I think the best possible use of compression gear is to try to prevent DVT. And to look pretentious at the Expo the day before an IM.
I wear the full compression tights, Zoots, after really long runs or races. Mostly they just feel good and anything to prevent my leg muscles bouncing around even more that the race did to me helps that. I'll admit to wearing them on the plane on the way home from a race too when I was so sore I could barely walk. Did it both to prevent DVT and because it just felt good.
(waiting to board the plane in Phx. last October)
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Jen "In order to keep a true perspective on one's importance, everyone should have a dog that worships him and a cat that will ignore him." - Dereke Bruce