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. Raetz J, Wilson M, Collins K. Varicose veins: diagnosis and treatment. Am Fam Physician. 2019;99(11):682-688. 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.

mmHg or 15-20 mmHg are low compression, great for flying, pregnancy or just general improved circulation.Compression level: 15-20 mmHg | Materials: Nylon, elastane, polyester and spandex | Sizes: S-M and M-L According to Dr. Valjee, there are three main levels of compression, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg): Compression level: 15-20 mmHg | Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane and nylon | Sizes: Men’s M-XL, Women’s S-L

Still, we thought the fabric was generally soft and durable, surviving multiple washings without showing signs of wear.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. 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. Bruce Katz, clinical professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, phone interview, June 27, 2017 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. Borkow G, Gabbay J. Putting copper into action: copper-impregnated products with potent biocidal activities. FASEB J. 2004;18(14):1728-1730.

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. Dr. Marion Yau is an award-winning celebrity podiatrist and YouTuber based in the United Kingdom. She's also known as Miss Foot Fixer. Ajit Chaudhari, associate professor of physical therapy, orthopedics, mechanical engineering, and biomedical engineering at the Ohio State University, phone interview, July 13, 2017The 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

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. 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.