The Best Compression Socks for Women, Tried and Tested (2024)

Plus tips from a leading vascular surgeon.

By Sara Klausing
The Best Compression Socks for Women, Tried and Tested (1)

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Lately we've been hearing a lot of buzz around compression socks. It turns out that they're not just for traveling on long flights, pregnant women, athletes running marathons, or nurses working 12-hour shifts. In fact, there are compression socks that are designed to be comfortably worn every day to increase proper blood flow and reduce foot fatigue.

To better understand how compression socks work as well as the potential benefits, we checked in with Kofi Quaye, MD, a vascular surgeon with VeinSolutions in Austin, Texas.

How do compression socks work?

According to Quaye, as our heart works to pump out oxygenated blood via high-pressure arteries through the body, deoxygenated blood returns through your lower-pressure veins. Valves within your veins ensure the one-way flow of this blood from the legs up to the heart. This process is also aided by the contraction of muscles in the leg when walking. Damaged valves can cause the blood to pool, increasing pressure and inciting an inflammatory process that can lead to spider veins, varicose veins, and skin changes.

Where do compression socks come in? "Compression therapy is the cornerstone of therapy by facilitating this unidirectional flow to the heart, helping to reduce inflammation, and increasing the function of the calf muscle pump," says Quaye. "Studies have not shown a clear path for prevention of these venous problems, but they proved a clear improvement in symptoms in patients that already have them."

What should you look for when choosing compression socks?

Quaye says that while there are many brands on the market, the degree of compression is the most important qualifier. Your doctor can make recommendations for both the class or pressure of compression as well as the type of sock or stocking.

"Standard, over-the-counter compression stockings range from 10 to 15 mmHg," says Quaye. From there, increasing levels often require a prescription and range from 20 to 30 mmHg to 40 to 50 mmHg. From knee-high and thigh-high to full panty hose, the length of compression socks will depend on where you're experiencing symptoms.

Runners and athletes may also look for sweat-wicking, antimicrobial, and anti-odor properties. Women who are expecting may need to consider wide sizing during pregnancy and postpartum. As for everyday wear, here are six of the best compression sock brands that Oprah Daily editors tried, tested, and recommend.

1

Best Compression Socks for Travel

Sockwell Women's Circulator Moderate Graduated Compression Socks

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These Sockwell styles offer four zones of 15 to 20 mmHg graduated compression from the toes up to the knees. We especially like how our feet never feel sweaty, likely thanks to a custom merino wool blend that helps to regulate temperature and control odor. They come in 16 different colors, including pretty pastels with sparkle, and fit women's sizes 4 to 11. Jennie Tung, Oprah Daily's senior director of wellness and features, also recommends Sockwell styles.

2

Best Everyday Compression Socks

Clove Compression Socks

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2

Best Everyday Compression Socks

Clove Compression Socks

Clove compression socks offer 20 to 30 mmHg of compression. They're made with a soft, stretchy material and cushioned bottoms designed for nurses working long shifts. We like that they're really comfortable and easy get on and off. Clove also makes great ankle socks. These come in a range of bright colors and prints, and fit women's shoe sizes 7 to 14.

3

Best Compression Socks

Dr. Segal's Compression Socks for Men & Women (15-20 mmHg)

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3

Best Compression Socks

Dr. Segal's Compression Socks for Men & Women (15-20 mmHg)

Dr. Segal's compression socks have many enthusiats – including creative director Adam Glassman. These understated, everyday styles offer 15-20 mmHG of graduated compression and a comfy cushioned foot bed. While the Amazon convenience is appreciated, they have additional styles and colors on their website.

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4

Best Compression Hiking Socks

Dr. Motion Women Outdoor Hiking Compression Knee-High Socks

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4

Best Compression Hiking Socks

Dr. Motion Women Outdoor Hiking Compression Knee-High Socks

Although on the less-expensive end of the sock spectrum, family-owned Dr. Motion's outdoor compression styles are one of our favorites. Unlike most hiking socks that can feel scratchy and clammy, these are soft, moisture-wicking, and subtly cushioned. They offer graduated compression of 8 to 15 mmHg while also providing arch support. We also recommend Dr. Motion's everyday compression ankle socks and the quirky prints for zodiac lovers and dog moms.

5

Best Compression Socks for Running

Feetures Graduated Compression Light Cushion Knee High Socks

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5

Best Compression Socks for Running

Feetures Graduated Compression Light Cushion Knee High Socks

Feetures' 15 to 20 mmHg of compression starts at the ankle and gradually lessens towards the top. Designed with runners top of mind, they're moisture-wicking and seamless at the toe to prevent irritation and blisters.

6

Best Compression Socks for Pregnancy

Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks

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6

Best Compression Socks for Pregnancy

Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks

Comrad makes high-quality compression socks ranging from 10 to 15 mmHg to 20 to 25 mmHg. These knee-high styles offer 15 to 20 mmHg, while wicking moisture and fighting odor, thanks to their signature silver antimicrobial properties. Comrad's compression socks run in women's shoe 5 to 11+, as well as wide sizes. These were the styles worn and recommended by Oprah Daily deputy health editor Rosie Hopegood during her pregnancy.

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7

Best Premium Compression Socks

Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks

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7

Best Premium Compression Socks

Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks

Zensah designs high-quality performance wear for athletes, runners, and recovery. Its Tech+ compression socks are made in Italy with a thick, stretchy material that is somehow silky soft to the touch—even luxurious-feeling. This style offers 15 to 20 mmHg of graduated compression. Did we mention that they're also infused with silver for anti-odor protection? They come in neutrals (black and white) and brights (pink and blue), in women's sizes 5 to 14.5+.

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Sara Klausing

Sara Klausing covers all things fashion and style for Oprah Daily. Follow her on Instagram.

The Best Compression Socks for Women, Tried and Tested (2024)
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