As a foot and ankle doctor, I often get asked by my patients which compression socks they should purchase. This is a difficult question to answer in a blanket statement, and prompted me to do my own research and create an algorithm that can aide in finding the best compression socks for you.

Before we begin, some of you may not know of all the different types of compression socks available on the market. Here is an abbreviated breakdown of the different options available.

1. The most obvious difference is the level of compression achieved: Ankle High, Knee High, and Thigh High compression socks. Ankle high compression socks do not provide much venous outflow and can be uncomfortable, so we will be leaving those out of this review. Knee high socks provide enough venous return for the general population. Thigh high compression provides the best venous return and swelling control as the fluids are dumped directly into the larger veins and cycled back into circulation directly. Thigh high socks may be necessary if the medium vessels at the calf are not functioning properly, as is the case in venous insufficiency.
2. Closed toe vs Open toe – This is quite obvious as well, however some of the eldery population prefer open toed as oftentimes the toe fabric can become too tight and uncomfortable on the toes within shoes or slippers.
3. Amount of compression is typically measured as pressure in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
   1. 8-15mmHg is light compression – used for general prophylaxis
   2. 15-20mmHg is medium compression – used by moderately active individuals, in early pregnancy, or those with only mild swelling of the legs.
   3. 20-30mmHg is heavy compression – used by highly active individuals, in late pregnancy, or those with medium to high swelling of the legs.
4. Zippered vs no zipper. The zipper adds a level of ease of application for those individuals who find compression stockings burdensome to wear.
5. Fabric Material can also play a role in deciding between types or brands of compression socks. Polyester materials can become irritative to the skin and should be avoided if possible. Nylon/Spandex hybrid materials provide the best compression while also being the least reactive to the skin.

This was only a brief breakdown as stated previously, as there are many modifications that have been made including Farrow compression wraps, Prescription custom made socks, layered compression, etc etc.

This should provide enough background on what you may be looking for in a compression sock. Below I will be going through specific brands available, examining the pros and cons of each. I will not be labeling any one brand as the end all be all head honcho of the compression garment industry, as this should be chosen based on the specific criteria of the consumer. I will be, however, pointing out which ones I believe are the best quality available and the best value/bang for your buck available.

Best Compression Sock – Knee High

Quality: LuChoice Knee Compression Socks

Buy on Amazon! ($21.99 for 1)

• Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg
• Fabric/Material: 75% Nylon, 25% Spandex
• Price: $21.99 for one pair
• Durability: 4/5
• Verdict: Great quality materials used, Medium level of compression should be useful for the general public, however these are a little on the pricey side at $21.99 a pair.

Value: NextGen Active Compression Socks

Buy on Amazon! ($21.99 for 3)

• Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg
• Fabric/Material: 70% Nylon, 30% Spandex
• Price: $21.99 for 3 pairs
• Durability: 4.5/5
• Verdict: Material will be slightly more durable and soft, Medium level of compression should be useful for the general public, and the cost is fair for the quality of materials. 

Best Compression Socks – Honorable Mention

Physix Gear

$19 per pair

Verdict: Durable materials, Good fabric, however largely overpriced.

Amazon $19

SB SOX

$10 per pair

Verdict: Not enough compression based on reviews, otherwise good value.

Amazon $10

MUD Gear

$29 per pair

Verdict: Expensive, polyester material, some reviews of heel durability concerns.

Amazon $29

Questions?

Best Compression Socks for Lymphedema

This is a better question directed at the healthcare professional treating the lymphedema, as prescription/custom compression socks may be necessary depending on the severity of your lymphatic insufficiency.

Is Copper a gimmick?

I tend to shy away from calling these fads a gimmick, as oftentimes there will be those who swear by them. Whether or not it is a placebo has not been proven as of yet, however. Placebo can be a great thing to have on your or your patients side, as every little bit of motivation can help.

What is an easy way to put on compression socks?

Insert your hand into the sock until your fingers are at the toes. Pull the socks inside out until you reach your wrist (or until you reach the heel of the sock). Slide the sock onto your foot (after removing your hand (: ). Roll the rest of the sock up the leg and voila!

Should I buy the $2 socks I found?

I personally would not, nor would I recommend these to my patients. If they are selling them for $2, the quality of the fabric is likely very poor and abrasive, and it is unlikely to last many uses. Compression socks need to be durable as it requires a lot of sock-stress to put them on. Splurge and go with the higher quality materials and it’ll save you time, money, and comfort!