Surprisingly, compression socks and tights have made quite the fashion statement. Seriously, some of the worlds most renowned athletes have sported compression stockings and tights for training and on game day. Yes, these are the same socks that your grandma and your pregnant wife have worn. The popularity has pushed marquee sport clothing makers to promote the socks. These types of socks have been worn for quite sometime by runners and triathletes, but they hit the scene in 2006 when many NBA players began to wear them. The push of athletes wearing compression socks has caused debates on the effectiveness of compression stockings in athletics.

Let's first explore the purpose of compression stockings and why your grandma and pregnant wife originally wore them. The actual compression from the socks acts as a support system. They enhance blood flow, help control body temperature, reduce fatigue, and provide support to muscles. Don't be fooled into thinking that you can just put on a tight pair of socks. Compression socks are made with specific materials and stitching that isolate muscle groups and provide graduated compression. This allows more blood circulation to the heart. This increase in blood circulation is one of the main reasons pregnant women and athletes can benefit from compression stockings.

Pregnant woman will typically suffer from swollen feet, legs, and ankles caused by extra weight and pressure the baby puts on the body. The swelling, aches, and pains are caused by poor circulation. Compression socks promote circulation and the return of blood back to your heart. These socks can be extremely beneficial during and after pregnancy to help prevent unsightly varicose veins. Evidence has shown that these speciality socks are very beneficial for pregnant women.

So why the debate with athletes wearing compression socks? Some believe that the compression provides support to the muscles during rigorous activity that helps the muscle recover quicker. Studies have shown that this is true, but also that athletes do not get any real advantage over competitors when wearing compression socks or tights during competition. But any recovery or prevention can only benefit an athlete. Whether is was believed to be a fashion statement or medically proven circulatory support, compression socks are here to stay.