According to Dr. Valjee, there are three main levels of compression, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg): mmHg or 15-20 mmHg are low compression, great for flying, pregnancy or just general improved circulation. Dr. Marion Yau is an award-winning celebrity podiatrist and YouTuber based in the United Kingdom. She's also known as Miss Foot Fixer.

Still, we thought the fabric was generally soft and durable, surviving multiple washings without showing signs of wear. Choose from sizes small, medium and large (you can use the brand’s sizing chart to find your fit) in classic shades or a rainbow of colors and patterns (some medical-themed). The compression level is stated as class 1, on the lower end of the scale. 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. 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. Compression level: 15-20 mmHg | Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane and nylon | Sizes: Men’s M-XL, Women’s 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. 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. Strategically made from extra-long staple cotton, they’re designed to keep in the warmth during winter and release it come summer for dry feet any time of year. 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. The band at the top is made with a non-slip elastic to save you constantly tugging them up. Choose from 36 colors and patterns.

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. Compression level: 15-20 mmHg | Materials: Nylon, elastane, polyester and spandex | Sizes: S-M and M-L Compression level: 20-30 mmHg | Materials: Cotton, elastic, spandex, nylon and polyester | Sizes: S-LWith 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. 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.)