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When you take a long-haul flight or spend your whole shift standing, you may notice swollen ankles and legs at the end of the day. Thankfully, there's an easy and comfortable solution for this bothersome condition: compression socks. These knee-high wonders work by applying graduated pressure to your calves and feet, improving blood flow and, as a result, alleviating any swelling, said Soo Rhee, M.D., a vascular surgeon at Weill Cornell Medicine, who noted they can also help relieve leg discomfort related to varicose veins and decrease the risk of blood clots.
Nowadays, you can find commercially available compression socks in any style — and not just in the pharmacy aisle. In recent years, the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab has tested over 90 different socks, including compression socks, to determine the best options available online. So whether you're on your feet all day, an avid runner, planning for a long flight or have swollen feet from pregnancy, you can find compression socks at the your ideal level of compression for some much-needed relief.
- Best Overall: VIM&VIGR Cotton Graduated Compression Socks in 15–20 mmHg
- Best Value: Copper Fit Energy Compression Socks
- Best for Circulation: CEP The Run Compression Tall Socks 4.0
- Best for Wide Calves: Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks
- Best for Travel: Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks
- Best for Swelling: MudGear Premium Compression Socks
- Best for Running: Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks
VIM&VIGR Cotton Graduated Compression Socks in 15–20 mmHg
Pros
- Top scores in Lab tests
- Consumer testers' favorite pick
- Offered in tons of colors and materials
Cons
- Some users found these socks harder to get on their feet
Available in both neutrals and a variety of fun colors and prints, these compression socks stood out in Lab and consumer tests with high scores across the board for performance and durability. One product expert at GH has used these socks for over eight years and said, “I have several brands of compression socks, but I reach out for these the most. They keep my legs feeling strong and energetic even after being on my feet all day or on a long plane flight.” She also loves that they don’t look “too medical” or “too sporty” and can be paired with anything from boots to sneakers for everyday wear.
The pair was also popular among consumer testers, including one tester who was impressed by how she didn’t experience any swelling in her ankles after a long flight.
In Lab tests, these cotton socks surprised our analysts with their sweat-wicking fabric, earning higher scores than popular options made of synthetic fabrics. They also aced our other tests, with top scores for their excellent abrasion resistance and little-to-no shrinkage after multiple launderings. Just keep in mind that some users noted that putting on these socks wasn’t easy, but the long-term comfort more than paid off.
The brand also offers compression socks in higher compression levels, like 20–30 mmHg and 30–40 mmHg, different materials — such as merino wool or nylon — and compression tights for users who struggle with socks rolling down or those who prefer more coverage.
Fabric: 48% cotton, 42% nylon, 8% spandex | Compression level: 15–20 mmHg | Sizing: By shoe size and calf circumference with wide calf options
Copper Fit Energy Compression Socks
Pros
- Easy on-and-off design
- Beginner-friendly option
- Snug fit
Cons
- Lower scores in Lab durability tests
These socks are among the more popular choices on Amazon and our consumer testers appreciated their easy-on, easy-off design. Multiple testers told us that their legs felt noticeably better after wearing these socks while standing all day and one noted, “I really liked the amount of compression the socks provided. My old socks lost their compression the more you wore them, and these maintained the snug fit.”
While they didn’t earn the highest scores in Lab durability tests compared to other compression socks we tested, our analysts were impressed with the brand’s helpful, beginner-friendly instructions for how to put on and take off the socks. For those who aren’t sure whether compression socks are right for them, this pair is a great, low-cost option to try on for a spin.
Fabric: 85% nylon, 8% spandex, 7% polyester | Compression level: 15–20 mmHg | Sizing: By shoe size only
Pros
- High praise from consumer testers
- Moderate to firm compression
- Great for exercise or recovery
Cons
- Some users experienced difficulties getting these on their legs
Popular for its compression leggings, CEP offers tall compression socks specifically designed to boost performance and aid in recovery after intense exercise in 20–30 mmHg for moderate to firm compression. Seasoned compression sock users from GH described them as “a cut above” other brands they’ve tried, and consumer testers agreed, giving the socks high scores for overall comfort, fit and cushioning.
Several testers reported back that this pair was great for recovery and exercise, with one who noted, “I wore these after my long runs, and my calves had been very sore and tight. They felt noticeably better after I wore them.” Another said, “my legs didn't feel as tired as they normally do when I run.”
In Lab testing, they impressed with minimal shrinkage after multiple washes and earned good scores for their ability to wick away sweat. Just note that some users found these harder to get on their legs than other pairs they’ve tried.
Fabric: 83% polyamide (nylon), 17% spandex | Compression level: 20–30 mmHg | Sizing: By calf circumference only
RELATED: The Best Compression Leggings, According to Textile Experts
Pros
- Moderate to firm compression level
- Available in multiple colorways
Cons
- Some users say they run a bit small
Offering 20–30mmHg pressure, these socks are made from a nylon/spandex blend with minimal seams for comfortable all-day wear. But one of the things we like most is that the brand offers a size chart based on shoe size and calf circumference, so all users can ensure a proper, snug fit. That's a big deal for those with large calves, since many brands don't allow you to select both shoe size and calf size. It's worth noting though: Some users say the socks run a tad small, so you may want to size up if you're in between sizes.
Our analysts also appreciate the affordable price point and medium compression, making this pair ideal for users who need more pronounced compression than the standard 15–20mmHg socks to help alleviate swelling or cramping in their legs. Plus, this pick is available in over 10 different colors and styles.
Fabric: 70% nylon, 30% spandex | Compression level: 20–30 mmHg | Sizing: By shoe size and calf circumference
Pros
- Neutral colors and simple prints
- Wide range of sizes for small and large calf sizes
- High scores for comfort from testers
Cons
- Fabric can run hot and didn’t wick away sweat well in Lab tests
If you’re looking for discreet compression socks for long plane rides, this pair from Comrad is perfect for those looking to avoid swollen ankles on their next trip. Offered in a variety of solid colors and simple prints, this pair is notable for its subtlety compared to medical compression socks and those intended for sports, so it's good for every day.
These compression socks also impressed both new and longtime users alike who loved the “non-flashy colors” and called them “comfortable yet effective in keeping the swelling down.” One tester commented, “These do not dig into my legs, but they keep the swelling at bay.”
Our analysts think they’re a great option for new users who are intimidated by the look of most commercially available compression socks. And for users with larger calves, the brand offers the same socks in wide calf sizing. Just note that the fabric didn’t excel in wicking away sweat in Lab tests and some users found that the pair wasn’t the most breathable and ran a little warm in summer weather.
Fabric: 93% nylon, 7% elastane (spandex) | Compression level: 15–20 mmHg | Sizing: By shoe size and calf circumference
Pros
- Cushioned sole
- High scores from testers for comfort
- Great for standing all day
Cons
- Not ideal for users with larger calves
For those who are looking for compression socks to relieve swelling, check out this pick from MudGear. It was a hit with consumer testers who routinely stand all day, including nurses and medical assistants, for its cushioned sole and strong compression.
Several noted that these socks were softer and more comfortable to wear, staying up without digging into their legs, compared to their normal compression socks. One tester used these in place of her prescription compression socks when experiencing leg swelling and reported that her swelling went away within a day of use.
In Lab tests, our analysts appreciated that they didn't shrink as much as some competitors. Just note that some testers with thicker calves found this pair a bit hard to get on their legs, especially when their feet were swollen prior to use. Since sizing for this pair is dependent on shoe size, rather than a calf measurement, it is better suited to users with average-size calves.
Fabric: 63% nylon, 28% polyester, 9% spandex | Compression level: 15–20 mmHg | Sizing: By shoe size only
Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks
Pros
- Breathable and moisture-wicking fabric
- Cushioned heel and toe
- Multiple colors to choose from
Cons
- Some users between sizes found the smaller size too small
With a seamless toe and targeted cushioning on the sole, these compression socks from Zensah are ideal for long runs or post-workout recovery. They fared well in Lab tests and received top scores from testers for their overall comfort, breathable, moisture-wicking fabric and wide range of colors. One tester commented, “I liked how they supported my legs, feet and joints. I tend to have very tired overworked feet and calves and these really helped to give some support and relief.” Others were impressed by how comfortable they felt during long walks.
On the downside, when one of our experts with thin calves and narrow size 8 feet tried a size 6–8 sock, she found that her toes felt more compressed than other socks with similar sizing. For this reason, we suggest those in between sizes may benefit from sizing up.
Fabric: 82% polyamide (nylon), 18% elastane (spandex) | Compression level: 15–20 mmHg | Sizing: By shoe size only
How we test compression socks
The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Labs tests all types of socks, from no-show socks to socks for hiking and running. In the past year, we've tested over 90 different styles, both in Lab and with hundreds of consumer testers across the country to determine the best socks for women and men. To find the best compression socks, we collected and analyzed over 1,200 data points to gauge which pairs had the best performance and durability.
For this test, we worked with consumer testers to provide firsthand feedback on attributes like fit, comfort and cushioning as well as how easy it was to put on and take off the socks. Testers also provided feedback on how the socks performed over time, including if they stayed in place or if they ran hot.
In the Lab, our experts accessed the ease of use and noted any additional features, including targeted cushioning on the sole or a contoured foot-specific fit. Following that, our analysts tested for abrasion resistance, bursting strength, moisture management and shrinkage using specialized equipment and industry standards for quality.
In this image, you can see a swatch of fabric from a compression sock after a sweat-wicking test with our moisture management tester. This fabric performed poorly, and you can see a droplet of sweat solution on top, which the fabric failed to wick away.
What to look for when shopping for the best compression socks for women
✔️ Proper sizing and fit: For compression socks to work properly, you need to make sure the sock lies flat and smooth across your foot and calf. Avoid socks that bunch up because they won’t be able to provide the intended, even pressure. If you are purchasing prescription medical-grade compression socks, Qinghua Pu, M.D., a cardiovascular surgeon at Maimonides Medical Center, recommended getting measured at a pharmacy to ensure proper fit. Many commercially available options also offer sizes based on both your shoe size and the circumference of the widest part of your calf.
For users who often find their compression socks rolling down their legs, moving around or not providing enough pressure — especially those with thicker or thinner calves — Dr. Pu noted that these users may benefit from taller, thigh-high compression socks or compression tights. Although for most users, the knee-high length is ideal.
✔️ Sock type: Most compression socks are available at a knee-length height to provide graduated compression from the ankle throughout the calf. Dr. Pu said that this cut offers “not only compression for the veins but the entire calf muscle,” which may impact your overall blood flow and any swelling in the legs that you want to alleviate. While we’ve seen more and more compression sleeves or ankle socks on the market, he cautions that sleeves, which do not cover the foot, could potentially impede blood flow and cause swelling in the feet for users intending to treat symptoms such as swelling and cramping in the lower legs. Ankle compression socks also do not have the same intent as knee-high compression socks, as they cannot offer the same compression for the calves and are not ideal for those trying to help alleviate swelling or cramping.
✔️ Materials: Synthetic fibers, such as nylon or polyester, are the most common materials for compression socks for their durability and moisture-wicking properties. In our Lab testing, we found that socks made from these fabrics weren’t always the most durable or moisture-wicking and can vary due to the construction of the sock. Wool, a natural fiber, is inherently moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating, and merino wool is a variety of wool known for its soft feel, making it a great option for compression socks. Some brands will also use cotton, a popular fabric worldwide that is prized for its breathability, but is not moisture-wicking.
Who should use compression socks?
Compression socks are worth a try if you experience any of the symptoms compression socks typically provide relief for — including swelling or cramping — whether from a medical condition, such as varicose veins or spider veins, recovery from long-distance running or flying on a plane. Compression socks can also be helpful during pregnancy and postpartum, when it's common to experience swelling in the legs and ankles.
How to find the right level compression socks
Most compression socks offer graduated compression, which means that the pressure is greatest near the ankle and gradually decreases up the leg; therefore, the pressure of the socks is listed as a range. Compression levels are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and the larger the number, the higher the compression.
Physicians can prescribe specific levels of compression to treat certain conditions such as varicose veins, spider veins or poor circulation. If you have any medical conditions you are attempting to treat with compression socks, Tivka Jacobs M.D., a vascular surgeon at Weill Cornell Medicine, noted that "it is always best to first speak with your health care provider whether compression socks are appropriate for you." Here are a few general guidelines:
- 8–15 mmHg or 15–20 mmHg are low compression, great for flying, pregnancy or just general improved circulation.
- 20–30mmHg is most commonly prescribed by physicians and can help soothe a variety of mild conditions.
- 30–50mmHg should only be used when prescribed by a doctor.
For compression socks to work properly, make sure they fit well. The sock should lie flat and smooth across your foot and calf without bunching in order to apply proper, even pressure. Dr. Jacobs also noted that "you should take off compression socks when you go to bed and if you find the compression socks to be uncomfortable, stop wearing them."
How many hours a day should you wear compression socks?
There are no strict minimum or maximum amount of time. Instead, the timing is mostly dictated by your activities and symptoms.
"I typically recommend that my patients wear them all day and take them off at night, because their legs are elevated at night and tend to become much less swollen," said Trisha Roy, M.D., Ph.D., RPVI, BASc, a vascular surgeon at Houston Methodist. "It is most important to wear them at times when you anticipate prolonged sitting or prolonged standing."
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Grace Wu most recently updated this article. She's a textiles product review analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute and has overseen testing for all kinds of socks since 2022. Prior to joining GH, Wu earned a Master of Engineering in Materials Science & Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Fiber Science from Cornell University.
Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab Associate Director Emma Seymour has written multiple features about socks, including assessments of warm socks, no-show socks and hiking socks. She has a degree in fiber science and apparel design from Cornell University. As a lifetime sewer with previous product-development experience, she has a strong fashion background with expertise on proper fit and construction.
For this story, Wu spoke with Qinghua Pu, M.D., a vascular surgeon at Maimonides Medical Center, on the best practices for new compression sock users and worked with Yiqing Xu, M.D., a medical oncologist at Maimonides Medical Center who has prescribed compression socks to patients, to learn more about what medical compression sock users typically look for. Seymour also previously interviewed vascular surgeons Tivka Jacobs M.D. and Soo Rhee M.D. at Weill Cornell Medicine.
Emma Seymour (she/her) is the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance.
Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.
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