I love them when they are good and hate them when they are bad.
I am very, very picky about my socks. Once I find a brand I like--that's it. HOOKED and loyal to the brand. But I would rather be sockless than wearing a pair of ill fitting socks. When I am not training, you will usually find me running around barefoot or in flip-flops.
Several weeks ago I stumbled upon SocksAddict.com on Facebook and I had to check out the site. Plus they were offering all Facebook fans a 10% off coupon and I just love a sale (right Jason?)
I be-bopped over to SocksAddict.com and the first thing I noticed was the ease in which to shop. There are categories by brand, by sport and there is even a sock finder where you can sort by gender, cut, fabric, activity etc. I spent quite a bit of time searching through all of the options available and I was very impressed with several things: the variety, the quality brands that were offered and the prices!
I love saving money when it comes to buying running and triathlon stuff-lots of times when I find a great deal online once you figure in the shipping and handling charges, it ends up not being such a good deal after all.
Not so with SocksAddict.com.
ALL ORDERS HAVE FREE SHIPPING.
Yes, FREE shipping.
There is no minimum order. There are no coupons to use. There aren't any hoops to jump through.
Simple: FREE SHIPPING.
I was also very pleased with the customer service-just like in a box store, a customer service agent will instant message you and ask if you need any assistance. If you just want to browse around the site, just say so-any questions? just ask away and they will ne happy to help!
So I "liked" SocksAddict.com on Facebook and Kevin e-mailed me a coupon for 10% off my first order (on top of their already great prices) and from there we arranged for a product review and giveaway HERE!
It took me SO LONG to decide which socks to try but finally, I decided to try out the CW-X Ventilator Compression Knee High Sock-I chose this sock because with warm weather approaching and lots of miles on my training plan, I wanted a compression sock that would soeed recovery AND be comfortable to wear while running and cycling.
That's a good lookin' pair of socks huh? |
The CW-X Ventilator Compression Knee High Socks are the ideal running compression sock. Based on the Original CW-X Compression Knee Highs, the Ventilators are designed for the warm-weather athlete and offers added support, accelerated recovery and the cooling of mesh venting in key perspiration zones.
The patented built-in Kinesio Support Web supports the calf and arch of the foot, and stabilizes the ankle joint for reduced fatigue. Variable compression increases circulation in the feet and lower legs and reduces lactic acid buildup. You can recover faster after exercise and your legs and feet will feel fresher the next day.
Features:
** Anatomical Toe Design - Non-restricting toe box allows for increased functionality and movement.
** Compression and support - taping supporting the calf muscle and ankle, gradual compression aids in circulation and recovery.
** Arch support - taping stabilizes and supports the arch of the foot, reducing fatigue
** Mesh venting in key perspiration zones
** 4-way stretch fabric improves circulation.
** Moisture-wicking
Fabric Content:
60% Polyester
11% Cotton
10% Acrylic
10% Nylon
9% Polyurethane
Shipping was fast and when I got the socks, I could not wait to get out for a run in them!
Luckily for me, the socks have a nice little R and L on the foot so I know which foot was which-
The "R" told me it was for the RIGHT foot |
The toe seam on this sock has a good sized "nub" of fabric on the outside of the foot next to the baby toe. It seemed no matter how much I tried to adjust the sock, I just could not get that nub into a place where it would not irritate my foot/toe.
That nasty nub!! |
B-L-I-S-T-E-R
I was really bummed about this and took the socks off and went out in my run wearing my old stand by Balega's.
A couple days later I got out for a 10 mile run and immediately upon my return, I put on the CW-X socks and changed into my old trail shoes to do many hours of yard work. I then did 3+ hours of yard work and when I was done, my legs felt great! My old trail shoes have a much larger toe box than my Brooks Ravenna's so I did not suffer any kind of seam discomfort while doing yard work.
So why is compression important for muscle recovery?
While there is a limited amount of independent research conducted on the subject of these technologically advanced garments, studies have shown benefits include enhanced muscle stability, reduced muscle fatigue and soreness, and increased endurance; improved temperature regulation via moisture management and enhanced circulation; skin protection from UV rays; decreased risk of leg edema during travel; and increased removal of lactic acid.
~Running Times Magazine
I do know that I have certainly felt a huge difference in the amount of time it takes to recover after a hard workout wearing compression socks and sleeves. I will continue to use the CW-X socks as a recovery tool. It is my hope that after several washes, the little toe seam nub will soften or go away (???) and I will be able to run in them come warmer temps. I will even give them a go-for-a-run test in another new running shoe I am testing (shhhhh--details to come later) which also has a bit of a wider toe box.
_____________________________________________________________________
This winter I invested in a pair of wool Pearl iZUMi cycling socks; now I am not a fan of wool sweaters and could not imagine for the life of me WHY anyone would want to wear wool socks. But after doing a bit of research on the subject, I decided to give wool socks a try. I love my Pearl iZUMi cycling socks so when it came time to try out more socks from SocksAddict.com, I made the leap to not only try a new brand but to also try WOOL running and cycling socks!
There was a big sock review in the recent issue of Runner's World and they gave a big thumbs up to the SmartWool's Women's PhD Running Light Mini Crew Sock so this was my first choice.
The PhD: Running Sock |
The PhD: Cycling sock |
I thought since the RUNNING sock was a good choice, I might as well try the cycling version of this sock. SocksAddict.com prices were $11.17 for the running sock (normal retail for this sock is $18.95) and $14.17 for the cycling sock (normal retail $19.95) so that was a great savings. Plus add in the free shipping and you have a great deal of savings.
I really liked both styles-it was a seamless toe and I find the breathability of wool socks is certainly something I will continue to try. I was very pleased with the SmartWool socks-not at all itchy like I thought they would be. The running version of the PhD was plush and I did not get any hot spots-I think some bigger miles are needed to truly determine if this is an "endurance" sock. But I love the colors and the fit!
Thanks to SocksAddict.com for this opportunity to try some new socks and to share the Sock Love with my readers!
Now it's time for YOU to get a chance to try out the CW-X Ventilator Compression sock I reviewed today!
How do you WIN your own pair?
Easy...as usual, you must be a follower of Miles, Muscles & Mommyhood to enter. If you are not already a follower, just click the pretty little follow button on your right or follow me in Google Reader. Now--PLEASE leave ONE comment for EACH entry!
1-MANDATORY: Visit SocksAddict.com and take a look around. Tell me which sock you would try out first!
2-While at SocksAddict.com, sign up for their newsletter (on the left hand side of the screen). Not only will you get an extra entry to this contest, you will save 10% on your first order!
3-Place an order from SocksAddict.com and get 5 extra entries!!
4-Like SocksAddict.com on Facebook and tell them Jen from Miles, Muscles & Mommyhood sent you!
5-Follow SocksAddict on Twitter and send out THIS tweet: @SocksAddict CW-X #giveaway with @milesmusclesmom get your SOCKS ON! http://bit.ly/lkBEvz
6-Got a sock horror story to share? Tell me about it!!
That is 6 ways to earn an entry into this fabulous contest!!
I am going to accept entries until May 5th at midnight and a winner will be selected at random in one of the usually ways.
Disclaimer: the views expressed in this review are mine and those of my picky little feet; I was not asked to give a positive review in exchange for products from SocksAppeal.com
I think wool for training apparel is great, so I'd try the running or cycling socks.
ReplyDeleteYou keep having great giveaways...sadly for me, this one and the last are things I have too much of, so I'm not entering. But I'll put a plug in on my blog!
ReplyDeleteI am digging these: http://www.socksappeal.com/1252-Wrightsock-Coolmesh-No-Show-Tab-Socks.aspx
ReplyDeleteSigned up for the Newsletter....and I have to ask Ashley my online personal asst at socksappeal if they have any in red.
ReplyDeleteLike them on Facebook.
ReplyDeleteFollowing on Twitter.
ReplyDeleteNo sock horror stories from me, but I love your shopping acumen. It totally helps me.
ReplyDeleteI decided to wear no show socks instead of my orginal to the ankle socks. I got a great big blister it was not pretty and hurt for days.
ReplyDeletei would want to try the cep womens running o2 compression socks...in pink, natch. ;)
ReplyDeleteim all signed up for their newsletter!
ReplyDeletei like them on facebook.
ReplyDeletei tweeted too! (im @melhatesrunning)
ReplyDeleteI'm an deep into streaking so compression is now my first name. I'd love to try Zensh but have found CEP to be my current fav.
ReplyDeleteI do have several pair of wool socks which have worked great for colder weather trail runs when water was an issue.
I follow your blog, your DM and your FB (after you finally accept my request ;-) yeah, I stalk like that.
ReplyDeleteI told Sock Appeal hello on FB for you.
ReplyDeleteA horror story of the sock variety? Never told anyone this and it's more of a lack of sock story. Last year when I was pushing the jogger on every run with LBM I usually felt like I had packed and was pushing everything but the kitchen sink in that stroller. However, the one time I didn't take a little towel or baby wipes was the time LBM decided to have a diaper blowout. I could smell it from behind the stroller. My routes usually don't accomadated cutting short since my routes are loops so once you are so far out you just have to finish. Fast forward and LBM is in the laid back stroller bottom and legs covered with poop, only one spare diaper. I had to get his bottom as clean as I could since he was struggle with rash already. Let just say a few squirts of water from my bottle and two distroyed socks later he was pretty clean. The heels of my shoes were pretty blood covered till I got home.
ReplyDeleteYeah, mom of the year right here!
Signing up for Sock Appeals newsletter.
ReplyDeleteI follow you my dear :)
ReplyDeleteVisited the website & I would love to try the CEP Women's All Sports Compression Sleeves!!!
ReplyDeleteI signed up for their newsletter!
ReplyDeleteI liked socks appeal on fb & let them know that you sent me over !
ReplyDeleteI've got my eyes on lime green CEP socks!
ReplyDeleteI liked them on FB
ReplyDeleteAlready a follower
ReplyDeleteI'd like to try the green or pink CEP O2 Compression socks.
ReplyDeleteSigned up for newsletter.
ReplyDeleteZensah Recovery Compression Knee High Socks black
ReplyDeleteI like them on FACEBOOK
ReplyDeleteI follow them on twitter
ReplyDeleteI tweeted the message @carotabi
ReplyDeleteI have been dying to try iniji socks out!
ReplyDeleteI've visited their website and would love to try the CEP Women's Running O2 Compression Socks!
ReplyDeleteI liked Socksappeal on Facebook and told them you sent me!
ReplyDeleteI was really intrigued by the winter sports socks. The other socks I've used for skiing and mountaineering have been so bulky.
ReplyDeleteSigned up for the newsletter :)
ReplyDeleteLiked them on FB and commented :)
ReplyDeleteFollowed them on twitter and tweeted :)
ReplyDeleteAnd no sock horror stories, but I do think your socksy! :)
ReplyDeletei would try CEP Women's Running O2 Compression Socks. =)
ReplyDeletei signed up for the newsletter! :)
ReplyDeletei liked the facebook page and let them know that you sent me over =)
ReplyDeletei tweeted the giveaway and follow Socks Appeal on twitter =)
ReplyDeleteWould love to try the CEP Women's Running O2 Compression Socks (in pink of course).
ReplyDeleteSigned up for the newsletter.
ReplyDeleteLike SocksAppeal on FB & commented.
ReplyDeleteNo horror stories except lots of black toenails.
ReplyDeleteI already follow you
ReplyDeleteI liked them on facebook and commented
ReplyDeleteI followed them on twitter and tweeted the tweet
ReplyDeleteI signed up for their newsletter
ReplyDeleteMy horror story is a simple one: I forgot my socks for my second triathlon. I wore water shoes to the race so I could have my tennis shoes waiting for me at the bike transition but forgot to pack socks. So the last two thirds of the race i had wet feet in dry shoes. talk about ouch.
ReplyDeleteI'd love the try the green CEP O2 compression socks.
ReplyDeleteSigned up for the newsletter.
ReplyDeleteLiked their FB page and told them you sent me! :)
ReplyDeleteTweeted and am following on Twitter.
ReplyDeleteI don't have any sock horror stories of my own since I switched to wool-only for runs, but my 5 y/o is next to me on the couch with his stinky socks much, much too close to my face (and nose!). Does that count?!
ReplyDeleteI'm a follower...
ReplyDeleteThey have the Green CEP Women's Running O2 Compression Socks!!! Eeek... But I also love the Dahlgren Women's Sno Knee High Socks. So many choices!!!!
ReplyDeleteI'd buy the SmartWool PhD Running Light Micro Socks b'c I love every smartwool sock that I already own.
ReplyDeleteBecame a fan and posted on their wall.
ReplyDeleteNot an epic horror story, but I got a nasty bloody toe during my first 70.3. It hurt like a motha.
ReplyDeleteThe end of the sock was all stained. I kept it, and it has become my favorite sock to race in because it reminds me that there is always another level of hurt that I can go to on my way to a speedy finish.
If I could pick a pair I'd pick...
ReplyDeleteWigwam IronMan Flash Pro Low Socks (F6026)
Newsletter entry.... check :-)
ReplyDeletefacebook entry... check :-)
ReplyDeleteTwitter entry .... check :-)
ReplyDeleteSock story entry....
ReplyDeleteCan we say "Blister"?? I was hiking in TN when my socks rubbed a blister on the outside of my left foot. It if weren't for my husband and his duct tape I think my foot would have been bleeding through my shoe. (Does anyone else have a husband who fixes everything, including blisters with duct tape?)
Actually I would love to try the CW-X ventilator socks.
ReplyDeleteI signed up for the newsletter
ReplyDeleteFollow on twitter an tweeted it
ReplyDeleteNot a sock horror story per say but I am particular about the socks I wear on race day because of my horrible experience on my first race. I wore white experia socks, and I loved the socks, but after that race I said I would never wear them for a race ever again. So to this day, I have yet to wear white socks for any race. I am even hesitant to put them on for a training run.
ReplyDeletei'm a follower :)
ReplyDeletei'd totally stock up on some smartwool! those are all i use when running and biking, but i go for the micro :)
ReplyDeleteI think I would try CEP Women's Running O2 Compression Socks
ReplyDeleteI signed up for their newsletter
ReplyDeleteI already follow them on facebook and I left them a comment
ReplyDeleteI get blisters on a couple of my toes when I run long and I saw a review of the ininji toe socks as being great for preventing blisters...while I liked the socks in general...they made my blisters worse.
ReplyDeleteI'm a new follower!
ReplyDeleteI signed up for their newsletter
ReplyDeleteI liked Socksappeal on FB
ReplyDeleteI tweeted!
ReplyDeleteThe first thing I would try is a pair of compression socks - have yet to try them, but I'm just DYING to!
ReplyDeleteworst sock story is more related to my toes... didn't realize my nails had gotten too long, went out for a long run and came back with a bloody sock and shoe..... :(
ReplyDeleteI am following your blog
ReplyDeleteI would get a pair of the CWX Compression sleeves
ReplyDeleteI would like to try the cycling SmartWool Women's PhD Cycling Light Mini Socks
ReplyDeleteSigned up for the newsletter!
ReplyDeleteLiked socksappeal on facebook and posted on their wall that you sent me!
ReplyDeleteI tweeted!
ReplyDeleteNot so much a horror story for me but for my kids....too lazy to do their own laundry so they wear their shoes without socks yearround...you dont want to be in the same house when those shoes come off! Love to see no socks in the dead of winter too!
ReplyDeleteI would get the Zensah calf sleeves, because I could use them with my toe socks.
ReplyDeleteI signed up for the newsletter.
ReplyDeleteI like them on FB and left a message that you sent me.
ReplyDeleteNot too bad of a horror story, but on my first ever 10 mile run I developed some nasty blisters on toes. Haven't had that problem since switching to Injinji toe socks. Love them!
ReplyDelete