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Tania Leslau20 November 2023
Frequent flyers are well accustomed to stepping off planes with swollen ankles.
This swelling occurs because we don’t use our muscles while flying, resulting in fluid pools in the foot area. Cue cankles.
The easiest way to combat swollen feet is to wear compression socks. Unless you’re planning on sashaying up and down the aisle every hour to keep your blood flowing, then wearing compression socks is your next best bet to avoid uncomfortable swelling sensations.
Compression socks work by boosting blood flow to improve circulation. The compression function of the socks encourages blood flow, reducing the risk of swelling or even blood clots in the lower leg or foot.
What should you look for when buying compression socks?
- Compression levels: compression socks range from mild to firm compression. The latter is better suited to those who struggle with ulcer management or post-thrombotic syndrome, while the former is better for minor swelling and ache relief.
- Style: compression socks can be worn during flights or on a more regular basis. Many are available in fun, sporty or neutral designs which can be worn to the office or for exercise.
- Size: ensure the size of your chosen compression socks is accurate. Consider the size of your leg and your toes and shop accordingly as we do not want the socks to cut into your shin area.
Who should not wear compression socks?
If you live with a peripheral vascular disease that affects your lower extremities, then you should avoid compression socks as the compression can worsen symptoms. Diabetics should also be careful when shopping for compression socks, as neuropathy prevents them from sensing any changes in their feet.
Where else can you wear compression socks?
Compression socks can be worn for any occasion, not just for travel. Legwear brand FALKE notes: “Usually, most people associate compression products with long-distance travelling. Of course, this is one of the biggest uses. Still, the health effect of compression can be useful in any life situation - on a normal office day, during long periods of standing or walking, when going out or during a long day of wearing high heels.”
The brand factors this versatility into its designs: “All products have been designed so that they can be combined with both business and casual outfits. The products are therefore ideal for anyone who wants to have lighter and more revitalised legs.”
Jetting off or simply want to improve your circulation? Shop the best compression socks below.
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FALKE Vitalizer Women Knee-high Socks
FALKE
Banish aches and pains with FALKE’s Vitalizer knee highs. The socks come recommended by the brand: “The FALKE Leg Vitalizer tights and knee-highs feature a medium pressure profile which ensures stimulation of the arteries and veins in the upper layers of the skin. The legs are relieved and feel light and revitalized even after many hours of standing.”
Buy now£32, FALKE
Lululemon Women's MicroPillow Compression Knee-High Running Sock
Lululemon
Designed for running, Lululemon’s compression socks are made to cushion the leg. They feature graduated degrees of light compression to hug your muscles to help them feel energized during exercise, plus breathable mesh fabric and elasticated yarns to create a neatly shaped fit that supports your Achilles perfectly.
Buy now£28, Lululemon
Nike Classic 2 Cushioned Over-the-Calf Socks
Nike
Nobody wants to spend a fortune on socks, a fact Nike understands well. The brand’s cushioned compression socks are made for sport. Designed with a dynamic arch and lightweight cushioning for a highly supportive fit, the inexpensive undergarments offer a snug fit from your knees to your toes.
Buy now£8.75, Nike
Scholl Flight Socks
Scholl
You will have no doubt stumbled across a pair of Scholl flight socks during a Boots dash in Heathrow. The socks are a go-to for long-distance flyers as they help to prevent swollen ankles and tired aching legs while in the air. Not only are the accessories clinically proven to improve circulation, but they are especially effective when relieving the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis.
Buy now£18.99, Amazon
FIGS Compression Socks
FIGS
Compression socks tend not to spark intrigue, but these ones just might. FIGS’ ombre knee-high numbers are available in over forty colourways, from friendly llama prints to bow-clad designs. Aesthetics aside, the socks relieve weary legs with their 360° seamless compression, padding and soft, sustainably sourced yarn.
Buy now£22.74, FIGS
Medi Mediven Elegance Below Knee Compression Stockings
Medi
The Medi team were clearly thinking pink when designing these vibrant compression socks. Customize yours and pick from petite or regular fits, in addition to a compression level to suit your physical needs. The socks are particularly suitable for adults of a healthy BMI weight, who do not show any tendency to venous oedema (leg swelling) and have firm connective tissue.
Buy now£51, Medi
Koala Socks Argyle Compression Socks
Koala Socks
Pamper your pins with some funky prints. Koala Socks merges fashion and function with its dazzling array of compression socks. These argyle numbers are perfect for winter and can be worn for rigorous gym sessions or cross-continent flights. They relieve soreness and promote comfort during long periods of sitting or standing, so be sure to pack a pair in your carry-on.
Buy now£8.99, Koala Socks
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