14-05-2025
Our Gear Editor And Vascular Experts Pick The Best Compression Socks
Compression socks are a simple yet effective way to boost circulation, reduce swelling and fight fatigue, whether you're recovering from a tough workout or managing poor circulation. The best compression socks gently squeeze your legs to help blood flow back up to your heart and prevent it from pooling in your lower body. We looked over dozens of styles and spoke with vascular health experts to find the most supportive and comfortable options. Based on our findings, the Bombas Everyday Compression Socks are the best for most people because they're comfortable and versatile, offering moderate compression in multiple sizes and colors.
Toss on a pair of the best compression socks for support and relief.
'Compression socks are used to gently apply external pressure to the legs to reduce swelling, reduce inflammation and thereby improve circulation,' says Tonie Reincke, MD and owner of Reincke Vein Center. 'They are used for sports recovery, medical treatments and even daily use.' To assess compression socks and compare styles against one another, we broke them down into their key components, including compression level, length, materials, fit and intended use. Below, our recommendations for the best compression socks, and what you need to know to buy an effective pair.
Bombas
Sizes: S to L (women's); M to XL (men's) | Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane, nylon | Compression level: 15 to 20mmHg
Bombas has come a long way in a little over a decade. What began as a small sock startup back in 2013 with a mission to donate a pair of socks for every pair sold has since become one of those household brands everyone knows. And while its line of apparel has grown, socks are still the bread and butter of the operation. The Everyday Compression Sock tops this guide because it offers just the right amount of compression (15 to 20mmHg), feels soft and eliminates the annoying toe seam that often causes irritation. The Honeycomb Arch Support wraps your foot in a gentle hug, and there are lots of sizes and colors to choose from, so you're not stuck with a plain, boring sock that looks like all the others.
Granted, $28 per pair is expensive, but they hold up really well (I've used the same pairs for running for years), and Bombas will let you exchange your socks any time, no questions asked. Ultimately, if you need a compression sock that keeps up whether you're running, traveling or just trying to stay comfortable on your feet, this is the one to get.
Trtl
Sizes: S to L | Materials: Coolmax, Lycra | Compression level: 15 to 21mmHg
Trtl's Compression Socks are an excellent choice for travel, offering moderate 15 to 21mmHg compression that promotes circulation during long flights or extended periods of sitting. Made with a blend of Coolmax fabric and Lycra, these socks help prevent overheating and manage moisture while delivering a comfortable stretch that doesn't feel restrictive. They're available in multiple sizes and come in a variety of fun prints that add some personality to your travel attire.
However, it's worth noting that Trtl doesn't offer any solid colors, which may be a drawback if you travel for work or want something a bit more muted. Still, for a blend of function, comfort and flair, these socks are a great addition to any travel kit.
Figs
Sizes: S to L | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Compression level: N/A
Figs has earned its reputation as the go-to brand for healthcare professionals who want to feel comfortable without sacrificing functionality or style, so it's no surprise their compression socks follow suit. Designed for long shifts and nonstop movement, these socks are made from a durable blend of nylon and elastane that offers breathability, stretch and support—perfect for those who spend hours on their feet each day. They're available in both men's and women's styles and in a variety of colors, including solids and prints that match your Figs scrubs.
While the brand doesn't list the exact amount of compression (a strange omission to be sure), you can expect mild to moderate compression for everyday wear and relief. They're comfortable, stylish and functional, which makes them a great choice for anyone who works in a demanding clinical setting.
Duluth Trading Co.
Sizes: M to L | Materials: Polyester, nylon, spandex, NanoGlide | Compression level: 15 to 20mmHg
Pregnancy can bring a lot of physical changes, which is why Duluth's Stay-Put Performance Wide-Calf Compression Socks are a such a smart choice. Designed with a wider calf fit, they offer comfort and flexibility that adapts as your body does, which is especially important when what fit in the first trimester might not by the third. These socks provide moderate compression to support circulation and help reduce swelling, fatigue and even varicose veins, and the polyester blend feels soft, like cotton, but delivers better moisture management and long-term durability.
Of course, a 'wide calf' sock isn't going to fit the same from one person to the next, so keep in mind that these are for calf circumferences of about 15 to 20 inches. If your calves fall within that range, consider these to help with swelling and fatigue as your due date nears.
Amazon
Sizes: 2, 3, 4 (women's); 3, 4, 5 (men's) | Materials: Polyamide, spandex | Compression level: 20 to 30mmHg
If you're a runner looking for serious support, CEP's Tall Running Compression Sock 4.0 is a standout option. Designed with graduated compression that targets the arch, ankle and calf, it helps boost circulation and ease common running-related issues like shin splints, plantar fasciitis and Achilles pain. The blend of polyamide and spandex is breathable and moisture-wicking, and ventilation channels help keep your feet cool. Additionally, the material includes a silver treatment that fights $60, this is far and away the most expensive option in this guide, and one of the more expensive on the market for that matter, but because it boasts a technical design and lasting comfort, we consider it a smart pick for high-mileage runners who want performance that truly goes the distance.
The Forbes Vetted gear team spends countless hours testing, evaluating and recommending a variety of health and wellness products. In addition to compression socks, we've also covered massage guns, compression boots and shoes for standing all day, all of which can help manage sore, tired legs.
Compression socks help people in different ways, but no matter why you wear them, we can compare styles based on a set of key variables. Here's how we made our picks:
Compression socks come in different compression levels, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), which is the same unit we use to measure blood pressure. The levels indicate how tightly the socks squeeze your legs and ankles, which helps improve circulation and reduce swelling. Here are the common compression levels, and who they're best for:
Like traditional socks, compression socks come in different lengths, from short styles that sit below the ankle to full-leg styles that rise above the knee. The right length depends on the condition being treated, or how you want the compression to help based on your needs. Here are the most common sock lengths, and who they're best for:
Compression socks are usually made with a blend of fabrics to ensure they're stretchy, durable and breathable. The most common fabrics include: nylon, which makes the sock strong and soft; elastane, which helps with stretch and compression; polyester, for breathability; and natural materials like bamboo or merino wool that boost comfort and fight odors due to their anti-microbial properties.
Compression socks are designed to be tighter than traditional socks, but the compression should feel firm as opposed to painful. Normally, it's tightest at the ankle and gradually loosens as it travels up the leg to promote blood flow back to the heart.
Struggling to put on compression socks is normal, especially if you're wearing socks with higher compression levels, but they should feel supportive once they're on. 'Turning the socks inside out, applying baby powder to the feet and pulling the sock on by gripping the heel of the sock are useful tools to apply the socks,' says Reincke.
With that said, compression socks can in fact be too tight. If you feel numbness, tingling, pinching or pain, consider a different pair or move down to a lighter compression. Your socks shouldn't leave deep red marks or painful indentations.
How you intend to use your compression socks dictates which pair is right for you. While styles are versatile enough for different needs or activities, here are the most common reasons to wear them:
