Feetures! Elite Compression Sock Review and Giveaway!

I usually run long distance without any type of compression garments.  However, I did run with compression calf sleeves for my first marathon and I think that my recovery time was minimal because of them.  I was excited to try out the Features Elite Compression Socks because not only do they look sleek, they say that they would improve my runs as well as reduce my recovery time.  I have a marathon coming up and thought I would give these socks a try before seeing if I want to wear them for the next big race. 

Here is what Feetures website said about their Elite Compresion Socks:

Feetures! Elite Compression Sock

Light Cushion Knee High

Feetures! Elite Compression Socks incorporate all the advantages of Feetures! Elite technology to provide runners, cyclists and other athletes with a superior compression sock -- specially designed to energize and freshen legs.  Perfect for warming up, performing or recovery, it's the Ultimate Fit and Feel™ in a compression sock.

Graduated compression enhances circulation, and promotes faster recovery and reduced fatigue.

Anatomical right and left foot design enhances fit, delivering maximum comfort and protection by helping to eliminate blisters.

The Power Arch (patent pending) is anatomically constructed to provide targeted support where you need it most.

The PerfectToe™ (No irritating toe seam.)

iWick® fibers wick moisture to keep feet dry and odor-free.

Here are my thoughts: 

First off, I didn’t realize that the socks were made specifically for the right or left foot.  They are conveniently labeled at the toes so you’ll know right away if you’re putting them on the wrong foot.  Which is smart in design as they were a tad bit difficult to put on.  After all the tugging, twisting and pulling I finally got them on and thought, wow, these are really comfortable.  Although I received a size too big, they still fit snug and gave just the right compression on the calves.  One thing that I noticed (and probably because the actual foot part of the sock may have been a little too big) was a strange compression that was happening on the anterior portion of my ankle, right where my foot meets my shin.  Now if I had a bigger foot, I’m pretty sure this band-like compression would be more along the dorsal top of the foot.   It almost felt like I had tied a soft tight rubber band around my ankle…This might pose a problem, but I decided to give it a go anyway.

I did a long practice run on my treadmill, and although it started out well, the weird compression around the front ankle proved to be too much for me.  Now I don’t know if this is what is supposed to be happening, but when I run, I don’t like to be constricted.  I tie my shoes as loose as they can be, without compromising support of course, but only because I don’t like the feeling of any type of constriction on my feet.  Just with that preference, maybe these compression socks are not meant for me.  Honestly though, the strange constriction around the ankle bothered me the most and I truly believe that it could be because they were a size too big.  I think I’ll have to pass on wearing these for my next marathon.  I’m not saying these socks are a bad product, they’re just not for me. 

Now for the giveaway! Starts 5/25/12 12 EST end 6/16/13 11:59 EST

Feetures! Has kindly offered to give one of my readers their own pair of Elite Compression Socks. All you have to do is:

Mandatory: Use Rafflecopter

1. Leave a comment on my blog.

Additional Entries:

2. Like the Golden Triangle Strutters FB page
3. Follow me on Twitter: @JERBEAS

Contest starts at 5/25/13 12am EST and ends on 6/16/13 12am EST. Continental US residents only. Winners will be chosen randomnly using random.org

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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