byJessica Booth
Medically Reviewed by Suzanne Chan, D.N.P., C.L.C., C.P.S.T.
| January 22, 2024
What to Expect selects products based on real-life testing conducted by staff, contributors and members our user community, as well as independent research and expert feedback; learn more about our review process. Prices and details are accurate as of the published date. We may earn commissions from shopping links.
Quick Summary
The best compression socks are Comrad’s knee-high compression socks, as they provide moderate compression, fit snuggly and are easy to put on your legs.
Best Compression Socks
Photo: Comrad
Best Compression Socks Overall
Comrad Knee High Compression Socks
$84 for 3
See Review
Photo: Amazon
Best Compression Socks for Travek
SB Sox Compression Socks
$25
See Review
Photo: Bombas
Best Compression Socks for Everyday Wear
Bombas Everyday Compression Socks
$28
See Review
Photo: Amazon
See Review
Photo: Amazon
Best Zippered Compression Socks
TheraMagic Zipper Compression Socks
$25
See Review
Compression socks may not be at the top of your pregnancy shopping list, especially in the first trimester. But once you hit the second trimester and start to notice the pregnancy swelling (and the pain that often accompanies it), you’ll want to find a pair — and fast!
Now, mild swelling during pregnancy shouldn’t cause panic. In fact edema, which is defined as mild swelling of the hands and feet, affects about three quarters of pregnant women. (If, however, the swelling gets more severe and doesn’t improve overnight, you’ll want to reach out to your doctor.) Because it’s so common, there are a number of ways to help reduce the swelling; compression socks being one of the most popular solutions.
“Compression socks help massage the muscles and result in blood being forced to move upwards towards the rest of the body,” says Iffath Hoskins, M.D., an OB-GYN at NYU Langone Health in New York City. She says this can boost circulation and ease the discomfort of swelling, offering some much needed relief. The only issue? Weeding through the hundreds of options out there to find the best possible pair for you. Read on to find out how to find the best compression socks for pregnancy.
How we chose the best compression socks
When you're desperate for relief, you may be quick to grab the first pair of compression socks you see. But compression socks aren’t one size fits all, so a little bit of research is required before you add to cart.
To help with that process, we spoke to Dr. Hoskins to learn how compression socks work and what to look for to maximize their effect. Dr. Hoskins says the best compressions socks will:
- Offer graduated compression, meaning the pressure is greatest towards the feet and gradually lessens up to the knee, allowing for better blood flow.
- Offer mild (10 to 15 mmHg) to moderate (15 to 20 mmHg) compression, as they provide enough pressure to improve circulation and reduce the mild swelling that most pregnant women experience. If the compression levels are too high for your circ*mstance, Dr. Hoskins says you run the risk of cutting off your circulation. If you think you need something more intense, consult your doctor first.
We also looked at compression socks that were suggested by What to Expect Community community members. We gathered any recommendations that met Dr. Hoskin’s standards, and included features deemed important by moms, including:
- Made of comfortable fabric
- Easy to put on and take off
- Available in a wide range of sizes
Why Trust Us?
What to Expect is the world’s most trusted pregnancy and parenting brand for a reason. Our product recommendations are based on expert parent insight, advice from medical professionals and feedback from the millions of parents and parents-to-be in our community. Our editors adhere to the highest research and reporting standards and our team of vetted OB/GYNs, pediatricians and other health professionals ensure our recommended products are safe and effective for you and your baby.
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Best Compression Socks Overall
Comrad Knee High Compression Socks
Photo credit: Comrad
Buying Options
Pros
- Wide variety of heights and compression levels
- Thin and breathable
Cons
- Might not be ideal for wide calves
Material: Nylon and spandex
Pressure level: 15-20 mmHg (Moderate)
Size range: S - XL
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It
When we started looking at the What To Expect Community to find compression sock reviews, we immediately noticed Comrad being mentioned most often. Hundreds of positive reviews on their own website and Amazon backed this up. These popular compression socks are our favorite overall because of how breathable, comfortable, and effective they are, but also because the brand offers so much variety.
These Comrad Knee High Compression Socks come in several different colors and prints and offer a graduated compression with a mmHg of 15 to 20 (moderate compression). They are made of spandex and nylon for a stretchier feel, so they’re not too difficult to get on, and they have a cushioned heel and toe for added comfort. The graduated compression is also great for those who don’t need or want anything too intense, making them ideal for all-day wear. Reviewers noted how much these helped with swelling and how easy they were to pull on.
While we love this basic knee high style, Comrad’s website also shows a variety of heights (like ankle) and compression levels(from light to firm). There’s truly something for everyone. However, it’s worth noting that some reviewers said these were too tight on wide calves, so if you need larger sizing, these might not be ideal.
Community Reviews
amandaisk
"I tried a few and my favorites were Comrad brand ones - they sell multipacks to help make them more affordable."
mfrumkin
"I have a few pair of knee high Comrad brand compression socks - they are great and offer multiple levels of compression and have multiple calf size options. I’m on my feet a lot for my job and they have made me feel great at the end of the day!"
Best Compression Socks for Travek
SB Sox Compression Socks
Photo credit: Amazon
Buying Options
Pros
- Cushioned heel
- Moisture-wicking fabric
Cons
- Might be too tight for wide feet or calves
Material: Nylon and spandex
Pressure level: 20-30 mmHg (Firm)
Size range: S - XL
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It
SB Sox has thousands of great reviews on Amazon and plenty of happy testimonials with the WTE community as well. At about $20 per pair, they’re fairly affordable and available in a variety of different colors. The more firm compression (20 to 30 mmHg) is great for long flights, especially for people with more uncomfortable swelling. Additionally, there are a lot of features that make them great to wear in the sky — or on the ground.
The reinforced heel and reinforced toe area make them extra comfortable and help prevent blisters. They also have graduated compression, getting less tight further up in the leg. Reviewers love how much support they give and how well they stay up on their leg, and that they’re made from thick fabric that isn’t too stifling. Some did note, however, that they felt a little tight for anyone with wide feet or calves.
Community Reviews
believe456
"I too have terrible varicose veins. I love SB Sox. They sell them on Amazon and they are fairly easy to put on and come up pretty high. I use a belly band a lot too to help take pressure off my legs a little."
Best Compression Socks for Exercise
Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks
Photo credit: Amazon
Buying Options
Pros
- Moisture wicking fabric
- Designed to ensure a perfect fit
Cons
- Expensive
Material:Polyamide and elastane
Pressure level: 15-20 mmHg (Moderate)
Size range:S - XL
Why We Love It
Compression socks are great for exercise, as they can improve performance and boost recovery. You just want to make sure you wear a pair that can stand up to sweat while relieving pressure. The Zensah Tech+ socks do just that, due in large part to the stretchy, lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric. (In fact, several reviewers say their feet barely sweat in these socks.) The fabric is also super durable, standing up to the toughest workouts.
Offering moderate compression, Zensha Tech+ socks are designed specifically for your left and right foot to ensure a perfect fit which, alone with the seamless toe, helps prevent chafing and blistering. Plus, they come in an array of colors and patterns so you won't mind wearing them to the gym or workout class.
The only downside to these otherwise perfect socks is the price, but moms say they’re totally worth the $50 splurge.
Best Compression Socks for Everyday Wear
Bombas Everyday Compression Socks
Photo credit: Bombas
Buying Options
Pros
- Available in multi-packs and ankle socks
- Additional arch support
Cons
- May be too warm for summer
Material:Cotton, polyester, elastane and nylon
Pressure level: 15-20 mmHg (Mild)
Size range: S - L
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It
Bombas is known for their quality, comfortable socks, so it's no surprise that their compression socks come highly recommended.Made of a cotton, elastane, and nylon blend, the Bombas compression socks have plenty of stretch and breathability, both of which are crucial during pregnancy. They also have Bombas' signatureHoneycomb Support System, which gives you a little extra comfort in the arch of your foot.
And don't worry about socks slipping down your leg. The band at the top isstretchy enough to accomodate swollen clafs but tight enough to kepp the sock sin place.
One thing to consider: Bombas' socks are litle thick and may not be ideal for summer. In that case, you may want to consider the ankle compression socks.
Community Reviews
acr37
"I work in healthcare on my feet all day everyday. I have Bombas as well as a lot of other brands. The higher compression Bombas ones are way too tight and I don’t even have big calves lol. The 'everyday' ones are perfect and they’re my go-to compression socks for the OR."
drewak87
"Bombas everyday compression socks! I love them. They work well without being obnoxiously tight on the toes (really expensive tho!)."
Best Budget Compression Socks
Kindred Bravely Maternity Compression Socks
Photo credit: Amazon
Buying Options
Pros
- Graduated compression
- Available in a 2-pack
Cons
- Only available in one size
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It
These Kindred Bravely socks are $30 for a pack of two, making them more affordable than many other comparable options. They are made of premium materials, like bamboo, which makes them more stretchy and comfortable. The bamboo offers moisture-wicking properties to keep sweat away and also makes these super soft, making them an absolute dream to wear.
Another nice thing about these is that they don’t look like your typical compression socks: They have a more versatile appearance to them, which might make them easier to wear for some people. They also have a graduated compression, which can make them ideal for everyday wear or for those who don’t want anything too intense. However, one big downside is that they are only available in “one size fits most.” Some reviewers have noted that they just don’t offer a good fit because of that, so if your feet/legs are smaller or bigger, these might not work out.
Material: Bamboo, spandex, elastane, nylon
Pressure level: 20-30 mmHg (Firm)
Size range: One size
Community Reviews
Claudia-L
"Kindred bravely compression socks are what I’m wearing, they’re amazing! I wore them on a road trip on the way to our destination, and saw significant improvement than when I didn’t wear them on the trip on the way home."
jennican
"I bought a two pack from kindered bravely off Amazon and love them."
Best Zippered Compression Socks
TheraMagic Zipper Compression Socks
Photo credit: Amazon
Buying Options
Pros
- Size inclusive
- super stretchy
Cons
- Zipper may dig into legs if they’re particularly swollen
Material: Nylon and spandex
Pressure level: 20-30 mmHg (Moderate)
Size range: S/M - 4X
Why We Love It
The tight fit of compression socks makes them hard to put on, especially if your legs are already swollen or if you’re at the stage of pregnancy where bending over is a struggle. TheraMagic’s zippered compression socks might be a little easier to get on because they don’t pull on as tightly. But what sets these apart from other zippered compression socks is the four-way weave which allows for extra stretch, making them even easier to get on.
Of course, there are other features that have earned these compression socks hundreds of five-star reviews. The copper-infused sole helps reduce odor, which is a plus if your feet sweat a lot, and provides additional comfort and support. There’s also a fabric skin guard behind the zipper to prevent potential chafing and irritation. Some reviewers do note, however, that the zipper fabric didn't offer much proteciton when legs were particularly swollen.
Reviewers love how easy these are to put on and how comfortable they are to wear, especially if you’re traveling for a long period of time. Plus, they have a wide size range, available in sizes up to 4X.
How we chose
FAQ
What do compression socks do during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, you carry an increased amount of bodily fluid, which can lead to uncomfortable swelling or varicose veins. “The increase in progesterone from pregnancy can cause relaxation of the walls of veins, so the blood pools in the lower body due to gravity,” explains Iffath Hoskins, M.D., an OB-GYN at NYU Langone Health in New York City.
Compression socks are supposed to help these side effects, which is why Dr. Hoskins, along with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), recommends wearing them to relieve swelling, ease leg cramps and help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition that can cause blood clots to form in the deep veins of the leg or other areas of the body. Compression socks might even help with morning sickness. A 2017 study found that wearing compression socks could improve nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.
Do compression socks help with swelling?
As Dr. Hoskins explains, compressions socks essentially massage the muscles to encourage better blood flow throughout the entire body — not just the legs. Science backs this up: a 2022 study found that wearing compression socks during pregnancy led to significantly less swelling in their ankles and calves, prevented varicose veins, and also reduced that achy feeling that can happen.
How long should I wear compression socks?
There’s no time limit on how long you can wear compression socks. Dr. Hoskins recommends putting them on at the beginning of the day, ideally before you experience any swelling, since being swollen can make it harder to get the socks on. “Wear the socks for as long as is comfortable, but especially when walking, standing, or sitting (e.g. whenever your feet and legs are dangling),” she says. If you’re going to be on a plane, put them on before the flight and wear them throughout.
How tight should compression socks be?
Compression socks should be snug enough that they aren’t falling down, but not so tight that you feel them cutting off your circulation (the opposite effect.) Again, this is why you should look for socks that offer mild (10 to 15 mmHg) to moderate (15 to 20 mmHg) compression and are made of nylon or spandex to ensure there’s some give.
Can I sleep in compression socks?
You can sleep in compression socks, but it’s not necessary. Since your legs and feet are at the same level as the rest of your body while you’re sleeping, you’re not likely to experience the same swelling.
How do you wash compression socks?
Though the instructions may differ slightly between pairs, there’s one common rule when washing compression socks: Avoid hot water. The high temperature could result in compression socks shrinking to the point that they’re too tight (or don’t fit at all!). For that reason, it’s also best to let them air dry after washing them on the delicate cycle with cold water or hand washing them.
View Sources
WhattoExpect.com,Edema (Swelling of the Ankles and Feet) During Pregnancy, Oct. 2022
WhattoExpect.com,Varicose Veins During Pregnancy, Feb. 2022
Iffath A. Hoskins, M.D., FACOG,an OB-GYN at NYU Langone Health in New York City
Jornal Vascular Brasileiro,Positive perception and efficacy of compression stockings for prevention of lower limb edema in pregnant women, Jan. 2022
American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists,Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis, Dec. 2022
WhattoExpect.com,Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) During Pregnancy and Postpartum, May 2021
American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Air Travel During Pregnancy, Aug. 2018
International Journal of Women's Health,A randomized crossover trial on the effect of compression stockings on nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy, Feb. 2017
