When selecting a compression strength for your hosiery either for traveling or for support while working, make sure you consult your doctor for recommendations. It all depends on your situation and a lighter compression level might be effective than a stronger compression. 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. 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.)

By “high-level compression,” we mean those that generally range from 20-30 mmHg to 30-40 mmHg; while these strengths are generally safe to wear, certain individuals may be at risk of harm due to contraindications, so the oversight of a doctor is always recommended. Compression levels in even higher ranges do exist, but your doctor should tell you about those.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. 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. Still, we thought the fabric was generally soft and durable, surviving multiple washings without showing signs of wear. Grace Wu most recently updated this article. She's a Textiles Product Review Analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute who oversaw recent in-Lab and consumer tests. Prior to joining GH, Grace earned a Master of Engineering in Materials Science & Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Fiber Science from Cornell University.

Dr. Marion Yau is an award-winning celebrity podiatrist and YouTuber based in the United Kingdom. She's also known as Miss Foot Fixer. Each level of strength can be helpful for leg and foot circulation when it comes for traveling, recovery or other types of medical therapy. What medical issues are the various compression levels used for? Here’s a guide. These are general guidelines. The severity of a certain issue will help determine the level needed. 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.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.

According to Dr. Valjee, there are three main levels of compression, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg):Compression levels are indicated with a range of numbers like 30-40 mmHg. This means that the amount of pressure will not fall below 30 mmHg and will not exceed 40 mmHg. mmHg is the unit used to measure pressure and is called ‘millimeters of mercury’. This unit is also used to measure blood pressure. treatment of varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency, venous leg ulcers, deep vein thrombosis and other venous conditions 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.