REASONS TO BUY
Comfortable fabrics
Looser fit
Light padding underfoot
REASONS TO AVOID
Long length
Slow to dry
Looser fit
Zensah Tech+ Compression - Women's Review
Credit: Zensah
Our Verdict
The unisex Zensah Tech+ Compression sock was a runner up for our Editors' Choice Award and a favorite of many of our female testers. With the lowest level of graduated compression in this review (15-20 mmHg), this sock is perfect for ladies who want less compression and lots of freedom. Its material is soft to the touch and it features a little padding underfoot for long days on the trail. In our men's review, this sock received the Editors' Choice Award for its unmatched comfort. That said, if you're in the market for a sock with a little more compression, similar comfort, and a few more features, check out the Editors' Choice Award winner of our 2015 women's compression sock review: the 2XU Compression Performance Run.
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Zensah Tech+ Compression running sock is great for those that prefer a looser fit and comfy fabric. It earned high scores across almost all our metrics.
Performance Comparison
Taking a run on this colder desert day was a perfect function for the Zensah Tech+ sock.
Credit: Jared Vilhauer
Comfort & Fit
Similar to the 2XU Compression Run sock, the Zensah was one of the most comfortable compression socks tested. The polyamide/elastane blend fabric was one of the softest fabrics, plus it has antibacterial and UPF technology. Its graduated compression of 15-20 mmHg through the calf was the lowest of any sock tested. Many of our testers liked this "looser" fit, while others didn't. We also enjoyed the seamless toe with a streamlined fit. Some of our shorter testers mentioned that the socks were too long and some had to roll them down to make sure they fit properly.
The Zensah Tech+ offers less compression than our Editors' Choice winner, the 2XU Compression Run. This means that you might find the Tech+ more comfortable and easier to put on, but you might not feel quite as much support.
Padding
The light padding in the heel and toe (similar to the 2XU compression sock) contributes to a good fit.
Breathability
We were a little disappointed with the Zensah's long dry time after it was soaked. That said, it still did a great job wicking and would be perfect compadre for cooler wear.
The Tech+ earned one of the lowest breathability scores…if you're looking for a more breathable sock, check out the 2XU Compression run.
Ease of On & Off
Not surprisingly, the sock with the lowest level of compression was also the easiest to take on and off.
The thick band at the top of the sock made taking it on and off easy. Not to mention it adds comfort to the sock.
Credit: Amber King
Durability
Earning the second highest durability score, we only noticed minor pilling after many wash cycles. The material in the foot packed down only a little bit and the 200 needle count construction helped make the fabric very durable when trundling through the forest.
Best Applications
Given the lower level of compression and breathability, we would recommend this sock for activities like running, hiking, team sports, or other athletic endeavors in cold to cool weather. We wouldn't recommend it for hot weather or for recovery. That said, feel free to wear them if you stand on your feet all day. Our teacher and food service testers loved them for this purpose.
If you're somebody that likes a little less compression and lots of comfort, this sock is for you!
Credit: Jared Vilhauer
Value
For a ticket price of $49.99, these socks are a good deal if you're looking for a compression sock that still does its job with a little more wiggle room. If you're looking for a sock for the same price, but want more compression and more bells and whistles, check out our Editors' Choice - the 2XU Compression run sock.
Conclusion
If you like a looser fit and comfortable fabrics, the Zensah Tech+ may be right up your alley. This sock kept many of our testers' legs happy and it was a top competitor with our Editors' Choice winner.
Other Versions
See how the Tech+ - Men's fared against the competition in our men's review. This is the same sock, but this review will give you the low-down on what our guys thought of it. Not crazy about socks? Check out the Zensah Tech+ Compression Leg Sleeves for women.
—
Amber King