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Compression socks are socks designed to improve blood circulation by applying pressure to your feet, ankles, and calves. This pressure can also prevent swelling, pain, and even help with medical issues such as blood clots and varicose veins. The compression itself is “graduated,” meaning that they are tighter at the ankle and the compression reduces gradually up the leg, which helps encourage proper blood flow.
Anyone can benefit from wearing compression socks, but outside of a medical condition, the best use cases for most people are for jobs that require you to be on your feet all day or sitting at your desk all day, for long-haul flights, and for activities like running, hiking, or skiing where they can help with swelling and recovery. We picked out some of the top compressions socks contenders and tested them over nine months, and our favorite overall is the Sockwell Sportster—it has moderate compressions and enough cushioning to be comfy but not bukly. Read on for more of our picks for the best compressions socks out there.
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Best Compression Socks at a Glance
- Best Compression Socks Overall: Sockwell Sportster
- Best Budget Compression Socks: Dr. Motion Speed Lines
- Best Low-Cut Compression Socks: CEP Core Run Low Cut
- Best Compression Socks for Desk Jockeys: Fits Everyday Cushioned Compression
- Best Compression Socks for Long-Haul Flights: Physix Gear
- Best Compression Socks for Skiing: Smartwool Ski Compression Over The Calf
- Best Compression Socks for Running: Smartwool Run Compression Over The Calf
- Best Everyday Therapeutic Compression Socks:Sockwell Pulse OTC
- Best Copper Therapy Compression Socks:Copper Compression Powerknit
Best Compression Socks of 2025
Best Overall Compression Socks: Sockwell Sportster
The Sockwell Men’s Sportster is a perfect all-rounder. Made from a blend that includes 32 percent Merino wool, they’ll resist odor and last a long time. Their moderate level of compression is ideal for most people, there is some cushioning but not enough to be bulky, and you could wear them in nearly every sock-clad situation.
Best Budget Compression Socks: Dr. Motion Speed Lines
At $10 a pair, these are the perfect daily value compression sock because they’re not too thick, not too tall, and not too low. They have a good amount of cushioning but also mesh for breathability, so you can wear them running, on a hike, or to the office. They also have a smooth toe so there’s no seam annoyance. They lack Merino wool, but for the price they are feature-packed and thoughtfully designed.
Best Low-Cut Compression Socks: CEP Core Run Low Cut
While a low-cut compression sock won’t give you the circulatory benefits of an over-the-calf sock, for running the purpose is more about swelling and recovery, so a low cut running sock serves that purpose. These have an excellent mix of cushioning at the heel and ball of the foot, with a thin and breathable mesh upper that makes them very cool to wear.
Best Compression Socks for Desk Jockeys: Fits Everyday Cushioned Compression
These moderate everyday compression socks are a great place to start if you sit at a desk all day and you’re not sure if you’re ready for firm compression. The nylon, Merino wool, poly, and lycra blend is durable and supportive, and they have extra cushioning at the heel, toe, and arch. They come up just high enough to improve calf circulation, but not so high that they touch your knees or leave a line under your trousers when you sit down.
Best Compression Socks for Long-Haul Flights: Physix Gear
These are the first compression socks I ever bought, and they have served me well on long-haul flights, including 12 hours to Japan. While they lack the Merino wool of the more refined options on this list, they have a very practical reason for being on this list: if you happen to lose them while traveling, they’re inexpensive to replace. If you’re unsure about whether compression socks are your thing, try these on your next trip before deciding if you want to upgrade.
Best Compression Socks for Skiing: Smartwool Ski Compression Over The Calf
I tested these during several hard days on the mountain, and what really makes them stand out is their high 53 percent Merino wool, which assists with odor and durability. They have a firm 20 to 30 mmHg level of compression which really helps how your feet feel after a long day on the mountain. Thanks to the high quantity of wool in the blend, they will also stay warm if they get wet. While a tad pricier than other options, you will get several seasons out of them thanks to the durability of the wool-rich blend and their quality construction.
Best Compression Socks for Running: Smartwool Run Compression Over The Calf
The moderate compression level makes these good for a variety of runners, and the 49 percent wool blend will resist odor and increase durability. There are targeted cushion zones at the heel and ball of your foot for running, “durability zones” where your feet and toes may otherwise rub through, and mesh zones for breathability. They also look great and are made in the USA.
Best Everyday Therapeutic Compression Socks: Sockwell Pulse OTC
With firm graduated compression and seven different color/patterns to choose from, these Merino wool blend socks fit any color scheme and give you serious all-day support whether your issue is too long sitting or too long standing or a little of both. The ultra-light cushioning means they’ll work with any shoes—even dress shoes. If you’re serious about compression, these are a good daily driver.
Best Copper Therapy Compression Socks: Copper Compression Powerknit Knee High
These copper-infused knee-high compression socks come three to a pack for $26, so they’re great for people who need multiple pairs for their job, such as nurses or pilots. They have moderate compression, a padded sole, they’re moisture wicking for sweat, and the copper infusion helps fight odor.
What To Look For When Buying Compression Socks
The main thing to look out for when checking out compressions socks is the differing levels of compression available. The socks are often given ratings such as moderate or firm, with the units of pressure measured in mmHg, or millimeters of mercury—a unit often used to measure blood pressure. Mild is 8 to 15 mmHg, Moderate is considered 15 to 20 mmHg, Firm is 20 to 30 mmHg, and Extra Firm is 30 to 40 mmHg—the latter being the level for medical conditions such as Deep Vein Thrombosis. It’s a good idea to start with a moderate level of compression and then go up from there based on your personal experience.
Why You Should Trust Me
I spent nine months testing these, and I had the opportunity in that time try out all the different use cases. I wore these socks running, hiking, skiing, flying internationally, sitting at a desk all day—over a period of several months—to narrow down some favorite brands and favorite socks.
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