The Best (And Cutest) Compression Socks That Help Prevent Inflammation And Edema

Even though they’re called run socks, these CEP compression socks aren’t just for running. With 20-30mmHG compression and a knit design to improve air flow, these socks provide compression, comfort, and coolness. The toe closure is also seamless to prevent rubbing or blisters. One reviewer said, “These socks are the best compression socks, period. They are hard to get on but are amazing on your legs. They are not just for running. If you ever have aching or suffer from tired/cramping legs these are the socks. While expensive, they are definitely worth it. I have purchased many socks and brands over the years and nothing is better than my CEPs. They let you run much longer and eliminate the soreness and lactic acid build up after a run. No more cramping at night either.

These 20-30 mmHg compression socks are a popular choice on Amazon, with over 30,000 five-star reviews. They’re knee high, made with a nylon/spandex blend, have moisture-wicking properties, and also come in a variety of colors. Says one reviewer, “I’ve had a hard time finding compression socks that don’t completely cut off my circulation, but finally found a pair. I am taking a high blood pressure medicine that causes fluid to build up in my ankles. I flew from Arizona to New Orleans and walked for hours and my feet and ankles didn’t swell. The socks were actually comfortable as well.”

These Sockwell socks have four zones (15-20mmHg) of graduated compression, as well as arch support and a seamless toe closure. The socks also have 32 percent merino wool, which not only helps regulate temperatures but also helps keep your feet dry and controls odors. One reviewer said, “I started wearing these in PA school on spy surgical rotation and now wear them every day at work. Whenever I’m on my feet for most of the day I wear them, including work, and when hiking, or traveling on an airplane. I have told all my friends who work in medicine about them and convinced at least 5 of them to try these, all have bought additional pairs because they are so comfortable and help with leg fatigue. They wick well so I never have wet feet, they also keep my legs warm.”

If you’re going to wear compression socks all day, wear ones themed to your job. These have light compression, 360-degree seamless compression, and toe and heel padding. The socks are made with sustainably-sourced yarn and have a nylon and lycra blend. And the pattern, with needles and bandaids, is great, but the message on the soles — “Hit me with your best shot” — is even greater. Says one reviewer, “These are the best socks I have ever tried. Feet are supported and they don’t hurt at the end of my shift.”

These compression socks have 15-20 mmHg of graduated compression and are made with a cotton/lycra/spandex blend. They come in three different colors (black, white, and navy) and have a simple style that will go with any outfit. One reviewer said, “As a nurse and on my feet all day I struggled to find support hose that didn’t bind at the knee. I have had some that caused more issues but these are great! The compression is spot on and no binding at the ankle or knee. My legs feel wonderful after a long shift! Highly recommend these!”

These compression socks have 20-30 mmHg of graduated compression and 360-degree stretch for flexibility. They’re moisture-wicking, have arch and ankle support, and a reinforced heel and toe for durability and comfort. The socks come in packs of three, like most good things. One reviewer said, “I have been working in a hospital for 9 years now. I am currently a Surgical Tech so I stand in the Operating Room all day next to the surgeons. Some cases can go on for hours at a time. My legs and feet used to hurt and I started getting little blood spots on my legs from the knee down. These socks stopped the pressure and pain and the spots eventually diminished. If you are standing or walking all day, do yourself a favor. Get a couple of the 3-packs and be sure that they come up to just below your knee. This is a must have item for people on their feet all day.”

If you’re looking for a pair and some spares, this pack comes with three unisex socks that have 15-20 mmHg compression. They’re made with a breathable fabric as well as a silver fiber that provides moisture and odor control. You can choose from solid colors or a variety of prints and patterns. One reviewer said, “I got these compression socks due to some serious swelling in my ankles, caused by pregnancy. After only about 3 or 4 days of wearing these consistently, they took care of the problem and my ankles are back down to normal size!!”

With 16-22 mmHg compression, the Go2 socks will give you mild compression to keep any leg swelling at bay, whether you’re on your feet or sitting all day. They come in fun patterns (hello, leopard print) because wearing compression socks doesn’t have to be boring. One reviewer said, “My favorite compression socks! They are thick, warm, and provide the best compression of any compression sock I have ever tried. The price is higher than other socks, but I am telling you it is well worth it, as the other packages of socks are either too flimsy or do not help enough with blood flow. I am completely pain free from my varicose veins when I wear these and they last the full 16 hours that I am on my feet. Great for nurses!!”

Lily Trotters compression socks provide both fashion and function. They have 15-20 mmHg of compression, are moisture-wicking and antimicrobial, and made with a 93/7 nylon/spandex blend. The socks have a proprietary weave to make the socks thinner and easier to put on and take off. One reviewer said, “Whether I am working out, sitting/standing at my office job or chasing after an active little person, I wear this brand almost daily. I like the hug they give my feet and legs. They are comfortable and made with quality materials.”

These knee-high socks provide 20-30 mmHg of compression and are lined with silver fiber so the socks are antimicrobial, reducing odor and fungi to prevent Athlete’s foot. They’re also moisture-wicking, and have a large toe box and a terry foot and heel for some extra cushion. One reviewer said, “I was shopping for a more comfortable support sock and these certainly fit the bill. They are easy to put on and at the end of the day the compression has really helped to keep the swelling down. I could not ask for a better stocking.”

2XU was co-founded by a professional triathlete and makes technical sportswear, including compression tights, tops, and socks. These compression socks are made with a lightweight lycra blend that provides support to the calf, shin, and ankle regions. They’re breathable and have SPF 50+ protection as well. One reviewer said, “As an avid runner and CrossFit athlete, recovering from workouts is important to maximize gains in strength and in endurance. I tried 5-6 different brands of compression socks before I bought the Elite Compression socks from 2XU. These socks are everything they are advertised to be. Despite being a pain the neck to put on, they hug the calves and lower leg area perfectly. I found they do not slip leaving your legs feeling great the next day. I wear them not only after exercise but also when flying cross-country to keep circulation going while sitting for 5+ hours.”

This three-pack of socks has 15-20mmHg of compression and are made with a lightweight, breathable fabric. They have a smooth heel and toe for comfort and come in a variety of colors and three different sizes to accomodate different calf sizes. Best of all, they’re so affordable, you’ll want to pick up an extra pack or two. One reviewer said, “I am on my feet, literally all day, and suffer from lower leg cramps and night swelling. Surprisingly, these 15-20mmHg compression socks worked for me. These socks actually begin compression gently at the foot then I actually feel the graduated compression from the arch to heel, up to ankle, then moving up to calf.This alone sets these apart from 90% of the other brands on the market I have tried where compression is sporadic. And the beauty is they haven’t lost elasticity after a week. The others were losing elasticity after 3 to 4 wears.They are not bulky and you actually forget they are on. Overall — great socks!! Would definitely purchase again.”