13 Compression Socks for Travel, Fitness Recovery, and Whatever Else You've Got

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Socks are the kind of things that you want to buy and never have to think about again. Or, at least not until you've run holes through the bottoms of them. Sure, socks might seem simple, but they'll straight up ruin a whole day scrunching up, sliding down, or letting blisters form. High quality is the way to go.

In the world of socks, compression socks are designed to go above and beyond the mere task of foot protection. They're made with strategically tight areas, which promote blood flow and help increase circulation. This helps with muscle recovery after a long run or tough workout or prevent aches and pains if you're sitting or standing in a single position for too long, like on a long-haul plane ride or an on-your-feet job like nursing.

Compression socks are often rated using mmHg to measure the pressure those socks offer: 15-20 mmHg is standard for your everyday compression and higher ranges are usually used for medical-grade compression. You'll likely see these numbers in a range, too. The compression tends to be tighter around the ankle and loosens up a bit as you move up the leg.

Luckily for you and your legs, we've rounded up some of the best compression sock technology on the market right now, from ankle socks with some small compression bits on the ankle and arch to over-the-calf socks meant for recovering after a long day of walking. Shop the best ones here.

Everyday Compression Socks

Bombas' pair offers medium-strength compression at 15-20mmHg, to be exact. Great for less intense workouts or very intense days sitting at the office.

Compression Ankle Socks

Just looking for a little extra compression around those aching arches? These provide exactly that. Great for relieving and preventing achy feet.

MicroPillow Compression Running Sock

Lululemon's knee-high socks are meant for runners but they are a great pick for any type of compression you're looking for after exercise. They have a comfortable, snug fit and light cushioning on the foot. These socks feel great on but they wear a bit quickly if you dry them harshly. Go for a gentle cycle instead.

Metro OTC Socks

These high adidas socks are designed for soccer training but they're good for all types of training, really. They're tight, supportive, and won't budge no matter how quick you move.

ASPIRE Two Socks

These socks deliver all of your foot and ankle compression needs without feeling like you're wearing something out of the ordinary. It's made with firm compression, which is especially great for feet that are standing for long periods of time.

Graduated Compression Socks

Feetures' knee-high socks have a graduated compression design, which gets tighter as the you get lower down the leg. This encourages bloodflow back up through the legs.

Run OTC Socks

Stance's socks fit over the length of your calf for full lower leg protection. They're also quick-drying and abrasion-resistant, making them a great option for heavy wearing like running or walking.

Compression Socks

Clove's compression socks are made with 20-30 mmHG of compression and have cushioned bottoms that will protect the feet bottoms of all who are blister-prone.

The Compression Socks

Away—yes, like the suitcases—made a compression sock to go with that suitcase. They're quick dry and made with an anti-odor fabric, which makes them especially great if you're not sure when you'll get a chance to do laundry.

Run Compression Mid 4.0 Socks

This ultralight pair is designed to prevent your feet from swelling during runs while maintaining the fit you're used to in your favorite running shoes. They'll cover your ankle with support but are not quite as intense as over-the-calf ones.

Athlete Edition Mountaineer OTC Sock

These are designed for hiking. The over-the-calf compression will keep your legs happy with the 20-30mmHg graduated compression. The merino blend fabric is thermoregulating. Meaning, it'll keep your feet warm without overheating.

Flight Compression Socks

This pair is for long-haul flights with a high leg, moderate 15-20 mmhg compression, and breathable blend of nylon, cotton, and lycra.

Performance + Ultralight Compression Socks

If you're a snowboarder, skier, or climber, Burton makes a pair of performance socks infused with optimal compression. They're super lightweight and have compression all over the foot and right up the calf.

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