Polaris Ultra Tec Compression Sock

You always know there is a bike event in town when you see loads of guys wandering around with knee high socks, shorts and maybe even sandals - it would be no surpirise if some of them were wearin Polaris's Ultra Tec Compression Socks. So, the question is are the possible benefits of wearing them worth risking arrest by the fashion police?

The rough science behind compression apparel is to constrain the limb, reducing the diameter of veins in order to promote circulation by increasing flow and a flushing of the toxins produced during exercise. These toxins develop during energy production in the muscle and also during the rebuilding phase; the better supplied the muscle with fresh blood, the quicker recovery can take place. Long used in medicine to prevent deep vein thrombosis, the science is sound.

Interestingly, no such blurb as to why you would want these socks is included in the product description - I guess they have become accepted items of kit. The socks are anatomically shaped, so much that they are asymmetrical; left and right specific. You can get them on the wrong foot but the socks are constructed of panels for compression around the muscle, while still remaining flexible in other areas - put them on the wrong foot and these panels are in the wrong places.

The fit of the socks is good, not the tightest compression socks I've tried but not weak either. All the panels seemed to line up in the correct places on my foot and they came to just below the knee. A cuff at the top stops the socks slipping down and seemed to work. They are as comfy as a pair of tight socks can be, probably thanks to the flat seams and good breathability. A well padded achilles area prevents any discomfort if worn with shoes (the ribbed style of compression sock can cause rubbing).

Compression socks can harbour bacteria. Polaris claim a silver antimicrobial technology help to keep these nasties at bay, along with the odours that they create. Our test pair haven't developed any sort of odour after a few months of testing.

Do they work? Well, the theory is sound and these socks feel like they provide enough compression to work. I've been using compression socks for a while now so am already convinced of the benefits and this pair from Polaris seemed to aid my recovery. A few hours wearing them and my legs felt much fresher, less heavy than without them. I use them travelling to races too, or on plane flights for noticeably less achey legs.

Verdict

Reliable compression wear that won't break the bank.