Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Compression Mock: Ultimate Performance Gear for Cold Weather

How does Under Armour’s ColdGear Compression Mock enhance athletic performance in cold conditions. What are the key features and benefits of this popular compression shirt. Why do athletes and fitness enthusiasts choose this cold weather base layer.

The Ultimate Cold Weather Base Layer: Under Armour’s ColdGear Compression Mock

Under Armour’s ColdGear Compression Mock stands out as a top choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts seeking optimal performance in cold weather conditions. This versatile base layer combines advanced fabric technology with a sleek, form-fitting design to provide unparalleled warmth and comfort during intense physical activities.

Key Features of the Under Armour ColdGear Compression Mock

• Dual-layer fabric with a warm, brushed interior and a fast-drying exterior
• 4-way stretch construction for enhanced mobility
• Moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry and comfortable
• Anti-odor technology to prevent the growth of odor-causing microbes
• Mock neck design for added warmth and protection
• Flatlock seams to prevent chafing

The Science Behind ColdGear Technology: How It Keeps You Warm and Dry

Under Armour’s ColdGear technology is specifically engineered to regulate body temperature in cold environments. How does it work? The dual-layer fabric construction is the key. The inner layer is soft and brushed, trapping heat close to the skin for insulation. Meanwhile, the outer layer is smooth and fast-drying, wicking away sweat and moisture to keep you dry.

This innovative fabric combination creates a microclimate around your body, maintaining an optimal temperature for athletic performance. The result? You stay warm without overheating, even during high-intensity activities in cold conditions.

Sizing and Fit: Ensuring Maximum Compression Benefits

Proper sizing is crucial for reaping the full benefits of compression gear. The Under Armour ColdGear Compression Mock is designed to fit snugly against the skin, providing support to muscles and improving blood circulation. How do you choose the right size?

Under Armour Men’s Size Chart

For optimal performance, the compression mock should fit true to size. If you’re between sizes, consider sizing down for a more compressive fit or up for a slightly looser feel. The four-way stretch fabric allows for a wide range of motion, even with a snug fit.

Versatility in Action: From Winter Sports to Everyday Wear

The Under Armour ColdGear Compression Mock’s versatility makes it a valuable addition to any active wardrobe. Its applications extend far beyond traditional winter sports. How can you incorporate this piece into various activities?

• Winter running and outdoor training
• Skiing and snowboarding
• Hiking and camping in cold climates
• Football and soccer practice in chilly weather
• Layering under work uniforms for outdoor jobs
• Casual wear on cold days

The mock neck design provides additional warmth and protection for the neck area, making it particularly useful for activities where wind chill is a factor. The sleek, form-fitting silhouette also allows for easy layering under other clothing without added bulk.

Color Options and Style: Blending Function with Fashion

While performance is paramount, Under Armour hasn’t neglected style with the ColdGear Compression Mock. The garment is available in a range of colors to suit various preferences and needs. Some popular options include:

• Classic Black/Steel for a versatile, neutral look
• Royal Blue/White for a bold, sporty appearance
• Red/Black for high visibility during outdoor activities
• Gray/White for a subtle, understated style

The variety of color choices allows athletes to coordinate their base layer with team colors or personal style preferences. The clean, streamlined design of the mock neck also contributes to its aesthetic appeal, making it suitable for wear beyond just athletic contexts.

Durability and Care: Maintaining Your ColdGear Investment

Investing in high-quality performance wear like the Under Armour ColdGear Compression Mock requires proper care to ensure longevity. How can you maintain the garment’s performance properties over time?

Care Instructions

1. Machine wash cold with like colors
2. Use mild detergent and avoid fabric softeners
3. Tumble dry low or hang to air dry
4. Do not iron or dry clean
5. Avoid using bleach

Following these care instructions will help preserve the fabric’s compression properties, moisture-wicking ability, and overall shape. With proper care, your ColdGear Compression Mock can remain a reliable part of your cold-weather gear for many seasons.

Customer Reviews and Satisfaction: Real-World Performance

The true test of any performance gear lies in real-world use. The Under Armour ColdGear Compression Mock has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews from customers, with a 4.7 out of 5-star rating based on over 12,500 reviews. What do users appreciate most about this product?

• Exceptional warmth without bulkiness
• Effective moisture management during intense activities
• Comfortable fit that doesn’t restrict movement
• Durability that withstands repeated washing and wear
• Versatility for various cold-weather activities

Many customers report using the ColdGear Compression Mock as their go-to base layer for winter sports and outdoor work, praising its ability to keep them warm and dry in challenging conditions.

Comparing ColdGear to Other Cold Weather Performance Wear

In the competitive market of cold weather performance wear, how does Under Armour’s ColdGear technology stack up against other options? While many brands offer thermal base layers, ColdGear distinguishes itself through several key factors:

ColdGear vs. Traditional Thermal Wear

• Advanced dual-layer fabric vs. single-layer thermal materials
• Compression fit for muscle support vs. loose-fitting thermal underwear
• Moisture-wicking technology vs. moisture-absorbing cotton blends
• Odor-resistant properties vs. standard fabrics prone to odor retention

The ColdGear Compression Mock’s combination of warmth, moisture management, and compression benefits sets it apart from traditional thermal wear, making it a superior choice for active individuals in cold conditions.

ColdGear vs. Other Performance Brands

When compared to similar products from other leading athletic brands, the Under Armour ColdGear Compression Mock often receives praise for its:

• Optimal balance of warmth and breathability
• Durable construction that maintains compression over time
• Wide range of sizes, including tall options for better coverage
• Competitive pricing for the level of technology and performance

While personal preferences play a role in choosing performance wear, the ColdGear Compression Mock’s consistently high ratings and positive reviews indicate its strong position in the market.

Sustainability and Ethical Considerations in Performance Wear

As consumers become increasingly conscious of the environmental and ethical implications of their purchases, how does Under Armour address these concerns with products like the ColdGear Compression Mock?

Under Armour’s Sustainability Efforts

Under Armour has made strides in recent years to improve the sustainability of its products and operations. Some initiatives relevant to the ColdGear line include:

• Increasing use of recycled materials in fabric production
• Implementing water-saving techniques in manufacturing processes
• Developing more durable products to reduce overall consumption
• Working towards more transparent supply chains

While the ColdGear Compression Mock may not be made entirely from sustainable materials, its durability and long-lasting performance contribute to a reduction in the need for frequent replacements, aligning with principles of sustainable consumption.

Ethical Manufacturing Practices

Under Armour has also taken steps to ensure ethical manufacturing practices throughout its supply chain. The company adheres to a Supplier Code of Conduct that addresses:

• Fair labor practices and workers’ rights
• Workplace safety standards
• Environmental compliance in manufacturing facilities
• Transparency and accountability in supplier relationships

By choosing products like the ColdGear Compression Mock from companies committed to ethical practices, consumers can support positive change in the athletic wear industry.

Innovative Applications: ColdGear Beyond Athletics

While the Under Armour ColdGear Compression Mock is primarily marketed for athletic use, its advanced temperature regulation and moisture management properties have found applications beyond sports. How are people using this technology in unexpected ways?

Medical and Therapeutic Uses

Some medical professionals and patients have found benefits in using ColdGear compression wear for various conditions:

• Post-surgery recovery to promote circulation and reduce swelling
• Management of chronic conditions like Raynaud’s syndrome
• Therapeutic support for joint issues in cold weather

While not a substitute for medical-grade compression garments, the accessibility and comfort of ColdGear products make them a popular choice for daily wear in these contexts.

Occupational Applications

Workers in cold environments have also adopted ColdGear technology to improve comfort and safety on the job:

• Construction workers in winter conditions
• Refrigerated warehouse employees
• Outdoor event staff and security personnel
• Arctic and Antarctic research teams

The durability and performance of ColdGear fabric make it well-suited for demanding work environments where temperature regulation is crucial.

The Future of Cold Weather Performance Wear

As technology continues to advance, what can we expect from the next generation of cold weather performance wear? Under Armour and other leading brands are constantly innovating to improve their products. Some potential developments on the horizon include:

• Smart fabrics with built-in temperature sensors and adjustable insulation
• Enhanced sustainability through bio-based and fully recyclable materials
• Integration with wearable technology for real-time performance tracking
• Customizable compression levels for personalized fit and support

While the current ColdGear Compression Mock represents the cutting edge of cold weather performance technology, ongoing research and development promise even more advanced solutions in the future.

Making the Most of Your ColdGear Compression Mock

To fully capitalize on the benefits of the Under Armour ColdGear Compression Mock, consider these tips for optimal use:

Layering Strategies

Effective layering is key to managing body temperature in cold conditions. How can you incorporate the ColdGear Compression Mock into a layering system?

1. Start with the ColdGear Compression Mock as your base layer
2. Add a mid-layer of fleece or wool for additional insulation if needed
3. Top with a weather-resistant outer shell to protect against wind and precipitation
4. Adjust layers as activity level and weather conditions change

This versatile approach allows you to maintain comfort across a range of temperatures and activity levels.

Maximizing Performance Benefits

To get the most out of your ColdGear Compression Mock, consider these usage tips:

• Wear the mock directly against your skin for optimal moisture-wicking
• Ensure a snug, compression fit to support muscles and improve circulation
• Use for both high-intensity activities and recovery periods
• Pair with ColdGear bottoms for full-body temperature regulation

By incorporating these strategies, you can enhance your cold weather performance and comfort, making the Under Armour ColdGear Compression Mock an indispensable part of your active wardrobe.

Amazon.com: Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Compression Mock : Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry

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Brand Size	US Size	Chest (in)	Waist (in)
XS	XS	31 – 34	28 – 29
S	S	34 – 37	29 – 31
M	M	37 – 41	31 – 34
L	L	41 – 44	34 – 37
XL	XL	44 – 48	37 – 41
XXL	XXL	48 – 52	41 – 45. 5
3XL	3XL	52 – 56	45.5 – 50
4XL	4XL	56 – 60	50 – 54.5
5XL	5XL	60 – 64	54.5 – 59

Amazon.com: Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Armour Compression Mock Long-Sleeve T-Shirt : Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry

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Fit:

True to size. Order usual size.

Color:

Black (001)/Steel

Size:

Select X-Small Small Medium Large Large Tall X-Large X-Large Tall XX-Large XX-Large Tall 3X-Large 3X-Large Tall 4X-Large 4X-Large Tall Select

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Size Chart

US Shirt

Brand Size	US Size	Chest (in)	Waist (in)
XS	XS	31 – 34	28 – 29
S	S	34 – 37	29 – 31
M	M	37 – 41	31 – 34
L	L	41 – 44	34 – 37
XL	XL	44 – 48	37 – 41
XXL	XXL	48 – 52	41 – 45. 5
3XL	3XL	52 – 56	45.5 – 50
4XL	4XL	56 – 60	50 – 54.5
5XL	5XL	60 – 64	54.5 – 59

Roxtec Wedge Compression Block and Roxtec Wedgekit

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Roxtec Transit Designer™

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Roxtec Transit Designer™ is your shortcut to safety and efficiency.

This free web application simplifies product selection as well as the entire cable and pipe gland design process.

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The Roxtec Wedge compression block is used in frames with rectangular sealing zones to seal cables, pipes, modules and spacer plates. The Roxtec Wedgekit contains all the necessary components to compress a system.

• Used with appropriate Roxtec components as part of a complete sealing system

WEDGE 120 GALV
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WEDGEKIT 60 AISI316

• Overall dimensions, W (mm)
  60

• Weight (kg)
  0. 8

• article no.
  AWK0006001011

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WEDGEKIT AISI316

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  120

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  1.5

• article no.
  AWK0001201021

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WEDGE 60 AISI316

• Overall dimensions, W (mm)
  60

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  0. 4

• article no.
  ARW0000601021

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WEDGE 120 AISI316

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  120

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  0.8

• article no.
  ARW0001201021

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WEDGEKIT 60 GALV

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  60

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  0. 8

• article no.
  5AWK000000283

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WEDGEKIT GALV

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  120

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  1.5

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  AWK0001201018

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  60

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Header	Dimensions, W (mm)	Weight (kg)	Ref. No.
WEDGEKIT 60 AISI316	60	0.8	AWK0006001011
WEDGEKIT AISI316	120	1.5	AWK0001201021
WEDGE 60 AISI316	60	0. 4	ARW0000601021
WEDGE 120 AISI316	120	0.8	ARW0001201021

Zinc plated mild steel

Header	Dimensions, W (mm)	Weight (kg)	Ref. No.
WEDGEKIT 60 GALV	60	0. 8	5AWK000000283
WEDGEKIT GALV	120	1.5	AWK0001201018
WEDGE 60 GALV	60	0.4	ARW0000601018
WEDGE 120 GALV	120	0. 8	ARW0001201018

comparison of in vivo and in vitro measurements

Clinical studies have shown that the effect of compression therapy in chronic venous insufficiency depends mainly on two factors [1-4]:

1) compression pressure of the product on the limb;

2) elastic properties (stiffness) of the material, which determine the action of knitwear in standing and walking positions.

With each muscle systole, the circumference of the tibia increases, which leads to an increase in back pressure from the compression bandage. This effect is more pronounced, the lower the elasticity of the fabric of the product.

These parameters, which determine the “dosage” of compression therapy, are of great interest to clinicians and should be declared in future studies. The physician prescribing compression products rarely realizes that the pressure ranges indicated on the packaging are obtained in laboratory conditions and not in tests in vivo . Typically, the pressure exerted by the knitwear is calculated from the force/tension diagrams of the elastic product, which are obtained on the model of the limb of a certain cross section using the Laplace formula. The pressure range specified by the manufacturer is determined by the force that must be applied to the elastic product at a certain level in order to stretch it in the transverse direction. The ratio of the amount of tension to the force spent on this tension at different levels of the product forms the degree of slope of the so-called “force/tension curve”, which reflects the elasticity of the material [5].

Recently, measuring devices have been introduced to determine the pressure and stiffness of compression products in vivo [6]. The aim of this study was to compare the pressure and stiffness of several medical compression garments measured directly on the extremity with the same parameters determined using methods used by knitwear manufacturers.

Material and methods

Subject parameters. The pressure exerted by several compression garments was measured on 12 lower extremities of 6 employees of Salzmann Medico (St. Gallen, Switzerland) after obtaining their informed consent to participate in the study. The average age of the participants in the experiment was 43.2 years (range 20-61 years). The studied limbs are divided into clinical classes in accordance with the CEAP classification as follows: C0 (6 limbs), C1 (4) and C2 (2). In table. 1 summarizes some basic information about volunteers. None of them used compression stockings in everyday life. The study was carried out in the laboratory of Salzmann Medico in Switzerland.

Measurements in vivo . A medical knitwear tester (TMT) manufactured by Salzmann Medico was used. It is a flat, air-filled sleeve with a large surface area and minimal volume, with 4 electrical contacts that allow pressure measurements at 4 levels [7].

Measurements were taken at the following points along the inner surface of the lower leg [8, 9]:

B – region of the ankle joint posterior to the medial malleolus;

B1 – 8 cm higher, at the junction of the Achilles tendon to the gastrocnemius muscle;

C – 19 cm above the ankle joint in the middle part of the leg;

D – 30 cm above the ankle joint.

In fig. 1Figure 1. Measurement of compression pressure using TMT. Measurement points: B (ankle level), B1 (gaiter level), C (level of the largest circumference of the lower leg), D (level below the knee joint). the TMT is shown mounted on a wooden leg model and the measurement points are marked. Compression stockings (Salzmann Medico) fitted at the ankle and below the knee were tested for TMT in the following configurations: one Venosan 1st compression stocking; two golf Venosan 1st compression class; one golf Venosan 2nd compression class; one golf Venosan 3rd compression class. The pressure range at the level of point B, declared by the manufacturer for the 1st class as 15-21 mm Hg, for the 2nd class as 23-32 mm Hg. and for the 3rd class as 34-46 mm Hg, complied with European standards [8, 9]. These standards regulate the pressure profile along the limb: at point B1, the pressure should be 70-100%, at points C and D – 50-80% of the initial pressure at the ankle level. In vivo pressure measurements of were taken with the volunteer lying down and standing. The B1 level measurement point on TMT was taken as a reference point and marked on the leg and on the stocking. As an important parameter characterizing the elastic properties of the tested products, the static stiffness index (SSI) was calculated, which is the difference in resting pressure at point B1 in the position of the test subject lying on his back and in the standing position [10].

in vitro measurements . The same socks that were tested on the legs of volunteers were put on wooden lower limb models with TMT to measure pressure at different levels (see Fig. 1).

In accordance with the parameters obtained from the measurement of the lower limbs of volunteers, models of three sizes were used: small, medium and large (see table. 1). Then, transverse segments 5 cm wide were cut from the knitwear at the level of point B1. These ring segments were installed in a Zwick dynamometer, and after 5 repeated cycles of overstretch, force/stretch curves were calculated [9].

On the 6th cycle, the stockings were stretched to half the circumference at point B1, which was 13.5 cm for small, 15 cm for medium and 17 cm for large. The resulting force/stretch curve is the ratio of the tensile force in newtons (N) to the elongation (stretch) in centimeters. The pressure is determined by the ratio of the tensile force to the surface area. The unit of pressure is pascal (Pa), 1 Pa is equal to the ratio 1H/1 m ² . In medicine, pressure is usually measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg), while 1 N / cm ² equals 75 mm Hg. The local pressure P1 for the B1 segment is calculated by dividing the force by the surface area of ​​a cylinder 1 cm high and a circumference equal to the circumference of the limb at the level of B1. Based on the resulting curve, you can calculate the force required to stretch the product one additional centimeter. It can be used to calculate the local pressure of segment B1 when the circumference increases by 1 cm (P2). The difference P2-P1 corresponds to the rigidity of the product, which is the change in pressure when the segment is stretched with an increase in its circumference by 1 cm [8].

Statistical analysis. The results of the study are presented as means and standard deviations. Compression products were compared using the non-parametric Friedman test and Dunn’s test for multiple analysis. To compare different measurement methods, the nonparametric Spearman rank correlation coefficient and the Bland-Altman method [11] were used.

Results

Pressure measured with TMT. In tab. Figure 2 shows the pressure values ​​exerted by the studied knitwear at all measurement points in the standing and lying position both on the volunteers’ legs and on limb mock-ups.

Pressure differences between compression classes were found to be statistically significant at the B1 level, which was the baseline in our dyno comparisons. The pressure of various models in position B1 was within the pressure range declared by the manufacturer for each compression class. Mean pressure measured at the ankle (point B) on the lower limb was often lower than the pressure at point B1, while on the wooden mock-up the higher values ​​were always measured at the ankle. Thus, a direct comparison of our data on the B1 level obtained by in vivo , with pressure values ​​ in vitro declared by the manufacturer, is not possible. This is due to the fact that international standards rely on measurements at ankle level B, which is poorly suited for in vivo measurements of [6].

It is interesting to note that the highest pressure was obtained when using two stockings of the 1st class, dressed one on top of the other, which turned out to be even higher than the pressure of the stockings of the 3rd compression class.

Comparison of pressure values ​​obtained on TMT ( in vivo ) and using dynamometry ( in vitro ). When comparing products worn in one layer, the pressure values ​​of golf of different compression classes, measured using TMT at level B1, were similar to the values ​​calculated on the basis of force/tensile curves obtained by dynamometry of circular knitwear segments cut at level B1 (Fig. 2).Figure 2. Compression pressure measurement comparison in vivo and in vitro . Left: The pressure of several compression garments measured with the TMT at point B1 (gaiter level). Right: Pressure calculated from force/stretch curves obtained from dynamometry of some compression garments. Bland-Altman plot (Fig. 3), Figure 3. Bland-Altman plot for comparing TMT and dyno measurements. Comparison of compression pressure values ​​measured with TMT at point B1 (sock level) with calculated values ​​obtained using force/extensibility curves based on dynamometry in vitro . On the abscissa – the degree of coincidence of measurements; along the y-axis – differences in the measurement results. plotted on the basis of the pressure values ​​of the golf, worn in one layer, shows that the measurement values ​​of in vivo and in vitro are very close. The displacement (deviation from the mean value) was 2.13 and 4.1 mmHg. In 95% of subjects, the deviation was in the range from -0. 1 to 5.8 mmHg. The correlation was statistically significant (Fig. 4; Fig. 4. Correlation between the compressive pressure values ​​of class 1-3 knitwear, measured using TMT in vivo and Zwick dynamometer in vitro . CI – confidence interval. R

Hardness. Rigidity is defined as an increase in compression pressure per 1 cm increase in limb circumference [8]. The static stiffness index (SSI) was defined as the pressure difference between an active standing position and a relaxed lying position [6, 10]. SSI measured with TMT on 12 knee socks at four points (B, B1, C, D) was 2.96±8.19; 3.78±3;84; 3.06±4.44; 1.96±7.82, respectively. The highest pressure values ​​are observed at the B1 level, the region of the lower leg with the most pronounced change in the local radius and an increase in the circumference of the lower leg in the position of the foot dorsiflexion [12]. In vitro stiffness was calculated from the degree of slope of the force/stretch curve. As shown in fig. 5, Figure 5 Static Stiffness Index (SSI) of various compression stockings measured with TMT in vivo (pin vitro (pin vitro (not shown in graphs). and in measurements in vitro , and in measurements in vivo , the maximum stiffness values ​​were obtained when using two stockings of the 1st compression class, dressed one on top of the other, and with a statistically significant difference compared to knitwear of the 2nd compression class when measured in vivo (pin vitro (p

Pressure gradient. All stockings showed a decrease in pressure from point B1 to point D both on wooden leg models and on the limbs of volunteers in both lying and standing positions (Table 2). On fig. 6Figure 6. Pressure values ​​obtained when using knitwear of the 3rd compression class on the lower limb in the prone and standing position of the subject, as well as on a wooden model of the limb (DMK). the average values ​​of the pressure created by the 3rd compression class knitwear on the limbs of volunteers in the prone and standing positions, as well as on a wooden model, are reflected. At ankle level (point B) in vivo , the pressure was lower than when measured on a model limb, due to differences in the geometry of this anatomical region.

Talk

It is noteworthy that the indicated pressure ranges and classification of medical compression products into compression classes are based entirely on in vitro measurements of by the manufacturer. Single attempts were made to compare several measurement methods [13]. The present study demonstrated that, at least for the products tested, the stated pressure ranges satisfactorily matched the measurement results in vivo .

Test subjects. Healthy volunteers with different configurations of the lower extremities were selected for the study. Pressure and stiffness parameters measured immediately after putting on compression stockings do not differ between healthy subjects and patients with pathology of the venous or lymphatic systems. Since a good correlation was shown between the pressure values ​​of the knitwear on the limbs of the volunteers and the wooden leg model, even severe lipodermatosclerosis would not have affected the results of the measurements obtained in the acute experiment. However, if such studies are directly focused on the elimination of edema, it may be appropriate to re-measure the compression pressure and volume of the limb some time after putting on the knitwear.

Measurement methods and points. Based on a comparative study using three compression band pressure measuring devices, J. Dale et al. [14] recommended TMT for use in subsequent experiments. This tester is reliable in routine use and allows you to measure the pressure on the inner surface of compression stockings at several points simultaneously [7, 14]. The disadvantages of the device are its limited availability, applicability only for the state of rest and the impossibility of continuous measurement of pressure while walking.

For knitwear manufacturers, the area around the ankle is the reference for compression class and pressure range. level B. The stretch of the knitwear, measured with a dynamometer, is transferred to the surface of a cylinder with a circular cross section in such a way that theoretically it should be the same at each point of segment B. In reality, segment B on the lower limb, corresponding to the cross section at ankle level, has the most variable curvature of all other limb segments. In fact, the pressure values ​​measured in the posterior malleolar region are often lower than the pressure value at level B1, i.e. 8 cm higher (see Table 2), which emphasizes the importance of the local radius of the limb segment (according to Laplace’s law, local pressure is inversely proportional to the radius) ^[1] .

Pressure gradient. As shown in the table. 2 and in fig. 6, the wooden leg model, with its round cross-section, provides uniform pressure relief in the proximal direction. The pressure values ​​coincided with the measurements of in vivo at the level of the maximum circumference of the lower leg (point C) and below the knee joint (point D), where the transverse section of the lower leg is close in shape to a circle and does not change significantly in the standing position. In vivo pressure values ​​at point B are lower, which is associated with the location of the measurement point posterior to the ankle, where the contour of the perimeter of the limb is flat, and in some cases concave. The greatest pressure difference in the standing and lying positions was determined at level B1 (see Table 2, Fig. 6), which indicates the optimality of this position for assessing the rigidity of knitwear.

Stiffness study in vivo . Rigidity can be defined as an increase in compressive pressure with an increase in limb circumference by 1 cm (due to muscle contraction) [8]. This parameter characterizes the extensibility of the tissue, which determines the effectiveness of the compression product in the standing position and when walking [8, 10]. Several experiments have shown that even at the same resting pressure, knitwear with higher stiffness is more effective in eliminating edema [3], reflux [2] and dynamic venous hypertension [1] in patients with chronic venous insufficiency. When the sensor is placed on the inner surface of the lower leg in position B1, the increase in pressure when moving from a lying position to a standing position is a simple indicator of stiffness, a static stiffness index [10]. This increase in pressure is due to a decrease in the local radius due to displacement (protrusion) of the muscle tendon (in accordance with the Laplace equation) and an increase in leg circumference during dorsiflexion of the foot with each step [12]. Plethysmography in the standing position with dorsiflexion and plantar flexion showed the dependence of the change in the circumference of the lower leg on the measurement point. In segment B1, an average increase in limb circumference by 8 mm was recorded, while in the proximal tibia, a decrease in circumference by 2–4 mm was determined [12]. Changes in the local radius due to displacement of the tendons during movement in the ankle joint are very individual. The high variability in the values ​​of the static stiffness index mainly reflects significant individual differences in the shape of the lower leg in the standing position and when walking.

A greater increase in pressure was noted when using an inelastic material and a smaller one when using a pliable, elastic knitted fabric [6, 10]. The stiffness index of compression stockings is lower than that of short stretch compression bandages. Comparison of stiffness values ​​is possible only when the same sensor is exactly installed in the same position [6].

An unexpected finding was that two stockings of the 1st compression class, worn one on top of the other, not only provided a higher pressure at level B1 than a stocking of the 3rd compression class (see Table 2), but also showed a higher stiffness coefficient as in measurements in vivo and in the in vitro tests (see Fig. 5). This phenomenon can be explained by friction between the two layers of the fabric of compression garments [12]. When the calf circumference increases while standing or walking, tangential stress is transferred to the fibers of the compression stocking. The friction between the rough surface of the knit layers prevents the increase in the volume of the lower leg in addition to the elastic stretch of the fibers of the fabric.

Compression pressure measurement validity in vivo . The pressure values ​​obtained using a tester of medical knitwear on the limbs of volunteers not only agree well with those obtained on a wooden model (see Table 2), but also correlate with the calculated data on the force / stretch curves (see Fig. 4) . This contradicts the recently published data obtained by measuring in vivo compression pressure of class 3 knitwear using a resistive sensor, which did not exceed 15 mmHg. [15]. In this study, unfortunately, no attempt was made to calibrate the sensor or compare its readings with the reference method.

Our in vivo measurements of closely match the pressure ranges recommended in several international standards, measured not at point B, but at point B1, which is more reliable in this respect. To ensure a pressure gradient, the European Standardization Project recommends creating pressure at point B1 at a level of 70-100% of its value at point B [8]. This should be taken into account when comparing the results of measurements at point B1 in vivo and in vitro (see Figure 2).

Practical value for international standards for compression stockings. The following items need to be discussed with compression garment manufacturers:

– to characterize the different degrees of compression of knitwear, not compression classes, but pressure ranges in mmHg should be used;

– pressure ranges, which are currently only determined by various laboratory tests, must also be verified in vivo ;

– point B1 should be used for such measurements;

– in vivo measurements must be performed with the patient lying down and standing. The difference in values ​​at this point can be used as a stiffness parameter;

– measurements of this kind should be performed in subsequent hemodynamic and clinical studies with testing of new developments or comparison of various devices;

– multilayer stockings are an interesting solution not only in terms of ease of use by patients, but also in terms of achieving high pressure and high stiffness. The desired pressure can be matched to the periods of daily activity and rest by adding or removing layers of knitwear.

^[1] Translator’s note. The authors do not correctly apply Laplace’s law. In accordance with this law, with an increase in the radius of a vessel with a flowing liquid, the pressure in it decreases proportionally, i.e. The pressure inside a vessel is inversely proportional to its radius. However, in this study, compression pressure (external to the limb) is considered, which, due to the stretching of the compression stockings, increases in direct proportion to the increase in the radius of the limb.

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