Gravity is always working against your heart as it pumps blood throughout the body. As a result, your blood and lymph fluids experience a constant gravitational pull downwards. Although our circulatory system is able to pump nutrient-rich oxygenated blood to all parts of the body, gravity can make that more difficult. With an easy-on, easy-off design, we were impressed that the band stayed in place while we sat down and stood up multiple times. We found they offered light, comfortable compression—although we did notice that after around eight hours of wear, the material started to feel itchy. Some clinics refer to this range as firm compression. These high compression levels can be useful for:

Level of Compression is Right for You? – LegSmart What Level of Compression is Right for You? – LegSmart

Dr. Valjee says that unless a doctor has advised you otherwise, it’s best to start with the lightest amount of compression and work your way up from there if you’re not satisfied.

You can buy these with a doctor’s prescription and must use them only under your physician’s recommendation. Still, we thought the fabric was generally soft and durable, surviving multiple washings without showing signs of wear. A light compression range of 8-15 mmHg is gentle enough to be tolerated well by nearly any wearer. Garments falling in this range are:

Best Compression Socks of 2023, Tested - Verywell Fit The 14 Best Compression Socks of 2023, Tested - Verywell Fit

With 15 to 20 mmHg of compression, this pair is right in the middle of the pressure range on our list. We also like the simple, sporty design, which is ideal for regular wear. And they feature Bombas’ typical seamless toe for comfort whether you’re wearing them alone or in shoes. According to Dr. Valjee, there are three main levels of compression, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg): People who travel long distances. When you sit for prolonged periods, your circulation declines. That can increase swelling and your risk for blood clots, Dr. Valjee says, noting that people who travel by plane are especially at risk because of the high cabin pressure during flights. Long-distance travelers who experience edema, swollen legs and discomfort during travel via road or by air for long hours.This mild compression range of 15-20 mmHg is the second most commonly used compression level. Support garments in this range are ideal for: People who do not have any specific leg conditions or diseases but who wish to protect their feet and ankles from minor injuries. We felt a significant difference after sitting all day in these, with more energy in our legs and feet. And we liked that the looser toe allowed for a better range of motion, so we could wiggle our toes freely without our feet feeling squeezed.

What Level of Compression Socks Do I Need? (mmHG Guide!) What Level of Compression Socks Do I Need? (mmHG Guide!)

When we wore them while sitting, we noticed that our feet and legs felt noticeably less tired. However, we also found that we had to roll the band over to keep them at knee height, meaning they may be too long for some wearers. (We did like that the band still felt comfortable to wear, even when we doubled it up.) For the same reasons, compression sleeves are a great option in the summertime. You’ll even be able to wear sandals or flip-flops with them. We like that the secure band doesn’t slide down or bunch up. And the fabric contains a breathable blend of cotton, spandex, polyester, and nylon to keep your feet cool and dry. Patients with chronic orthostatic hypotension and rapidly increasing venous insufficiencies in the legs.Individuals who want to prevent the feelings of soreness, pain and fatigue from long periods of sitting at work or while traveling.