Compression socks only work as intended when they fit properly. Learn why leg measurements matter, how incorrect sizing affects circulation, and when a professional fitting...
Understanding Your Compression Sock Options
Everyday Compression
Everyday compression socks are designed for regular use to promote healthy blood circulation and reduce leg fatigue. They provide mild compression (usually 15-20 mmHg) and are ideal for people who spend long hours on their feet or sit for extended periods. These socks help alleviate minor swelling, prevent discomfort, and keep legs feeling energized throughout the day. Explore options like the Jobst Casual Compression Socks or Sigvaris Style Microfiber Socks.
Best for:
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Minor swelling and fatigue
- Daily comfort and leg health
Compression for Fitness
Fitness compression socks and sleeves are designed for athletes and active individuals to improve performance and recovery. They typically offer moderate compression (15-20 mmHg) and help enhance blood flow, reduce muscle fatigue, and minimize post-workout soreness by reducing lactic acid buildup.
Best For:
- Running, cycling, and high-impact sports
- Reducing muscle soreness and fatigue
- Faster post-workout recovery
Travel Compression
Travel compression socks provide graduated compression (15-20 mmHg) to promote circulation during extended periods of inactivity, such as long flights or road trips. They help reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and leg swelling by preventing blood from pooling in the lower extremities. Popular choices include the Sigvaris Microfiber Compression Socks and Jobst Travel Socks.
Best For:
- Long-haul flights and road trips
- Reducing the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis
- Preventing swelling during travel
Maternity compression products provide gentle support (15-20 mmHg or higher) to reduce swelling, leg fatigue, and varicose veins during pregnancy. They help improve circulation and alleviate discomfort, especially in later stages. Explore options like Jobst Opaque Maternity Compression Socks.
Best for:
- Swelling during pregnancy
- Varicose veins and leg discomfort
- Supporting circulation during pregnancy
Anti-Embolism Compression
Anti-embolism compression stockings, also known as TED hose, provide gentle compression (8-15 mmHg) to help prevent blood clots (DVT) and support circulation during periods of immobility, such as post-surgery recovery. Nightingale Medical offers Jobst Anti-Embolism Stockings in three lengths for optimal fit and comfort.
Best For:
- Post-surgical recovery
- Bedridden or immobile patients
- Preventing blood clots (DVT)
Lymphedema Compression
Lymphedama compression garments provide firm, graduated pressure (typically 20–30 mmHg or higher) to support lymphatic flow, prevent fluid re‑accumulation, and maintain volume reduction as part of long‑term lymphedema management. These garments—available as sleeves, stockings, wraps, or custom flat‑knit options—help control swelling and are an essential component of Complete Decongestive Therapy.
Best For:
- Post-surgical recovery
- Bedridden or immobile patients
- Lymphedema and chronic swelling
See this Amoena guide for more detail.
Medical-Grade Compression
Medical-grade compression (20-30 mmHg+) provides higher pressure for managing serious conditions like lymphedema, chronic venous insufficiency, and severe swelling. Available in three lengths for optimal fit and coverage.
Best For:
- Lymphedema and chronic swelling
- Severe venous disorders
- Post-surgical recovery
Compression Levels Explained
Compression socks come in varying levels, measured in mmHg:
- Low (8-15 mmHg): Everyday wear, diabetic support
- Moderate (15-20 mmHg): Swelling, travel support
- Firm (20-30 mmHg): Moderate varicose veins, DVT prevention
- Extra Firm (30-40 mmHg): Severe swelling, chronic conditions
Personalized Support
Explore the different types of ostomies, including colostomy, ileostomy, and urostomy. Understanding these different types helps in effectively managing care and adjusting to life with an ostomy.
Free NSWOC Consultations
We provide free NSWOC Consultations at six of our locations in British Columbia. Contact us to book an appointment.
Learn More8 Retail Locations
We have 8 locations in BC, visit us in Vancouver, Langley, White Rock, Victoria, Kamloops, Vernon or Kelowna for convenient access to our products.
See Our LocationsRelated Articles
Do Compression Socks Help with Edema?
Learn how compression socks can help manage edema and relieve swollen legs. Discover the benefits, compression levels, and tips for daily relief.
Support moms-to-be this Mother’s Day with SIGVARIS compression socks for pregnancy—comfort, relief, and everyday support in every step.