Best Compression Socks for 2024

For compression socks fashionable enough to wear while running errands, going out to eat or doing anything, go with a pair from the Lily Trotters Signature Collection. Lily Trotters makes its signature socks with a blend of 93% nylon and 7% spandex, so they have just enough compression to feel noticeably snug. 

Designed specifically to make compression socks more attractive, you'll find no shortage of creative designs at Lily Trotters. I love the style, which looks classy and elegant, as well as the Over The Moon -- Orange for something more colorful.

I will say, Lily Trotters socks -- or at least the pair I tried -- tend to run tight at the top. If you have larger calves, consider sizing up. I ordered a medium or small-medium in all of the compression socks I tried, and the small-medium from Lily Trotters was the only pair that made significant indentations just below the knee.

I learned about Zensah when I tested face masks for running. I liked the Zensah performance face mask, so I decided to give its compression socks a go, and they didn't disappoint. These full-length compression socks are made in Italy and feature an 18% elastane content. The high elastane percentage means these socks compress well and don't stretch out, so they're perfect for long runs.

The mesh insert is what makes these compression socks great for runners, though. Placed on the calf part of the sock, the mesh component provides ultimate breathability so your socks don't end up totally sweat-soaked by the end of your run. The cushioned sole of the sock is a nice touch, too. I noticed these socks felt more supportive in the arch of my foot than the others I tested. 

If you specifically deal with poor circulation, try a pair of Sockwell Elevation Compression Socks. These socks provide graduated compression from 20 to 30 mmHg, whereas the majority of over-the-counter compression socks range from 15 to 20 mmHg (mmHg is a medical measurement for pressure).

The compression begins at the ankle and decreases throughout four "zones" up to the top of your calf. They also feature arch support, a bonus for people whose feet swell in addition to their ankles. Made of bamboo rayon, merino wool, stretch nylon and spandex, the Elevation Compression Socks feel soft yet durable, and they wick moisture well. (If you want less compression, Sockwell has a lifestyle collection that includes tons of cute styles with 15 to 20 mmHg compression.

A second pair of Pro Compression socks made the list because they're just that good. I'd wear these midcalf compression socks around all day, just like I'd wear the full-length pair, but for different activities. I loved wearing the Pro midcalf socks while running errands and doing home improvement projects. These babies took me through a full day of home renovations including sanding, painting and assembling furniture -- and they looked stylish enough to wear on several "Oh shoot, I forgot this" runs to Home Depot.

I also tried out the midcalf socks for a long day of work, but I didn't like them as much for that. My calves still swelled, leading to an indent where the hem of the sock was. I like these a lot, but I'll stick to wearing them on more active days and during workouts. All in all, the crew sock style is a great choice for people who want compression localized just to the heel and ankle.

If you're the type who likes to wear compression socks after your workout rather than during, try these Physix Gear knee-high compression socks. I chose these as the best post-workout socks because they reminded me of NormaTec compression when I wore them. The graduated compression is so effective that you can feel the different pressure levels throughout your calves, especially when you're walking or moving around. If you really pay attention while wearing these compression socks, you'll feel a gentle pulsating sensation -- you can actually feel the increased blood flow in real time. 

I wore the Physix Gear compression socks after a few weightlifting sessions, several long walks and a couple of runs, and even if I can't say they actually helped my muscles recover faster (it's hard to tell), I can say they felt soothing after an intense workout. These compression socks are also more affordable than most at less than $20 a pair, and the collection includes very laid-back styles you can wear anywhere. 

Editor's note, September 2023: When we tested the Swiftwick Aspire Twelve socks, they were made with merino wool. They're now made with Swiftwick's signature Olefin fabric, which is also moisture-wicking and lightweight.

These Swiftwick compression socks are designed for all-season activities. They're part of Swiftwick's running and snow sports collections, designed to adapt to the weather thanks to the natural crimps in the merino wool fibers. When it's warm outside (or any time you sweat), merino wool absorbs moisture into its porous fibers and then wicks it away from your body as a vapor. When it's cold, the crimped fiber works as an insulator, keeping heat close to your skin.

With 11% spandex, the Aspire 12 compression socks offer plenty of compression for long workouts or full days of outdoor adventure. Although I don't live near many hiking trails anymore, I know I'll pack these socks for any road trips to the mountains.