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
75.6
Sockwell Men’s Elevation Firm
Amazon Link
Fit
75
Compression
76
Effectiveness
76
Durability
75
Materials
76
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$29.99
Pros:

20-30 mmHg compression

Merino wool

Acufit technology

Extra padding

Cons:

Socks are a little too tall

The Sockwell Men’s Elevation Firm compression sock features Sockwell’s unique Acufit technology, which features areas of spandex strategically placed throughout the sock. This makes it more flexible and responsive, while also ensuring that it retains its shape throughout the whole day. It delivers 20-30 mmHg of graduated compression to bring instant relief to any pain in the lower leg, from shin splints to plantar fasciitis.

Read more

The high level of compression increases blood supply to bring healing nutrients and oxygen to the area. The Sockwell Men’s elevation firm is made from a blend of 31% merino wool, 31% bamboo rayon, 30% stretch nylon, and 8% spandex. This combination gives you a reflexive, lightweight and yet very durable sock. Padding on the sock gives you an extra protection on every stride.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Fit

The very first thing you need to look at before buying your socks is how they fit you. Remember that compression socks should feel tighter than usual, and do not let that throw you off, but there is such a thing as too tight! Some socks are not equally tight throughout their length, and socks made to help with shin splints are like that - with graduated compression.

You should also know that compression socks and compression sleeves almost always have their unique sizes, thanks to the compression they offer. This is why you need to measure your feet and legs, and then compare the data you got to the online manuals the manufacturer provided you with. You will need to take the measurements of your feet, ankles, calves, thighs, and the height your knees sit at when compared to the floor. You only need to measure your thighs and calves if you're getting socks that go over your ankles. Decide how long you want your socks to be by figuring out what you need them for. Since we're talking about shin splints here, go for socks that reach your knees or go over them.

Be prepared to struggle to get your socks on. This is a normal part of wearing compression socks since they are much tighter than what you're used to seeing. There are some things you can try doing to ease your feet into the socks or sleeves. Putting sleeves on shouldn't be too troubling - flip the sleeve inside out, and then slowly roll it over your feet and legs, making sure to place the lower band where it doesn't bother you or cause discomfort. When it comes to socks, start by sitting on a chair, and lean onto it. Then flip your socks inside out, but grab the toe section and do not flip it with the rest of the sock. Place your toes in the toe area, and then slowly but firmly roll the socks over the rest of your feet. If you notice that the socks are too tight, run them through a wash cycle, or wash them by hand, depending on what the manufacturer told you to do. Remember to be gentle to the top band, as too much pulling can tear it and leave the socks useless. If you still struggle, grab a pair of rubber gloves in order to grasp the band firmly. You can try putting chalk powder on your legs, or even silicone since they will absorb extra moisture. Do not apply any creams or lotions before putting the socks on, and take care of your wounds or injuries before putting the socks on!

Compression

The compression level is just as important as the fit of your socks is. The levels of compression on your socks range from 15 mmHg to over 50 mmHg, and what you end up with will be decided by how healthy you are and what you need the socks for. Milligram per mercury, or mmHg, is just the grade that marks how tight your socks will be, and of course, the higher this number is the ore squeezing you will feel! Socks made for shin splints have a special kind of compression, called graduated compression. This means that the tightness will change throughout the length of the sock, and it will usually be tighter around the feet and ankles, and then it will weaken around your calves to let the blood flow freely.

If you have zero health issues, and just want the socks for their miracle properties, do not choose compression levels that go over 20 mmHg. This is just enough to keep your blood flowing, fatigue at bay, and swelling at a minimum! Levels that range from 15 mmHg to 20 mmHg are considered to be medium, and they help keep deep vein thrombosis, spider veins, and circulation issues at a minimum, negating almost every symptom related to them. These socks are also good for people who stand around the whole day, like nurses, or for people who frequently fly by plane. Anything above 20 mmHg is considered to be high, and it should be recommended by a doctor because it can actually be harmful to people who do not have any circulation issues! Since you only need to control shin splints, do not go over the 20 mmHg threshold, unless you have any extra health issues that need to be controlled along with this annoying problem.

Effectiveness

Compression socks are super effective tools that help both sick and healthy people feel much better. There's a reason why they are so popular, after all! They help unhealthy people, people who work all day long, and people who exercise and run a lot and just need to protect their feet from fatigue and swelling.

Let's first take a look at how these socks help with circulation issues. These socks help fight spider veins, varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis, and even clots! All of these issues we mentioned cause itching, swelling, burning, fatigue, and they can even be dangerous if a clot form. Compression socks keep these issues controlled, and they don't let them develop any further! This is achieved because of that tight hug we talked about in our compression section - the socks squeeze your feet, essentially helping your blood flow better and faster into your heart, instead of letting it pool around your legs. The socks also keep your tissues and muscles working like a clock, which in turn prevents shin splints!

These socks also fight fatigue and swelling not associated with circulatory issues. Swelling and fatigue will definitely be defeated, but so will muscle soreness and risks for injuries! The socks break away lactic acid build-up, making your muscles less sore as a result. The socks also act like ankle braces of sorts, keeping your joints stable and secure.

Materials

What your socks are made out of will determine a lot of things about them. The fit will be affected, breathability, comfort levels, effectiveness, and many more factors important to the quality of the socks. This is why you must choose socks made out of the right blend of materials. Compression socks are usually made out of nylon, polyester, spandex, and sometimes even cotton or merino wool, depending on what kind of weather they were made for.

Polyester, spandex, and nylon all come from plastic. These manmade materials were all discovered before the World wars, and after the war was over, they all became very popular choices for garments of all kinds. But people soon realized that these materials are not that great if not blended together. Nylon is lightweight and breathable, but it's not very durable. Polyester is strong and lightweight, but it's not so breathable nor does it stretch that well. And spandex stretches quite well, but it's not so durable either. This is why these three work when combined - they all benefit from each other and their individual traits shine! Cotton and merino wool are both natural, and one comes from a plant while the other comes from a special kind of sheep. Cotton is just made for warm and breezy weather, while merino wool keeps you warm when the weather gets cold. Both of them are usually blended with one or more of the manmade materials we mentioned, so make sure to get a properly made sock and you will enjoy maximum benefits!

Durability

Compression socks are nothing like normal socks, and hence, their price is different too, much higher than the price of regular socks. This is why you need o find a sturdy pair that will not fall apart after just a few wash cycles! A poorly constructed sock will not even compress you the right way, and you might be put off from compression socks, thinking they don't work at all!

First things first, go for a good material blend. If the materials are not good, the socks will definitely not last! Make sure to wash the socks appropriately. If you don't, they might fall apart before time, again. The more you use the socks, the less they will last, of course, so look for socks that have reinforced toe and heel areas, and maybe even some padding. This makes them more strong, and they are less likely to fall apart very fast!

Expert Interviews & Opinions

Most Important Criteria (According to our experts opinion)
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#1
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#2
ico Compression
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expert tips icon
Breathability

Make sure that your socks are breathable! Look for a high nylon or cotton percentage, or look for mesh inserts, and your socks will definitely let the air in and the moisture out. If your socks are not breathable, you could potentially end up with a lot of problems! For starters, your socks may cause sweat to build-up. This, in turn, makes bacteria thrive, and they then cause bad odors! The fungus can also start to develop, and Athlete's foot is something no one wants to tackle. Also, wet socks create more friction, and the more friction you have inside your shoes, the likelier it is that blisters will form. So make sure that your socks can breathe!

Versatility

Good compression socks are versatile socks. They shouldn't only act as tools to prevent shin splints - they should also help with your health issues, help with getting through the day with ease, and much more. Their color and style should also be neutral enough so you can match them with everything you've got in your closet since it's more than likely that you will end up wearing the socks every day. You can wear regular socks over these socks though,k so you can hide them whenever you feel like it.

Other Factors to Consider

Bottom Line

The third best compression socks for shin splints are Zensah Compression socks, with a high level of compression, coupled with V-shaped ribbing and reduced calf vibration. We were also super impressed with the Rockay Blaze Calf & Shin sleeve, rightfully earning the first place, with its reduced vibration and a unique level of graduated compression. Our silver medal shin splint compression sock is the Camden Gear Calf Compression Sleeve, a spandex, lycra sleeve that gives you a high level of graduated compression.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: Can I sleep in these socks?

a:

It's easy to get hooked on compression socks, and wanting to wear them to bed is quite understandable. You can't actually cause a lot of harm by wearing them to bed, but know that gravity will do everything compression socks do when you wear them during the day. Blood will be able to flow naturally and without issues towards your heart when it doesn't need to fight the pull of gravity. With that being said, if you want to fight swelling as soon as you wake up, just keep the socks near the bed and pull them on before you even make the first step of the day!

q: Can compression socks hurt me?

a:

Compression socks can actually be harmful, if you're wearing the wrong kind of compression level, or if you have the wrong size on. There are a few telltale signs that tell you something is up. First, you will start to feel discomfort. Then that discomfort will turn into tingling and numbness, and your legs may even swell up, which is the complete opposite of what the socks need to do. In the end, you may feel a sharp pain in your toes, and they might even spasm! So be careful when you choose the size of your socks and do not go for compression levels that are too high!

q: What compression level do I need?

a:

Since you need to prevent shin splints, you shouldn't go for levels that are over 20 mmHg. Even 20 mmHg can be considered to be too high for your needs. 15 mmHg is just enough to keep your shins intact when you run, and it will also control swelling and fatigue. If you have any health problems though, you can go for higher compression levels, if they were recommended to you by a physician! If not, you might cause some issues, like numbness and sharp pain that is associated with compression levels that are too much for you to handle!

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