Codiţă I, Caplan DM, Drăgulescu EC, et al. Antimicrobial activity of copper and silver nanofilms on nosocomial bacterial species. Roum Arch Microbiol Immunol. 2010;69(4):204-212. Compression level: 15-20 mmHg | Materials: Nylon, elastane, polyester and spandex | Sizes: S-M and M-L

Compression level: 15-20 mmHg | Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane and nylon | Sizes: Men’s M-XL, Women’s S-L This two-pair bundle by Hatch is made from a blend of nylon and elastane with a compression level of 15-20 mmHg. They’re designed for everyday wear, whether at work or on the go, as well as for travel. Choose between two size options based on your calf circumference. According to Dr. Valjee, there are three main levels of compression, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg):

The fit, feel, support, and value were all perfect. They weren’t hard to wear; they were about as snug and flexible as tights or leggings. We were pleasantly surprised by the noticeable arch support, too. As for feel, our legs felt awesome after wearing them all day. The fabric itself was breathable and silky and held up well to multiple washings. Compression level: 20-30 mmHg | Materials: Cotton, elastic, spandex, nylon and polyester | Sizes: S-L

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. 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. 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.