15 Best Compression Socks For Women – Top Picks of 2023
Prevent the worst pain and clotting caused due to poor circulation resulting in inflammation.
Expertise: Sports Medicine, Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release, Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair, & Arthroscopic Wrist And Elbow Procedures
Experience: 25+ years
Dr. Christopher R. Sforzo is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over 25 years of experience in hand and upper extremity surgery. He specializes in minimally invasive procedures and has appointments and admitting privileges at various... more
Aditi Naskar Diploma In Health & Wellness
Expertise: Health & Wellness
Experience: 4 years
Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She i... more
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Do you know what compression socks are meant for? Well, people like professional athletes, pregnant women, or medical workers might benefit from wearing them. The best compression socks reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation and increase blood circulation. They are specially meant for poor circulation due to certain medical conditions like varicose veins. Besides speeding up the post-surgery recovery, it also helps to prevent clotting.
You need to consult a doctor before buying compression socks because too much pressure might escalate the medical condition. This post discusses everything one needs to know about compression socks. Keep reading!
In This Article
Who Should Get Compression Socks?
- Athletes: They wear compression socks during competitions for skeletal-muscle pumps, reduce blood pooling in the calves for better leg movement and agility.
- Pregnant Women: Pregnant women may experience swelling in their lower legs and feet. Compression socks will work as a preventive measure and alleviate this swelling.
- People Recovering From Surgery: Patients recovering from surgery and spending most of their time sitting (on wheelchairs) may develop blood clots in their legs. Compression socks help prevent that.
- During Air Travel: Wearing compression socks for long flights will help regulate blood circulation and help you enjoy a comfortable journey.
- People On Their Feet: People who need to spend long hours standing and walking may develop varicose veins and other issues. Wearing these socks will help reduce pain, fatigue, and swelling.
Best Compression Socks For Women
1. Best Overall:Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks
The Physics Gear Sports Compression Socks are designed to reduce your lower leg shock, fatigue, and swelling. These socks are made of 70% nylon and 30% spandex, durable, and have moisture-wicking properties for quick drying. The socks are comfortable to wear and are perfect for long hours of flight, work, cycling, and more. They do not rub against your skin, or cause any discomfort. In addition, these socks provide vascular toning to prevent swollen ankles, foot ache, or shin splints. Learn more about this product in this video. Dr. Christopher R. Sforzo, an orthopedic surgeon, with over 25 years of experience, remarks, “These socks specifically address common foot and leg problems such as poor circulation, swelling, plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and leg cramps. The graduated compression technology applies targeted pressure on your feet to improve blood flow.”
Specifications
- Material: 70% Nylon and 30% Spandex
- Length: Knee-high
- Style: Pull-on closure
- Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg
Pros
- Non-slip
- Fast-drying
- Breathable fabric
- Easy to pull on
- Durable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Incompatible sizes
Pro Tip2. Best Multicolor Combo:Charmking Compression Socks
The Charmking Compression Socks are medium-grade options with 15-20 mmHg pressure to support your legs and feet. This pack includes eight pairs of multicolor socks. Their compression levels are perfect for teachers, pregnant ladies, seniors, workers, etc. The high-quality stitches make them durable and easy to wear. The strong and stretchable cuffs prevent slipping, and the graduated compression technology targets areas with moderate to extra firmness. These socks improve blood circulation, provide a full range of motion, and ease joint flexibility.
Specifications
- Material: 85% nylon 15% spandex
- Length: Knee-high
- Style: Pull-on closure
- Compression Level: 15-20 mmHg
Pros
- Non-slip
- Absorbs moisture
- Durable
- Stretchable
Cons
- May leave mark on the skin
3. Best Toeless Design:Bitly Plantar Compression Socks
The Bitley Plantar Compression Socks are soft, odor-free, and made of moisture-wicking material that provides arch and heel support. These can be worn comfortably throughout the day. The unique open-toe design of these socks adds to their comfort levels. These compression socks target plantar fasciitis, bone spurs, Achilles tendinitis, and inflammation, giving soothing support to your feet. This video will provide you with added insights about the product.
Specifications
- Material: Nylon
- Compression Level: Mild
- Length: Ankle length
- Style: Toeless design
Pros
- Breathable
- All-day wear
- Improves blood circulation
- Moisture-wicking
- Machine washable
- Skin-friendly
- Odor-free
Cons
None
4. Best Performance:FuelMeFoot Compression Socks
The FuelMeFoot Compression Socks are made of nylon, polyester, and copper fiber. The copper fibers promote blood circulation and keep odor at bay. These medium-compression socks provide mild squeezing to stimulate every muscle and relieve issues like varicose veins and fluid retention symptoms. Each pack includes three pairs of socks, delivering high performance and durability.
Specifications
- Material: 85% Nylon, 10% Polyester, 5% copper fiber
- Length: Calf length
- Style: Pull-on closure
- Compression Level: 15-20 mmHg
Pros
- Moisture-wicking
- Breathable
- Easy to wear
- Quick-drying
- Non-slip
- Durable
- Odor-free
Cons
- Inconsistent size
5. Best Giftable:Blue Maple Copper Compression Socks
The Blue Maple Copper Compression Socks provide graduated compression to reduce swelling, improve blood flow, and combat everyday fatigue. Their breathable material keeps your feet dry and reduces blisters. They can be worn throughout the day to soothe the leg muscles. The socks are odor-free, have stretchable elastic cuffs, and sit firmly on your calf. You will get 6 pairs of multicolor socks with each pack.
Specifications
- Material: 85% Nylon, 15% Polyester, copper
- Length: Calf length
- Style: Pull-on closure
- Compression Level: 15-20mmHg
Pros
- Odor-free
- Absorbs moisture
- High-performance fabric
- Seamless design
- Non-slip
Cons
- Inconsistent size
6. Best Thin Design:TechWare Pro Ankle Brace Compression Sleeve
The Techware Pro Ankle Brace compression socks provide strong compression of 20-30mmHg to relieve muscle-related problems. These ankle-length socks provide a tight fit comfortably around tendons and muscles to reduce inflammation. The thin design of these socks with four-way stretch allows full mobility with maximum compression throughout. It can be worn under your regular socks, with flip flops, shoes, sandals, and more. It has a versatile design, and its material is durable.
Specifications
- Material: 80% Nylon and 20% Spandex
- Length: Ankle/foot length
- Style: Open Toe
- Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- Comfortable wear
- Breathable fabric
- Durable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Runs small to the size
Pro Tip7. Best All-Day Wear:Blueenjoy Copper Compression Socks
The Blueenjoy Copper Compression Socks are made of premium moisture-wicking material combined with copper ions to keep your feet dry and odor-free. Their comfortable wide band supports your calf firmly and prevents rolling. These socks are great for everyday wear as they provide 360° flexibility and durability. This value pack includes six pairs of socks.
Specifications
- Material: Polyester and Copper
- Length: Calf length
- Style: Pull-on closure
- Compression Level: 15-20mmHg
Pros
- Moisture-wicking
- Comfortable wear
- Odor-free
- All-day comfort
- Non-slip
- Stretchable fabric
Cons
None
8. Best Moisture-Wicking:Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Graduated Compression Knee High Socks
Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Graduated Compression Knee High Socks are excellent compression socks that provide relief from pain. It applies slight pressure at the ankle that eases up the fatigue gradually over your legs. It causes no skin irritation and is safe to wear for a long time. It provides the best comfort, fit, and support for your legs and helps reduce swelling. It is comfortable and can be worn daily, especially if you stay on your feet for long periods. Since the socks are made of moisture-resistant material, you can enjoy your day without being bothered by the constant itch and dampness that come with wearing regular cotton socks.
Specifications
- Material: 96% Nylon and 4% Spandex
- Length: Knee-high
- Style: Pull-on closure
- Compression Level: 10-15mmHg
Pros
- Non-slip
- Breathable fabric
- Easy to pull on
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Soft fabric
Cons
None
9. Best Knitted Fabric:Blitzu Calf Compression Sleeves
The Blitzu Calf Compression Sleeves are designed with 4D knitting technology to give you relief from calf pain and shin splints. They provide 360° compression for a full range of motion and superior protection. Their high-performance compression promotes faster muscle recovery, and the strong elastic cuffs do not roll, slide or slip. These socks are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, expectant mothers, or professionals who have to stand for longer hours. Dr. Christopher R. Sforzo, an orthopedic surgeon, states, “These sleeves are designed to provide targeted compression to the calf muscles, helping to increase circulation, reduce swelling, and promote faster recovery from muscle soreness and fatigue. I have recommended this product to people who are into gymnastics.”
Specifications
- Material: Nylon
- Length: Calf length
- Style: Kinesiology taping design
- Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg
Pros
- Non-slip cuff
- 360° compression
- Seamless stitching
Cons
- May leave marks on legs
10. Best Odor-Free:Copper Fit Compression Socks
The Copper Fit Compression Socks ensure improved performance and fast recovery. These socks are comfortable as they are made of 78% nylon, 8% polyester, and 14% spandex for maximum stretchability. These provide medium compression to improve blood circulation and relieve muscle pain. Their advanced copper-infused technology keeps your feet dry, odor-free, and prevents blisters. Their fashionable design is suitable for both work and casual wear. They are easy to put on and remove. These socks promote better circulation, reduce swelling, and improve overall foot and leg comfort, performance, and recovery.
Specifications
- Material: 78% Nylon, 14% Spandex, and 8% Polyester
- Length: Knee-high
- Style: Pull-on closure
- Compression Level: 15-20 mmHg
Pros
- Machine washable
- All-day comfort
- Anti-odor
- Easy to wear
- Copper-infused
Cons
None
11. Best Durable:Crucial Compression Socks
The Crucial Compression Socks are available in colorful designs and provide 20-30mmHg level compression to promote blood and oxygen flow to the legs. These are best for relieving pain caused by varicose veins, thrombosis, and various other muscle-related issues. The high-quality fabric of the socks allows maximum stretchability, and the double-stitched design make them easy to wear. The moisture-absorbent fabric keeps your feet and legs dry. These lightweight socks support your calf and give your legs unrestricted movement.
Specifications
- Material: 80% Nylon and 20% Spandex
- Length: Knee-high
- Style: Pull-on closure
- Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg
Pros
- Moisture-wicking
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Easy to wear
- Durable
Cons
- Inconsistent fit
13. Best Doctor Recommended:Double Couple Compression Socks
The Double Couple Compression Socks come in a value pack of 5 pairs. These knee-length socks are made of high-grade moisture-wicking material to keep your feet and legs dry. Their reinforced heels and toes are well cushioned to provide you comfort by reducing pressure. The socks provide 20-30mmHg of pressure for increasing blood circulation and faster pain relief. The compact and compressed weaving of these socks minimizes muscle vibration to prevent leg sprain.
Specifications
- Material: Lycra fabric
- Length: Calf length
- Style: Pull-on closure
- Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- No-slip cuff
- Machine washable
- Breathable
- Odor-free
- Doctor recommended
- Flexible
- Skin-friendly
Cons
None
13. Best Fashionable:Truform Sheer Compression Stockings
The Truform Sheer Compression Stockings provide medium compression (15-20 mm Hg) to reduce discomfort and help your tired, aching legs. Their fashionable sheer knot with a soft top will not constrict your legs. Their nude color blends easily with any attire. They are best for comforting swollen feet, enlarged veins, and promoting muscle recovery. The open-toe design makes them easy to wear with open footwear like flip flops, sandals, and more. They have reinforced heels for cushioned support.
Specifications
- Material: 80% Nylon and 20% Spandex
- Length: Thigh-high
- Style: Open toe
- Compression Level: 15-20 mmHg
Pros
- Lightweight
- Latex-free
- Soft top band
Cons
- May not be durable
14. Best Latex-Free:NuVein Medical Compression Stockings
The NuVein Medical Compression Stockings are thigh-high socks that ensure improved performance with fast recovery. Their opaque fabric in nude design allows discreet wear, while providing full protection. These durable socks are made of medical-grade stretchable and breathable yarns to minimize muscle vibration, prevent swelling and pain caused by medical issues like deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The silicone-gripped band supports your socks on the thighs, preventing them from rolling down.
Specifications
- Material: Medical-grade yarns
- Length: Thigh-high
- Style: Toe-less design
- Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg
Pros
- Durable
- Latex-free
- Non-slip
Cons
- Might not be durable
In the following sections, we have addressed all queries related to compressions socks. Keep reading to understand how to buy a perfect pair for your condition and other aspects of these socks.
What To Look For In Compression Socks?
- Type: Compression socks come in different types and lengths. Some may cover the calves, while others may cover the entire leg. Choose as per your need. If you are an athlete, then choose knee-length socks. If you want it for comfort, and pain relief, then low-rise compression socks would suffice. Socks with open toes are easy to be worn with slippers or sandals.
- Level Of Compression: Compression socks provide different levels of compression – mild, moderate, firm, and extra firm. Consult your doctor to guide you to the level that will suit you the best.
- Size: Always refer to the size chart before you invest in these socks. If the size is not right, you might not get the right compression required to solve your issue.
What Level Of Compression Socks Do I Need?
Compression socks are available with various levels of compression. Depending on your condition, you can choose from the following.
- Mild compression (8-15mmHG)
These types of socks are best for healthy legs with few or no visible symptoms. These socks are good for preventive care.
- Moderate compression (15-20mmHg)
These socks can be worn with moderate to minor symptoms. They are best suited for first-time wear.
- Firm compression (20-30mmHg)
These are best for legs with major symptoms or severe conditions. They should be worn when specifically directed by the doctor.
- Extra-firm compression (30-40mmHg)
These are worn during severe painful conditions. Again, these have to be worn only under the doctor’s supervision.
Those who spend their days standing on their feet for long hours for job requirements are bound to experience pain in the lower legs, varicose veins, or other medical conditions. Sometimes it also causes improper blood circulation and swelling. To avoid such discomfort, we urge you to invest in the best compression socks. These are dedicated to relieving the pain, inflammation, and clotting. These socks are perfect for long-wearing, flight journeys and are irritant-free. They ensure that your feet have proper circulation and the muscles are not strained or fatigued. However, it would be best to invest in breathable socks to keep you comfortable for long hours.
Why Trust Stylecraze?
Aditi Naskar, with her diploma in health and wellness, is our in-house health and fitness expert who makes sure you are taking good care of your mind and body. She has gone through several health and wellness forums and scoured through valuable customer testimonials, before carefully curating this list of the top compression socks for women. Made with high-quality, skin-friendly, breathable fabric, these socks provide the right amount of compression to improve blood circulation, reduce swelling, and boost recovery post-pregnancy, or post-surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Compression Socks Work?
Compression socks put pressure on your legs to stimulate blood circulation so that the flow increases upward. This helps prevent swelling, muscle ache, and speed up muscle recovery.
Is It Ok To Wear Compression Socks Every Day?
Yes. Most doctors recommend wearing these socks every day to achieve maximum benefit. Remember to wash and keep them in hygienic condition every time you remove them.
How Long Should You Wear Compression Socks?
Depending on your need or the extent of your pain, you can wear them for the whole day or wear them for some time for comfort. The time may vary as per your existing medical condition and recovery rate. Consult a doctor before using compression socks.
How Do You Know If Compression Socks Are Too Tight?
If the socks leave marks and feel uncomfortable and have difficulty walking or moving your legs while wearing them, they are not the right size.
What Happens If Your Compression Socks Are Too Tight?
If the compression socks are too tight, they may constrict and rupture the blood vessels and cause internal bleeding.
When Should You Not Wear Compression Stockings?
Avoid wearing compression socks if you have a peripheral vascular disease that affects your lower extremities. The pressure from compression socks may worsen the disease.
What Are The Side Effects Of Compression Stockings?
Wearing compression socks for longer hours may aggravate skin irritation like itchiness or redness. If they are not of a proper fit, they may also affect the blood circulation in the legs.
Can Compression Socks Cause Blood Clots?
Yes. Wearing the wrong sized socks for longer hours without any movement may lead to blood retention and clotting.
Can Wearing Compression Socks Make You Dizzy?
No. If the socks are too tight, they may restrict the blood flow. But these socks can’t be so tight that they will lead to dizziness.
Do Compression Socks Affect Heart Rate?
There is no such evidence to prove that wearing compression socks may affect your heart rate.
How Long Does It Take For Compression Socks To Reduce Swelling?
It may take several days to six weeks to reduce swelling and see visible results.
Do Compression Socks Prevent Pulmonary Embolism?
Yes, compression socks also aid in preventing pulmonary embolism in people who sit on flights for at least four hours.
How Do You Keep Compression Socks From Rolling Down?
Compression stockings with flat wide silicone bands give a better grip on your thighs. However, these silicone bands need special care for durability. The band should be cleaned with alcohol and cotton ball to remove any residue as simple washing may not help. Or else you can use a skin adhesive to prevent them from rolling down.
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