I have been testing the Rockay compression running socks. I have picked up a wee niggly injury in my right Achilles tendon and I have been suffering a little with calf tightness. I know from previous experience that compression socks and compression sleeves can be helpful.
What is Rockay?
Rockay is a running apparel brand with a mission to provide runners with high quality products yet without further damaging the environment.
The company was founded by Daniel Chabert and his passion for running. He realised that the world does not need another average running brand as there are already too many of these. In addition, the need for sustainable textile production has never been bigger.
Every year over 80 million tons of plastic is thrown into the oceans and the textile industry can help clean this up by turning it into clothing.
Rockay states: “It’s always been our goal to produce 100% recycled socks, but we’ve never been prepared to compromise on the performance of our socks. It’s taken us some time and on our journey we’ve had to push the boundaries of what’s possible, but now it’s great to show that 100% recycled products can be world class.”
Another element of the eco-friendly products is the anti-odour coating, through a partnership with Polygiene. If socks whiff less, we can wash them fewer times and this, in itself, reduces the environmental impact because as a user, you use less water and energy.
On test: Rockay compression running socks
Features include:
- Graduated Compression 16-23 mmHg
- 100% Recycled Materials
- Seamless Toe
- Performance Cushioning
- Reflective Logo
- Breathable Mesh Zones
- Arch Support
- Anti-odour Coating
- Anti-Blister Construction
- Rockay Lifetime Guarantee.
- Price $49.95.
Fabric:
52% Econyl Regenerated Nylon, 41% Recycled Polyamide, 7% Recycled Elastane
The materials work together to offer a higher level of durability, compression and stability.
See shop for socks.
A few words about: Graduated Compression (16-23 mmHg):
It’s claimed that compression increases blood flow. This can help you to train for longer and further and improve recovery. I agree that compression can be helpful. It doesn’t fix an injury but the extra support given by compression seems to keep muscles in better condition.
Rockay compression socks: My likes and dislikes
The colour and style of the socks is great and I like the range of sizes, from SS to XLXL. I have a size UK8.5 foot and while the sock foot was a good fit, I found the length of the socks a little tall for my legs. I have quite long legs so this might be a bit of an issue for shorter people. I suggest you go down a size.
It is never easy to get on compression items. The nature of the compression makes them a tight fit. The socks take a bit of care and attention to pull up but once on they are a snug fit. I simply turned over the top of the sock to make the leg length fit. It wasn’t really an issue although they do not look as good when they are turned over.
I have worn the socks for two four-mile runs and a 10-mile run. All outings were on tarmac and hard surfaces. This is when I normally suffer calf tightness, compared to the trails.
I was very pleased with the results. I did not suffer calf tightness while running, or after the run.
I did not suffer any blisters and my feet felt well supported, too.
In the interests of this blog review, I didn’t wash the socks for three training runs. I gave them a sniff and they did not whiff. I am pretty sure my feet were sweating while I was running, so this is a good outcome.
I like the eco-credentials of the products and they have been a great help in controlling my niggly injuries.
The price seems quite high to me but I know other compression items are quite expensive. The $50 works out at about £38 and you can pay multiple socks for a cheaper cost per pair. I guess a pair of compression socks costs less than an hour’s sports massage so that is a good way to think about the investment. Rockay offer a lifetime guarantee of quality, too.
The company also sells compression sleeves.
See Rockay for lots of different sock and sleeve choices.
- I receive a small amount of commission for each sale linked through this website.