CEP Progressive+ Run Socks 2.0

We were contacted by a (somewhat) local company, BrightLife Go, to review some compression gear. I picked out the CEP Progressive+ Run Socks 2.0 in blue.

Here’s some background on the company: BrightLife Go launched in 2014 as a new initiative of BrightLife Direct. The mission? Show the world the beauty, fashion and health benefits of compression hosiery. We believe that socks are more than an accessory – they are a tool to healthy living. Invigorate your legs, protect them from varicose and spider veins, improve recovery time after working out, stave off swollen ankles during pregnancy – these are just a few of the amazing benefits of compression hosiery. So – we ask you – why settle for socks that will only keep your feet warm? Why settle for insufficient circulation? Why wear boring white ankle socks? Try something different.

The Good

I love compression socks for several reasons. I know there is a lot of back and forth on the science of compression and whether or not it actually helps. But science aside, they seem to help me with recovery and also generally feeling better on long runs. The Progressive+ Run Socks 2.0 are intended to be worn while running, but can also be used for recovery. CEP suggests these socks increase energy, which I cannot endorse. However, I do think they help with circulation, activating the muscles, and creating a sense of stability and security while running. They are probably the most comfortable compression socks I’ve ever run in. They come with extra padding around the heel and toe and the material (85% Polyamide / 15% Spandex) is breathable, soft and stretches well. I opted for the blue/black coloring but the pink option was a close second.

The Bad

The sizing was off for me. I requested a size III for women and I should have gone with a size II. The fit of compression is the #1 selling point for me and it’s not an easy task. I’ve found that brands’ sizing for compression is all over the board. I based my sizing selection on measurements from CEP’s sizing guide, but I would go a size smaller. They were too big all around, loose-fitting around the calf and too large for my foot.

Conclusion

The quality, material, comfort and general design of the CEP Progressive+ 2.0 Run sock are great. The fit just wasn’t right for me. I think with a size down these could have been some of my favorite socks. If you’re using the CEP size guide, I would consider going a size down (especially if your measurements are close to a smaller size).

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