A while back, Swiftwick sent us some 12in high-compression recovery socks to check out. Compression socks are very tight socks that are constructed to do three things:- Help return blood to the heart and prevent blood pooling in the feet
- Reduce unnecessary movement that can cause calves to tire quickly
- Speed recovery and reduce soreness
After several months using compression socks from a number of companies (ranging from $20-50 retail), the Swiftwick's 200-needle are our picks. They provide compression on par with $50 socks while being a bit thinner and lighter, making them more comfortable in moderate and warm temperatures. In the hours and days after hard training rides or races, they add a noticeable bit of bounce to tired legs.
Unfortunately, not everyone can get the 200-needle Twelves on, so Swiftwick have pulled them back in favor of their less-compressive 144-needle version. When we heard this, we snapped up their remaining stock (all black and medium) to sell here. If you're a rider with average or small calves who's sold on compression socks or would like to give them a go, here's your chance. A heck of a sock at a heck of a price. Made in the USA too...
