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Top 3 out of 15 Brands We Tested

SB SOX	Best All-Around (Athletic Compression Socks) View on Amazon
RiptGear	Best Open Toe Compression (Compression Socks with Open Toe) View on Amazon
UnConfine	Best Medical Compression Stocking (Zipper Compression Sock) View on Amazon

Best for Travel Compression Socks

Best Compression Socks

There are several different kinds of compression socks on the market. Determining which kind you need depends on several factors including whether you need them for an activity or sport, how long you need to wear them, and if it’s for a medical reason. But, in all cases, they help promote circulation in your legs, reduce fatigue, and promote faster recovery.

Graduated Compression Socks

With Graduated Compression Socks you have many different choices available, you will need to do a bit of research to match the right kind of compression socks to your specific needs. Here we listed the most common types of compression socks that are available so you can understand the differences between them.

Compression Sock Reviews

Athletic Compression Socks– This type of graduated compression sock is designed to promote blood circulation and reduce injury. If you’ve ever experienced fatigue in your feet, calves, and legs while being active then this is the type of sock you want. Graduated compression socks come in multiple compression levels for less or more compression. The most popular compression ranges are 15 – 20 mmHG and 20 – 30 mmHG. the acronym “mmHG” means (millimeters of mercury) which is a measurement of pressure.  They are designed to promote circulation in your leg by applying more pressure in the foot or ankle and slowly reducing pressure as the sock goes up your leg. This helps increase blood flow to your heart. Depending on the level of compression, they might be uncomfortable to wear all day. Compression socks with a high compression rating are usually worn during strenuous activities such as running or other sports.

All-Day Wear Compression Socks – We refer to socks with less-graduated compression as ‘all-day-wear compression socks’. Typically they are thicker, warmer, more comfortable, and have less compression than those worn for athletics. This style of compression sock is the Recommended choice for people that work on their feet all day such as nurses or construction workers. This sock still helps reduce fatigue but is more comfortable to wear for longer periods of time. This style is also used by people that sit for long periods of time to simply help promote better circulation through their legs. They also come in common sock designs and are easier to put on. The purpose of an all-day wear compression sock is to provide comfortable yet firm support and stability throughout the day.

Zipper Compression Socks – If you’re in rehabilitation for an injury or you are recovering from surgery, a rehabilitative medical zipper compression sock is a good choice for you. This type of compression sock is easier to put on and take off. It will help promote circulation and aid in healing and recovering. If this is a doctors recommendation then it is possible that your insurance might cover a portion of the cost. Don’t expect any cool designs or colors. This style typically comes in beige, black, or white. This type of sock, when combined with therapy is believed to be a good foundation for healing and recovery. In general, one can expect to wear this form of compression sock for 6-8 weeks following surgery. Because this style is typically compression socks without feet, a thick warm sock that has rubber grips on the bottom might be beneficial.

Compression Socks for Nurses

Even though there are typically three categories of compression socks, there are many different variations within those categories. It’s good to know that not all compression socks are black or white and made for athletics. Many come in patterns with bright colors and are great for all-day wear. These are also very popular for pregnant women. Be sure to match your particular need and get the compression sock that best fits you.

Compression Socks Running

Running Compression Socks– Running compression socks are designed to be extremely durable, have a high level of graduated compression (20 -30mmHG) and have antibacterial properties. Not only are these compression socks just for runners, but, they are used but all athletes while training and performing. These socks are typically a little more difficult to put on and are a bit thinner than an all-day wear sock but provide excellent support and help reduce fatigue. They are designed to be worn for shorter periods of time and provide optimum performance when needed.

Compression Sock Conclusion

There are many different reasons you may need a compression sock; from preventing injuries to an already existing injury to reducing pain. More than likely you will need a specific type of compression sock for your particular needs. Once you have determined exactly what those needs are, you can begin to search through the different choices available.

Knowing how to narrow the selection field will help make the choice that much easier. The right information provides you with the tools you need to eliminate the socks that won’t work for your specific injuries/needs. With the right tools, you can be confident that the choice you make will be the right one.

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