Compression while running: sense or nonsense?

Herzog Medical
May 15, 2025

Compression socks have become an indispensable part of the street scene of running competitions and training. From recreational runners to top athletes: more and more runners swear by them. But does compression really work? Or is it mainly a matter of feeling and marketing? In this blog we dive into the facts, experiences and benefits of compression during running.

What is compression anyway?
Compression stockings apply pressure to your lower legs to provide support to muscles and tendons. Often the pressure is highest at the ankle and gradually decreases towards the knee. This is known as decreasing or graduated compression.
The theory behind it: better muscle support, less vibrations when landing, stimulated blood flow and faster removal of waste products. But what do you really notice as a runner?

The benefits of compression at a glance
✅Less muscle vibration, more stability
Every time your foot hits the ground, small vibrations are created in your muscles and tendons. Did you know that you absorb three times your own weight when running? This seems harmless, but in the long term it can contribute to fatigue, injuries or overload. Compression helps to dampen these vibrations and gives a firm, stable feeling while running.
✅Support for overload
Compression stockings can provide extra support to sensitive areas such as the shins, Achilles tendon or calf muscles. Especially with recurring complaints or intensive training blocks, many runners notice that compression helps to distribute the load better.
✅Accelerated recovery after running
Many athletes wear compression not only during running, but also afterwards. The idea: compression stimulates the removal of waste products and moisture, which can contribute to faster recovery. Especially after long or intensive runs, this can make a noticeable difference.

Is it useful for everyone?
Compression is not a miracle cure — but it is a smart tool. Especially if you:

regularly runs or trains for a competition
are sensitive to calf or shin complaints
your legs get tired quickly
want to speed up your recovery after a heavy workout

Please note: the effect of compression varies from person to person. What is immediately noticeable for one person, feels more subtle for another. That is why it is important to choose stockings with the right size and fit.

And what about medical claims?
Compression can indeed provide functional support when used correctly. The Herzog PRO series distinguishes itself in this respect: they are the only compression products in the sports world with a medical certificate. These socks bear the officialMDR quality mark(Medical Device Regulation), which means that the operation, pressure values and safety are medically substantiated and certified.

However, the products have been explicitly developed for athletes. The focus is on injury prevention, support during exercise and faster recovery after running — and you can tell.

Conclusion: sense or nonsense?
Compression while running is certainly not nonsense. It is not a magic tool, but for many runners it is a valuable addition to their equipment. It offers support, helps reduce fatigue and contributes to a faster recovery. Whether it works for you too? You will only find out by experiencing it yourself.