Say hello to the 2XU Elite Compression Tights. This tight is not simply your average compression, but a part of a newly designed line by 2XU called PXR (Perform, XFORM, Refresh). In particular, the XFORM garments give you the benefit of two in one compression. It is designed as an Active + Recovery tight. This means that the grade of compression and construction of the tight is designed to be used while training, as well as as post-workout recovery. How is this possible?
Behold the Zoot CompressRx Sock. Along the lines of items necessary to your arsenal of tri gear, I would claim it fair to say these should certainly be included. With all the hooplah out there on the market about compression, let’s clear some things up on the science behind it all and why these socks in particular are going to help your performance.
Let’s start with the science. Zoot utilizes graduated compression, and more importantly, utilize it correctly. The amount of compression ranges from 26mmHg (mmHg is the unit of measurement used in compression garments) at the ankle and decreases to 18 mmHg just below the knee. The strongest amount of compression is found in the lower part of the leg. This method allows for deoxygenated blood to flow back to the heart. Within the ranges of compression, the 26mmHg falls under medical grade compression. This factor is important when choosing compression. Anything less than 20mmHg isn’t considered medical grade, and will not offer the same benefit. So what is all this doing doing? The socks help to flush out lactic acid in the veins as well as assist in proper venous flow and return. While running with CompressRx socks, one is able to get up to 40% more arterial flow in their calf by supporting consistent pressure on the musicle. The compression increases the pressure in the tissues beneath the skin allowing for reduced excess leakage of fluid from the capillaries and increasing absorption of tissue fluid by the capillaries. The goal is to assist the body in doing what it naturally does in flushing damaged muscle tissues.
So what the heck is the benefit? Well, here’s a couple noteworthy stats:
29% decrease in lactic acid build-up.
25% reduction of perceived effort.
40% improvement in recovery time.
5% incraese in performance.
These socks in particular can be used as active compression (use them while training or racing) or recovery. Also, keep in mind that they’re perfect for travel use while flying, driving, or even if you plan to be on your feet for a prolonged period of time. The sock is also foot specific with padded foot soles to prevent irritation.
Measurements: It’s important that you measure your calf (circumference of the largest part of the muslce belly on your calf) prior to choosing your size. Proper fit will ensure optimal performance.
I’ve been in the triathlon world over the course of the past 7 years and have certainly gained a wealth of knowledge about the sport amongst most domains. Producing multiple races myself, competing in my first Ironman at age 23, and now working within the product realm at OneTri.com, I can with confidence say, my words within this blog come with backing. Hopefully my reviews and personal testimonies will aid in helping readers get all they want and more out of this sport.
worldoftri3 