The CEP Run Elliptic Mid Cut Compression Socks are a comfortable and compressive sock to wear on your longer adventues.

Details

• Compression Benefits: Joint and Muscle Stabiliziation, Secure Fit, and Enhanced Circulation
• Medical-grade Compression (20-30mmHg)
• Grooved Airflow Channels
• Moisture-Wicking Fabric (87% Polyamide, 13% Elastane)
• Targeted Padding
• 3D Grip Surface
• Shock-Absorbing Cushioning
• Ergonomic Toe Box

Fit and Function

According to the CEP size guide, I'm a size medium and I've found that the CEP Run Elliptic Mid Cut Compression Socks run true to size. The cushioning underfoot and along the Achilles is well done, providing enough cushion while not taking up a ton of space or feeling spongey.

I was curious about how a crew height compression sock would feel. My main experience with compression garments is either as a knee-height sock or full leg tight. Would the compression be effective with half the sock height?

CEP Run Elliptic Mid Cut Compression Socks

My first wearing of the CEP Run Elliptic Mid Cut Compression Socks was a happy accident. I received samples of the socks the day prior to departing to Utah for the UCI World Cup in Soldier Hollow. I tossed them into my luggage without a real plan for when to wear them. The morning of the Cross County Short Course, due to muddy conditions, I opted to wear a pair of trail running shoes that had an ankle gaiter. I packed several socks - all but one, the CEP socks were too short for the ankle gaiter to be comfortable. So I wore the CEP socks for a full day of spectating, which included a lot of walking on asphalt and dirt and scrambling around rock features. We were on our feet from 8 AM to 5 PM. Normally, at the end of day like this, my feet would have been a bit swollen and feeling tired and sore. But after the first day of UCI spectating, my feet felt pretty fresh. I ended up wearing the CEP socks on for the UCI Cross Country Olympic race day and had a similar, and pleasant experience.

Post race pics with UCI Champion Alessandra Keller

So the CEP Run Elliptic Mid Cut Compression Socks definitely fits the casual "lots of time on my feet" test. But how do they feel running?

I've worn the CEP Run Elliptic Mid Cut Compression Socks on several runs in multiple pairs of shoes. Most runs have been around an hour in duration, some on pavement and some on trail. I am not training for anything long right now, so an hour is about as long as I'll be running continuously for the next few months.

CEP Run Elliptic Mid Cut Compression Socks

Sometimes with compression socks, you toes can feel a bit cramped. That's not the case with the CEP Run Elliptic Mid Cut Compression Socks. The toebox is plenty generous, allowing for movement and to compensate for any possible swelling. The rest of the sock is nicely supportive - the socks feels like a gentle hug. The cushi

CEP Run Elliptic Mid Cut Compression Socks[/caption]oning is what I'd consider medium; it's definitely there and noticeable but you don't sink into the cushion. It just feels good.

While running, I didn't have any issues with circulation. My feet never once went numb or felt too compressed. I also didn't experience any rubbing or blisters. The socks stayed put and felt nice. The mid-calf height is also nice for trail running, easily accommodating gaiters and keeping debris from going inside your sock.

CEP Run Elliptic Mid Cut Compression Socks

I was also curious about any noticeable edema - a visible sock dent in your shin after wearing socks for a period of time. Would the CEP socks leave bigger mark than my other socks due to their compressive nature? I had a mild edema on both legs at the sockline (which happens even with casual socks). The swelling was very normal, especially compared to what other socks do.

I haven’t worn them cycling (yet!) but I imagine these socks would be ideal for longer bike rides. My feet have a tendency to swell on long bike rides, to the point where for Ironman races, I’ll wear ankle-height mildly compressive shorts. The CEP Run Elliptic Mid Cut Compression Socks are also purpose-built for running, so I imagine I’ll be experimenting with wearing these for triathlon races. The mid-calf height is easy to pull onto your foot quickly, and the compression combined with cushioning might make these an ideal triathlon sock for me.

Closing Thoughts

The CEP Run Elliptic Mid Cut Compression Socks are an easy to wear compression sock that doesn't scream "medical grade compression".  There are many scenarios that make wearing these socks a smart idea - anything from spending a full day on your feet to running and cycling.

The CEP Run Elliptic Mid Cut Compression Socks are available in 5 colorways (ranging from neutral to bright) and in sizes ranging from XS to XL.