Review: 2XU calf guards with stirrup - helping my legs recover after running!

Another product for a 'Tuesday reviewsday!'

I was having post-running achilles pain in my left leg and had tried a number of things to help it.  I did a lot of internet searching and stumbled upon various information talking about calf guards and compression socks.  At this point it is important to stress that I am not a doctor or medical practitioner, but 2XU calf guards seem to have helped manage the achilles problem I was having.

2XU calf guards with stirrup

So what are calf guards?  Essentially they are like posh compression socks without the feet!  Standard calf guards fit over the calf, whereas I bought 2XU calf guards with a stirrup that cover the ankle and lower achilles too.

2XU calf guards with stirrup unboxed

I bought 2XU calf guards (I think I paid around £23 for them) and the 2XU website says that they 'reduce muscle fatigue and damage in lower legs.'  Like other 2XU products I have tried, they are made of high quality material and 'offer extra calf and shin support', with the 'foot stirrup giving added support to the Archilles [sic] region' (their spelling, not mine!)

Fitting is based around calf measurements - the chart on the back of the calf guard box gives the dimensions and I found a Large size was perfect and exactly in line with what the box says:

2XU calf guards size guide

So do they work? I haven't got enough evidence to show whether wearing the 2XU calf guards improves my  actual running times, but they seem to have really helped following a big run. I believe the principle of compression clothing is that, amongst other things, it helps blood flow and aids recovery as a result.  I have worn the calf guards post-race to help deal with after event flights home (they help!), during post-race driving and generally around the house on and off for the 24 hours afterwards.  They seem to take a day off of my recovery time and help me to start running again more quickly.

Calf guards seem to be available from all specialist running retailers.  This is the first 2XU product I have really tried and I recommend it!  I now need to save up to be able to buy some other 2XU stuff this autumn -  watch this space, I'll give you my opinions later this year!