Reviewed by our Gear Geeks:
THE BEST COMPRESSION SOCKS IN 2021
Our experts at work
We gave our Gear lovers one job:
Test 32 different Compression Socks and write reviews of the best.
The result is 20 of the best Compression Socks for Men and Women on the market today.
Anastasia Hamurari
Anastasia Hamurari
Travel and Gear Writer
An ambitious writer with a thirst for content creation through storytelling.
Bradley Axmith
Editor at DIVEIN.com
Vikingship building gear enthusiast and waterworld fanatic.
Designed to facilitate good blood circulation, compression socks are a must-have for many. Athletes of all kinds, avid travelers, pregnant women, and those living a sedentary lifestyle are just a few groups of people who’d benefit from having a pair or two in their wardrobe.
Working by providing pressure on the veins and the lower part of your legs, compression socks force the blood to flow proportionately through your body. The result – swell- and fatigue-free feet that can withstand sport-induced and long-flight-caused pressure with no issues.
Curious to find out what differentiates one pair of compression socks from the other? Check this out:
- Compression level (<14 mmHg, 15-20 mmHg, >21-30 mmHg)
- Material (cotton, synthetic fibers, merino wool)
- Fit
- Value
Keep on reading to discover what compression socks are worth a purchase.
Still unsure as to what compression socks to choose? Check out our buying guide to know what to look for when buying a compression sock.
TOP 10 COMPRESSION SOCKS FOR MEN IN 2021
Fitting true to size, FuelMeFoot compression socks provide great support for those struggling with soreness and cramping in their legs caused by high-strength gym workouts and long work hours. Copper ions bound to the fibers and incorporated into the socks revive blood circulation by applying pressure to your feet and enhance blood flow. They also provide warmth and wick any moisture that gets in the way of you enjoying your CrossFit class or a picturesque hike. Sweaty feet aren’t an issue when these socks are on. The wide array of colors makes FuelMeFoot an attractive purchase for everyone looking for a funky-looking bundle of socks that will last a long time. Vitalsox has been on the market for decades already and this speaks volumes about the quality of its compression socks. This pair deserves an honorable mention due to its premium build and user-friendly design. Unlike other socks, Vitalsox patented compression socks feature moisture-wicking Silver Drystat fibers that have antibacterial properties helping with maintaining dry and fresh feet at all times. And even though your feet might still acquire a certain smell after an intense workout, your socks will remain odor-free. Graduated compression means your feet get sufficient support and taking your socks off at the end of the day won’t be an issue. What’s more, Italian manufacturing is claimed to increase recovery time in athletes by 40% – that’s how trustworthy the socks are. Crucial Compression athletic socks are the modern-day life-savior for those running half-marathons, flying across the oceans, and working long and tedious hours. Featuring Power Support technology, they help the blood flow to your toes, heels, calves and the rest of the covered area without restricting your movements. Talk about comfort! The mix of moisture-wicking materials and a high compression level make it easy to wear socks all day long and not exhaust your feet from strenuous activities. The shock-absorbing toe and heel cushion help you push yourself even harder despite the odds being against you. Grab a pair for yourself and your friends and family who tend to struggle with swollen and fatigued feet and they will thank you later. The 100% ‘perfect fit’ guarantee from the manufacturer makes it that much more alluring to take the risk – if the socks don’t fit, you can get a full refund within 24 hours. Designed to provide support for your calves and facilitate improved blood circulation, Rymora compression socks are the real deal. They comprise a fine blend of elastic materials that ensure your feet don’t get swollen at any point. The graduated compression of 15-20 mmHg helps prevent cramps and alleviate the signs of fatigue associated with standing on your feet all day long. It also aids travelers who tend to spend much of their time sitting in one position to not develop blood clots. Rymora compression socks are further equipped with ventilation straps that enable better airflow. This makes them breathable and lightweight – the two attributes of a high-quality pair of compression socks. Originally designed to accommodate frequent travelers, Wanderlust travel compression socks have expanded to cater to office workers, nurses and athletes. Thanks to the gradual compression integrated into the socks, you can rest assured your legs won’t become swollen after a long day of intense/insufficient physical activity with these socks on. The simple design meant the manufacturer could focus on functionality – and that’s exactly what he did. These socks are equipped with antibacterial properties that wick away any moisture and keep your feet fresh and dry at all times. The rigorous testing for durability enabled Wanderlust to provide a pair of compression socks that would last as long as possible. For a pair of moisture-wicking and antimicrobial compression socks that can be recycled, consider looking into this model designed by Travelsox. Crafted in the Italian commune Arcos, it boasts a number of impressive features that make it a standout accessory worth investing in regardless of whether you’re a CrossFit guru or a police worker. Speaking about the features; the footbed of the socks incorporates soft padding for additional comfort and the non-binding cuff sits perfectly snug on your calves. The flat toe seam is the icing on the cake that eliminates the possibility of you developing blisters. You can get a pack or two if you’re serious about preventing swelling and poor blood circulation – just pick the color you like the most when adding the socks to your shopping cart. Offering good support and superior performance, travelers and office workers are able to reap the benefits of MudGear socks too. The thick yet lightweight construction of the socks makes it possible to wear them all day long and not get sweaty and smelly feet by the end of the day. And, with a solid, made in America tradition, how can anyone go wrong with this pair of socks? When compression socks with premium features have a wallet-friendly price tag, there’s hardly anything that can put you off from getting yourself a pair or two. This is what Thirty48 running compression socks are. Designed with functionality and affordability in mind, they can be worn by everyone from a cycler to an airplane crew and beyond. This pair is differentiated by its cushioned fit and graduate compression that makes it comfortable to run for hours on end and not feel tiredness in your legs at any point. It also has moisture-wicking and antimicrobial properties that are responsible for keeping your feet dry and odor-free. The mix of high-quality fabrics gives the socks an edge that ultimately leads to improved blood circulation and a boosted performance, no matter the purpose of wear. Zensah Tech+ compression socks are a gold mine for those looking to alleviate leg pain associated with swelling and eliminate the possibility of injuries. With an appropriate size and the pattern that will make you want to wear them every day, the results won’t leave you dissatisfied. Constructed with 82% Polyamide and 18% Elastane, these socks have a uniform ribbing that is supported by the elastic band and seamless toes for optimum arch stabilization. This makes Zensah Tech+ perfect for runners and travelers who need additional support for their feet. The exclusive feature of the socks is the 200-needle-count construction that makes them dense and durable. The sweat-wicking and ankle compression translate to high performance that tends to be a top priority for athletes. If the idea of compression socks terrifies you, a better idea would be to consider investing in a pair that combines the casualness of regular socks and the functionality of compression socks. Comrad compression socks are exactly that. Made from high-quality Nylon and Spandex, they provide a good level of compression without looking like something a doctor would prescribe to wear. The 15-25 mmHg range is ideal for every occasion including travel, sports field, and office, too. The graduated compression ensures the reduction of lactic acid build-up and improved blood circulation. Despite the lightweight feel, the socks are equipped with moisture-wicking and static-eliminating properties that help you feel dry and clean no matter what activity you find yourself in. 
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TOP 10 COMPRESSION SOCKS FOR WOMEN IN 2021
If the idea of getting your compression socks on puts you off from buying them, a pair from Physix Gear Sport might change your mind. Designed to fit feet from small to big sizes, these socks enable those working long hours in the seated position to alleviate leg pain and come back home without feeling physically exhausted. The combination of Nylon and Spandex makes Physix socks stretchy yet snug – the adjectives every compression socks manufacturer is striving towards. The comfortable stitching and the Stay Put cuffs receive the credit for the precise fit the socks provide. Add moisture-wicking properties to the mix, and you’ve got yourself a solid pair of compression socks that will suit every athlete and a full-time traveler on the planet. Laite Hebe are the compression socks you go for when spending a fortune on an everyday accessory isn’t in the cards. Coming in a wide range of colors and patterns (and in a pack of 3), they can accommodate athletes, travelers, and healthcare professionals who need help with minimizing leg swelling and fatigue. Nylon-made compression socks like these combine a number of features that improve blood circulation and allow you to work/travel/run without anything hindering your progress. The 3D kinematic design provides greater flexibility with no chance of irritation, while the non-binding welt top keeps the sock in place even if you move a lot. The moisture-wicking construction helps with keeping your feet dry and minimizing the possibility of developing blisters. The no-show compression socks by Paplus are the perfect solution for those who don’t like wearing knee-high socks but would still like some compression. Built from breathable Lycra, they provide good ankle support that allows you to jog, play tennis, and hike with zero leg pain. The benefits you get when wearing these socks are considerable. They include a full range of unrestricted motions, decreased chance of injuries and swelling, and improved blood circulation. You can be as physically active as you want and still get good enough Achilles protection that prevents rubbing and blisters from developing. The moisture-wicking feature is the cherry on top that ensures your feet stay dry no matter what. Made to help construction workers, nurses and pregnant women–among others–with blood circulation, Newzill Olympic compression socks are a wardrobe staple for some. They come in the three most common sizes and over 10 patterns so that you feel comfortable and in vogue while wearing a pair. The combination of lycra, spandex and nylon make these socks as supportive and durable as a pair of compression socks can get. The non-slip cuff, the reinforced toe, and the padded heel add to the secure fit that allows you to wear Newzill socks all day every day. The clima-pro system integrated into the socks offers a unique characteristic to these socks by contributing to their breathability, odorless construction, and “reliable temperature control”. When camping or hiking, wearing a pair of compression socks that squeezes your legs well while also keeping them warm is essential. This is where Sockwell compression socks come into play. Featuring 32% merino wool, they won’t let your feet freeze when you’re close to the peak of the hill you’ve been hiking for the past few hours. Aside from merino wool, the rest of the fabrics is just as vital in ensuring your socks wick the moisture away and keep your feet odor-free. The Y-heel construction enables the socks to stay put no matter how active you are, while the moderate compression helps with the proportionate distribution of the compression across the length of the socks. Pick the signature chevron pattern you like best and get a pair of your own today. Designed for women who find themselves frequently traveling, working long hours in the office or running half-marathons, CEP Athletic compression socks are a worthy investment. Crafted from the blend of polyamide and spandex, they feature dynamic compression, pinch-free elastic band and sweat- and moisture-free properties that make them stand out. Progressive+ compression is responsible for maximizing the blood flow in your lower legs and increasing circulation by up to 40% (according to a study of athletes) which leads to the prevention of injuries and a faster recovery. CEP backs its products with a 100% satisfaction guarantee – in this case, why not take the leap and get a pair of socks for yourself? Nurse Mates offers a practical pair of compression socks that can accommodate those working double shifts and standing on their feet all day long. They also cater to pregnant women and help prevent the formation of spider veins often caused by a sedentary lifestyle. Built from durable nylon and lycra spandex, the socks fit up to 22” calf without digging into your skin. You can expect them to alleviate any mild leg pain and swelling that hinders a productive and pain-free day. Being machine washable, these socks are a lifesaver for those who don’t need a high level of compression but are still looking for a pair that would help maintain healthy legs. For a pair of lightweight compression socks that cost less than a lunch, go for this model manufactured by SB SOX. Coming in two sizes and 10+ patterns, they can accommodate everyone from a football player and an office worker to a traveler and a nurse. The graduated compression of 15-20 mmHg isn’t a lot but is still sufficient for facilitating good blood circulation. The combination of breathable and moisture-wicking materials like nylon and spandex makes the socks that much more attractive. Sure, they aren’t the thickest compression socks out there, but they get the job done. Besides, they also hold up well through countless washes. Dr. Scholl’s is known for its orthopedic footwear – but that’s not all the brand produces. It’s also well-versed in compression socks like these that are designed to help travelers and athletes to maintain the good health of their feet. Made with premium-quality microfibers that feel soft to the touch, the socks provide the ultimate comfort for all-day wear. The invisible toe seam and pull-on closure ensure there’s no irritation when wearing the socks for more than just a couple of hours at a time. The light compression of 8-15 mmHg works great for alleviating mild pain from achy legs and reducing swelling from sitting behind the desk or on an airplane seat for long hours. We like that Dr. Scholl’s travel compression socks are a no-risk purchase – they come with a one-year warranty from the manufacturer. If you’re not a die-hard athlete or a nurse who needs thick socks with high compression, look into getting yourself a pair of HUE compression socks. Crafted from the breathable mix of nylon, spandex and polyester, they provide you with just enough compression to keep your feet in a healthy state while you’re wearing the socks. These high-knee compression socks are a steal – they improve blood circulation and give you the energy to go on about your day without feeling any exhaustion in your legs. The mild compression takes care of the health of your feet when you’re standing or sitting for long hours with no breaks, while the pull-on closure ensures it won’t take a long time to put your socks on and take them off by the end of the day.
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BUYING GUIDE
No matter what you’re trying to achieve with your pair of compression socks, – alleviate lower leg pain from an 8-hour-long office day or protect your shins during deadlifts – you will likely find the one that meets your needs.
Compression socks improve performance as well as recovery for athletes, lowering the risk of blood clots and common physical injuries. All these benefits make getting a pair compelling.
A good-quality pair of compression socks aren’t supposed to just fit you well and look good on your feet. It should also be made from an elastic and breathable material, facilitate healthy blood circulation, and last you a good amount of time.
These and other features must be taken into consideration when deciding between the two pairs that seem similar from the outside but are, in fact, different in essence.
Below, find the main characteristics you should pay attention to before purchasing your very own pair of compression socks.
Compression Level
Unless you need compression socks for medical purposes, there’s no point in ruminating over millimeters of mercury (mmHg) – the metrics used for defining the level of compression. You’ll be just alright with the over-the-(digital)-counter pair that is designed for runners, CrossFit gurus, hikers, and the general public. But if you’re interested in becoming more familiar with those numbers, here’s what you’re looking at:
- 14 mmHg and less
The lowest level of compression – 14 mmHg and less – doesn’t automatically translate to low-quality compression. It just means that socks with this compression level have a target audience consisting of those who are pregnant and those whose feet tend to get tired by the end of the day. If you’re not struggling with varicose or other blood circulation issues, this is your best option.
- 15 – 20 mmHg
Those who need a little more pressure to be applied to their legs will find compression socks with 15-20 mmHg a better alternative. Socks featuring this compression level provide good relief from swelling and are thus suitable for everyone from travelers embarking on long haul flights to workers spending long hours in the seated position.
- 21 – 30 mmHg and more
Lastly, we have compression socks with the highest mmHg rating of 21-30 and more. These socks are best to be used by those suffering from more severe blood circulation issues and those regularly indulging in high-intensity physical activities including runners and CrossFit practitioners.
*If you fall under the category of those who need a high level of compression in their socks, we highly recommend you to consult with a healthcare provider for advice tailored to your particular case.
Material
Besides having compression that suits your needs, you ought to think about the material your socks are made from. And while there isn’t a wide variety of materials used for manufacturing compression socks, there are a couple of products that differ in quality and the intended use.
Synthetic fibers (Spandex, Acrylic, Nylon, Polyester)
The somewhat bad rep of synthetic fibers doesn’t apply to compression socks for a reason. In their case, having Spandex, Acrylic, Nylon, Polyester, or a combination of a few together helps keep the socks lightweight and bulk-free. The fibers’ moisture-wicking properties make the socks even more appealing for athletes who want their socks to stay fresh and dry until they take them off.
The insulation of synthetic fibers, however, isn’t the best. And while this isn’t an issue for runners or travelers, it can become troublesome for those planning on hiking in the middle of the winter. In this case, pairing your compression socks with warm footwear is the answer.
Cotton
Chances are, you won’t find a pair of compression socks that is crafted from cotton only. This is, in big part, because cotton by itself won’t provide you with the optimum benefits required for comfortable wear. It’s when it’s combined with other fibers, you get an item that keeps you warm, offers good compression, and generally feels good on your feet.
The reason why people choose compression socks that have cotton in them is the material’s softness, elasticity, and breathability. It’s also fairly inexpensive when compared to other fabrics.
That said, cotton can’t take credit for being moisture-wicking or quick-drying. This means that rather than keeping your sweat at bay, it absorbs it and, if worn for long hours, creates an environment for potential blisters and discomfort.
Wool
Wool compression socks aren’t very common, but they are available. You’re most likely to find merino wool socks instead of the regular wool compression socks on the market due to merino’s low level of itchiness and high level of softness.
Socks made from wool are most suitable for those planning on wearing them in the cold winter months when warmth is a primary concern. Having impressive moisture-wicking properties, wool is a preferred option for athletes who train during the off-season and are in need of warm socks that will keep their feet sweat-free. No moisture also means nothing for bacteria to grow on, so no odor either.
Fit
You don’t necessarily need to take measurements of your calves, ankles and feet in order to find the right fit for your compression socks. All you need to do is to get your regular socks size unless mentioned otherwise by the manufacturer. This way you’ll ensure your compression socks are neither too tight nor too loose.
Value
We tend to go through many pairs of socks in our lifetime. This is true for compression socks too. But since the socks with compression are much more expensive than the regular ones, you want to make sure your pair lasts you as long as possible.
Depending on the material compression socks are made from, the brand that manufactures them and the additional features they might have, the price of the socks will vary. And in case compression socks are a new realm to you, you shouldn’t be splurging on your very first pair. They take some getting used to, so it’s best to choose the pair that has high quality but is reasonably priced.
P.S. Value packs comprising several pairs of socks are guaranteed to offer you the best value. They will save you some money on the cost of the actual goods and the cost of the shipping while also giving you more than just one option, thus prolonging the life of your socks.
If you already have a compression sock or you just bought one, leave a comment in the comment section below and share your experience with it.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about compression socks
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What are compression socks?
Compression socks improve your blood circulation by tightly squeezing your legs and veins in them which, in turn, leads to your vein walls opening up and allowing for a better blood flow.
This helps with leg swelling, fatigue and pain associated with high-intensity physical activity, long-haul travel and pregnancy.
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What’s the difference between graduated and uniform compression socks?
Graduated or graded/gradient compression socks are designed to provide the majority of compression to the lower part of your leg – that is, to the ankle and the feet. Uniform socks, on the other hand, provide proportional compression across your entire legs.
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What are the best compression socks for men?
With a large number of manufacturers producing compression socks for men, it can be tricky trying to find the pair that lives up to your expectations.
The following are the best compression socks for men that deliver on their promise:
- Physix Gear Sport Athletic Compression Socks
- Copper Running Compression Socks
- Vitalsox Patented Compression Socks
- Crucial Athletic Compression Socks
- Rymora Running Compression Socks
- Travelsox Travel Compression Socks
- MudGear Premium Compression Socks
Read full reviews of each pair of compression socks for men on DIVEIN.COM by clicking the links above.
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What are the best compression socks for women?
Compression socks for women are not just functional – they are also aesthetically pleasing. There is a variety of colors and patterns they come in which makes them even more appealing in the eyes of female customers.
Here are our favorite pairs of compression socks that are worth your consideration:
- Laite Hebe Compression Socks
- NEWZILL Olympic Compression Socks
- Sockwell Compression Socks
- Wanderlust Travel Compression Socks
- CEP Athletic Compression Socks
Read full reviews of each pair of compression socks for women on DIVEIN.COM by clicking the links above.
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How many hours is it safe to wear compression socks for?
Depending on the purpose of your compression socks, the wear time will differ from one person to another. Some might want to wear theirs all day long, while others might resort to a twice-a-week wearing schedule.
That said, if you’re planning on wearing your pair of compression socks for long hours at a time, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional just to be safe.
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Is it ok to wear compression socks all night?
If you’re not wearing your compression socks throughout the day, you’ll be fine sleeping with them on. But if you’ve been trapped in them for the entire day, it might be a better idea to give your legs a break during the night.
In the case of injuries, the wear time may differ. Talk to your doctor to get instructions that will be strictly tailored to you.
Can you wear while playing tennis?
Yes, compression socks work great for sports and also tennis.