Knee-high compression stockings

I found posts on this topic from five years ago, but nothing helpful. I've been advised to wear compression stockings while flying and when I'm going to be on my feet a lot. I'll be traveling a lot this summer, so I do need some. I bought some Oroblue support knee highs just before my last trip and and while on the trip bought some white compression stockings from the drug store. These were better, but they were very white, stiff and somewhat irritating on my feet. I looked up compression socks on Amazon and there are many. many choices, some in colors, some "nude."

The PA I last saw for vein issues suggested Zensah compression leg sleeves that are available at sports/fitness stores. They come with and without feet. (I've got several new smaller varicose veins coming out--yuck.)

Anyway, after Googling and looking online I feel overwhelmed.

Do any of you who have had to wear them have any good suggestions?

Are the more expensive ones more comfortable--nicer knit--or is it a question of the amount of compression?

Are the more "fashionable" appearing socks just as effective?

Any help will be appreciated.

8 years ago

Mann

Active Member

MsMaven, I and my husband use CEP compression socks. If you look up their web page, they have compression socks from running to everyday wear. We originally got them for long distance running, but have found them more useful for traveling and running recovery. The specific brand has held up very well, without losing its compression even after numerous laundry cycles.
My suggestion would be to look up (if published) the compression level of the specific socks, and decide which level you want. For example, CEP run socks are supposed to have 20-25mmHg compression at the ankle, decreasing to the top of the calf to 18mmHg or so. You've probably seen it, but here's a link I found to a page describing the suggested compression levels for different purposes: http://www.absolutemedical.com/buyers-guide.html
From what you describe, sounds like you are in the moderate or firm compression camp.

MTBGirl

Veteran

I'll check when I get home to see which brands I have. I had to wear them after my leg and ankle breaks. Now I usually only wear periodically and when running. I love one of the pairs. The pair I don't like the feel of was the most expensive and I gave to DH. I'll check back in then.

MsMaven

Thank you Mann. I am looking through that website and you are right--I probably only need moderate compression. I know my calf measurement but didn't think to measure ankles or height.

Yes Donna--I'd like to know what brand is the pair you love. I'm going to do some shopping tomorrow and would like to go out armed with a bit of knowledge. I did find that the pairs I tried out are really slippery with my normal shoes so that my feet slide forward and heels slip out, which doesn't happen with regular trouser socks or no socks.

If the stockings make you feet slide in the shoes, can you wear them with some kind of socks over them? I don't think it is going to be too warm in France in early summer to wear them this way if I have to.

Missey

My favorite are Sockwells and they are made from merino wool...great wicking and breathing capabilities and I prefer them over the nylon ones. I wear them on 12 hour nursing shifts, they are awesome!

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

(website)

I follow this lady's sewing blog and she posted some useful info about compression socks recently: http://sewingontheedge.blogspo.....-lack.html

Dekaf4me

Try rejuvahealth too. I've had good luck with them and appreciate pattern options, http://www.rejuvahealth.com/.

kkards

if you only need moderate i'd recommend this from Nordstroms. I wear these as regular trouser socks in the winter because the fit is fab...

Nordstrom

Compression Trouser Socks (3 for $36)

$15.00 $10.05

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I am so sorry that I did not follow through on this for you! I went home and checked but neglected to let you know! : ( The brand I love is Futuro, the brand I gave to DH was Swiftwick. I do love Swiftwick's socks but I think these were too much compression for me. Off to read your other post and I apologize again.

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