There are plenty of reasons to have some quality compression socks neatly folded in your sock drawer. To athletes, they are an important piece of “equipment” that can help improve muscle recovery; for the elderly, they can help promote better circulation in the legs and for those with particular medical conditions, they can also offer a bit of pain relief.
We realize that with so many styles, sizes, and compressions strengths, it can be hard to determine which pair is worth the purchase; and that is exactly why our guide will come in handy to you!
Below, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to buy the best compression socks for your needs.
Head down and take a look!
Before You Buy Compression Socks
Here are a few things to take into consideration before you purchase
- Ask Your Doctor First. If you need compression socks for a medical condition, consult with your doctor before purchasing a pair. They may have specific brand suggestions or advise you on the level of compression that you should choose.
- Material. Be sure that you know what the socks are made from in order to choose the right pair based on your activities and the season.
If you’ll be running or participating in physical activities in the socks, you’ll need a breathable, moisture wicking fabric.
Some socks also contain a small percentage of wool in the fibers, which is great in the cold weather but not so much in the warm weather!
Avoid purchasing the wrong pair for your needs by finding out the fabric content.
Top 10 Compression Socks Table
| Picture | Name | Compression Level | Price | Rating (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks for Men & Women, BEST Graduated Athletic Fit | 20-30 mmHg | $$$$ | 4.8 |
| 2. Sockwell Women’s Circulator Moderate Graduated Compression Socks | 15-20 mmHg | $$$ | 4.6 |
| 3. A-Swift Compression Socks for Women & Men Below Knee High | 20-30 mmHg | $$ | 4.5 |
| 4. Vitalsox VT1211 Graduated Compression Performance Patented | 12-20 mmHg | $$$ | 4.4 |
| 5. MoJo Recovery & Performance Sports Compression Socks | 20-30 mmHg | $$ | 4.4 |
| 6. CompressionZ Compression Socks 20-30mmHg Graduated | 20-30 mmHg | $$$$ | 4.3 |
| 7. CompressionZ Compression Socks Men & Women | 20-30 mmHg | $$$$ | 4.3 |
| 8. Go2 Compression Socks for Women and Men Athletic Running Socks | 20.30 mmHg | $$$ | 4.2 |
| 9. Miracle Copper Anti-Fatigue Compression Socks | 8-15 mmHg | $ | 4.1 |
| 10. Graduated Compression Socks by DANISH ENDURANCE // For Men & Women | 16-21 mmHg | $$ | 4.1 |
Buying Information
Compression socks come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and support levels, so pay close attention to the following tips in order to ensure that you are buying the best compression socks for your needs.
- The Levels of Compression. Compression socks come in different levels of pressure. The higher the number, the higher the support. For instance, socks that offer a graduate compression of 15-20 mmHg are best suited for traveling or if you stand all day at work. Firm compression (30-40 mmHg) is recommended if you suffer from severe varicose veins or moderate edema.
While over-the-counter support is available in 10-15 or 15-20 mmHg, higher pressure stockings range from 20-30 mmHg to 50+ mmHg, but they do require a medical prescription and a trained fitter.
- Pick a Compression Level That Is Suitable for You. If you only want your legs to feel massaged and energized and optimize the blood circulation throughout the day, you need low compression stockings. A level of 8-15 mmHg is ideal for someone who hasn’t been diagnosed with any specific venous condition but looks for prevention and ache-free days of walking, sitting and moving around.
If your feet and ankles tend to swell up and you sometimes experience aching, then you should consider a compression range of 15-20 mmHg. Compression stockings with levels higher than 20 mmHg are best prescribed by a physician, particularly if the patient is suffering from peripheral artery disease.
- Proper Sizing and Fitting. Compression stockings have to be tightly fitted to do their job but not in such a manner that they restrict the blood flow. Knee socks, for instance, usually take into account your shoe size. The size of compression pantyhose, on the other hand, is based on the ratio between your height and weight. Other compression socks model might take the calf circumference, tight length or the ankle circumference into consideration.
Most compression socks come with individual chart sizes and leg measurements but if you want to avoid any confusion and mistakes, contact your physician’s office, local pharmacy or medical supply store and make an appointment to be measured and fitted in an expert manner. This way you’re sure to find the best pair for you.
As a rule of thumb, measure your feet earlier in the day before swelling builds in the legs.
Top 5 Best Compression Socks Review
1. Physix Gear Sport for Men & Women
The Compression Socks for Men & Women by Physix Gear Sport are the overall highest rated product for a wide variety of needs and medical conditions. If you spend all day on your feet and your ankles are swollen and fatigued or if you suffer from foot pain, aching, and heavy feeling in the legs or varicose veins, these compression socks will provide the support you need.
Double stitched with anti-bacterial fabric, these socks were built for long term use and comfort. They are easy to get on and pull off and they allow the skin to breathe. The 20-30 mmHg compression level provides instant support while absorbing and reducing swelling and fatigue in your legs.
All in all, the compression socks by Physix Gear Sport are exceptionally comfortable, durable, chic, and they offer the right level of support for your needs. If you are looking for the best compression socks, then you’ve found them.
2. Sockwell Women’s Circulator Moderate Graduated
The moderate 15-20 mmHg graduated compression makes these socks perfect for daily use. They can promote circulation, reduce fatigue, minimize swelling, and speed up your recovery. And, it doesn’t hurt that they look very stylish too.
Another feature that you will appreciate about these compression socks is the comfortable feel they provide. All Sockwell socks are made from superfine merino wool that allows your skin to breathe throughout the day.
To conclude, Sockwell Women’s Circulator Moderate offers great support, durability, and a great fit. They are perfect for everyday wear, prolonged standing, traveling, and recovery.
3. A-Swift Compression Socks Below Knee High
A-Swift sells great compressions socks with a low price tag. Even if they don’t match the overall performance of the compression socks by Physix Gear Sport, they still offer a lot of value for the money.
They offer a moderate compression (20-30 mmHg) that promotes oxygen circulation, reduces swelling, and helps with muscle recovery.
The anti-bacterial fabric provides a comfortable feel and helps regulate temperature. As a result, you can wear your socks even during a hot summer day and your feet will remain dry and comfortable.
All in all, the compression socks by A-Swift are suitable for a wide range of activities and were proven to prevent injuries and reduce swelling. They are comfortable, durable, and can provide excellent moisture control.
4. Vitalsox VT1211 Performance Patented
The Vitalsox VT1211 is a lightweight compression sock made of silver ions and polypropylene fiber with a mesh stripe that runs from the top of the foot to the bottom of the cuff. The mesh together with the silver ions inhibits the growth of fungus while the polypropylene fiber reduces moisture and odor.
These socks offer gradual, moderate compressions, with the highest pressure being located from the mid-foot to the ankle, promoting blood flow, alleviating swelling, improving oxygen delivery to the muscles, and boosting your performance.
If you are looking for compressions socks that can provide superior support for you daily activities without making your legs feel trapped, then look no further than Vitalsox VT1211.
5. MoJo Recovery & Performance Sports
The first thing you will notice about the MoJo Recovery & Performance Sports Compressions Socks is that they are thinner than regular compression socks. That’s because the thin fabric on foot and heel allows for extra room in the shoe, keeping your feet comfortable throughout the day.
The moderate compression (20-30 mmHg) is perfect for daily wear as well as intense activities, such as running, walking, yoga, or fitness. You can also use them for recovery after exercise-induced muscle damage.
Lightweight, easy to get on and off, and offering the right amount of support for your daily needs, these are some of the best compressions socks at an affordable price.
