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Have you ever been so concerned about your feet that you've been stuck in a tent on a day you walked as long as you could no longer fall asleep, and you finally managed to sleep with your feet on your backpack? I have it.
Not only can you climb or hike with your luggage on your back all day, but you can also find your feet swell like this when you're standing up for a long time or sitting on your desk all day. Normally, the calf muscles act as pumps to promote the circulation of blood and water, allowing blood and water to flow throughout the body that has accumulated in the lower body, but the lower body, which has been tired after overuse for a long time, will deteriorate its function, resulting in inability to send out the accumulated waste products and water, and the calves become swelled.
The most important thing to do to prevent this from happening is to train your feet and increase your muscle strength, but at the same time, you can take measures to avoid this by wearing socks that have a compression effect. Compression socks are effective in preventing swelling and coldness in the feet. Compression socks can improve or reduce symptoms by applying moderate pressure to your calves and other parts.
At present, compression socks are rarely seen at general mountain equipment specialty stores, but it was only recently that Sockwell, an American sock manufacturer I discovered at the North American exhibition "Outdoor Retailer" a few years ago, and found out that there are several models of quality that can be fully suited not only for casual use but also for authentic outdoor use.
It wasn't a category I've never tried, but this time I was given the opportunity to use a variety of models, including several other types, so I'll try out the effects of those compression socks, the lineup and differences between different types.
Sockwell socks combine high design that blend in with everyday life and functionality that can be used outdoors.
table of contents
Main features of Sockwell compression socks
Favorite points
- It doesn't slip, has a proper fit and a compression effect that keeps your feet fresh even when walking for a long time
- A variety of designs that will never get boring
- A comfortable feel with natural materials (wool, bamboo, alpaca)
- Moderate moisture absorption and breathability, so it's not too hot even in the summer
- Natural deodorant
Interesting points
- (Lifestyle type only) Supporting the arch around the arch and cushioning heels are slightly unsatisfied.
- (Once you experience long lengths, the crew length feels a little less compression effect.
- The ankles are narrow, making it difficult to wear
- The heels and fingertips are prone to pilling (if you keep slurping, you'll probably end up wearing them surprisingly quickly).
Main Specifications and ratings
| Item name | Medium compression [SW27M] TWILLFUL Mens | High compression [SW4M] ELEVATION Mens | Outdoor [SW78M]STAMPEDE CREW Mens | (Reference) Outdoor [CT37M] Ascend II OTC Mens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Actual weight (g) | 76 | 97 | 69 | |
| Fabrics and materials | Merino wool 32%, bamboo rayon 31%, stretch nylon 32%, spandex 5% | Merino wool 31%, bamboo rayon 31%, stretch nylon 30%, spandex 8% | Merino wool 41%, nylon 39%, alpaca 14%, spandex 6% | Merino wool 41%, nylon 39%, alpaca 14%, spandex 6% |
| country of origin | USA | USA | USA | USA |
| Compression level | Medium pressure 15-20mmHg | High pressure 20-30mmHg | Medium pressure 15-20mmHg | Medium pressure 15-20mmHg |
| height | Long (below knee) | Long (below knee) | Middle (around the middle of the shin) | Long (below knee) |
| evaluation | ||||
| weight | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Thermal insulation | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Support | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Compression effect | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Cushioning | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Breathable and quick-drying | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Durability | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Recommended hiking level | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
★★★★ Great/★★ Good/★★ Not bad/★★ Not good/★★ A bit harsh
Detailed review
choose the perfect compression socks for you from a wide variety of options.
Sockwell's compression socks are Sockwell's popular sock series, featuring "natural materials including merino wool" and "compression functions."
Compression socks, which are recognized as having extremely high effectiveness in maintaining health and in continuing use, have been recognized as having extremely high effects on foot care and recovery, and control compression from the ankles to the knees, reducing unnecessary muscle shaking and reducing the burden on the feet during activity. It is said to support contraction of the calf muscles and also provide care and recovery effects, such as reducing damage and fatigue.
Merino wool, the main material, has excellent moisture absorption and release properties, odor resistance, and comfort, providing a comfortable foot environment that is less likely to get stuffy even in harsh outdoor conditions all year round. By the way, Sockwell handles everything from procuring wool to manufacturing in the United States, and the blended synthetic materials have also been moved to American-made Repreve® recycled nylon, and is based on ethical and sustainable activities, with the goal of converting 80% of the total nylon usage to recycled nylon by the end of 2021.
Two types of outdoor activities are "lifestyle" that are easy to use regardless of the situation, and "outdoor" that is more resistant to authentic outdoor activities
When I focused on Sockwell's compression socks a few years ago, I bought the "Outdoor" series myself and used it without thinking too much about it because it was for mountain climbing or hiking. However, the manufacturer I contacted this time gave me advice, "The Lifestyle series is also great for outdoor activities," and which one is recommended for hiking? I was struggling with my desire to investigate and be convinced, so this time I decided to try using both the "Outdoor Series" and the "Lifestyle Series" and review them all at once.
However, after actually researching, I realized that these differences in the series are merely the opening points for choosing Sockwell's compression socks, and there are even more deep and wide variations. Therefore, in order to thoroughly evaluate and explore the optimal model, it is necessary to know the differences between these types.
Anyway, let's start by looking at the differences between this series. The basic structure of both series is the same, but there are differences depending on the scene that is assumed in detail. The main differences can be summarised into the following two points:
- Differences in materials
- The difference between cushion support
First of all, regarding the materials, the Lifestyle Compression series is a blend of merino wool and bamboo, which is glossy, soft and breathable. This is a choice that takes into consideration the comfort of being able to wear evenly and comfortably, including everyday wear. On the other hand, the "Outdoor" series is a blend of alpaca fibers with higher temperature and humidity control functions, deodorizing effects, and softness, making it a generally thicker fabric. By further increasing the functionality of merino wool, it can be adapted to a wide range of environmental changes and is resistant to cold. Both are blended with nylon and spandex, giving the necessary strength and elasticity.
Also, regarding the presence or absence of cushioning and support functions, "Lifestyle Compression" is not a separate division of arch support that lifts the arch or foot cushioning, in the case of relaxed everyday situations, but is weak (ultra light cushion), but the "Outdoor" series has a support and cushioning function to a degree that is clearly felt as it can be used to deal with strong stress and large loads.
The cushioning is a thin lifestyle series (left) and an outdoor series with medium cushion support (right)
Depending on the series, you can choose the length of the socks and the strength of the pressure.
Furthermore, the Lifestyle Compression Series comes in two types: medium pressure and high pressure, which have different strengths in compression. If you want to feel more firm pressure, you should choose high pressure, but until you try it, you don't know how much pressure you are looking for. So this time I decided to try both high and medium pressures. Incidentally, the "Outdoor" series seems to be the only option for the medium pressure system right now, so there's no need to worry about it here.
The Lifestyle series comes in two types of calf pressure: medium pressure and high pressure.
Finally, regarding the sock length, the Lifestyle Compression series is almost the only option for a long length, which is just below the knee, while the current lineup of the Outdoor series seems to be available in two options: long length, as well as the middle length (so-called crew length) up to the top of the shin. Ideally, I wanted to try all the patterns, but I didn't have that much physical spare, and most lifestyle compressions were long, and for outdoor use, there was a medium length/medium pressure that I had at hand, so I'll compare three types of try-ons this time: lifestyle/long/medium pressure, lifestyle/long/high pressure, and outdoor/mid-moderate pressure.
This time we actually compared the three types of the Lifestyle series offered (medium and high pressure) and our own outdoor series (medium and medium pressure).
We actually compared the shoes - Comfort and comfort
The merino wool used by Sockwell is said to be made from wool that has been grazing freely in Rocky Mountain, and 20 micron fibers, which are said to be quite thin for socks. When you look through your feet, you'll be relieved to see the comfortable feel of the high-quality merino wool, first and foremost. It does not have the creaking sensation that comes from synthetic fibers, but the moist, smooth, slightly warm texture provides stable comfort regardless of the season. The flat seams do not give the toes any sense of grounding.
The stitching is very careful and there are no grounding at the seams. It fits perfectly even before the compression.
When comparing the three models, the Lifestyle Compression Series has a stronger dry and refreshing feel from the blend of bamboo, and is breathable and is right in the middle of summer, but even if it is held back a little on flat ground, it is too hot and I can't wear it. On the other hand, for outdoor use, alpaca is blended. Alpaca, which has a fiber structure that is very similar to merino wool, has fewer scales on the surface, known as scale, than wool, so it felt a more moist, smooth and comfortable feel. However, it is densely woven and thick, so it has a clear heat retention rate, and I think it's tough in the midsummer. However, the natural temperature control function of wool provides comfort as a base, and even if it's hot, it's never going to cause a disaster that makes your shoes sweaty inside. Moreover, it suppresses the recent growth of odors, so it stays clean no matter how long you wear it.
When I walked with my luggage on my back, I realized that the highly cushioned outdoor type has a thicker heel cushioning, which has a high impact absorption and is highly possible to wear it without worrying about climbing mountains where you are walking with heavy loads. It also supports the arch of the foot, pulling up from the bottom of the foot, and the arch support is also strong. However, the Lifestyle compression series is not completely fluent and uninteresting, and it wraps around the entire foot without slipping and has some cushioning. It would be just right for low-cut shoes to walk or hike light luggage. For reference, I climbed the mountain on a rocky day route carrying around 5kg of luggage, but at the time the Lifestyle compression series was enough.
Although it is not visible in the photo, two types of compression socks are compared underneath the pants.
How powerful are compression socks? ~The cushioning, support, and fatigue that you felt when you actually ran~
Now, after actually walking around the popular "compression" effect, this part actually had the biggest gap between imagination and reality.
One of the reasons for this may be that the compression socks I've tried up to date were up to the crew length (around the middle shin). In fact, I had a long time possession of mid-length socks from the Outdoor Series, but to be honest, I didn't feel that much of a sense of support or fatigue reduction. However, the long compression socks (lifestyle compression) I tried out for the first time this time are quite clear about the benefits of compression socks.
Before that, one thing to be prepared is that it's difficult to wear compression socks. High socks are especially long so it's difficult to wear from the ankles to the tip. It's almost impossible to wear it unless you put your feet together from the mouth of your socks to your ankles. Until you get used to it, you pull it so hard that you think it might tear, but what's more, is that the fabric is also durable.
It's really difficult to wear high socks that are compression. The trick is to put it together to a certain extent and then first pass the legs and raise the shins to wear them.
The first thing I felt from the moment I put it on was the feeling of it firmly supporting my calves, as if they were wrapped in tape. It seems that by pressurizing the calves, it reduces unnecessary shaking of the muscles and reduces the burden on the feet, but I never thought that this would give me such a sense of stability in walking. This clear ease of walking (running) is not something you can experience so clearly without high socks.
At first, high pressure socks felt cramped, but now they're not enough. It's not particularly strong for hard exercise like climbing.
Regarding the tightening level, I tried both medium and high pressures, but I didn't feel that strong pressure, and I only felt that high pressure was strong in the first time, and after that I think that high pressure would be more effective, as long as it will move for a long time. Of course, it depends on your preference, but the only thing that is being pressured is applied to the calves, so it feels less oppressive than compression tights, for example, and personally I feel like this one can be worn for a longer period of time.
I compared the medium- and high pressures, and I felt that the compression effect was solid for both, and personally I didn't feel that there was a big difference.
Another surprise is the fatigue reduction effect, including preventing swelling. This was also more noticeable than ever when I used high socks to apply pressure to my entire calves.
The area around the feet, which is the farthest from the heart and low, tends to cause poor blood flow. That is why the calf muscles contract and play an important role in pushing the blood that is stuck in the legs back towards the heart, which is why the calf is also known as the "second heart." Sockwell's "stage compression" helps to shrink the calves. Appropriate stage compression, certified by the National Podiatric Association (APMA), not only helps muscles work and improves performance, but also reduces damage (reduces fatigue).
I actually tried climbing one day trip, changing one each, and comparing it, but (of course there is fatigue) there was certainly little swelling, fatigue, and heavy sensation in my legs that I would normally feel, and when I took off my socks, it was close to the normal state before I walked, which was quite strange.
I tried walking "ankle-length socks with no compression effect on one foot" and "long compression socks with the other foot" and "long compression socks" I naturally felt a big difference between the left and right sides in stability while taking action, but I couldn't feel any difference in fatigue between the left and right sides. Apparently, the fatigue reduction effect of compression is not that simple.
I tried walking to "ankle-length socks on one foot" and "long compression socks on the other foot" and "the other foot" and I could see clearly marks on my right foot.
Summary: Personally, compression socks are quite good for climbing. In that case, we recommend "long length" anyway.
What we discovered during this trial was the most the long compression socks . When I was trying out crew-length compression socks, I honestly only got the impression that it was just like this for me, as I was insensitive, but walking down the mountains wearing high socks and high pressure models changed even more dramatically. This feels better than ever and doesn't get tired. In addition, in the case of sockwells, not only are they socks that have a compression effect, but they also use high-quality, comfortable natural materials and sustainable materials, as well as a light design, careful sewing, and the quality of the socks is also extremely high.
Finally, with that in mind, I'll summarize some recommended scenes for other elements I felt this time.
Honestly, I think there are some preferences when it comes to compression, but considering that a whole day of climbing is a more harder exercise than I thought, I felt that Sockwell's high pressure was not at all too strong. If you are a fairly reasonable climber, like yourself, who will take full-time day trips or overnight climbs, I think it's fine to choose "high pressure" as much as possible. On the other hand, if you don't push yourself that hard, and use it daily, camping, or hiking for half a day, medium pressure would be just right.
As for support cushioning, as the manufacturer said, if you are going to climb mountains, you don't have to have high cushions, and I thought that if you are walking with light luggage, you can definitely get the Lifestyle Series. In other words, it depends on how much load you apply to the socks (plus preference). If you want to be light in weight and luggage and want to value the sole feeling of the feet, the "Ultra Light Cushion" is often enough, and for those who are large, carry heavy loads, or who like a softer feel to the ground, it is best to choose a model with the highest cushioning possible, such as a "medium full cushion." In addition, these highly cushioned models have become thicker, so they are naturally recommended for those who want to be as warm as possible, such as for autumn and winter.
By the way, personally, I have found out that the most I want to wear right now for the upcoming autumn and winter outdoor activities the [CT37M] Ascend II OTC Mens . If you've never experienced modern outdoor socks that combine old and new, with high-quality comfort, design and functionality, this is sure to be the perfect choice for those who have never experienced it.
Details and purchase of "Sockwell Compression Socks"
For the latest information on Sockwell's products and details about each product, please visit the Sockwell official website
