Have you ever had your feet become swollen and stiff? If you are pregnant, a hiker, or you backpack a lot, you may have experienced this uncomfortable sensation. But, did you know it is the result of blood pooling in your feet? This can be a dangerous condition if left untreated and can cause thrombosis, phlebitis, edema.
One cost effective and natural way to treat this issue is to purchase a pair of compression socks. Compression socks can vary in their strength and style, so the socks you may need for varicose veins can differ from someone else who may need the best compression socks for edema. Here are a few tips on what to look for in a compression sock and a few reviews to help you start shopping for the best compression socks for you.
What is a compression sock?
Constructed of woven rubber or elastic material, a compression sock is like a sleeve that is ergonomically designed with a tight opening and loose bottom. It concentrates its compression on the ankle and becomes looser as it goes up your leg. The compression gives you increased blood flow and keeps blood from pooling in your foot causing swelling and other serious conditions. There are certain types of socks that are the best compression socks for plantar fasciitis while others are good for running.
Choosing the Right Size
Finding the right size for your compression socks is different than sizing for regular socks or hosiery. You will want to have a tape measure handy and take a few measurements of the circumference of your thigh, calf, and ankle as well as the space between either your thigh or your knee to the floor. Depending on what length compression sock you are choosing, your measurements will vary.
Choosing the length of your compression socks depends on why you are choosing to wear them. If you have a medical condition, your doctor may want you to wear stockings to address your pain or medical issues instead of socks that come to your knees.
Thigh-high socks are often prescribed to prevent DVY post-surgery, but there isn’t conclusive evidence that they are any better than knee-high socks. The most comfortable length to wear is the knee-high length, and this is the length that is usually chosen when you are using them for a non-medical reason. Knee-high length is ideal if you are standing on your feet for long periods of time or if you are running.
Choosing a Compression Level
There are Three different gradient compression levels. The higher the support, the higher the number, and, if you are just starting to wear compression socks, it is a good idea to start with lower numbers and work up until you get to the compression level you prefer. It is always a good idea to check with your doctor to help decide on the correct compression level for you.
Best Compression Socks On The Market
Ladies 6 Pair Pack
If you are looking for a high-quality pair of compression support socks that work in many situations, Dr. Motion’s fine quality compression support knee-hi socks should do the trick. They are created with travelers, athletes, and people that both sit and stand all day in mind, and they are one of the best compression socks for women.
Dr. Motion’s knee-hi socks are constructed with a special material using a technique that will give you a healthy and comfortable fit all day. They have a comfort band construction that lessens swelling and energizes your legs.
Dr. Motion’s knee-hi socks are non-binding with graduated compression that helps circulation and a smooth seamless toe for a comfortable fit. They come in assorted packs, so you will have quite a few designs to choose from.
Things We Like:
- Ideal for tall women with larger calves
- Color and comfortable and they hold up well in the wash
- Easy to put on and they stay up without sliding
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Not enough compression for some women
MediPEDS Men’s 4 Pack
If keeping your feet healthy is important, you need to take a look at MediPEDS. MediPEDS were created to focus diabetes-related symptoms as well as swelling, leg fatigue, and dry skin. They are a definite contender as one of the best compression socks for men.
MediPEDS are made with yarns plus comfort features that lessen foot irritation and leg pressure. They have a graduated fit with mild compression that lessens swelling in the ankles and legs.
If you are looking for all day support, MediPEDS is designed to help fight leg fatigue. The Lycra spandex gives you the best fit that hugs your feet with less slippage that can cause blisters. MediPEDS is also a national partner of the American diabetes association and is dedicated to helping people who suffer from diabetes.
Things We Like:
- Easy to take on and off
- Very comfortable and give a lot of relief to someone with diabetes related leg issues
- Perfect for those that work on their feet all day
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Material is on the thin side
Ladies 6 Pair Pack Compression Knee-Hi Socks
You can’t find a more fun and colorful set of compression knee-hi socks than Dr. Motions. If you are traveling, sit all day, or play sports, here are a fun and comfortable set of compression socks. They feature graduated compression that helps your circulation while lessening swelling and leaving your legs feeling energized.
Dr. Motion’s knee-hi socks are created with a special technique and material that give you a comfortable and healthy feeling all day long. They include a smooth and seamless toe that adds more comfort to your fit.
These are non-binding socks with a comfort band construction that are colorfully designed and available in an assorted pack.
Things We Like:
- Make your legs feel more energetic
- Colorful and comfortable
- Fit correctly and aren’t too uncomfortable or too tight
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Fabric feels a little coarse
Gone For a Run Performance Compression Knee Socks
When you want to make a fashion statement, but need compression socks to boost your performance, look no further than Performance Compression Running Socks. You’ll find fun colors and designs in a true graduated compression sock.
These are Run Technology socks that are created to increase blood flow resulting in faster recovery time and larger performance gains. These are ideal for athletes that are recovering from recent injuries that also give you the most comfort possible.
You’ll find true graduated compression 15-20 mm Hg in a knee high length that gives you the most coverage. Athletes will also appreciate the muscle support, plus its temperature and moisture regulation.
These are really comfortable and good looking socks wrapped up in the same package.
Things We Like:
- Compression is very effective
- Colors and patterns are cute and vibrant
- Keeps your ankles from swelling up
Things We Didn’t Like:
- The foot size runs on the small side
PEDS Women’s Diabetic Over The Calf Socks
For the ladies who are also looking for diabetes–related support in a compression sock, the PEDS Women’s Diabetic Over the Calf Socks help reduce swelling and leg fatigue. They are made with a Lycra spandex that gives you the best fit that hugs your feet.
The PEDS have a graduated fit with a mild compression that reduces leg and ankle swelling while working as all day support to combat leg fatigue. You will also see fewer blisters as the PEDS calf socks have less slippage, and they help to less leg pressure and foot irritation.
Things We Like:
- Just enough compression to keep down swelling
- Thick enough to wear in cooler weather
- They don’t leave marks on your legs from the compression
Things We Didn’t Like:
- The foot of the sock is on the large side
Sockwell Men’s Circulator
For those of you that do not want to wear your parent’s compression sock, the Sockwell Compression Socks are revolutionizing the industry. Sockwell has redesigned its therapeutic sock with what they call a “lifestyle look”. They are one of the best compression socks for pregnancy.
Each step will be energized with Sockwell’s graduated compression socks that reduce swelling, lessen fatigue, and increase recovery times. They are offered in several fun colors and patterns to help you look good while you travel, exercise, or sit or stand for long periods of time.
Sockwell’s Compression Socks were created to increase circulation with their anti-fatigue design that features a triple zone. Sockwell provides two graduated compression levels that can be used for everyday which are firm (20-30 mm Hg) and moderate (15-20 mm Hg).
The two levels of compression increase circulation and lessen swelling and fatigue while the Accu-fit technology made of spandex keeps the same fit wash after wash making them one of the best compression socks for varicose veins. Sockwell also features an ultra-light cushion sole as well as arch support and a reinforced Toe and Heel Box that keeps the sock from slipping throughout the day.
Things We Like:
- Thicker for good compression and they come in lovely designs
- Help with feet and leg pain, and they aren’t too hot
- Socks help with circulation, but aren’t too constricting
Things We Didn’t Like:
- A little on the long side
Foot Sleeves Best Plantar Fasciitis Compression Socks
When your feet problems start to affect your quality of life, it is time to look for some relief. Suffering from Plantar Fasciitis requires outstanding support and compression from the best compression socks for Plantar Fasciitis. CompressionZ Foot compression sleeves that give you a full range of motion while providing a snug fit to reduce plantar fasciitis symptoms.
When combating the swelling and pain you get from plantar fasciitis, you need stable and sturdy pressure to assist in your recovery. This targeted pressure also helps lessen swelling and symptoms from metatarsal, Achilles tendon, and heel pain as well.
They are constructed of a comfortable and breathable anti-itch material that reduces odor and insulates your ankle and foot while giving you good arch and heel support without irritation and chafing. The CompressionZ compression sleeves retain their shape, wash after wash, and do not slide down as you are wearing them. They also increase your blood flow, but aren’t so tight that they reduce your flexibility or movement.
These are great compression socks for those that stand or sit for long periods of time, as well as athletes that enjoy running, jogging, basketball, hiking, and cross training.
Things We Like:
- Gives good support around your ankle and arch
- Relieves pain associated with plantar fasciitis
- Very effective in reducing swelling
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Material is on the thin side for some people
Graduated Compression Socks By Kunto Fitness
Kunto Fitness presents graduated compression socks that give you even compression across your lower legs and your feet. Not only do they increase your blood circulation, but they also provide relief from muscle aches, plantar fasciitis, and inflammation.
Kunto Fitness Compression Socks are very versatile and are perfect to wear playing basketball and tennis, or biking, hiking, running, or jogging. They have an incredible fit that allow you to perform your best and give you a full range of motion.
Protective padding is provided across the heels and balls of your feet giving you unparalleled comfort. Kunto Fitness also features a superb moisture wicking capability that prevents those painful blisters you get out on your morning run.
These compression socks are constructed with the form fitting, breathable Drystat compression fabric that gives you stability no matter what your activity. They are specifically designed to continuously give you superb support and comfort without restricting your movements.
The Drystat Weave creates firm support that lessens fatigue and muscle pain while keeping your feet odorless and dry. Kunto Fitness has improved their compression socks to drain lactic acid and reduce leg pain helping you to do more than you were able to before.
The Kunto Fitness Compression Socks work for either men or women, no matter what your activity.
Things We Like:
- Very easy to put on and take off
- Well-padded in the toe and heel
- Works well to get rid of varicose veins
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Not enough graduated compression for some people
Compression Socks 7-Pack For Men and Women By Footloose
Footloose Compress Socks offer knee to toe protection that gives you comfortable compression at 15-20 mm Hg that makes moving around easier, improves circulation, and increases your performance. They are made of a premium blend of Nylon and Spandex, so they are breathable and extremely moisture absorbent.
Footloose also features innovation in its quick drying and anti-bacterial material that works great for those with a lot of leg sweat or who have foot sensitivity. They protect against fungal feet infection with their superb moisture-wicking qualities.
Footloose has expertly designed their compression socks to shield your joints and muscles while normalizing you blood flow and the efficiency of your valves. Plus, they help to naturally energize your legs, and they are one of the best maternity compression socks on the market.
When you evenly distribute your blood, you are helping your veins work more efficiently to pump it back to your heart. You are also helping to make sure all of your body has perfectly oxygenized blood making it safe against swelling and potential injuries.
These are a great option whether you are a nurse that works long shifts, year after year, or a an athlete that enjoys running, jogging, cycling, or working out. This is one of the easiest and effective countermeasures that you can find to help fight against long-term foot related health problems.
Things We Like:
- Expands well for large calves
- Very helpful with DVT and sitting at a desk all day
- Well-made and comfortable
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Loses compression after some use
Wanderlust Air Travel
If you love to travel, but suffer from swelling and pain, you need a pair of compression socks to get you through those long flights. Wanderlust Air Travel Compression Socks provide therapeutic relief from swelling and pain with true medical grade graduate compression between 25-30 mm Hg.
Wanderlust compression socks are easy to get on and off your legs, and they won’t feel too tight. They feature advanced technology for the most comfort with a seamless toe box to lessen friction and stop corns and blisters.
The Wanderlust also offers extra foot padding that absorbs impact and guarantees ventilation with arch and heel support that will relieve plantar fasciitis. They include compression that is effective without being painfully tight giving you just the right amount of gradient compression that relieves the stress and pain from traveling, diabetes, arthritis, working, DVT, edema, or plantar fasciitis.
The leg cuffs can be adjusted to fit your height, and the Wanderlust compression socks feature unique weaving that keep the socks from slipping down as you wear them. Their simple design won’t leave red marks on your legs like their competitors, and there is no more friction and rubbing that can cause blisters and rashes with the seamless toe box.
Things We Like:
- Works well to reduce swelling after long plane trips
- Very comfortable, fit well with shoes
- Comfortably warm, great for cooler weather
Things We Didn’t Like:
- A little hard to get on and off
Premium Calf Compression Sleeve by Doc Miller
Next are calf compression sleeves that you can actually feel work. The Doc Miller Calf Compression Sleeves are durable and breathable. They are made of high-grade Nylon and Spandex that gives you a comfortable and snug fit.
Not only will you feel fresh for new activities, they have the ideal graduated support from 20-30 mm Hg that lets you blood flow to where it is needed. The seamless woven construction gives the Doc Miller sleeves the same fit wash after wash. Their compressive fit gives you increased support and performance by enhancing your blood circulation and stopping injuries.
When you are arching and having swelling and cramps, putting on the Doc Miller sleeves will give you noticeable improvement to lessen muscle soreness and speed up your recovery from injury. That gives you the chance to feel stronger and train harder.
They have the ideal opaqueness that has a professional feel and look with a compression level that will last you a long time. These calf sleeves give you a snug fit without the discomfort of slippage or bunching while you move making them one of the best mens compression socks on the market.
They are created for either men or women and you have a wide array of color and sizes to pick from. The Doc Millers are perfect for running, cross fit, martial arts, hiking, basketball, cycling and working out.
Things We Like:
- Very affordable, great color choices
- Smooth material with no seams
- Great to have compression just on your leg and not on your feet
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Slightly on the small size
Who should wear compression socks?
Many people can benefit from wearing compression socks. If you have medical conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or are at risk for blood clots from sitting or standing too long, compression socks can be helpful to reduce pain and swelling. It can also prevent more serious condition like post-thrombotic syndrome.
You can also buy the best compression socks for varicose veins, leg ulcers, edema, or those with circulatory problems that can help people find some relief from pain and allow them to become more active again. Athletes also appreciate the increased blood flow and improved performance they will see when they wear compression socks.
Type of Compression Socks
If you are looking to combat weak vein function from pooling blood, gradient compression socks are specially woven to counteract this issue. They target veins in your calves and apply the most pressure on your leg just over your ankle and become less restrictive as they go up to your knee.
If you have long periods of inactive behavior, gradient compression socks are very effective in preventing symptoms of poor circulation and blood clots. Gradient compression socks are also a good option if you have vein dysfunction, but still wish to remain active.
Anti-Emulsion Socks
If you are recovering from surgery or are bedridden, anti-emulsion socks, that are also called TED hose, can be prescribed for you to prevent blood clots. You will probably only hear of these from your doctor, and they are not available at your local pharmacy.
How do compression socks work?
Circulation problems, vein wall weakness in your legs, and lack of movement can cause the blood in your veins to work overtime to flow back towards your heart. This can trigger blood to pool in your feet and lower legs can lead to achiness, swelling, and leg fatigue, plus you can a higher chance of getting a venous clot. Compression socks help the veins return blood to your heart by squeezing your leg tissue and the vein walls. The fluid that bathes the cells also has improved flow in your legs that lessens tissue swelling.
Compression socks can also improve comfort for healthy wearers that want to feel more energized, improve their athletic performance, and prevent injuries.
Conclusion
Whether you have a medical condition or are healthy and want to reenergize your legs, it is easy to find the best compression socks for your needs. Everyone can benefit from increased blood flow including athletes that want to boost their performance, those that are recovering from surgery, or if you just need some pain relief and need the best compression socks for edema, varicose veins, or thrombosis. No matter what your condition, you will be able to find a pair of compression socks that can targets your issue and greatly improve your overall health.
