8 Best Compression Socks of 2022 for Running, Swelling by Verywell Fit Menu Verywell Fit Nutrition Weight Management Nutrition Facts Nutrition Basics Diets Meal Plans Meal Delivery Services View All News Fitness and Nutrition What to Buy How We Test Products Fitness Gear Nutrition Products Tools Recipe Nutrition Calculator Weight Loss Calorie Goal BMI Calculator Body Fat Percentage Calculator Calories Burned by Activity Daily Calories Burned Pace Calculator About Us Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Search Fitness Gear Apparel 8 Best Compression Socks of 2022 for Running, Swelling Physix Gear Sport Socks compress your feet and keep them blister-free By Christine Luff, ACE-CPT Christine Luff, ACE-CPT Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach. Learn about our editorial process Updated on September 07, 2022 Reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by John Honerkamp Reviewed by John Honerkamp John Honerkamp is an RRCA and USATF certified running coach, celebrity marathon pacer, and recognized leader in the New York City running community. Learn about our Review Board Fact checked Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Shereen Lehman, MS Fact checked by Shereen Lehman, MS Shereen Lehman, MS, is a healthcare journalist and fact checker. She has co-authored two books for the popular Dummies Series (as Shereen Jegtvig). Learn about our editorial process Print We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Verywell Fit / Sabrina Jiang Whether you're experiencing poor blood circulation or playing sports, compression socks help circulate blood flow from the feet to the heart while reducing the swelling that may be a result of standing or sitting for too long. Using compression socks can keep people "focused on that part of their body, which is always a good practice,” says Rachel Troesch, NASP-CPT, NASM-certified personal trainer and pilates instructor at Lifetime. Reviewed & Approved Physix Gear Socks offer compression, keep feet blister-free, and don't pinch the skin. The SB SOX Compression Socks provides heel enforcement and is an affordable option. We researched dozens of compression socks and evaluated them for fabric, price, extra features, comfortability, and breathability. Each of the compression socks chosen in this article was determined to be the best of these factors. Below, you'll find the best compression socks on the market. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: SB SOX Compression Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Running: Vitalsox Compression Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Bitly Plantar Fasciitis Compression Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Shin Splints: Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best Colors: CEP Women’s Progressive+ Compression Run Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best Ankle Socks: Comrad Sock at Comradsocks.com Jump to Review Most Stylish: Comrad Socks at Comradsocks.com Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks How We Selected the Best Compression Socks What to Look For Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Overall: Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks 4.9 Physix Gear View On Amazon View On Physixgear.com Pros Keeps feet blister-free Cuffs don't pinch skin Comfortable toe area Cons No extra compression around arch Who else recommends it? Women's Health, Reviewed, and CNET all picked Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks. What do buyers say? 89% of 2,000+ Amazon reviewers rated this product 4 stars or above. Physix Gear Compression Socks are our best overall pick because of their overall quality, performance, value, comfort, and durability. Made with a comfortable, highly-breathable, and durable fabric, these socks can be worn all day to help reduce fatigue and swelling in your lower legs. The fabric is also moisture-wicking, which helps keep your feet dry and blister-free. With just the right amount of support and compression in the heel, foot, calves, and toe areas, they can provide relief for shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and other lower leg ailments. We also love that their stay-put cuffs keep these socks from falling down, without pinching or feeling too stiff. The Physix Gear socks can be used during exercise or for post-workout recovery. They're designed to hold their level of compression even if you put them in the washing machine, and they're available in two sizes and several colors. Price at time of publish: $14 Compression: 20-30 mmHg Material: Nylon, spandex Length: Knee-high Best for: Running Best Budget: SB SOX Compression Socks Amazon View On Amazon Pros Durable fabric Affordable Reinforced heel Cons Tight toe area Whether you need compression socks for exercise, work, or pain relief, the SB SOX Compression Socks provide you with ideal compression and support, all at a lower price than similar socks. These lightweight and durable socks feature a cushioned heel and toe support for additional comfort. We like that the anti-odor, anti-static, moisture-wicking, and breathable fabric stops the growth of bacteria and fungus, keeping your feet dry and healthy. They’re available in four different sizes so you can get the right fit and amount of support for your personal needs. Price at time of publish: $17 Compression: 20-30mmHg Material: Not listed Length: Knee-high Best for: Running, cycling, for work Best for Running: Vitalsox Compression Socks Amazon View On Amazon Pros Four-way stretch material Quick-drying polypropylene Cons Not true to size Vitalsox Compression Socks are a popular choice among runners, but they're also a good option if you're active, pregnant, or dealing with foot or calf pain. They’re lightly padded at the ball and top of the foot, but not too bulky, so you can easily wear them with any athletic or work shoes. The padding provides additional comfort and helps to avoid abrasion and foot stress from impact exercises like running. The socks’ unique Drystat material controls moisture while also reducing bacteria growth, to reduce your risk of blisters and smelly socks. The compression starts around the midfoot, providing arch support while keeping common injuries, such as plantar fasciitis and shin splints, at bay. Available in several sizes and multiple colors, there are a variety of options to choose from. Price at time of publish: $26 Compression: 12-20 mmHg Material: Silver DryStat, spandex, lycra, nylon Length: Knee-high Best for: Running The 7 Best Socks of 2022 by Verywell Fit Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Bitly Plantar Fasciitis Compression Socks Amazon View On Amazon Pros Open-toe design Comfortable fit True to size Cons No heel cushion Specific compression not listed If you suffer from or have been prone to plantar fasciitis, you should definitely consider the Bitly Plantar Fasciitis compression socks. By offering targeted compression and support to your arch and ankle, these socks can help ease your arch and heel pain and stimulate healing blood flow to speed your recovery. The moisture-wicking, breathable fabric promotes temperature regulation, so your feet will stay cool and dry. We like that these socks are available in several different sizes and colors, and that the brand offers a useful size chart can help you decide what socks will fit best. Price at time of publish: $12 Compression: Not listed Material: Nylon Length: Ankle Best for: Exercise, lounging The 11 Best Compression Socks for Nurses of 2022 Best for Shin Splints: Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks Zensah View On Amazon View On Zensah.com Pros Graduated compression Anti-irritation seamless design True to size Cons Expensive Thin and stiff after washing If you have shin splints, the Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks can relieve pain while improving performance when you wear them before, during, or after a workout. They feature graduated compression to help improve blood circulation and oxygen flow, reduce leg fatigue, and support muscles. Plus, the lightweight material is designed to feel comfortable against your skin. Moisture-wicking and thermal-regulating, the socks feature a seamless technology that reduces blisters, rubbing, and irritation. We also like that they feature an elastic band around the foot to help support your arches. Runners love the no-slip cuff, which holds the socks in place no matter how fast you’re running. Price at time of publish: $50 Compression: Not Listed Material: Polyamide, elastane Length: Knee-high Best for: Running, cycling Best Colors: CEP Women’s Progressive+ Compression Run Socks Amazon View On Amazon View On Compressionstockings.com View On Runningroom.com Pros True to size Ribbed pattern for air flow Molds to feet Cons Material lacks durability Expensive The CEP Women’s Progressive+ Compression Run Socks feature compressive yarns that wrap around the leg more than 400 times—providing precise compression that promotes recovery and performance. They're most compressive around your calf muscles to increase circulation, reduce muscle soreness, and prevent shin splints and other overuse injuries. By molding to your feet without restricting your toes, these socks offer a snug, custom fit, while also preventing blisters. They feature a halo top band right below the knee, which keeps your socks in place, and a large selection of colors means you can find one to match your individual style. Price at time of publish: $53 Compression: 20-30mmHg Material: Polyamide, elastane Length: Knee-high Best for: Running The 11 Best Calf Compression Sleeves of 2022 Best Ankle Socks: Comrad Ankle Compression Socks Comrad View On Comradsocks.com Pros More comfortable than knee-high Graduated compression Cons Have to be air-dried Ankle-high compression socks are usually easier to put on and more comfortable to wear than knee-length ones. The Comrad Ankle Compression Socks also provide many of the same benefits, including reduced swelling and foot pain, along with increased arch support, improving comfort and performance throughout the day. The socks come in classic colors like Charcoal and Navy and a limited edition pastel palette of Berry and Pear, among other spring-like colors. They're available in sizes S-XL. Price at time of publish: $18 Heading Compression: Not listed Material: Nylon, Spandex Length: Ankle-high Best for: Exercise, recovery, pregnancy, everyday use The 10 Best Walking Shoes of 2022 for Any Distance Most Stylish: Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks Comrad View On Comradsocks.com Pros Stylish Graduated compression Lab-tested for quality Cons Have to be air-dried Compression socks are often seen as too medical-looking and unattractive, bringing back memories of your grandmother’s compression stockings. They are most definitely looking different today, beginning with the Comrad Ombré Compression Sock. Not only stylish, but they also offer all the features you want in a quality compression sock: increased circulation, pain relief, and reduced swelling and inflammation. They come in five ombré colors, from Berry to Pear to Sky Blue, and you can find them in sizes Small to Large and in two wide options. Not happy with your pair? Don't stress—we love that you can always return or exchange the socks within 30 days of your purchase. Price at time of publish: $32 Heading Compression: 15-20 mmHg Material: Nylon, Spandex Length: Knee-high Style: Exercise, recovery, pregnancy, everyday use Final Verdict The Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks (view at Amazon) are a solid choice if you’re looking for compression socks you can sport all day long. Wearable year-round thanks to their moisture-wicking properties, the knee-high pair addresses a variety of lower leg ailments, thanks to the compression in the heel, foot, calves, and toes. How We Selected the Best Compression Socks br After researching dozens of compression socks from the most trusted and popular retailers, we selected the best pairs based on a set of specific criteria. First, we examined how the socks fit and what materials they were made out of. We also considered how breathable they were, whether they were quick-drying, and how much compression they offered. Then, we looked at style, price, and durability for each pair. Finally, we made sure the socks had adequate cushioning for all parts of the foot and that they would be comfortable to wear. What to Look for in Compression Socks Performance The key to performance is finding a pair of compression socks that provides the right amount of support to help you achieve your goals. You may want a pair that helps reduce fatigue and prevents injury while you’re exercising, or you might want to use them for recovery, on long flights, or at times when you need extra support. “Compression socks help the veins in their effort to circulate blood back to the heart as well as provide a gentle squeeze, which both feels good and does good on a physiologic level,” Ernest L. Isaacson, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist at Paragon Podiatry in New York City, says. Know what you’re trying to achieve with compression socks before buying a specific pair. Pressure Rating The pressure rating refers to the amount of compression the sock provides to help circulate blood in your legs. How you intend to use your socks will correlate with the pressure rating you need. Isaacson recommends looking for one in the 7-15 or 15-21 millimeters of mercury ( mmHg) level, as it will provide adequate pressure for anyone looking for moderate help with circulation. However, compression levels can reach up to 40 millimeters of mercury—a pressure recommended for those recovering from surgery or those suffering from chronic illness. Always consult with your doctor about what the right pressure rating is for you, especially when dealing with specific health conditions. Fit “A sock should feel tight but not to the extent that it feels uncomfortable,” Isaacson says. Most socks include a size chart, but further guidance from a doctor may be necessary for those dealing with recovery or illness. Isaacson notes that, contrary to popular wisdom, it’s nearly impossible to cut off circulation to the feet via compression stocking, since it would require a level of compression that exceeds one’s blood pressure. You may experience slight discomfort from the pressure, but the chances of further injuring yourself when wearing them are minimal. Comfort Find a pair of compression socks that are supportive with adequate pressure. Some feature padding in the feet, which may be important if you’re a runner. Additionally, consider the material—socks made from moisture-wicking fabric, for example, can prevent chafing and blisters. “Almost all commercially available socks today are made of synthetic materials that wick the moisture away from the skin as well as provide a comfortable level of stretch," Isaacson says. Frequently Asked Questions How do compression socks work? Compression socks work by gently squeezing and massaging your feet and legs, which helps redirect your blood flow back to your heart. With light pressure on the legs, compression socks work to reduce and prevent swelling, pain, and the formation of blood clots. Is it ok to wear compression socks every day? For most people, it's safe to wear compression socks every day, as long as you’re wearing the correct size and not allowing them to bunch or fold. "But make sure you don’t leave the same pair of compression socks on for days at a time," Melissa Prestipino, DPT, clinical director of Therapeutics Unlimited, says. How many hours a day should you wear compression socks? “Compression socks are safe to wear for an unlimited amount of hours, especially during periods of sitting and when blood flow isn’t actively circulating throughout the legs,” Dr. Prestipino says. However, don’t wear them in bed or when going to sleep. “They’re best to be removed before bedtime to avoid skin irritation,” Dr. Prestipino says. “In addition, when you’re at rest, your legs are already in a neutral position to allow improved blood flow.” Speak to your health care professional if you’re not sure when or for how long you should be wearing compression socks. You should also replace your compression socks after three to six months of regular wear since the elastic fibers eventually break down and start to lose their effectiveness. How much does a compression sock cost? You can expect to pay at least $10 for a quality pair of compression socks. If you're looking for a specialized, high-compression sock that targets specific issues, you may be looking at a higher price tag. But for more basic, everyday socks, look between $10-$50. Our top recommendation, the Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks, was just $14 when we published this list. Why Trust Verywell Fit As a running coach, certified personal trainer, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT has researched and recommended multiple compression socks. Whether you’re traveling or engaging in physical therapy, Luff recommends finding a pair that provides support, comfort, and optimal fit for your needs. The compression socks she recommends are reliable, thoroughly researched, and well-reviewed by those who have tried them. 8 Sources Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. These Are The 10 Best Compression Socks To Buy Right Now, Per Experts. Women's Health. https://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/a29269744/best-compression-socks/ THE BEST COMPRESSION SOCKS OF 2022. Reviewed. https://www.reviewed.com/lifestyle/best-right-now/the-best-compression-socks Best Compression Socks for 2022. CNET. https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/best-compression-socks/ Brophy-Williams N, Driller MW, Kitic CM, Fell JW, Halson SL. Effect of compression socks worn between repeated maximal running bouts. Int J Sports Physiol Perform. 2017 May;12(5):621-627. doi: 10.1123/ijspp.2016-0162 Thompson J. Diagnosis and management of plantar fasciitis. JAOA. doi:10.7556/jaoa.2014.177 OrhtoInfo. Shin Splints. Mann S, Ultsch D, Dietl M, Jansen P. The effects of compression socks on arterial blood flow and arterial reserves in amateur sportsmen. J Sports Sci. 2016;1(9). Lim CS, Davies AH. Graduated compression stockings. CMAJ. 2014;186(10):E391-E398. doi:10.1503/cmaj.131281 See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? 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