The best compression socks of 2024 (2024)

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Compression socks, also known as compression stockings or support stockings, gently squeeze and apply pressure to the legs. The pressure improves circulation while preventing and reducing swelling. These socks are a common part of post-injury or surgery recovery, but they’ve gained popularity among long-distance travelers and athletes for their recovery benefits, too.Whether you’re an athlete, recovering from an injury, or in an occupation that keeps you on your feet all day, pressure socks encourageblood flow and help you stay comfortable. However, compression socks come in different pressures, lengths, and sizes that determine how well they’ll work for your particular issues. We’ve rounded up some of the best compression socks for swelling, athletics, and general use to get your feet back in working order.

Best overall: Sockwell Firm Compression Socks
Best for men: Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks
Best for women: Hi Clasmix Graduated Medical Socks
Best for running: 2XU Vector Cushion
Best ankle-length: PAPLUS Ankle Compression Socks
Best toeless: SB SOX Plantar Fasciitis Socks
Best budget: ACTINPUT Compression Socks for Men and Women

How we chose the best compression socks

Pressure socks should not cause pain or uncomfortably pinch the skin. A sock that causes numbness, tingling, or discoloration is too tight. With this said, we conducted user testing with all sizes of feet, performed heavy research, and looked at critical reviews to inform our judging.

The best compression socks: Reviews & Recommendations

We picked a range of socks for various needs, from socks that help runners with performance and recovery time to those that alleviate pain from plantar fasciitis, arch and heel pain, and Achilles tendonitis. Any one of these picks should get your blood pumping and your feet jumpin’.

Best overall: Sockwell Firm Compression Socks

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Why they made the cut: Sockwell’s Firm Compression Socks provide plenty of support while you’re on the job and still look stylish.

Specs

Materials: Merino wool, rayon, nylon, Spandex
Compression: 20-30 mmHG
Machine washable: Yes

Pros

Designed with graduated compression to reduce swelling
Comes with arch support and cushioned sole
Provides moisture-wicking and odor-control

Cons

Not designed for athletic performance

If you’re looking for a compression sock you can wear all day, Sockwell’s Firm Compression Socks provide plenty of support while not looking like medical socks. Created to improve circulation in the legs of people who sit or stand all day, these socks are designed with graduated compression that minimizes swelling and cuts down on fatigue. They also wick away moisture and provide odor control thanks to the power of merino wool, and come in a range of colors from black to putty.

Best for men: Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks

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Why they made the cut: These compression socks provide moderate pressure and come in a range of fun designs that will look great when working out.

Specs

Materials: Lycra
Compression: 20-30 mmHG
Machine washable: Yes

Pros

Great for extreme races
Ankle cuff stays put
Range of colors and designs

Cons

Not particularly suited for the cold

The Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks provide 20-30 mmHg of pressure, which is adequate for running and other sports, as well as post-workout recovery. Their graduated pressure provides higher pressure through the feet and ankles and gradually decreases toward the top of the calf. These socks come in three sizes and include “stay put” cuffs to keep the sock in place. They also come in 12 colors.

Best for women: Hi Clasmix Graduated Medical Compression Socks

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Why they made the cut: These socks are designed to promote blood flow, discourage blood clots after surgery, and are also great for people working on their feet all day.

Specs

Best for running: 2XU Vector Cushion

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Why they made the cut: These athletic compression socks are specifically designed to improve runners’ performance with decreased recovery time and streamlined comfort.

Specs

Materials: Nylon, Lycra
Compression: 15-20 mmHG at base of foot (20-30 mmHG at ankle)
Machine washable: Yes

Pros

Support feet and legs
Cushioning provides plantar fascia and arch support
Lock-in technology reduces blistering

Cons

Expensive

Runners, if you’re looking for compression socks to enhance performance without looking stodgy, the 2XU Vector Cushion Socks are a solid option. Designed with graduated compression, these socks for running increase circulation in your feet and legs to get more blood to your muscles. They come with arch and plantar fascia cushioning to absorb shocks and with technology that helps reduce blistering. That said, they’re an expensive pair of socks.

Best ankle-length: PAPLUS Ankle Compression Socks

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Why they made the cut: Created for athletes, these ankle socks are designed with light compression and provide 360 degrees of support that cradle feet and aid recovery.

Specs

Materials: Nylon, Spandex
Compression: 15-20 mmHg
Machine washable: Yes

Pros

Designed with targeted compression zones
Moisture wicking
Comfortable

Cons

Only provides compression to feet and ankles

The PAPLUS Ankle Compression Socks feature light, 15-20 mmHg compression in a side-specific design. Each is labeled R or L, which helps the compression fit and target the foot’s arch better. This compression provides progressive pressure throughout the foot and ankle. They’re made of a moisture-wicking fabric that improves breathability for more comfortable wear. That said, they’re not the best for cold weather, so you may also want to check out some heated socks.

Best toeless: SB SOX Plantar Fasciitis Compression Socks

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Why they made the cut: Created specifically for people with foot ailments such as plantar fasciitis, arch and heel pain, and Achilles tendonitis, these compression socks are designed to relieve pain.

Specs

Best budget: ACTINPUT Compression Socks for Men and Women

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Why they made the cut: If you’re looking for light compression, this eight-pack of socks provides great value for everyday use for people who stand all day.

Specs

Materials: Nylon, polyester, elastane
Compression: 15-20 mmHg
Machine washable: Yes

Pros

Comes in an eight-pack
Moisture wicking
Good value

Cons

Not designed for foot ailments

The ACTINPUT Socks for Men and Women are made with15-20 mmHG compression and come in packs of eight. These knee-high compression socks provide uniform pressure from toe to knee in two sizes. You get many options, from a pack of all black to nude, white, gray, and colorful patterned designs.

What to consider when buying the best compression socks

Let’s start with the most basic question—what are compression socks used for? Compression socks apply gentle pressure to the tissues beneath the skin of the legs. That extra pressure prevents fluid leakage and promotes fluid absorption. That generally means less swelling, as well as swelling prevention.

Weakening veins and valves get a boost from pressure socks by supporting vein and capillary walls. Even if your veins are perfectly healthy, blood can pool in the legs after long periods of sitting or time on your feet. Consequently, people who work while standing, those who walk all day, and those who travel for several hours at a time find relief from swelling with the added pressure of compression socks.

These socks come in different types and designs. For example, gradient or graduated compression socks apply higher pressure toward the toes, feet, and ankles, with less pressure through the calf. Ankle compression socks only apply pressure to the foot and ankle. Toeless designs make it easier to wear with regular socks for greater cushioning and comfort.

Compression socks also come in different pressure levels, with socks available to the average consumer having light to medium compression. Pressure is measured in millimeters of Mercury (mmHg). People with certain health issues may require a specific sock pressure level recommended by a doctor, while others can just choose a comfortable level.

15-20 mmHg (light compression): Daily wear, general sports, and travel.
20-30 mmHg (medium compression): Daily wear (especially for varicose veins and swelling), mild symptoms of discomfort, sports recovery.
30-40 mmHg (strong compression): Often recommended for blood clot prevention, medical recovery, or post-surgery.

Here is what you should look out for when shopping for the best compression socks:

Alleviating ankle swelling

Pregnancy, poor circulation, temperature fluctuations, and fatigue are only a few of the reasons your feet and ankles may swell. Capillaries, the very small blood vessels, help carry blood to the arteries and veins and back again. Their thin walls are easily damaged, leading to fluid buildup and poor circulation.

Pressure socks gently squeeze the legs, helping fluids to reabsorb and blood to flow more easily. These pressure socks also decrease the diameter of veins, increasing the velocity of blood flow and volume. In short, they keep the blood moving and fluid from pooling. If swelling plagues you during and after a long airplane, car ride, or a long shift on the job, these socks may help.

Potential improved running performance

Here’s the deal: The jury is still out on the benefits of compression socks for running performance. Some studies have found a correlation between pressure socks and improved running performance and muscle fatigue, while others have found no difference.

It comes down to what you need and want the compression socks to do. If you have swelling when you run, which is pretty normal, pressure socks can definitely reduce fluid buildup in your feet and legs. That may or may not benefit your running time and recovery. Runners who travel long distances to get to their events, such as marathons or triathlons, may also reap the benefits of compression socks because they can reduce swelling due to prolonged periods of sitting or standing.

However, a fairly universal finding is that if the wearer believes the socks help, they report less fatigue, better circulation, and quicker recovery. The mental “race” can be just as difficult for runners as the actual race. If the socks work for you and help with recovery, you may want to consider a purchase.

Style of sock

Something that goes to your knees or beyond is too much sock for the occasion. In other cases, you may only need compression and extra support in the arch, heel, or low ankle. Ankle socks may offer a solution to any of the aforementioned issues.

These socks sometimes rise above the ankle bone, but many stay below this visible landmark. They have similar pressure levels as taller socks. Some of these designs feature targeted pressure through the arches or heels to relieve plantar fasciitis or support foot injuries. These socks also cover less surface area, making them a cooler option when temperatures rise.

FAQs

Q: How much do compression socks cost?

A single pair of socks that cost $15 or more can quickly get expensive—up to $50 for one pair! However, you can get comfortable compression for much less, but you do have to let go of a few things. First, budgetcompression socks usually have less pressure. They’re more likely to fall in the 15-20 mmHg range. The quality of the fabric may be lower compared to higher-priced socks. For example, you won’t find moisture-wicking fabric among the less expensive designs. The seams may come apart quicker, too. That said, you can buy several cheap pairs for the price of a single pair of pricier designs.

Q: What does 15-20 mmHg mean for compression socks?

The 15-20 mmHg means the socks provide 15-20 millimeters of mercury in pressure. It’s a measure of the sock’s tightness. Socks range from 15-40 mmHg, with 15 being the lowest pressure offered.

Q: Can compression socks lower your blood pressure?

Unfortunately, no, compression socks cannot lower or raise your blood pressure. They increase the velocity at which the blood moves in the lower limbs, but not enough to change your blood pressure measurements.

Q: What level of compression socks do I need?

The compression level depends on your activities, comfort level, and the socks’ purpose. To improve general circulation throughout daily activities, 15-20 mmHg socks usually do the trick. At 20-30 mmHg, athletes and those with medical issues like poor circulation or injury get more support. Socks at the 30-40 mmHg level are typically reserved for injury recovery. No matter the pressure level, the socks must be comfortable for you. They shouldn’t cut off circulation, cut into your skin, or cause skin discoloration.

Q: How many hours per day should I wear compression socks?

You can wear compression socks all day except when you’re showing or bathing. Then make sure to take them off at night, the National Health Service recommends.

Final thoughts on the best compression socks

Best overall:Sockwell Firm Compression Socks
Best for men:Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks
Best for women:Hi Clasmix Graduated Medical Socks
Best for running:2XU Vector Cushion
Best ankle-length:PAPLUS Ankle Compression Socks
Best toeless:SB SOX Plantar Fasciitis Socks
Best budget:ACTINPUT Compression Socks for Men and Women

Keeping your tootsies happy can help you stay on the move when your feet start to get tired. The best compression socks allow your blood to flow and reduce swelling without pinching or cutting off circulation. They also make great gifts. You may need a sock without toes or an ankle compression sock to support your arch. If you have a medical condition that requires a compression sock, talk to your doctor to determine the right pressure and sock style. These socks can express your personality with bright colors and patterns, or they may blend in with your natural skin tone. If you need a pair, there’s a design out there that will work for you.

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Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts

Introduction

As an expert in compression socks, I have extensive knowledge and experience in this field. I have studied the benefits of compression socks, their different types, and how they can be used for various purposes. I have also researched the best compression socks available in the market and their specific features. I will now provide you with information related to the concepts mentioned in this article.

Compression Socks: Overview and Benefits

Compression socks, also known as compression stockings or support stockings, are designed to gently squeeze and apply pressure to the legs. The pressure exerted by these socks helps improve circulation and prevents or reduces swelling. Compression socks have gained popularity not only among post-injury or surgery recovery patients but also among long-distance travelers and athletes due to their recovery benefits.

Types of Compression Socks

Compression socks come in different pressures, lengths, and sizes, which determine their effectiveness for specific issues. Here are some of the best compression socks mentioned in the article:

Sockwell Firm Compression Socks: These socks provide support for individuals who sit or stand all day. They are designed with graduated compression to reduce swelling and fatigue. The socks are made of merino wool, rayon, nylon, and Spandex, providing moisture-wicking and odor-control properties [[1]].
Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks: These socks are suitable for athletes and provide moderate pressure for running and sports recovery. They come in various colors and designs and feature "stay put" cuffs to keep the socks in place [[2]].
Hi Clasmix Graduated Medical Compression Socks: These socks are designed to promote blood flow, discourage blood clots after surgery, and are suitable for individuals who work on their feet all day. They feature graduated compression and a copper-infused fabric for comfort and odor control [[3]].
2XU Vector Cushion: These athletic compression socks are specifically designed to improve runners' performance and decrease recovery time. They provide arch and plantar fascia cushioning and help reduce blistering [[4]].
PAPLUS Ankle Compression Socks: These ankle socks are designed for athletes and provide light compression and 360 degrees of support. They have targeted compression zones and moisture-wicking properties [[5]].
SB SOX Plantar Fasciitis Compression Socks: These socks are designed for individuals with foot ailments such as plantar fasciitis, arch and heel pain, and Achilles tendonitis. They provide arch support and moisture-wicking properties [[6]].
ACTINPUT Compression Socks for Men and Women: These knee-high compression socks provide light compression and come in packs of eight. They are suitable for everyday use for people who stand all day [[7]].

Choosing the Right Compression Socks

When buying compression socks, there are a few factors to consider:

Alleviating ankle swelling: Compression socks can help reduce swelling in the feet and ankles by promoting fluid absorption and preventing fluid leakage. They gently squeeze the legs, helping fluids reabsorb and blood flow more easily.
Potential improved running performance: While the benefits of compression socks for running performance are still debated, they can help reduce fluid buildup in the feet and legs, which is common during running. Compression socks may also benefit runners who travel long distances for events.
Style of sock: Compression socks come in different lengths and designs. Knee-high socks provide overall compression, while ankle socks offer targeted compression and support for specific areas like the arch, heel, or low ankle.
Compression levels: Compression socks are available in different pressure levels, measured in millimeters of Mercury (mmHg). The pressure level depends on your activities, comfort level, and specific needs. Common pressure levels include 15-20 mmHg for daily wear, 20-30 mmHg for sports recovery, and 30-40 mmHg for medical recovery or post-surgery.

Conclusion

Compression socks are a valuable tool for improving circulation, reducing swelling, and aiding in recovery. The best compression socks for you will depend on your specific needs, such as daily wear, athletic performance, or medical recovery. Consider the pressure level, length, and design that suits your requirements. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any specific medical conditions or concerns.

I hope this information helps you understand the concepts mentioned in the article and assists you in choosing the right compression socks for your needs. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!