Support Socks

WHY SHOULD YOU USE SUPPORT STOCKINGS

There are many reasons to buy support stockings; for comfort, to perform better during physical activity, to prevent swelling or to prevent and relieve medical conditions.

The theory behind support socks is that they fit tightly over the ankle, which increases blood circulation. As the blood moves faster, it is more efficiently oxygenated and carries away 'waste products'. This allows the muscles to recover more quickly and this means that support socks have a very good preventive effect against varicose veins, valve failure and blood clots in the legs. Support stockings are also good for when the legs feel tired and swollen during pregnancy or when sitting still for a long time on an aeroplane or at work.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SUPPORT STOCKING AND A COMPRESSION STOCKING?

Compression socks improve blood circulation and provide muscle support, so they can help you improve your performance during exercise and help your muscles recover faster. Support sock is something that has been around for a very long time and that most people know, but compression socks are a newer concept for many. The principle is the same, the socks fit tightly over the ankle, which increases blood circulation.

Support socks have a hard and even pressure while compression socks have varying pressure with the greatest pressure at the ankle to decrease upwards. Then the pressure is lower on the calf. If you use a support stocking while exercising, the pressure can be too great on the calf and you can get cramps.

HOW LONG CAN YOU WEAR SUPPORT SOCKS?

The socks can be worn all day, as long as they feel comfortable. The good thing to keep in mind is that after many hours of use they stretch and the pressure decreases slightly. This is remedied by washing. When you put on the washed socks, they are tight again.

CAN YOU WEAR SUPPORT STOCKINGS AT NIGHT?

No, this is not a good idea. The blood pressure in the body decreases in the lying position, which makes the sock superfluous since its purpose is to increase blood circulation.

COMPRESSION CLASSES

Compression is measured in mmHg (mm = millimetre, Hg = mercury) and measures how a sock reacts to a given change in pressure. Compression stockings that are sold are divided into several different classes. The socks in our range are all class 1.

COMPRESSION CLASS 1

15-21 mmHg

Used for minor problems such as swelling, tired feet and minor varicose veins.

COMPRESSION CLASS 2

22-32 mmHg

Used after surgery and for varicose veins. Always consult your doctor or nurse for information.

COMPRESSION CLASS 3

33-46 mmHg

For acute problems, Class 3 compression stockings are used and are customised by trained staff for a perfect fit.

CLASS 4 COMPRESSION

Used only in hospitals and nursing homes

What are the main benefits of using support socks?

Support socks offer various benefits, such as enhancing comfort, improving performance during physical activities, and preventing or alleviating medical conditions. They work by fitting tightly around the ankle, increasing blood circulation, which enhances oxygenation and the removal of waste products. This helps in faster muscle recovery and provides preventive effects against varicose veins, valve failure, and blood clots. They are also beneficial for reducing tiredness and swelling during pregnancy or long periods of sitting, such as on flights or at work.

How do support socks differ from compression stockings?

While both support socks and compression stockings improve blood circulation and offer muscle support, the key difference lies in their pressure distribution. Support socks apply a consistent and firm pressure throughout, whereas compression stockings exert varying pressure, with the greatest at the ankle that decreases towards the calf. For exercise, compression stockings are generally more suitable due to this varying pressure, as support socks may sometimes lead to calf cramps.

How long can support socks be worn during the day?

Support socks can be worn throughout the day as long as they remain comfortable. However, they may stretch after extended use, causing the pressure to lessen. Washing them restores their tightness and effectiveness. It is important to monitor comfort levels and adjust wear time accordingly.

Is it advisable to wear support stockings at night?

No, wearing support stockings at night is not recommended. When lying down, the body's blood pressure decreases, making the socks unnecessary as their purpose is to boost circulation. It's best to remove them before going to bed.

Enhance Your Performance and Comfort with SPORTSMART Support Socks

Discover the game-changing benefits of support socks from SPORTSMART. Our high-quality socks are designed to improve your athletic performance and provide unparalleled comfort during physical activities. By enhancing blood circulation, our support socks ensure better oxygenation and faster removal of waste products, leading to quicker muscle recovery and reduced fatigue.

SPORTSMART support socks offer more than just athletic advantages. They're perfect for those long days at work or extended flights, helping to prevent swelling and discomfort. Pregnant women can also benefit from the reduced tiredness and swelling our socks provide. Moreover, our support socks play a crucial role in preventing medical conditions such as varicose veins and blood clots, making them an essential addition to your daily routine.

Choose SPORTSMART for support socks that deliver consistent, firm pressure throughout the day. Our socks are designed for all-day comfort, allowing you to focus on your activities without distraction. Remember to give them a wash to restore their tightness and effectiveness, ensuring you always get the best performance from your SPORTSMART support socks.