Note: As a BibRave Pro, I was sent a pair of Zensah Ultra Compression Calf Sleeves. This review contains my opinions and thoughts on the product. No other compensation has been received.
When I learned that I would be getting to try out and review a pair of Zensah’s newest compression sleeves, I was excited. Zensah has become my favorite compression for during a run as well as for recovery. Through Bibrave as a Bibrave Pro, I was sent a pair of the Ultra Compression Leg Sleeves in my choice of color (I choose pink of course).
Upon receiving the sleeves, I immediately wanted to try them out. I already own three pairs of the regular calf sleeves, so I was definitely curious about the difference between those and the ultra. The ultra compression leg sleeves are a bit of a tighter fit in the calves and shins which is supposed to help by decreasing muscle recovery time even more. The tighter fit is obvious as soon as you put them on. I thought of other leg sleeves I’ve tried and while these were immediately obviously a tighter fit, they went on fairly easily and I didn’t feel as though they were too tight. That closer, tighter fit to your legs is meant to help stabilize your muscles to increase performance if you wear them during a run or workout.
The first time I wore the sleeves was post-run as I worked from home. Not once did I feel uncomfortable in the sleeves or as if they were too constricting. Again, they are tighter than the standard Zensah sleeves, but not so much that you feel constrained in them. Of note, I also sized up on these leg sleeves due to this. So, while I wear a S/M in the standard leg sleeves, with the ultras, I am wearing a medium. I don’t think the small would be good, you want them to be tight, but not too much so. Zensah offers a sizing chart if you aren’t sure what size you need, so that is helpful.
I plan on wearing the sleeves this coming weekend for my 17-mile training run, so I’ll have to update this post later. Up until now, I have worn the regular Zensah leg sleeves for most of my long training runs as well as half and full marathons. I’m curious if the ultra leg sleeves help my recovery and performance even more.
Definitely recommend the ultra leg sleeves for recovery, and again their regular sleeves are top-notch in my book. If you have yet to try Zensah, do yourself a favor and pick up a pair. Not only are they comfortable, but they come in so many fun colors. You can match them to just about any race outfit!