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We Tested the Best Compression Socks of 2024 for Running, Traveling, and More

Our top picks offer firm pressure, solid support, and a budget-friendly price

Person wearing Copper Fit Easy On/Easy Off Knee High Compression Socks

Verywell Fit / Emily Johnson

Even if you exercise regularly, sitting down for long periods of time or standing all day at work can cause tightness and cramping in your legs and feet. A good pair of compression socks help promote better blood flow and circulation in your lower body, keeping that dull achiness at bay. Athletes and other active people may also experience less muscle fatigue and soreness after wearing compression socks, especially when recovering from intense workouts.

As you shop for compression socks, look for ones made from breathable fabric with a comfortable amount of pressure. High-quality compression socks are also budget-friendly and supportive to prevent your calves and feet from swelling. 

To find the best compression socks, we tested 25 pairs from the most trusted and popular brands at home. We wore them for one week, assessing how they fit, how much pressure they provided, and whether they helped relieve soreness, tingling, or swelling in our legs and feet. Then, we rated each pair on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) for fit, support, feel, and overall value. We also had a doctor of physical therapy from our Review Board review this article for medical accuracy, how to use compression socks, and the best way to evaluate them. These are our favorite compression socks for boosting blood flow and relieving fatigue, whether you’re on your feet all day long or planted at a desk. 

Who should not wear compression socks?

Although our experts confirmed that most people can wear compression socks on a regular basis, they aren’t for everyone. Avoid compression socks if you have severe peripheral artery disease (PAD) since they may overly restrict your blood flow. If you’re unsure whether compression socks are right for you, consult with your healthcare provider before purchasing a pair.

Best Overall

Levsox Compression Socks

Levsox Compression Socks

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Value
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Feel
    5/5
Pros
  • Budget-friendly

  • Soft, stretchy material

  • Wash well

Cons
  • No solid colors available

Ultra-comfortable and supportive, LEVSOX’s Compression Socks are our top overall pick. We love that they’re snug, but not too tight, with a higher pressure rating of 20 to 30 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) that felt like it was massaging our feet. They were easy to put on, and we noticed that our legs felt significantly less tired after sitting, standing, and walking in them for hours. 

We particularly like the material. Made from a blend of nylon and spandex, these socks are silky smooth, breathable, and flexible—almost like a pair of tights or high-quality compression leggings. We didn’t experience any irritation while wearing them, even behind our knees (where many sock bands can cause chafing and discomfort). Plus, we found that they still looked like new after multiple washes. 

The price is on the lower end of the range on our list: Sets of three pairs start around $20, while a set of six pairs only costs a few dollars more. And if you’re looking for stylish compression socks, we love that these come in fun prints. But there aren’t any solid colors to choose from if bold patterns aren’t your style.

Key Specs: 
Compression:
20-30 mmHg | Material: Nylon, spandex | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Walking, standing, sitting, traveling, recovery

Person wearing Levsox Compression Socks adorned with foxes

Verywell Fit / Rebecca Sheehan

Best Budget

Charmking Compression Socks

CHARMKING Compression Socks

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Value
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Feel
    4.7/5
Pros
  • Band won’t slip or roll down

  • Moisture-wicking

  • Gentle support

Cons
  • May not be as breathable as other options

If you’re shopping on a budget, CHARMKING’s compression socks have our vote. We found that they provided plenty of support, whether we were walking, sitting, or working out. You can pick up a set of eight for a fraction of what other individual pairs on our list cost—and since the sets are so large, you’ll get plenty of wears in between loads of laundry.

We love how comfortably compressive these socks feel, offering 15 to 20 mmHg of moderate pressure. We also like the band, which never rolled down or bunched up, even when we wore them for 12 hours at a time. And we love the reinforced heel, which has thick cushioning for a softer feel underfoot.

While we like that these socks are moisture-wicking, we did find that our feet occasionally felt sweaty. This means they may not be as breathable as other pairs on our list, like lululemon’s MicroPillow Compression Knee-High Running Socks, which have mesh accents for better airflow. But we appreciate that there are so many colors and styles to choose from, from basic black and beige to bright patterns and neons. 

Key Specs: 
Compression:
15-20 mmHg | Material: Nylon, spandex | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Walking, standing, sitting, traveling, recovery

A person lifting up their legs while wearing the wearing colorful striped and polka dot Charmking Compression Socks

Verywell Fit / Surfina Adams

Best for Circulation

SockWell Women's Elevation Firm Graduated Compression Socks

SockWell Women's Elevation Firm Graduated Compression Socks

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Value
    5/5
  • Fit
    4.8/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Feel
    5/5
Pros
  • Firm, effective compression

  • Good arch support

  • Breathable

Cons
  • May be hard to put on

For low circulation, we recommend compression socks made from high-quality materials that offer firm support. While testing, we found that SockWell’s Elevation Firm Graduated Compression Socks checked all of these boxes and then some. Right away, we noticed how well they fit, with a secure band that didn’t bunch up or roll down. 

When we took them off, our legs and feet weren’t tired at all—we felt our circulation improve after day one. If your feet tend to sweat, you’ll appreciate the material, which includes Merino wool, for a soft feel and better breathability. The addition of rayon, nylon, and spandex also makes these socks durable, preventing any pilling or shrinking after we washed them repeatedly. 

The design of the sock targets additional support under the arches of your feet for all-day comfort. And we like that you can save a few dollars by purchasing the Elevation Sock in a three-pack. Just note that the higher level of compression means this pair may be more difficult to put on.

Key Specs: 
Compression:
20-30 mmHg | Material: Merino wool, rayon, nylon, spandex | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Walking, standing, sitting, traveling, recovery

Sockwell Women's Elevation Firm Graduated Compression Sock on wood flooring

Verywell Fit / Abigail Moore

Best for Travel

Away Travel The Compression Socks

Away Travel The Compression Socks

Away

Our Ratings
  • Value
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Feel
    5/5
Pros
  • Odor-resistant

  • Quick-drying

  • Comfortable

Cons
  • Shorter length may not appeal to everyone

Lightweight and breathable, with a subtle design, Away’s Compression Socks are our top pick for long flights or car rides. Right away, we noticed how comfortable they were, with a moderate 15 to 20 mmHg of support that never felt overwhelmingly tight. The band stayed up without digging into our calves, and we loved how much these look and feel like regular walking socks

We felt a significant difference after sitting all day in these, with more energy in our legs and feet. And we liked that the looser toe allowed for a better range of motion, so we could wiggle our toes freely without our feet feeling squeezed. 

The material is soft, durable, and washes well. On road trips, when you want to put your feet up on the dash, your fellow passengers will appreciate these socks’ quick-drying, odor-resistant qualities. But if circulation in your calves is the main issue, you may need a taller pair of socks with more support near your knee, like Wellow’s Compression Socks.

Key Specs: 
Compression:
15-20 mmHg | Material: Cotton, polyester, Lycra, nylon | Length: Below the knee | Best for: Traveling, sitting

A person wearing the Away Travel Compression Socks

Verywell Fit / Phoebe Sklansky

Best for All-Day Wear

SB Sox Compression Socks

SB SOX Compression Socks

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Value
    4.7/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Feel
    5/5
Pros
  • Breathable

  • Wash well

  • Secure fit

Cons
  • Reinforced toe may feel uncomfortable to some

During our test, we found that SB SOX’s Compression Socks were low-profile and easy to wear. We liked how they fit, with supportive fabric that was snug but not difficult to put on. The band stayed put while we went about our day and didn’t bunch up, dig in, or slide down. 

We noticed that these socks were effective, too, relieving our tight, tired calf muscles. And we loved how breathable they were, enabling our full range of motion without growing sticky or damp. Plus, they showed no signs of wear or tear, even after multiple washes. 

Like CHARMKING’s Compression Socks, this pair has a reinforced heel with extra cushioning. The toe is also reinforced—although some wearers have found that the toe seam fabric can feel uncomfortable over long periods of time. (However, we didn’t notice this when testing.) 

Key Specs: 
Compression:
20-30 mmHg | Material: Nylon, spandex | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Walking, standing, sitting, traveling, recovery

A person walking up carpeted stairs with the SB SOX Compression Socks on their feet

Verywell Fit / Ciara McCune

Most Breathable

Bluemaple Copper Compression Socks

Bluemaple Copper Compression Socks

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Value
    5/5
  • Fit
    4.3/5
  • Support
    4.8/5
  • Feel
    5/5
Pros
  • Budget-friendly

  • Wash well

  • Easy to put on and take off

Cons
  • Material may feel itchy

Bluemaple’s Copper Compression Socks fit seamlessly into our daily routines during testing. Made from a lightweight, breathable blend of nylon and polyester, these socks kept our feet cool and dry. If sweaty feet are your pet peeve, you’ll appreciate the performance fabric’s moisture-wicking capabilities.

With an easy-on, easy-off design, we were impressed that the band stayed in place while we sat down and stood up multiple times. We found they offered light, comfortable compression—although we did notice that after around eight hours of wear, the material started to feel itchy.

Still, we saw a difference after the first wear. Our feet and legs felt less tired and heavy, and when we chose not to wear the socks the next day, our fatigue came right back. The socks washed well, too, without pilling or stretching out. We also love that they’re one of the more budget-friendly options on our list, with plenty of bright colors and patterns to choose from.

Key Specs: 
Compression:
Not listed | Material: Nylon, polyester | Length: Below the knee | Best for: Walking, standing, sitting, traveling, recovery

A person wearing sneakers and Bluemaple 6 Pack Copper Compression Socks

Verywell Fit / Allison Vancura

Best for Pregnancy

Bombas Women's Strong Compression Socks

Colorful Bombas Women's Strong Compression Socks

Bombas

Our Ratings
  • Value
    5/5
  • Fit
    4.9/5
  • Support
    4.7/5
  • Feel
    5/5
Pros
  • Comfortable compression

  • Seamless toe

  • Good arch support

Cons
  • May not be compressive enough for some

When combined with regular exercise, compression socks can help relieve swelling and other symptoms in your lower body both during pregnancy and postpartum. Our editor found that Bombas’ Strong Compression Socks successfully prevented swelling in her legs and feet on long flights during her second and third trimesters. She also noted that, while supportive, the socks were so comfortable that she frequently forgot she was wearing them. 

We like that the secure band doesn’t slide down or bunch up. And the fabric contains a breathable blend of cotton, spandex, polyester, and nylon to keep your feet cool and dry.

Unlike other socks with rough toe seams that can cause irritation, Bombas’ socks feature a seamless toe for additional comfort. 

We also love the arch of the sock, which targets extra support right where your feet need it the most. Just note that while they’re called Strong Compression Socks, they provide the same firm pressure as many other socks on our list. 

Key Specs: 
Compression:
20-30 mmHg | Material: Cotton, polyester, spandex, nylon | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Walking, sitting, traveling, recovery, pregnancy

A person wearing the Bombas Women's Strong Compression Socks

Verywell Fit / Andrea Mandell

Best for Wide Calves

Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks

Amazon Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Value
    4.6/5
  • Fit
    4.6/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Feel
    5/5
Pros
  • Firm, effective compression

  • Comfortable material

  • Easy to put on and take off

Cons
  • May be too long for some

If you’ve had issues with compression socks being too tight or rolling down, you may need a pair that’s designed to fit wider calves. When testing, Physix’s Gear Sport Compression Socks fit our editor (who has larger calves) perfectly. She noted how easy they were to put on and take off, even though she usually struggles to pull compression socks all the way up. However, she did find that these socks were slightly too long, bunching up at her knees. 

Even so, the band stayed in place, and the 20 to 30 mmHg of pressure visibly reduced swelling in her feet and calves. We also love the fabric, which is soft and breathable. The socks held up well after washing and didn’t feel itchy after hours of wear, unlike Wellow’s Compression Socks.

We like the double-stitched seams, which are strategically placed to prevent chafing. And Physix provides a detailed size chart, plus a money-back guarantee, so you can shop confidently. 

Key Specs:
Compression:
20-30 mmHg | Material: Nylon, spandex | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Walking, standing, sitting, traveling, recovery

A persong wearing the Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks

Verywell Fit /  Karen Chen

Best for Walking

SockWell Women's Winterland Moderate Graduated Compression Socks

SockWell Women's Winterland Moderate Graduated Compression Socks

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Value
    4/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Feel
    5/5
Pros
  • Warm, but lightweight

  • Comfortable compression

  • Moisture-wicking

Cons
  • May run small

Do you find yourself daydreaming about putting your aching feet up while at work? We recommend SockWell’s Winterland Compression Socks for combatting pain and fatigue from walking all day. When testing, we noticed that they provided moderate, comfortable support, with 15 to 20 mmHg of pressure (similar to Away’s The Compression Socks). 

The band was secure, staying put even after hours of walking. But our favorite feature was the fabric: Our editor, who often gets cold feet in the winter, noted that the socks kept her warm and comfortable whether she was working out or trekking three miles in the snow. She also found that the lightweight material successfully wicked away sweat in her boots. 

We love the range of colors and patterns, many of which are more subtle and neutral than other pairs on our list. However, some wearers note that these socks tend to run small. While compression socks should feel tight, they should never feel uncomfortably tight—so you may want to consider ordering the larger size. 

Key Specs:
Compression:
15-20 mmHg | Material: Merino wool, nylon, rayon (from bamboo), spandex | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Walking, standing

The Sockwell Women's Winterland Moderate Graduated Compression Sock on a wooden surface

Verywell Fit / Rachel Thalhuber

Best for Running

lululemon MicroPillow Compression Knee High Running Sock

lululemon MicroPillow Compression Knee High Running Socks

Lululemon

Our Ratings
  • Value
    4.8/5
  • Fit
    4.5/5
  • Support
    4.9/5
  • Feel
    4.8/5
Pros
  • Breathable mesh areas

  • Odor-resistant

  • Sweat-wicking

Cons
  • Expensive

  • Toe seam may feel stiff

Runners need a compression sock that’s designed to keep up with them over many miles. We recommend lululemon’s MicroPillow Compression Sock, which has runner-friendly features that we love, like odor-resistant zinc that prevents bacteria from growing over time. 

Thicker and less stretchy than other socks on our list, this pair includes a left sock and a right sock for a more accurate fit. We appreciated the targeted support—there’s more pressure around the calves, heels, arches, and tops of the feet. But the ankles, backs of the heels, and toes are looser to free up your full range of motion while you run. 

While we liked the way these socks supported our legs and feet, we noticed that we often had to adjust them in our shoes to prevent the rough toe seam from causing irritation. We also found that the sweat-wicking fabric and mesh aren’t necessarily quick-drying. So if your feet tend to sweat (especially in warm weather), you might want to take these socks off right after your run to prevent any discomfort. Although they’re one of our more expensive picks, we think these socks’ durable construction and unique features make them worth the investment.

Key Specs:
Compression:
Not listed | Material: Nylon, elastane | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Running, recovery

Best for Sitting

Wellow Women's Twist Knee-High Compression Socks

Wellow Women's Twist Knee-High Compression Socks

Wellow

Our Ratings
  • Value
    5/5
  • Fit
    4.3/5
  • Support
    4.4/5
  • Feel
    4.4/5
Pros
  • Unique compression, firm but light

  • Stylish design

  • Warm

Cons
  • Material may feel itchy

  • May be too long for some

With a pressure rating of 18 to 25 mmHg, Wellow’s Compression Socks have a unique level of support that’s ideal for preventing pins and needles after long days at a desk. Most socks fall between 15 to 20 or 20 to 30 mmHg—so if you’ve had problems in the past with compression socks feeling too tight or too loose, this pair could be a happy medium. 

When we wore them while sitting, we noticed that our feet and legs felt noticeably less tired. However, we also found that we had to roll the band over to keep them at knee height, meaning they may be too long for some wearers. (We did like that the band still felt comfortable to wear, even when we doubled it up.) 

The material was warm and washed well, keeping its shape with no signs of pilling. But even though these socks are breathable, we did notice that the fabric started to feel itchy after eight hours of wear. Still, with a wide range of jewel tones to choose from and additional savings when you purchase a three- or five-pack, we think Wellow’s Compression Socks are a solid buy. 

Key Specs: 
Compression:
18-25 mmHg | Material: Bamboo, spandex, polyester, nylon | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Sitting, traveling

A person laying on a bed and wearing the Wellow Women's Plum Twist Compression Socks

Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin

Best Gradient Compression

Dr. Scholl's Compression Knee High Socks

Dr. Scholl's Graduated Compression Knee High Socks

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Value
    5/5
  • Fit
    4.1/5
  • Support
    4.7/5
  • Feel
    4.9/5
Pros
  • Budget-friendly

  • Mild but effective compression

  • Smooth toe seam

Cons
  • May not have enough compression around ankles

A gradient compression sock provides varying amounts of pressure in different areas of your lower body. This pair from Dr. Scholl’s focuses more compression around your feet, with less pressure going up the legs. We recommend them because, when testing, we found that they successfully relieved fatigue and swelling at one of the most budget-friendly prices on our list. 

With a pressure rating of 10 to 15 mmHg, these socks offer mild pressure that still provides results. They may be a good option if you’ve struggled to find compression socks that don’t feel too tight or if you’ve never worn them before. We noted that Dr. Scholl’s socks washed well, too, making them a dependable addition to your sock drawer. And unlike lululemon’s MicroPillow Compression Knee-High Running Sock, this Dr. Scholl’s pair has smooth, low-profile toe seams to prevent irritation. But since these socks are on the lighter side, we found that they may not offer enough compression around the ankles for some wearers. 

Key Specs:
Compression:
10-15 mmHg | Material: Nylon, spandex | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Walking, standing, sitting, traveling, recovery

A person wearing the Dr. Scholl's Women's Graduated Compression Knee High Socks

Verywell Fit / Abigail Wetzler

Best for Cold Weather

Bombas Women's Compression Knee High Socks

Bombas Women's Colorblock Compression Knee High Socks

Bombas

Our Ratings
  • Value
    5/5
  • Fit
    4.7/5
  • Support
    4.7/5
  • Feel
    5/5
Pros
  • Thick, warm material

  • Seamless toe

Cons
  • Band may feel tight

In winter (or when your office has the air conditioning cranked all the way up), compression socks that are designed to hold in heat can come in handy. We like that Bombas’ Everyday Compression Socks are made with a thick blend of cotton, polyester, nylon, and elastane, which we found fit well and kept our feet warm. But they’re still breathable—even after a full day of activity, we didn’t notice any sweaty feet. 

With 15 to 20 mmHg of compression, this pair is right in the middle of the pressure range on our list. We also like the simple, sporty design, which is ideal for regular wear. And they feature Bombas’ typical seamless toe for comfort whether you’re wearing them alone or in shoes. 

While we loved how supportive these socks were, we weren’t a fan of how tight the band was. Unlike Bombas’ Strong Compression Socks, which have the same fit all the way up to the knee, these felt tighter at the top. A three-pack in other, brighter colors is also available. 

Key Specs:
Compression:
15-20 mmHg | Material: Cotton, polyester, nylon, elastane | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Walking, standing, traveling

A person wearing the Bombas Women's Everyday Compression Socks

Verywell Fit / Phoebe Sklansky

Best for Athletes

CEP Women's Run 4.0 Tall Compression Socks

CEP Women's Run 4.0 Tall Compression Socks

REI

Our Ratings
  • Value
    4/5
  • Fit
    4.8/5
  • Support
    4.4/5
  • Feel
    4.6/5
Pros
  • Extra padding underfoot

  • Breathable

  • Stylish design

Cons
  • Expensive

Although they’re the most expensive pair of compression socks on our list, this pair from CEP is our top pick for athletes looking to add to their workout or recovery routines. With a solid 20 to 30 mmHg of pressure, these are one of the more compressive pairs on our list. Still, we found that they were comfortable after over eight hours of wear. 

We particularly love the way the feet of these socks are designed. With additional cushioning and plenty of room to wiggle your toes, they provide just as much support for your arches and heels as your calves. 

We also like the stylish design, which comes in a range of modern colors. If you’re looking to save some money while still reaping the benefits of CEP’s unique design, the brand also makes a pair of ankle compression socks for around a third of the price. (However, we didn’t test these.) 

Key Specs:
Compression:
20-30 mmHg | Material: Polyamide, elastane | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Running, walking, recovery

A person wearing sneakers and the CEP Run Compression Tall 4.0 Socks

Verywell Fit / Ashley Craiger

How We Rated the Compression Socks

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best compression socks we tested. We recommend them without reservation.

4.5 to 4.7 stars: These compression socks are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great compression socks, but others are better.

3.5 to 3.9 stars: These compression socks are just average.

3.4 and below: We don't recommend compression socks with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

Compression Socks We Also Tested

Although we tested 25 pairs of compression socks, only 15 made it onto our final list. While we didn’t love these pairs, we still think they have some features worth mentioning: 

  • Copper Fit’s Energy Easy-On/Easy-Off Knee High Compression Socks fit well and offered a comfortable level of support. We also liked the fabric, which was soft, breathable, and sweat-wicking. But the band hit right where our knees bent, which was uncomfortable and sometimes annoying. 
  • We liked that Figs’ Compression Socks successfully prevented swelling. However, the fabric was so thick that our feet started to sweat, and we noticed that they were difficult to put on. 
  • Zensah’s Tech+ Compression Socks have padding underfoot and decent support. We liked that they were breathable—but at around $50 per pair, they didn’t perform as well as less expensive socks on our list. 
Lily Trotters Athletic Compression Socks

Verywell Fit / Stephanie Petit

How We Tested the Compression Socks

First, we spoke with Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist in New York, Ernest L. Isaacson, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist at Paragon Podiatry in New York City, and Melissa Prestipino, DPT, clinical director of Therapeutics Unlimited, to get their expert opinions on how compression socks work and who should wear them.

Then, to get a sense of how each compression sock performs in real life, our team of fitness editors stepped outside The Verywell Testing Lab and tested each of the 25 pairs of compression socks at home. When we first got our hands on the socks, we noted how they felt and how they fit our feet and calves when we put them on. Then, we wore each pair for one week while standing, walking, or sitting down for hours at a time. 

While we wore the socks, we paid attention to how they fit and whether the band rolled over or slid down our calves. At the end of the day, we assessed whether we felt a difference in our legs and feet, noting if they were still swollen or if they had returned to their usual size. We also washed the socks after each wear according to the manufacturer’s instructions to see how durable they were. At the end of the testing period, we rated the socks on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) for fit, support, feel, and overall value. 

Walking socks infographic
Benefits of wearing high-quality socks.

Verywell Fit / Sarah Felbin

What to Look For in Compression Socks

Materials

Most socks are made with a blend of synthetic materials that wick away moisture and stretch comfortably, Isaacson says. The socks on our list are made from cotton, polyester, Lycra, nylon, elastane, spandex, rayon, bamboo, and Merino wool, among other materials. A high-quality pair of compression socks should be made from fabric that’s warm (but breathable), lightweight, and sweat-wicking. They should also be durable enough to hold up after repeated washes. It’s also important to make sure your socks don’t cause any irritation, even after wearing them all day long. 

Support

Finding a pair of compression socks that provides the right amount of support is key. You may want a pair that helps to reduce fatigue and prevents injury while you’re exercising. Maybe you’re looking for compression socks for recovery or travel. Our top overall pick, LEVSOX’s Compression Socks, were one of the most comfortably compressive pairs we tested. We like the all-over support they offer, which prevents swelling and aching in our feet and calves. 

Pressure Rating

The pressure rating refers to the amount of compression a sock provides to help circulate blood in your legs and feet. How much pressure you need depends on how and when you plan to wear your socks. Isaacson recommends looking for socks in the 7 to 21 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) range because they will provide gentle pressure if you’re looking for moderate help with your circulation. Some socks go all the way up to 40 millimeters of mercury, which is recommended for anyone recovering from surgery or suffering from chronic illness. (We didn’t test any socks that were this compressive.)

Comrad 15-20mmhg Compression Socks

Verywell Fit / Abigail Moore

If you’re worried about how much pressure is too much pressure, Isaacson notes that it’s nearly impossible for compression socks to cut off the circulation to your feet. The pressure would have to exceed your own blood pressure—and no sock on our list is that compressive. Highly compressive socks may lead to some slight discomfort, but the chances of further injuring yourself while wearing them are minimal. Consult a healthcare professional to find the right pressure rating for you.

Fit

A compression sock should feel tight, but not so tight that it becomes uncomfortable, Isaacson says. Most sock manufacturers offer a size chart to help you find the right fit. Often, you’ll need to measure the circumference of your calves to decide which size is best. Further guidance from a healthcare professional may be necessary if you’re dealing with recovery or illness. 

Comfort

Look for a pair of compression socks that’s comfortable, with just enough pressure to relieve tension and swelling in your legs and feet. They should feel tight but not so tight that they’re painful to wear. Also, consider the material your socks are made from—moisture-wicking fabric can prevent uncomfortable chafing and blisters.

Dr Scholls Women's Graduated Compression Socks

Verywell Fit / Abigail Wetzler

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do compression socks work?

    Compression socks help your veins circulate blood back to your heart, Isaacson says. Research has shown that wearing compression socks can protect your muscles from excessive forces while you move, reducing muscle fatigue and soreness after intense, high-impact activities. They can also help you exercise more efficiently by improving your proprioception (the sense that tells your brain where your body is moving in space).

  • How much do compression socks cost?

    You can expect to pay between $10 and $90 for a quality pair of compression socks. Specialized, high-compression socks that target specific issues may cost more. But most basic, everyday compression socks cost around $10 to $40. If you’re looking to save even more, try a set of compression socks, like CHARMKING’s Compression Socks. Our top overall pick, LEVSOX’s Compression Socks, was $35 when we published this list.

  • How tight should compression socks be?

    Some socks are more compressive than others. Most socks provide pressure that’s between 12 and 30 mmHg. Studies show that compression socks are most effective between 20 and 30 mmHg. Socks on our list that fall in this range include CEP’s Run Compression Tall 4.0 Socks and Bombas’ Strong Compression Socks. As far as feel goes, your socks should be tight but not so tight that they’re uncomfortable to wear. They also shouldn’t dig into your calves, especially at the top of the band.

  • Is it okay to wear compression socks every day?

    For most people, it's safe to wear compression socks every day, as long as you’re wearing the correct size and not allowing them to bunch or fold. Just make sure to take them off every once in a while since it’s not a good idea to leave the same pair on for multiple days in a row, Prestipino says.

  • How many hours a day should you wear compression socks?

    You can wear compression socks for as long as you want—especially while you’re sitting down when your blood flow isn’t actively circulating through your legs, Prestipino says. But you shouldn’t wear them while sleeping to avoid any skin irritation, she says. (You also don’t really need compression socks in bed, she adds, since lying down puts your legs in a neutral position that helps your blood flow to your feet.) 

    You should also replace your compression socks after three to six months of regular wear since the elastic fibers will eventually break down and start to lose their effectiveness. Speak to a healthcare professional if you’re not sure when or for how long you should be wearing compression socks.

  • How do you know if compression socks are working?

    You should feel a difference in your legs and feet after the first time you wear your compression socks. If you regularly experience swollen calves, the swelling should go down or completely go away. If you tend to feel pins and needles or cramps in your legs or feet after sitting down for too long, you shouldn’t get the same feeling while wearing your socks. Your legs and feet should also feel less tired at the end of a long day.

  • Who should avoid compression socks?

    You should not wear compression socks if you have severe peripheral artery disease (PAD) because they may not allow enough blood to flow to your legs. You should also take them off immediately after experiencing any pain or skin irritation. If you’re unsure about wearing compression socks, it’s a good idea to consult your healthcare provider first before making a purchase.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a running coach, certified personal trainer, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has researched and recommended multiple compression socks. Whether you’re traveling or engaging in physical therapy, Luff recommends finding a pair that provides support, comfort, and optimal fit for your needs. The compression socks she recommends are reliable, thoroughly researched, and well-reviewed by those who have tried them.

Additional reporting by Sarah Felbin

With over two decades of dance experience, Sarah Felbin knows how important it is to feel comfortable on your feet after a long day of walking, standing, or exercising. As a health and fitness writer, she's passionate about finding products that are a great value and make life easier.

4 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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  2. Evans NS, Ratchford EV. Vascular disease patient information page: compression therapy. Vasc Med. 2021;26(3):352-355. doi:10.1177/1358863X211002263

  3. Three-year follow-up of the compression use in lower limb edema during pregnancy: A case report. Journal of Vascular Nursing. 2021;39(2):43-46. doi:10.1016/j.jvn.2021.04.002

  4. Lim CS, Davies AH. Graduated compression stockings. CMAJ. 2014;186(10):E391-E398. doi:10.1503/cmaj.131281