When you think of compression socks, your mind probably jumps straight to that one pharmacy aisle with a weird mixture of first-aid, orthotic insoles, and bandages. The best compression socks, though, are actually a boon for runners, cyclists, and athletes of all kinds, not just nurses and folks boarding overnight flights.

　　Sure, you’ll find them next to the Ace bandages and Dr. Scholl’s gellies at your local Rite Aid, but those aren’t the only options. Many brands make compression socks these days, from sock specialists like Bombas or Swiftwick to compression experts like 2XU or CEP. We even found a pair from a stylish running brand that provides much more support than your average Hanes crew sock.

　　Compression socks can help athletes reduce pain and fatigue, improve recovery time, and keep their lymphatic system functioning at its peak. In short, they’ll keep you performing your best, day in and day out, whether you’re running mile after mile on your local trails or optimizing your training while traveling for work.

　　We’ve divided this list into categories to help you find the best compression socks for your needs. If you’re in a rush, head straight to our comparison chart, buyer’s guide, and FAQ at the end of this article. For a more detailed look at our favorites, read on. 

　　The Best Compression Socks for 2024 B

　　Best Overall Compression Socks: 2XU Compression Socks for Recovery Best Budget Compression Socks: Enertor Energy Compression and Recovery Socks Best Compression Socks for Running: CEP The Run Compression Tall Socks 4.0 Best Compression Socks for Cycling: Swiftwick Aspire Four Best Compression Socks for Every Activity: Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks Best Budget Compression Socks for Running: Feetures Graduated Compression Light Cushion Knee High Softest Compression Socks: Bombas Performance Compression Socks Best Compression Crew Socks: Sockwell Elevate Crew Best Compression from Non-Compression Socks: District Vision Performance Cordura Socks Best Overall Compression Socks 2XU Compression Socks for Recovery Specs Size options S (M3.5 5.5 shoe, 11.7-14.5” calf), M1 (M6-8 shoe, 12.5-14.5” calf), M2 (M6-8 shoe, 15-17” calf), L1 (M9-12 shoe, 14-15.75” calf), L2 (M9-12 shoe, 16-19” calf), XL (M12.5-14 shoe, 17-19.75” calf) Compression level options 25-28mmHG Materials 80% microfiber nylon, 20% elastane Best use Recovery, travel

　　Pros Most comfortable socks we tried Sizes are more specific than other brands Good mix of comfort and performance Cons Only come in one color Care requires extra effort (no tumble dry) Will Porter The best compression socks we tested are the 2XU Compression Socks for Recovery ($40). They stood out as a top pick from the moment we got our hands on them and only got better from there. The most comfortable pair of socks we tried, they have a great foot shape, are left- and right-specific for an optimized fit, and have the perfect level of compression for post-run comfort. 

　　However, one of their best qualities is the huge size range they offer. They come in six different sizes, each of which has a shoe size and calf size range. A godsend for our testers with chicken legs, the medium and large sizes come in two different calf sizes, so if you’re a size 9 that has slimmer ankles and calves, the M1 was great, and if you are a size 9 cyclist or love doing endless calf raises, go for M2. Same goes for L1 and L2. 

　　We also love the comfort and materials of the 2XU Compression Socks for Recovery. The foot is padded just enough to add some comfort while still being plenty breathable. The toe is seamless, so when you pull them on you don’t have to spend any time fidgeting with the fit around the foot to get the seam in the exact right place. Finally, the microfiber nylon and elastane blend is surprisingly soft for a performance sock.

　　Check price at Amazoncheck price at 2xu Best Budget Compression Socks Enertor Energy Compression and Recovery Socks Specs Size options S (M3.5-6), M (M6.5-9), L (M9.5-13), XL (M13.5-16) Compression level Not listed Materials Not listed Best use Recovery

　　Pros Good combo of ventilation and comfort Don’t stretch over repeated wears and washes Cons Some testers questioned the durability Slight lack of information on the website Will Porter Recovery compression socks don’t need to break the bank. The Enertor Energy Compression and Recovery Socks ($27) are much more affordable than their counterparts, making them a great introduction to compression. Our testers think they’re especially well-suited for the casual athlete or someone who just enjoys long walks or hikes. 

　　They can be tough to get on, but once they’re in place, they really shine. The compression isn’t listed, but our testers said it was somewhere in the medium-firm to firm range — perfect for pulling on after a hard run or long day on your feet. 

　　While the Enertor Energy Compression and Recovery Socks’ stretch and compression seem to hold up well over multiple washes, some of our testers weren’t sure how long the material would last, especially because you really have to work them around to get them on correctly. Finally, our testers wanted easier access to product details like compression levels and materials on the Enertor website. Neither is listed on the product page, and all of the brand’s FAQs are centered around its insoles.

　　check price at enertor Best Compression Socks for Running CEP The Run Compression Tall Socks 4.0 Specs Size options III (12.5 15” calf circumference), IV (15.5 17.5” calf circumference), V (18 20” calf circumference) Compression level 20-30 mmHg Materials 83% polyamide, 17% spandex Best use Running, recovery

　　Pros Sizes are measured by calf size for more accurate compression Comes in a bunch of colors Perfect compression for running Cons Expensive, even for compression socks which usually skew to the pricier side Sizing is a bit limited Will Porter The first thing we noticed about the CEP The Run Compression Tall Socks 4.0 ($60) is that they actually look pretty cool — something that certainly cannot be said for most of their competitors. The design is great and there are 10 color options, each of which feels well-considered. There’s no mistaking these for drugstore compression stockings. 

　　The compression is in the middle range, which we like for running — not so tight that our calves and ankles are starving for breathing room but tight enough to feel an extra sense of stability and comfort in each stride. Sizing is arranged by calf size rather than shoe size, so picking out the right size might seem tough at first but, more often than not, calf sizes correlate to shoe size (but not always, see above), so the odds are good that you’ll find a good fit if you actually measure your calf. 

　　One thing we can’t ignore, though, is the CEP The Run Compression Tall Socks 4.0’s borderline outrageous price tag. Don’t get it twisted, these are very high-quality socks, and we love the feel, the compression, and the fit, but $60 is a huge price to pay, even in a category that tends to be a little pricier. If you end up liking compression socks, you’ll probably need more than one pair for consistent wear, but even just two pairs of these will cost you well over a hundred bucks.

　　$60 at Amazoncheck price at cep compression Best Compression Socks for Cycling Swiftwick Aspire Four Specs Size options S (M3.5-6), M (M7-9.5), L (M10-11.5), XL (M12-15) Compression level Firm Materials 67% nylon, 28% olefin, 5% spandex Best use Cycling, running

　　Pros Affordable considering the high level of performance Come in multiple cuff heights and colors Cons Not ideal for those who want a lot of cushioning Could be difficult to put on, especially compared to other cycling socks Will Porter Ah, old faithful. Our testers have been wearing Swiftwick socks for well over a decade and don’t show any signs of stopping. Wearing a pair of Swiftwick Aspire Fours ($19) is like getting a hug from that one friend who is always there for you. We don’t want to get too hyperbolic, but everyone seems to love Swiftwick, so why not wax poetic a bit? 

　　The firm compression is just enough to support the foot and ankle without feeling restricted in any way, so we love them as an introduction to compression or for those who don’t care for a super tight fit. Our testers loved getting to test some fresh pairs, but if you look at a pair that has been ridden hard and put away wet for a few years, you might be unable to tell that they’re not a fresh pair. Seriously, these things are made to last. 

　　At just $19, you can feel good about buying a few pairs. The Swiftwick Aspire Four is the consensus favorite among our testers, but the Aspire line comes in a few different lengths, so if you want an ankle sock that cradles your foot or are looking for knee-high compression, those are available, too. Pick up one of each and see what you like best.

　　$19 at Swiftwick$19 at Amazon Best Compression Socks for Every Activity Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks Specs Size options S (M4-6.5), M (M7-9.5), L (M10-12.5), XL (M13+) Compression level Not listed Materials 82% nylon, 18% spandex Best use Running, racquet sports, travel

　　Pros Great for multiple disciplines, plus recovery and travel Feel durable and well-made Cons Care requires extra effort Will Porter Zensah offers a ton of great socks, but in our opinion,its Sports Medicine collection is where they really thrive. Our favorite is the Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks ($50). You can tell that the brand takes its craft seriously and is committed to making compression gear that is backed by science. 

　　While they don’t list a compression level, after testing, we would probably put them somewhere in the 20-30 mmHg range, similar to the CEP socks we mentioned earlier. They’re great for running and racquet sports, but we also love them for recovery and travel (though please change your socks after you work out). 

　　The only performance feedback from our testers that gave us pause was the fit around the toes — the Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks weren’t quite as comfortable or form-fitting as some others we tested. This doesn’t necessarily affect performance, but one more thing our testers noticed is that Zensah recommends not putting their socks through the dryer, which is probably something most athletes are accustomed to but is an extra step, nonetheless.

　　CHECK PRICE AT AMAZONCHECK PRICE AT ZENSAH COMPRESSION Best of the Rest Feetures Graduated Compression Light Cushion Knee High Specs Size options M (M6-8.5), L (M9-12), XL (M12.5-15.5) Compression level 15-20mmHg Materials 85% nylon, 15% spandex Best use Running

　　Pros Size options: M (M6-8.5), L (M9-12), XL (M12.5-15.5) Compression level: 15-20mmHg Materials: 85% nylon, 15% spandex Best use: Running Cons Lightweight design makes us question durability Will Porter Feetures is a brand that makes just about every athletic sock-related “Best of” list. And here they are again, this time with their Graduated Compression Light Cushion Knee High ($40). That’s a mouthful, but these socks are pretty straightforward, and that’s what we like best about them. 

　　They’re great for all types of activities, have a stellar fit, and fall into a nice compression range for runners who just want a little bit of squeeze from their socks. The size ranges are a little wide (for example, a large is made to fit sizes 9-12), but they somehow still seem to fit super well, even for those on the smaller side of the range. One of our testers is a size 9 and had no issues fitting into a large. 

　　Our testers also loved the high-density cushioning of the Graduated Compression Light Cushion Knee High which provides a great comfort level without making the socks bulky around the feet. They also noted that the toe box area was very comfortable and the anatomical left/right fit was a huge plus.

　　$40 at Amazon Bombas Performance Compression Socks Specs Size options M (M6-9), L (M9.5-13), XL (M13.5-16) Compression level 20-30mmHg Materials 71% polyester, 10% nylon 10% Supima cotton 9% elastane Best use Recovery, travel

　　Pros Optimal compression range for workouts and recovery Soft to the touch Very comfortable in post-workout and everyday scenarios Cons Soft, plush material may not be as breathable as others Will rip if you pull on them too hard Will Porter If you’re looking for a compression sock that provides medium compression and a super soft feel, look no further than the Bombas Performance Compression Socks ($36). They’re very comfortable day-to-day, but sometimes felt a little too warm for many of our testers, resulting in them picking these out for recovery rather than actually working out. But that’s fine, because they thrive as recovery socks, even if it’s not the intended use Bombas set out for. 

　　The compression range ventures into the medical-grade range, and you definitely feel it from the second you pull them on — which is actually quite easy to do, compared to other compression socks. Where some compression socks are a nightmare to get on, especially if you’re not the most limber person, these are stretchy enough to get over your heels easily but still snap right back into compression mode once they’re all the way on. 

　　Sizing is relatively limited, but since the Bombas Performance Compression Socks are quite stretchy and resilient, our testers didn’t seem to have trouble with that. They held up super well over multiple washes and didn’t lose their softness after a handful of cycles.

　　CHECK PRICE AT BOMBAS Sockwell Elevate Crew Specs Size options M/L (M7-10), L/XL (M10.5-13) Compression level Moderate (15-20mmHg) Materials 32% merino wool, 31% rayon from bamboo, 32% stretch nylon, 5% spandex Best use Running, hiking

　　Pros Very comfortable on the foot Merino wool is exceptionally durable, moisture-wicking, and temperature regulating Cons Stretched a bit at the top after a few wears Will Porter Don’t worry, wool lovers, we have a sock for you. The Sockwell Elevate Crew ($25) is made from 32% merino wool, plus a nice combination of bamboo rayon, stretch nylon, and Spandex to round it out. The sock is super soft and comfortable on the foot, fairly easy to put on, and provides a great compression range for those on the go. 

　　Our testers primarily used the Elevate Crew for running but found it a great choice for hiking, walking, and general everyday wear. The material feels very high quality, and the price isn’t bad at all for a wool sock, so we’d have no problem adding a pair or two or three to our sock drawers. 

　　The main issue our testers had with the Sockwell Elevate Crew was a minor one: the top two inches of the sock don’t have any compression, so it can feel loose or stretched out compared to the rest of the sock. This isn’t a huge drawback; we dont need crew socks that go halfway up to our knees, but its worth noting.

　　$25 at Amazon District Vision Performance Cordura Socks Specs Size options S (M5-9.5), L (M10-13) Compression level Not listed Materials 55% cotton, 43% nylon, 2% polyurethane Best use Running, cycling, general fitness

　　Pros Great compression around the foot and ankle Cordura makes them exceptionally durable Cons Tall for a crew sock, which some may not like Will Porter These aren’t technically advertised as compression socks at all, but one of our testers is absolutely devoted to the District Vision Performance Cordura Socks ($30). Like everything from the Los Angeles-based brand, they are simple, stylish, and made to perform at the highest level. 

　　They’re made with super strong, resilient Cordura yarns and have an anatomical fit around the foot, so you don’t have to worry about them losing shape after a few wears. Sizes are limited to small and large, but our tester had no problems fitting into a large despite being a size 9. 

　　The District Vision Performance Cordura Socks compression is subtle so that we won’t recommend them for recovery. However, similar to the aforementioned Swiftwick socks, the squeeze is just enough to make a difference compared to traditional athletic socks.

　　check price at district vision Compression Socks Comparision Chart

　　Knee-high compression socks often offer various stages of compression; (photo/Will Porter) How We Tested Compression Socks In order to get comprehensive results and develop detailed insights, the GearJunkie team tested a wide variety of compression socks. We tested primarily through road and trail running and subsequent recovery but also tested them by cycling, hiking, and in everyday situations. And don’t worry, we put them all through the washing machine, not only for hygiene reasons but also to see how they hold up after a hot wash and tumble dry.

　　When considering what type of compression socks work best, lead tester Will Porter thinks the actual compression level of the sock is the most important factor, regardless of their intended use. He has a past littered with knee and ankle problems, so finding a pair that provides adequate support and optimal blood flow is the name of the game.

　　Why You Should Trust Us Our lead tester, Will Porter, has run various races in the past few years, ranging from a trail half marathon at Joshua Tree to the 2023 Boston Marathon. Currently, he’s balancing ultramarathon training with riding his bike just enough to go on a couple of bikepacking trips in the coming months.

　　Most of his runs are done on the trails that zig-zag throughout the Boise foothills, with road runs, track workouts, and cross-country mountain bike rides mixed in. While he was testing compression socks, he was also putting in serious miles with half a dozen running insoles and various running shoes to the test. He’s always been a big fan of compression — he bought his first pair of compression socks well over a decade ago and hasn’t turned back.

　　Will has been on the gear beat for four years now, testing and writing about everything from gravel bikes to bikepacking tents to GPS watches. He’s probably gotten hands-on with over 50 pairs of running shoes and is always on the hunt for the latest and greatest tech in the business.

　　The author unwinds in the Bombas Performance Compression Socks; (photo/Will Porter) Buyer’s Guide: How To Choose the Best Compression Socks Finding the right compression socks for your needs isn’t easy. There are various different kinds of compression socks that serve different needs. Also, the sizing needs to be dialed in to ensure you get the desired amount of compression. Here’s what you should consider when buying a pair of compression socks.

　　While this article focuses exclusively on compression socks, you may want to add more weapons to your recovery arsenal. If you want to check out some other recovery gear, take a look at our list of the best massage guns.

　　Compression Level Compression is measured in mmHg (millimeters of mercury), a unit not often used outside of medical circles. Compression socks come in a range of mmHgs, from medical-grade socks for those with chronic illnesses to less intense socks geared toward athletes looking for enhanced recovery.

　　Not all of the socks on our list are categorized this way, but knowing basic ranges and compression levels can help you find the right option for you. For example, 10-20 mmHg, as you’ll find in the Feetures Graduated Compression Light Cushion Knee High, is considered light compression, while anything over 20 mmHg, like the 2XU Compression Socks for Recovery, is considered moderate to high compression. 

　　Crew-height compression socks can be more comfortable in warm weather; (photo/Will Porter) Size Options Some compression socks are sized like any old regular sock — small, medium, large, and so on. These sizes generally provide a range of shoe sizes they’ll fit, so be sure to check the size chart before buying. Other brands make more specific sizes, allowing you to dial in the perfect fit for your foot size. Buying compression socks that are too big for you can negate some of the benefits, so we recommend paying close attention to the size you’re buying.

　　Best Use We tested socks designed for athletes, not for medical purposes, so we recommend consulting a doctor if you are interested in buying socks to help curb the symptoms of a chronic condition. That said, we tested a huge range of compression socks, most of which fall within the 10-30 mmHg range. Most brands, like CEP with the CEP The Run Compression Tall Socks 4.0, will highlight what they made their socks for in the product description — be it running and other physical activity, travel, or recovery. Technically, any compression can be used in a few different situations, so the decision on how you want to use the socks is up to you. The biggest difference between intended uses will be materials, cushioning, and performance, i.e. moisture-wicking, cotton vs. poly, thick or thin.

　　Why wear compression socks? Improved Blood Circulation Just about every benefit attributed to compression socks stems from their ability to improve blood circulation in your legs. The gentle compression keeps your lymphatic system working, even while staying off your feet after a hard workout. This means that your leg muscles can more efficiently transport blood back to your heart, where it is replenished with oxygen and nutrients and then sent back to clear out lactic acid and other waste that results from a hard physical effort.

　　Reduced Swelling Compression helps your body move blood from your legs up to your heart and back again, an essential mechanism for reducing swelling and inflammation after a workout. Keeping your blood pumping results in more oxygenated blood reaching your muscles and more lactic acid and waste being cycled out, helping limit your body’s inflammatory response.

　　Compression socks provide a gentle squeeze that can help increase blood flow; (photo/Will Porter) Prevent Blood Clots Another trickle-down benefit. Since your body moves blood more quickly and efficiently, compression can help prevent deep vein thrombosis. This is why you see compression socks worn on airplanes and other places where folks are seated for long periods of time with lower-than-usual blood circulation.

　　FAQ What do compression socks do? Compression socks use graduated compression to keep blood pumping toward the heart, enhancing your body’s ability to recover and move freshly oxygenated blood through the body.

　　How is compression measured?  Medically, compression is measured in mmHg (millimeters of mercury). Not all compression socks designed for athletes are measured this way, though. Some simply will use the term compression to differentiate between standard athletic socks.

　　While most socks we tested only come in one compression level, there are four classes that you might encounter while searching for the best compression socks for you. Read here for a detailed explanation by the German company Medi, owner of CEP and other brands.