Whether you’re experiencing poor blood circulation or playing sports, compression socks help circulate blood flow from the feet to the heart while reducing the swelling that may be a result of standing or sitting for too long. Using compression socks can keep people “focused on that part of their body, which is always a good practice,” says Rachel Troesch, NASP-CPT, NASM-certified personal trainer and pilates instructor at Lifetime.
We researched dozens of compression socks and evaluated them for fabric, price, extra features, comfortability, and breathability. Each of the compression socks chosen in this article was determined to be the best of these factors.
Reviewed & Approved
Physix Gear Socks offer compression, keep feet blister-free, and don’t pinch the skin. The SB SOX Compression Socks provides heel enforcement and is an affordable option.
Physix Gear Compression Socks are our best overall pick because of their overall quality, performance, value, comfort, and durability. Made with a comfortable, highly-breathable, and durable fabric, these socks can be worn all day to help reduce fatigue and swelling in your lower legs. The fabric is also moisture-wicking, which helps keep your feet dry and blister-free.
Best Overall
Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks
Keeps feet blister-free
Cuffs don’t pinch skin
Comfortable toe area
No extra compression around arch
With just the right amount of support and compression in the heel, foot, calves, and toe areas, they can provide relief for shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and other lower leg ailments. We also love that their stay-put cuffs keep these socks from falling down, without pinching or feeling too stiff.
The Physix Gear socks can be used during exercise or for post-workout recovery. They’re designed to hold their level of compression even if you put them in the washing machine, and they’re available in two sizes and several colors.
Price at time of publication: $22
Key Specs:Compression: 20-30 mmHg | Material: Nylon, spandex | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Running
Whether you need compression socks for exercise, work, or pain relief, the SB SOX Compression Socks provide you with ideal compression and support, all at a lower price than similar socks. These lightweight and durable socks feature a cushioned heel and toe support for additional comfort.
Best Budget
SB SOX Compression Socks
Durable fabric
Affordable
Reinforced heel
Tight toe area
We like that the anti-odor, anti-static, moisture-wicking, and breathable fabric stops the growth of bacteria and fungus, keeping your feet dry and healthy. They’re available in four different sizes so you can get the right fit and amount of support for your personal needs.
Price at time of publication: $25
Key Specs:Compression: 20-30mmHg | Material: Not listed | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Running, cycling, for work
If you’re in the market for a top-quality knee-high compression sock, we recommend the Copper Fit Energy Compression Socks. The pair features graduated compression, arch support technology, a cushioned foot bed for shock absorption, and more. So whether you’re in need of compression socks for swelling, circulation, or pain relief, these will have you covered.
Best Knee-High
Copper Fit Copper Fit Energy Compression Socks
Affordable
Odor control
Graduated compression
May run small
We love that the socks feature odor control and breathable, moisture-wicking materials to keep your feet cool and dry when things (inevitably) get sweaty. They’re comfortable enough for all day wear, and are available in a one, two, or six pack. Some users complain that the socks run small, so you may want to consider sizing up.
Price at time of publication: $13
Key Specs:Compression: Not listed | Material: Nylon, spandex, polyester | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Excercise, lounging
Vitalsox Compression Socks are a popular choice among runners, but they’re also a good option if you’re active, pregnant, or dealing with foot or calf pain. They’re lightly padded at the ball and top of the foot, but not too bulky, so you can easily wear them with any athletic or work shoes. The padding provides additional comfort and helps to avoid abrasion and foot stress from impact exercises like running.
Best for Running
Vitalsox Compression Socks
Four-way stretch material
Quick-drying polypropylene
Not true to size
The socks’ unique Drystat material controls moisture while also reducing bacteria growth, to reduce your risk of blisters and smelly socks. The compression starts around the midfoot, providing arch support while keeping common injuries, such as plantar fasciitis and shin splints, at bay.
Available in several sizes and multiple colors, there are a variety of options to choose from.
Key Specs:Compression: 12-20 mmHg | Material: Silver DryStat, spandex, lycra, nylon | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Running
If you suffer from or have been prone to plantar fasciitis, you should definitely consider the Bitly Plantar Fasciitis compression socks. By offering targeted compression and support to your arch and ankle, these socks can help ease your arch and heel pain and stimulate healing blood flow to speed your recovery.
Best for Plantar Fasciitis
Bitly Plantar Fasciitis Compression Socks
Open-toe design
Comfortable fit
True to size
No heel cushion
Specific compression not listed
The moisture-wicking, breathable fabric promotes temperature regulation, so your feet will stay cool and dry. We like that these socks are available in several different sizes and colors, and that the brand offers a useful size chart can help you decide what socks will fit best.
Price at time of publication: $12
Key Specs:Compression: Not listed | Material: Nylon | Length: Ankle | Best for: Exercise, lounging
If you have shin splints, the Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks can relieve pain while improving performance when you wear them before, during, or after a workout. They feature graduated compression to help improve blood circulation and oxygen flow, reduce leg fatigue, and support muscles. Plus, the lightweight material is designed to feel comfortable against your skin.
Best for Shin Splints
Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks
Graduated compression
Anti-irritation seamless design
True to size
Expensive
Thin and stiff after washing
Moisture-wicking and thermal-regulating, the socks feature a seamless technology that reduces blisters, rubbing, and irritation. We also like that they feature an elastic band around the foot to help support your arches. Runners love the no-slip cuff, which holds the socks in place no matter how fast you’re running.
Price at time of publication: $50
Key Specs:Compression: Not Listed | Material: Polyamide, elastane | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Running, cycling
The CEP Women’s Progressive+ Compression Run Socks feature compressive yarns that wrap around the leg more than 400 times—providing precise compression that promotes recovery and performance. They’re most compressive around your calf muscles to increase circulation, reduce muscle soreness, and prevent shin splints and other overuse injuries.
Best Colors
CEP Women’s Progressive+ Compression Run Socks
True to size
Ribbed pattern for air flow
Molds to feet
Material lacks durability
Expensive
By molding to your feet without restricting your toes, these socks offer a snug, custom fit, while also preventing blisters. They feature a halo top band right below the knee, which keeps your socks in place, and a large selection of colors means you can find one to match your individual style.
Price at time of publication: $60
Key Specs:Compression: 20-30mmHg | Material: Polyamide, elastane | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Running
Ankle-high compression socks are usually easier to put on and more comfortable to wear than knee-length ones. The Comrad Ankle Compression Socks also provide many of the same benefits, including reduced swelling and foot pain, along with increased arch support, improving comfort and performance throughout the day.
Best Ankle Socks
Comrad Ankle Compression Socks
More comfortable than knee-high
Graduated compression
Have to be air-dried
The socks come in classic colors like Charcoal and Navy and a limited edition pastel palette of Berry and Pear, among other spring-like colors. They’re available in sizes S-XL.
Price at time of publication: $18
Key Specs:Compression: Not listed | Material: Nylon, Spandex | Length: Ankle-high | Best for: Exercise, recovery, pregnancy, everyday use
Compression socks are often seen as too medical-looking and unattractive, bringing back memories of your grandmother’s compression stockings. They are most definitely looking different today, beginning with the Comrad Ombré Compression Sock. Not only stylish, but they also offer all the features you want in a quality compression sock: increased circulation, pain relief, and reduced swelling and inflammation.
Most Stylish
Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks
- Stylish
- Graduated compression
- Lab-tested for quality
They come in five ombré colors, from Berry to Pear to Sky Blue, and you can find them in sizes Small to Large and in two wide options. Not happy with your pair? Don’t stress—we love that you can always return or exchange the socks within 30 days of your purchase.
Price at time of publication: $28
Key Specs:Compression: 15-20 mmHg | Material: Nylon, Spandex | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Exercise, recovery, pregnancy, everyday use
The 2XU Compression Performance Run Socks have a reputation for being one of the lightest and most comfortable compression socks out there. With zoned breathability panels and moisture-wicking fabric, they provide plenty of airflow and moisture control, allowing your feet to stay dry, cool, and comfortable all day.
Best for Men
2XU Compression Performance Run Socks
True to size
Zoned vented panels
Padded base for comfort
Not machine-washable
The graduated compression supports the calf, shin, ankle, Achilles, and foot, allowing for increased blood flow and maximum muscle contained. The seamless construction and the light padding also keep your feet more comfortable and blister-free. While you’ll pay a bit more for these socks compared to others, it’s worth the price for such a reliable, high-performance product.
Price at time of publication: $45
Key Specs:Compression: Not listed | Material: Nylon, invista sport lycra | Length: Knee-high | Best for: Running
How We Selected the Best Compression Socks
After researching dozens of compression socks from the most trusted and popular retailers, we selected the best pairs based on a set of specific criteria. First, we examined how the socks fit and what materials they were made out of. We also considered how breathable they were, whether they were quick-drying, and how much compression they offered.
Then, we looked at style, price, and durability for each pair. Finally, we made sure the socks had adequate cushioning for all parts of the foot and that they would be comfortable to wear.
What to Look for in Compression Socks
Performance
The key to performance is finding a pair of compression socks that provides the right amount of support to help you achieve your goals. You may want a pair that helps reduce fatigue and prevents injury while you’re exercising, or you might want to use them for recovery, on long flights, or at times when you need extra support. The Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks excel in performance.
“Compression socks help the veins in their effort to circulate blood back to the heart as well as provide a gentle squeeze, which both feels good and does good on a physiologic level,” Ernest L. Isaacson, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist at Paragon Podiatry in New York City, says. Know what you’re trying to achieve with compression socks before buying a specific pair.
Pressure Rating
The pressure rating refers to the amount of compression the sock provides to help circulate blood in your legs. How you intend to use your socks will correlate with the pressure rating you need.
Isaacson recommends looking for one in the 7-15 or 15-21 millimeters of mercury ( mmHg) level, as it will provide adequate pressure for anyone looking for moderate help with circulation. However, compression levels can reach up to 40 millimeters of mercury—a pressure recommended for those recovering from surgery or those suffering from chronic illness.
Always consult with your doctor about what the right pressure rating is for you, especially when dealing with specific health conditions.
Fit
“A sock should feel tight but not to the extent that it feels uncomfortable,” Isaacson says. Most socks include a size chart, but further guidance from a doctor may be necessary for those dealing with recovery or illness.
Isaacson notes that, contrary to popular wisdom, it’s nearly impossible to cut off circulation to the feet via compression stocking, since it would require a level of compression that exceeds one’s blood pressure. You may experience slight discomfort from the pressure, but the chances of further injuring yourself when wearing them are minimal.
Comfort
Find a pair of compression socks that are supportive with adequate pressure. Some feature padding in the feet, which may be important if you’re a runner. Additionally, consider the material—socks made from moisture-wicking fabric, for example, can prevent chafing and blisters. “Almost all commercially available socks today are made of synthetic materials that wick the moisture away from the skin as well as provide a comfortable level of stretch,” Isaacson says.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do compression socks work?
- Compression socks work by gently squeezing and massaging your feet and legs, which helps redirect your blood flow back to your heart. With light pressure on the legs, compression socks work to reduce and prevent swelling, pain, and the formation of blood clots.
- Is it ok 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. “But make sure you don’t leave the same pair of compression socks on for days at a time,” Melissa Prestipino, DPT, clinical director of Therapeutics Unlimited, says.
- How many hours a day should you wear compression socks?
- “Compression socks are safe to wear for an unlimited amount of hours, especially during periods of sitting and when blood flow isn’t actively circulating throughout the legs,” Dr. Prestipino says.However, don’t wear them in bed or when going to sleep. “They’re best to be removed before bedtime to avoid skin irritation,” Dr. Prestipino says. “In addition, when you’re at rest, your legs are already in a neutral position to allow improved blood flow.” Speak to your health care professional if you’re not sure when or for how long you should be wearing compression socks.You should also replace your compression socks after three to six months of regular wear since the elastic fibers eventually break down and start to lose their effectiveness.
- How much does a compression sock cost?
- You can expect to pay at least $10 for a quality pair of compression socks. If you’re looking for a specialized, high-compression sock that targets specific issues, you may be looking at a higher price tag. But for more basic, everyday socks, look between $10-$50. Our top recommendation, the Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks, was just $22 when we published this list.
Compression socks work by gently squeezing and massaging your feet and legs, which helps redirect your blood flow back to your heart. With light pressure on the legs, compression socks work to reduce and prevent swelling, pain, and the formation of blood clots.
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. “But make sure you don’t leave the same pair of compression socks on for days at a time,” Melissa Prestipino, DPT, clinical director of Therapeutics Unlimited, says.
“Compression socks are safe to wear for an unlimited amount of hours, especially during periods of sitting and when blood flow isn’t actively circulating throughout the legs,” Dr. Prestipino says.
You can expect to pay at least $10 for a quality pair of compression socks. If you’re looking for a specialized, high-compression sock that targets specific issues, you may be looking at a higher price tag. But for more basic, everyday socks, look between $10-$50. Our top recommendation, the Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks, was just $22 when we published this list.
