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Spending a long time in one position, whether it’s in an airplane seat with precious little legroom or glued to your desk, can cause incredible discomfort—but the right compression socks could help.
Dr. Kristy Golden, DPM, a board-certified podiatric surgeon at Kaiser Permanente, says that she often tells her patients to wear compression socks when traveling because prolonged periods of sitting can slow down blood flow in the legs, increasing the risk of blood clots. Compression socks can help reduce the risk, she says, and can also “combat fatigue and leg discomfort” many travelers experience.
(Read what long flights do to our bodies, from blood clots to muscle soreness to digestion issues.)
The best compression socks for most people, including the best compression socks for flying, will be knee-high and “should fit snugly but not be uncomfortably tight” with a slight, painless indentation at the top of the sock, Golden said.
You should, however, speak with a health care professional before starting to wear compression socks, Golden says, especially if you have existing medical issues or if you’re not sure if they’re right for you. Some people might need more or less compression depending on their medical history.
Our picks for the best travel compression socks
The best travel compression socks for 2024
Best overall: Bombas Everyday Compression Socks
Photograph courtesy Amazon
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: Bombas Everyday Compression Socks are our pick for the best overall compression socks for travelers and the best compression socks for flying. They have a reputation for being comfortable and durable, with just the right amount of support for most travelers. They also come in a variety of patterns and colors, so most people can find a pair they love.
These socks also have targeted support, with more support in the ankle and less in the calf. Some people find this a more comfortable way to get the benefits of compression socks without squeezing the entire leg. Bombas Everyday Compression socks also provide arch support, which can help prevent sore feet.
Keep in mind: These socks should be washed on a gentle cycle to help them last longer.
Product details: Strength: 15-20mmHg | Sizes: small, medium, and large | Material: cotton polyester, elastane, and nylon
Best budget compression socks: JaVie Lightweight Merino Wool Everyday Compression Socks
Photograph courtesy Amazon
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: JaVie Lightweight Merino Wool Everyday Compression Socks are our favorite budget compression socks for travel. These thin, lightweight socks don’t take up much room in a suitcase. They are versatile enough to wear all year round. Plus, they’re comfortable in warm weather and thin enough that it’s possible to layer thicker socks on top in the winter.
Because JaVie compression socks contain merino wool, they will also help resist odors. They come in various patterns and colors, so it’s easy to find a pair that matches almost any travel outfit.
Keep in mind: Because these socks contain merino wool, some people may find them irritating. Additionally, the socks do not have any padding. This helps keep them light but may bother those who prefer cushioning in their socks.
Product details: Strength |15-20mmHg | Sizes: small, medium | Material: 46 percent merino wool, 41 percent nylon, 13 percent spandex
Best zipper compression socks: Omega Walk Flex Zip
Buy it now at Omega Walk
Why we like it: According to Golden, compression socks should fit snugly and shouldn’t slide down while walking. Putting on snug compression socks may be difficult for some people, though—and travel compression socks with a zipper can help solve this problem.
Omega Walk Flex Zip socks are our pick for the best zipper compression socks for travelers. The back of the zipper used in these socks is lined, which helps prevent irritation. These socks also have heel-to-toe cushioning, which many travelers find comfortable.
Keep in mind: Although these socks have a built-in skin guard to prevent irritation, some may not like the feel of the zipper. The zipper and cushioning also add weight to the socks.
Product Details: Strength: 20-30 mmHg | Sizes: small/medium, large/X-large/XX-large | Material: mix of nylon and spandex
Best wide-calf compression socks for travel: Dr. Motion Athleisure Compression Socks
Photograph courtesy Dr Motion
Buy it now at Dr. Motion
Why we like it: Our pick for the best wide-calf compression socks for travel are Dr. Motion’s Athleisure Compression Socks. Travelers come in all shapes and sizes, and travel compression socks need to come in all shapes and sizes, too. These travel compression socks have plenty of stretch so they shouldn’t feel tight on most people, even for those with wider calves.
They’re also lightweight, so they won’t add a lot of bulk to your luggage. An added benefit is that they’re less expensive than many of the other best compression socks for travelers we’ve found.
Keep in mind: These socks only come in an ombre pattern, which may not appeal to everyone. If that’s the case, check out other compression socks from Dr. Motion that have similar features.
Product Details:Strength: 15-20 mmHg | Sizes: 2, 3, and 4 | Material: 96% nylon, 4% elastane
Best men’s compression socks for travel: Ostrichpillow Compression Socks
Photograph courtesy Amazon
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: Ostrichpillow makes innovative travel gear, including some of the best travel compression socks we’ve found. Ostrichpillow’s compression socks are our choice for the best men’s compression socks for travel.
They’re made from silky, soft bamboo, which many travelers find comfortable and soothing, and they have a cushioned sole.
Keep in mind: These compression socks come in a few colors but only one style. Those who don’t like the way these look will need to look elsewhere for travel compression socks.
Product Details: Strength | 8-15 mmHg | Sizes: small, medium, and large | Material: 50% bamboo, 25% recycled polyester, 10% recycled nylon, and 15 percent spandex Oeko-Tex
Best women’s compression socks for travel: Pacas Women’s Compression socks
Buy it now at Pacas
Why we like it: Our choice for the best women’s compression socks for travel are Pacas Women’s Compression Socks. All of Pacas socks, including their compression socks, are made with alpaca wool. Alpaca wool is very soft and also helps keep feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Some people find it easier to put Pacas compression socks on than compression socks made of other materials. These socks come in a variety of colors and patterns, making it easy for most travelers to find a pair they like. They are also very durable. These cozy socks are great compression socks for flying on cool planes.
Keep in mind: Some people find alpaca wool irritating, and others don’t like wearing wool in warmer weather.
Product Details: Strength: 12-15 mmHg | Sizes: small/medium, and medium/ large | Material: 44% nylon, 27% alpaca, 22% acrylic, 5% spandex, 2% olefin
Best travel compression socks for walking: Figs Compression Socks
Buy it now at Figs
Why we like it: Our choice for the best travel compression socks for walking is Figs Compression Socks. Figs are designed for medical professionals who often spend hours at a time on their feet. These socks work equally well for most travelers who want compression socks to help them stay comfortable on long walks around new cities.
A unique feature of Figs Compression Socks is that customers can design their own socks by choosing a core color and design. Almost everyone should be able to create a pair they love.
Keep in mind: These compression socks have a lighter compression strength than most of the other socks we selected. Some travelers may prefer a higher compression strength.
Product Details: Strength: Light 360 compression | Sizes: small, medium, and large | Material: 91% nylon, 9% elastane
Best ankle compression socks: Comrad Ankle Compression Socks
Buy it now at Comrad
Why we like it: Our choice for the best ankle compression socks for travelers are Comrad Ankle Compression Socks. These socks provide support around the arches and the Achilles’ heel. This support can help prevent sore feet when traveling.
Comrad Ankle Compression Socks are also thin, lightweight, and short. These features make them a good choice for hot weather. The low-cut design also makes these compression socks a good choice for many travelers who prefer to wear barely visible socks and still get some benefits of compression socks.
Keep in mind: Because these socks only go up to your ankle, they won’t provide as many benefits as higher compression socks.
Product Details: Strength: 360-degree arch compression | Sizes: small, medium, large, and X-large | Material: 92% nylon/8% spandex
How we chose the best compression socks for travel
I drew heavily on my own experience wearing compression socks for travel and use at home for everyday wear. Years ago, a doctor suggested that I wear compression socks after my ankles and feet swelled considerably on an overnight train in China. I’ve been wearing them regularly ever since. I also studied brand product descriptions, third-party reviews, and competitor articles, considering the following:
Third-party reviews: I have opinions regarding the best compression socks for travel based on my own experience. However, I wanted to be sure my experience was stacked up against what others thought of my favorite brands of compression socks. I also wanted to learn more about what those who wear compression socks thought about brands I have not tried.
Brand reputation: Some brands have earned a reputation for quality. I believe that brands that have earned a loyal following over time from satisfied customers deserve a closer look.
Quality of materials: I hate investing in items for travel just to have them fall apart quickly, especially when I am far from home and can’t easily find a replacement. My compression socks get a lot of use when traveling and help keep me healthy, so I rely on them heavily. In making selections, I paid close attention to both the durability and comfort level.
Strength: Golden explained that “compression socks should fit snugly but not be uncomfortably tight.” After inadvertently buying a pair of compression socks that were so tight they left me with black-and-blue marks around my leg, I knew paying attention to the strength of compression socks was important. I selected mostly medium-strength compression socks that will fit most people comfortably without causing pain.
Style: Just because compression socks are sometimes used for medical purposes doesn’t mean they need to look sterile. It’s important to love what you are wearing, especially when traveling with a limited wardrobe. Compression socks are no exception.
Tips for buying compression socks for travel
Material
Material is largely a matter of personal preference. The best compression socks for travelers in different categories are made from different materials. Some people love the feel of merino or alpaca wool, while others find these materials irritating. Others may love the softness of bamboo, but it’s not for everyone. Getting compression socks you find comfortable is important.
Length
According to Golden, “knee-high socks are generally the most comfortable and practical, regardless of the mode of travel or health conditions.” However, some people find shorter compression socks more comfortable and easier to put on, or they prefer them in hot climates. Golden shared that higher compression socks, such as thigh-high socks, are often uncomfortable and hard to keep in place, while shorter socks may not provide as much benefit.
Style
Just because compression socks are used by most travelers to promote wellness doesn’t mean they have to be boring. Several of the best compression socks come in a variety of styles and colors. It’s always a good idea to pick a style that will match multiple outfits when traveling.
Strength
Compression socks that are not strong enough may not provide enough strength to prevent blood clots. However, compression socks that are too tight may cause pain. It’s important to find a middle ground. This may involve some trial and error based on your own needs and comfort, and, of course, consulting with your doctor.
Your medical history
Golden suggests speaking with a health care professional before starting to wear compression socks, especially if you have existing medical issues or if you’re not sure if they’re right for you. Some people might need more or less compression depending on their medical history.
What do compression socks do?
The prolonged sitting that is sometimes a necessary part of travel “is a major risk factor for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a serious condition wherein a blood clot forms in the deep veins of the legs that can lead to severe complications like pulmonary embolism and death,” Golden explained.
According to Golden, “compression socks reduce the risk of DVT by working to promote improved circulation of the fluid in the lower leg and reduce stagnant fluid, thereby reducing blood clot risk.”
Compression socks can also help travelers feel better on days they are doing a lot of walking “to alleviate swelling and enhance walking comfort and efficiency,” she said.
Benefits of compression socks
There are several health benefits to wearing compression socks.
Prevent blood clots: Air travel may increase the risk of DVT, which can be fatal. Wearing compression stockings might reduce this risk, according to Golden.
Reduce leg swelling: Wearing compression socks on flights can reduce swelling in the legs.
Make flights more comfortable: The pain and discomfort associated with swelling may be reduced when wearing compression socks on flights.
Frequently asked questions
Can you sleep in compression socks?
You should not sleep in compression socks unless advised to do so by your doctor, according to Golden.
How long should you wear compression socks?
Golden explained that there is no set number of hours you should wear compression socks. However, if they become uncomfortable, then it is time to remove them. A slight indentation in the skin where the compression sock ends is normal, but compression socks should not cause pain, she explained.
When is the best time to wear compression socks?
Golden recommended putting on compression socks early in the morning before fluid has the chance to accumulate in the legs and then removing them before bed. However, if wearing them on a long flight, train ride, or car ride, keep compression socks on for the duration of the trip regardless of the time of day.
Jamie Davis Smith is a writer, attorney, and mother of four. She loves exploring the world and her adopted hometown of Washington, D.C. She has traveled to over 50 countries with no plans to stop.
*Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.
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