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Ever since I started wearing compression socks on long-haul flights and after long runs, I'm left feeling refreshed rather than sore and achy. While they're typically known for their medical benefits, compression socks can help relieve all types of leg discomfort, beyond prescription use: air travel, post-workout recovery, long days on your feet, or swollen ankles from pregnancy. Soo Rhee, M.D., a vascular surgeon at Weill Cornell Medicine, says that by applying graduated pressure to your calves and feet, these socks improve blood flow and, as a result, alleviate swelling.
Because you'll need to wear them for long stretches of time, it's important that they're comfortable and easy to put on, too. We've tested 15 different pairs in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab and worked with dozens of consumer testers: Not all will stay put on your legs or wick away your sweat, but the best can feel life-changing. Our top pick, Vim & Vigr's Cotton Graduated Compression Sock, comes in six sizes for a secure fit and earned high praise from our consumer testers for its soft feel and approachable style.
Our top picks:
- Best overall: VIM&VIGR Cotton Graduated Compression Socks in 15–20 mmHg
- Best value: Copper Fit Energy Compression Socks
- Best for recovery: CEP The Run Compression Tall Socks 4.0
- Best for travel: Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks
Best Deal
Pros
- Offered in six sizes based on shoe size and calf circumference
- Barely shrank and easily wicked away sweat in Lab tests
- Mix of fun prints and neutral colors that don't look medical or sporty
Cons
- Some users found these socks harder to get on their feet
Out of all the compression socks we've tested, these were the best. They come in six sizes, based on shoe size and calf circumference so you can get a near-perfect fit, and there's a good mix of neutral basics and fun socks. GH Lab Director Sabina Wizemann has worn these socks for over a decade. She says, "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."
WHAT TESTERS SAY: Testers liked that this pair doesn't look “too medical” or “too sporty” and can be paired with anything from boots to sneakers. One was impressed by how she didn’t experience any swelling in her ankles after a long flight, and another appreciated the wide-calf sizing. Still, some testers found it difficult to put on the socks but said the long-term comfort was worth the hassle.
LAB TEST RESULTS: This pair excelled in abrasion resistance tests and showed little-to-no shrinkage after multiple washes. I was impressed by how the cotton-nylon blend easily wicked away sweat and even outperformed synthetic fabrics.
| Fabric | 48% cotton, 42% nylon, 8% spandex |
| Compression level | 15-20 mmHg |
| Sizing | By shoe size and calf circumference with wide calf options |
Pros
- Easiest on our list to put on and take off
- Testers said it stayed in place all day
- If you're not sure you'll like compression socks, these are less of an investment
Cons
- Pilled and shrank in Lab durability tests
For those who aren’t sure whether compression socks are right for them, this pair is a great, low-cost option to try out. It stands out for its easy-on, easy-off design, which won over several testers.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: Several consumer testers told us that their legs felt noticeably better after wearing these socks while standing all day. One shared, “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.”
LAB TEST RESULTS: These weren't the most durable socks we tested. They pilled and shrank a bit, but they were the easiest pair to put on. It can be confusing to put on compression socks, so I appreciated that Copper Fit included beginner-friendly instructions with each pair.
| Fabric | 85% nylon, 8% spandex, 7% polyester |
| Compression level | 15-20 mmHg |
| Sizing | By shoe size only |
Pros
- Moderate to firm compression
- Minimal shrinkage in Lab tests
- Impressed marathon runners and soccer players in our tests
Cons
- Some testers experienced difficulties getting these on their legs
CEP's compression socks are specifically designed to boost performance and aid in recovery after intense exercise using 20–30 mmHg for moderate to firm compression. They're more compressive than your everyday pair, but this helps with circulation after post-workout lactic-acid build up. Health Newsroom Director Stephanie Dolgoff described them as “a cut above” other brands she's tried, and our testers agreed.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: Testers gave them high scores for overall comfort, fit, and cushioning. One tester 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.”
LAB TEST RESULTS: They impressed our Lab experts with their minimal shrinkage after multiple washes and earned good scores for their ability to wick away sweat. The caveat was that they were one of the more difficult pairs to put on.
RELATED: The Best Compression Leggings, According to Textile Experts
| Fabric | 83% polyamide (nylon), 17% spandex |
| Compression level | 20-30 mmHg |
| Sizing | By calf circumference only |
Pros
- High comfort scores from testers
- Soft cotton blend feels comfortable and familiar
- Seamless toe and cushioned sole
Cons
- Lower height may not fit taller people well
Bombas uses a seamless toe, cushy sole, and compressive band for maximum comfort. They look and feel like the brand's signature soft socks. Because of this, GH Analyst Eva Bleyer wears a pair almost everyday to manage her swollen ankles during pregnancy.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: They earned high praise: "I have tried so many compression socks and these are the first ones that I actually like," said one tester. "They are comfortable, easy to put on, and don't feel like they are squeezing the life out of my feet and legs." I've also worn this pair on a few long-haul flights and find them just as effective as our other picks.
LAB TEST RESULTS: These were the softest compression socks we've tested. Compared to other styles, they were easier to put on but ran a bit short, though they hit at a perfect length on a petite tester. If you're in between sizes, I'd recommend sizing up as this pair shrank a bit after a few washes.
RELATED: Bombas Socks Review
Features at a Glance
| Fabric | 68% cotton, 16% polyester, 9% elastane, 7% nylon |
| Compression level | 15–20 mmHg |
| Sizing | By shoe size only |
Pros
- Neutral colors and simple prints don't look like compression socks
- 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
This pair from Comrad is perfect for those who want to avoid swollen ankles on their next long plain ride. Offered in a variety of solids, stripes, and ombre prints, these discreet compression socks are a great option if you don't love the look of medical and sport-oriented styles. For people with larger calves, the brand offers the same socks in wide calf sizing.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: This style impressed both new and longtime compression-sock wearers alike. They loved the “non-flashy colors,” and one called them “comfortable yet effective in keeping the swelling down.” One commented, “These do not dig into my legs, but they keep the swelling at bay.” Some noted that they weren't the most breathable and ran a little warm in summer weather.
LAB TEST RESULTS: My fellow analysts and I found them easier to put on than most styles, though they came up higher than other pairs. The fabric also washed well with average shrinkage but failed to wick away sweat.
| Fabric | 93% nylon, 7% elastane (spandex) |
| Compression level | 15-20 mmHg |
| Sizing | By shoe size and calf circumference |
Pros
- Stayed up without digging in
- Testers reported notably less swelling when wearing this pair
- Cushioned sole provides extra comfort when on your feet
Cons
- Not ideal for people with larger calves
Consumer testers who routinely stand all day, including nurses and medical assistants, praised the cushioned sole and strong compression of this pair from MudGear. Several found it effective for relieving swelling and didn't roll down.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: Several testers found the socks softer and more comfortable to wear than their normal compression socks. They liked how they stayed up without digging into their legs. One 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.
Note: 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 the socks aren't offered in wide calf sizing, I'd recommend them primarily for those with average-size calves.
LAB TEST RESULTS: Compared to other socks, this pair shrank a little less. It fared well in other tests too, with average abrasion resistance and moisture-wicking performance.
| Fabric | 63% nylon, 28% polyester, 9% spandex |
| Compression level | 15-20 mmHg |
| Sizing | By shoe size only |
Pros
- Breathable and moisture-wicking fabric keeps feet cool and dry on runs
- Cushioned heel and toe for added comfort
- Contoured left and right fit provides extra support
Cons
- Some testers who are between sizes found the smaller size too small
The seamless toe and targeted cushioning on the sole makes this pair ideal for long runs or post-workout recovery. It's cushioned right where you need it without feeling bulky, and the breathable knit fabric is designed to wick away moisture. Plus, each sock is contoured to better fit your left or right foot.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: This pair received top scores from testers for overall comfort. 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.
LAB TEST RESULTS: The breathable, moisture-wicking fabric fared well in Lab tests. 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. As a result, I'd recommend sizing up if you're in between sizes.
| Fabric | 82% polyamide (nylon), 18% elastane (spandex) |
| Compression Level | 15-20 mmHg |
| Sizing | By shoe size only |
How we test compression socks
I've tested over 100 socks, including 15 compressive styles, both in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab and with the help of hundreds of consumer testers across the country. To find the best compression socks, I collected and analyzed over 1,200 data points to gauge which pairs had the best performance and durability.
✔️ Consumer testing: I recruited testers of all ages, including healthcare workers, active runners, pregnant people, and those with medical conditions. They then reported back on overall comfort, fit, and cushioning as well as how easy the socks were to put on and take off. Testers also shared how the socks performed over time, including if they stayed in place or if they ran hot.
✔️ Lab testing: We tried each pair on to evaluate how easy they were and noted any design features, like targeted cushioning on the sole or a contoured foot-specific fit.
We also tested for abrasion resistance, moisture management, and shrinkage using specialized equipment and industry standards for quality.
✔️ Abrasion resistance test: We cut swatches from the heel and toes of each sock and place them into our Martindale Pilling & Abrasion tester. The swatches are then rubbed against an abrasive surface for up to 10,000 cycles and scored for surface change, such as notable pills (pictured) or damaged yarns.
✔️ Moisture-management test: To test how well a sock wicks away sweat, we cut a swatch of fabric from a compression sock and place it into our moisture management tester. This fabric (pictured) performed poorly, and you can see a droplet of sweat solution on top, which the fabric failed to wick away.
How long should compression socks be?
Most compression socks are available at a knee-length height to provide graduated compression from the ankle throughout the calf. Qinghua Pu, M.D., a cardiovascular surgeon at Maimonides Medical Center, says 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 serve the same purpose as knee-high compression socks because they cannot offer the same compression for the calves and are not ideal for those trying to ease swelling or cramping.
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.
What should I consider when shopping for compression socks?
✔️ 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, Dr. Pu recommends 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 people who often find their compression socks rolling down their legs, shifting 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, the knee-high length is ideal.
✔️ Materials: Synthetic fibers, such as nylon or polyester, are the most common materials for compression socks because they tend to be durable and moisture-wicking, however in our Lab testing, we found a lot depends on the construction of the sock. Some brands will also use cotton, which is popular for its breathability but is not moisture-wicking, or wool, which is moisture-wicking but not as soft or smooth.
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. 15–20 mmHg is the most popular compression level and also ideal for everyday running and training.
- 20–30mmHg is most commonly prescribed by physicians and can help soothe a variety of mild conditions, like swelling after intense training sessions.
- 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 is 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?
Senior Textiles Analyst Grace Wu has tested over 100 socks, including 15 compressive styles, and worked with hundreds of consumer testers. Wu holds a Master of Engineering in Materials Science & Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Fiber Science from Cornell University.
For this story, Wu spoke with Qinghua Pu, M.D., vice chief of vascular surgery 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 wearers typically look for.
Textiles Lab Associate Director Emma Seymour also previously interviewed vascular surgeons Tivka Jacobs M.D. and Soo Rhee M.D. at Weill Cornell Medicine.
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