Our Top 3 Picks!
PhysixGear Compression Socks
JOBST Relief Compression Socks
Bluemaple Compression Socks
If you’re a nurse, you know your job will be physically demanding. You’re on your feet all day, walking and lifting patients and equipment while also doing paperwork and other administrative tasks. It’s no wonder that many nurses are suffering from soreness and pain in their legs.
But what if there was a way to help prevent this? Well, compression socks can work like magic to relieve pain and increase your flexibility by twofold. To ease the buying process, we have listed the best compression socks for nurses, including all the useful information that can help.
Reading the reviews will help you easily decide which product meets your needs best. So let’s get into it!
How We Picked and Why You Should Trust Us?
As stated in a recent report in October 2022, when customers have more options, it becomes difficult for them to choose the right product by observing the differences between them. So we designed this guide based on first-hand buyer experiences and data (written and visual) gathered from original users, ensuring that each product’s purpose is not unbiased or unrealistic for our readers.
All the information provided is gathered from authentic resources, so none of our visitors could find only the good sides. But all points (pros and cons) are collected accurately, so you can easily decide which is absolutely not a waste of your money!
Don’t get flustered; a happy purchase is on the way!
Reviewing Our Picks
best overall
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: 70% Nylon, 30% Spandex | Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg | Sock Type: Knee High | Available Sizes: S,M,L,XL,XXL | Available Colors: 13 | In Package: 1 Pair
Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks Review
Physix Gear Compression Socks are one of the most reviewed and purchased products on the market. It works by permitting blood to flow well through the legs, which helps you stand for hours without edema or pain developing around your muscles.
The brand has been working on developing products that can help with recovery, circulation, and muscle support, and these socks are one of their most popular products.
The company claims that these socks will give you up to 80% compression, which is great if you’re on your feet all day or running miles a day. According to buyers who tested these socks out themselves, they really did live up to their claims, as you really feel much more comfortable in them than any other pairs of socks, even after wearing them for several hours at a time.
But they only work efficiently if you keep them clean without washing them every second day, as this may reduce their elasticity, which won’t support your muscles anymore. So use them with care if you want them to support your legs in the long run!
“Unlike other compression socks, they don’t give you the tight or heavy foot feeling. They also help me sleep better at night by reducing leg swelling, which is fantastic.”
If you have to stand for the whole day and suffer from lower leg cramps and night swelling, anything less than 20-30 mmHg wouldn’t work for you. Here, Physix Gear Compression Socks socks make a huge difference and provide ultimate compression for relief. So based on nurses’ tough duty in emergency rooms and general wards, this is the perfect thing to choose.
For Male Nurses
Key Features:
Specifications:
Material: Nylon | Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg | Sock Type: Thigh High | Available Sizes: Free Size S/M/L/XL/XXL | Available colors: 11 | Package Contents: 3 Pairs
ZFiSt Medical Sports Compression Socks Review
Specifically designed for male nurses, ZFiSt Medical Sports Compression Socks deliver exceptional performance for heavy-duty tasks and also good grip while running on stairs and in the wards for hours.
Its lightweight compression construction helps reduce swelling and maintains sound support for your joints in tough situations. The plus point: the nylon toe cap helps prevent blisters and heel slippage while supporting your toes and heels.
These socks, made by the well-known medical and athlete socks brand ZFiSt, are ideal for male nurses suffering from plantar fasciitis or other foot issues. No doubt, you will experience it as it helps reduce the pain and inflammation in this area of the body, which can lead to long-term damage.
But be careful while finalizing your purchase, as small sizes for thick ankles or thighs can be a complete waste of money. It can add to the pressure built around muscles and lead to skin redness or irritation.
“I was looking for a pair of compression socks for my husband, who works as a nurse. He has been using them for a year now, and they have made such a difference in his comfort level at work.”
ZFiSt Medical Sports Compression Socks are perfect for anyone who works at home or in a hospital and is on their feet for long periods of time throughout the day, with a tough mobile routine. They come in 3 pairs, so there is no need to worry about regular orders!
Also Read: Best Men’s Compression Socks [Review & Buying Guide]
For female Nurses
Key Features:
Specifications:
Material: Nylon & Spandex (Latex-Free) | Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg | Sock Type: Knee High | Available Sizes: S/M/L/XL | Available Colors: 31 | Package: 1 Pair
Go2Socks Compression Socks Review
Go2Socks are medically important stockings designed to increase circulation, improve performance, reduce soreness, and speed up recovery time among nurses, athletes, pregnant ladies, and people with varicose veins.
The company has been active in designing medically focused products for healthcare workers, and this is one of these products that is made from a blend of nylon and spandex (latex-free), enough to provide effective elasticity and promote better blood flow and circulation to the legs.
The compression effect produced by this combination helps reduce swelling and improve overall performance, so the tasks assigned for the whole day get easier and more manageable without giving you nerves.
You can also find amazing colors out of the 31 combinations available. It is designed to fit most women’s feet and is available in a variety of colors to match any outfit.
The only disadvantage is that they become tight below the knee or on the upper calves due to being tensile or a bit harder due to the absence of latex. However, stretching them before use can resolve this issue.
“I have a part-time job that requires 8 hours on my feet. The first week was uncomfortable, but after that I ordered two pairs of socks, which made it easier to walk and stand without pain. They also helped me stay more comfortable in bed when I sleep at night.”
Go2Socks socks help reduce nerve compression by up to 50%, which is great for keeping your feet feeling fresh and pain-free during long shifts. So, for nurses who are health-conscious and want to keep their colors in place, this is the best option. But choose by keeping your calf size in front!
Best Value For Money
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: 85% Nylon, 15% Polyester | Compression Level: 15-20 mmHg | Sock Type: Knee-High | Available Sizes: S/M/L/XL | Available Colors: 33+ | Package: 6 Pairs
Bluemaple Copper Compression Socks Review
When you are looking for the best value for your money, Bluemaple being the innovative and highly-oriented brand in the market, offers Copper compression socks. It uses a copper mesh to apply the perfect amount of pressure on every inch of your calf and foot, and the copper works as an electrical tool to remove fatigue and pain.
The result is less fatigue and more power output, plus they can help reduce swelling and provide support for your feet. They’re also breathable, so they won’t be too hot or too cold—just right!
Not only are these socks made from durable material with copper strings to relieve pain but also come as the best value for money. The material used allows them to be soft, yet it is sturdy enough to support movements in all directions without any damage to socks.
The only downside is that they’ll become less compressive than regular compression socks if not bought or used accurately and regularly.
“I’ve been wearing these copper compression socks for about a month now, and I have to say, they’re pretty great. They also stayed put in the gym when he was running on the treadmill. It smells like copper, but overall, I would recommend them.”
We found that Bluemaple copper compression stockings are a great way to help with any type of leg pain, especially if you have arthritis, but they shouldn’t be severe. They can also help reduce swelling and improve circulation in your legs. So it is a good choice for those who want to get the most for their money.
Best Medical Graded
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: 77% Nylon, 23% Spandex | Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg | Sock Type: Knee-High | Available Sizes: S/M/L/XL | Available Colors: 2 | In Package: 1 Pair
JOBST Relief Knee High Compression Socks Review
JOBST Relief Knee High Compression Socks are best medical graded stockings available on the market, which means they meet all of the requirements for high-quality medical grade products to support leg health during hectic work routines in hospitals. The soft material makes them comfortable to wear from morning to night. Plus, the different sizes available with different styles will cover the affected areas for which you are wearing them.
The toe area of these socks is ample, so you do not have to worry about your toes getting squashed due to tightness. These socks also have reinforced heels, ensuring they last longer than other compression socks.
Although these stockings are made with super high-compression technology, which helps to decrease swelling and reduce post-surgical recovery time, using them on the wrong side or on the severe arthritis or edema side can cause acute pain that also leaves marks on the skin due to the overpressure built on muscles and vessels.
“ I have a 5-year-old son who loves to play with me, so I can’t take long walks or go for long runs due to swelling in my feet. These socks have made a huge difference in my life—I’m able to walk for longer without any issues.”
The company claims that the socks can reduce pain by up to 40% and are made of medical grade material that helps improve blood circulation and provide relief from arthritis. However, it is good pressure but less built by Physix Gear sports socks. So these socks are designed to fit you comfortably around the calf muscle, ankle bone, and foot if you want moderate pressure for leg conditions.
Best toeless pick
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: 77% Nylon, 23% Spandex | Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg | Sock Type: Toeless, Knee High | Available Sizes: S/M/L/XL/2XL/3XL/4XL/5XL | Available Colors: 12 | Package: 1 Pair
Doc Miller Open Toe Compression Socks Review
If you’re looking for the best open toe compression socks because your fingers are hurting or getting warm in the summer, look no further than Doc Miller.
They’re made of a soft fabric that’s antibacterial and moisture-wicking, so they’ll stay dry, even when you work up a sweat. Plus, the open-toe design means that you can wear them with any type of shoe, so you don’t have to worry about what kind of shoes you wear when attending ward duties.
If you got an injury on your toe or foot finger, it would be hard to stand longer. These sleeves aid in faster recovery for improved performance and support. By boosting blood circulation in your legs and preventing injuries, the sleeves allow you to feel fresher for more activity.
Talking about its downsides, it can be easily slipped away from toe and finger if the front gets loose, and the return policy is not as supportive. Daily washing and stretching carelessly make the sock lose its elasticity from the finger area, which compresses less and doesn’t reduce pain. So make sure you get a perfect size (neither big nor small) and use it quite decently!
“My blood flow was affected, and wearing one of these does the trick. The leg doesn’t hurt, turn red or go numb. Its open toe also helped me avoid discomfort that usually stays around my fingers. Absolutely a perfect product.”
If you’re looking for a way to help your toe or finger recover faster and feel more energized, then these Miller Open Toe Compression Socks are the perfect solution.
Best Thigh High Pick
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: 66% Nylon, 28% Spandex, 6% Silicone, Latex Free | Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg | Sock Type: Thigh High | Available Sizes: S/M/L/XL (Regular/Petite) | Available Colors: 2 | Package: 1 Pair
JOBST Relief Thigh High Compression Stockings Review
JOBST Relief Compression Socks are a perfect solution for nurses who struggle with their thigh highs. Thigh-high socks help relieve tired legs and feet by keeping blood flowing in your legs, which is a good way to get relief from your tired legs and feet.
The JOBST product line has been helping people with their medical needs since 1946, so you can feel confident in buying this product.
They are also made using the same quality materials as other Jobst products, so you know they’re going to be durable and comfortable.
These stockings are suitable for all-day wear in any environment, including hospitals, healthcare facilities, nursing homes, schools, or any occupational therapy or physical therapy setting where on-the-job foot protection is required.
However, if the silicone band breaks or is worn out due to overuse or careless washing, the socks could roll down easily, losing their grip on thighs, and the purpose of these socks can be lost.
Pro Tip!
To prevent this, use body adhesives, such as JOBST’s It Stay, designed to hold surgical and support stockings, anti-embolism stockings, and orthopedic supports firmly in place.
“Having extensive experience with Jobst allowed me to select strengths that were right for me. I use this product for thigh soreness because it helps me feel more comfortable during my recovery time after surgery on both my feet and lower leg. The sock fits well under my pants so I can wear it all day.”
If you’re looking for a thigh-high solution to help relieve your muscles, JOBST’s Relief Thigh High Compression Stockings are a perfect choice. They provide quality and efficacy at a moderate price, and they’re comfortable enough that you’ll want to wear them daily.
Best Plus Size
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: 87% Nylon, 13% Spandex | Type: Below Thigh/Crew | Compression Level: 12-14 mmHg | Available Sizes: Free Size | Available Colors: 12 | Package: 1 Pair
Nurse Mates Wide Calf Compression Socks Review
If you have larger or more muscular calves, look no further than Nurse Mates Compression Wide Calf Socks.
With a wide fit that comfortably fits up, these socks provide compression that helps increase circulation and reduce leg fatigue, thanks to their 12-14 mmHg graduated compression and with a comfortable heel and toe pocket that won’t pinch or dig in, these socks are the perfect choice for anyone with wide calves.
Although the socks are compatible with reducing leg pain in wide calves, the compression level is lower than normal for thin calves. It’s designed for wide calves, so if you have thin calves, you may feel more restricted than usual.
You can always wear them with a thicker sock over the top of them, but this will not provide as much compression.
We suggest: Going up a size if you have thin calves or just starting out with compression socks. If you have wider calves, however, we recommend going down a size. This will ensure that the compression level is high enough for your needs!
“I’ve always been a fan of wide calf socks, so when I saw these Nurse Mates Compression Wide Calf Socks on Amazon. I figured they’d be the perfect gift for my mom. The fit is perfect; she says, they’re like wearing slippers without socks, and she says her legs feel more relaxed after wearing them.”
This is a great choice for both men and women who need a compression sock that is going to be comfortable and supportive. However, since they are designed for wide calves, the compression level is lower, which can feel below normal for thin calves.
Best Zip Up
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: 75% Nylon, 25% Spandex | Type: Knee High | Compression Level: 15-20mmHg | Available Sizes: S/M/L/XL/2XL | Available Colors: 6 | Package: 2 Pairs
Bropite Zipper Compression Socks Review
Whether you’re a nurse or someone who just needs a little extra help from time to time, you know how important it is to have an easy-to-use compression sock. And with Bropite Zipper Compression Stockings, you get the best of both worlds. The 15-20 mmHg gradient compression that gradually reduces the pressure on your leg while also providing comfortable support for standing for long periods, sitting, and heavy physical work.
The segmented pressure promotes a more comprehensive flow of our blood cells. For anyone who spends a lot of time sitting down at work or school or just wants to feel more comfortable standing up all day, this product is worth checking out!
The downside: although they’re easy to use, they offer little compression, which is not good for people who need more compression for serious health conditions for a deep effect and a more durable experience.
“I love this pair of socks. They’re so easy to put on, and they’re comfortable even after a long day at the office. The compression level is sufficient for most of my foot problems, but it’s not as good as the other brands I’ve tried. I also wish they made these in other colors too!”
These are the best zip up compression socks for people who don’t want to mess with their feet. They’re easy to get on and off, but they don’t offer as much compression as other brands do. If you have a zipper that gets damaged, it’ll reduce the amount of compression even more.
Best Low Cut Pick
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: Nylon, Spandex | Type: Ankle/Low Cut | Compression Level: 15-20 mmHg | Available Sizes: S/M/L/XL | Available Colors: 12 | Package: 2/4/6 Pairs
PAPLUS Ankle Compression Socks Review
The PAPLUS Ankle Compression Socks are the ideal pair for ankle-related problems. They improve breathability and reduce sweating by as much as 50%, which is a huge improvement over your current options.
They have a smooth heel, which fits well and doesn’t irritate your skin. And they have arch support to protect against Achilles tendon injuries—which can be serious if you’ve got a history of them. They also offer protection against Achilles tendonitis, which is a common issue for people with flat feet.
The only issue? You might want to size up. These socks run small.
“I’ve been suffering from plantar fasciitis for a while, and I’ve tried many solutions over the years. However, I used them and the heel that fits is just right, and yet still provides the arch support and compression I need. These socks are definitely worth trying!”
PAPLUS Low Cut Compression Socks help keep your ankles and feet healthy while also working to prevent injury or pain while you’re on your feet all day, and they’ll keep your legs feeling great when you take them off at night! On the other hand, they are a bit prone to moisture after excessive usage.
Ideal For Calf Compression
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: Nylon | Type: Thigh High Sleeves | Compression Level: 20-30mmHg | Available Sizes: S/M/L/XL | Available Colors: 8 | Package: 1 Pair
BLITZU Calf Compression Sleeves Review
Are you looking for a new way to treat your plantar fascia? BLITZU Calf Compression Sleeves are the best solution for all your calf problems. This product is made of high-quality material, and it has a breathable mesh. It provides comfort and support to the calf muscles. If you are suffering from shin splints or varicose veins, this product can help relieve your pain.
They will help you reduce inflammation in your calves and improve your running performance.
The only downside is that if you order the original size, but your calves are swollen due to overworking or other medical reasons, it can feel extremely tight and itchy. However, by ordering one size up, you’ll be able to get the support you need without sacrificing comfort or mobility.
“When I got these sleeves, I put them on immediately. They’re super-easy to use—they just slide over your calves and then you pull them up over the top of your shin bones.”
BLITZU Calf Compression Sleeves help reduce pain in your legs/calves and make them feel better after a long day of work or play! They are also very easy to put on and take off which means less time messing around than with socks and shoes.
However, it is important to note that they can lose their durability and become loose after prolonged use, and it is best to order a size larger than usual if you have leg swelling because they can feel a little tighter.
Ideal Pantyhose
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: Elastic, Spandex, Nylon | Type: Thigh High Pantyhose | Compression Level: 6 mmHg | Available Sizes: 2X/A/B/C/D/E (Based on height and weight) | Available Colors: 6 | Package: 1 Pair
Nurse Mates Full Support Compression Pantyhose Review
The Nurse Mates Compression Support Pantyhose are the best pantyhose for nurses available on the market today. The full elastic and drawstring waist helps to stabilize your waistline and prevent it from moving around while you’re on job or working out. The reinforced toes help your feet stay in place, so you can focus on your workout without worrying about getting blisters.
These are available in sizes that range from S-XL, so there’s sure to be one perfect fit for everyone!
The downside to these pantyhose is the fact that they don’t feel as comfortable as other brands of compression thigh-high socks do.
It’s not that they’re uncomfortable, but rather it’s the fact that they don’t provide the expected high level of compression. The fabric is very thin and holds legs more than usual because it would just give out under pressure.
“I’m a nurse, and I work on my feet all day, so the last thing I need is for my legs to be hurting when I’m not working. These Pantyhose are amazing! They feel great and keep my legs feeling awesome, even when I’m not wearing them.”
These pantyhose come with a contoured waistband that eliminates any risk of chafing or irritation on the skin. They also have a reinforced toe seam for added durability when wearing them throughout the day at work or during exercise sessions at home!
Things To Look For Before Buying Nursing Compression Socks
Medical Disclaimer Before You Buy!
It is important for nurses to be aware of the potential risks and contraindications associated with using compression socks. Here are some medical conditions that nurses may face, as well as incidents that may occur when using them:
Severe peripheral arterial disease, peripheral neuropathy, or venous insufficiency. Also, developing skin irritation or allergies to the materials used in them. If the socks are not properly fitted or are too tight, they may cause discomfort or impaired circulation, resulting in numbness, tingling, or swelling in the legs.
So, it is important for nurses to consult with their healthcare provider before using compression stockings to ensure that they are safe and appropriate for their individual needs. They should also be sure to select the stockings that are properly fitted and made of materials that are comfortable and do not cause irritation while working for day long.
Materials with which socks are made
Nursing compression stockings are typically made out of a variety of materials, depending on the type and level of compression needed. These socks may be made out of nylon, spandex, or cotton, among other materials.
Once you have checked the sock material, you can easily decide how it will benefit your health. It will act more effectively in affected areas and help you deal with medical conditions in the right direction.
If the size fits you or not
Compression stockings come in a variety of sizes and styles, so it’s important to know what size you need before making your purchase.
However, there is a size chart available for every product according to your fit. Also, you can measure your calf diameter using measuring tape and simply compare it with the size range that fits you. It is a quick solution for you if you don’t know which size you should buy.
More ways to choose right size include:
Takeaway:
When choosing your first pair of socks, don’t go for the cheapest option! You’ll want to get something that fits well and provides good support. The best brands also offer several different sizes so that they can fit any part of your body (and they’re not overly expensive).
Read: How To Measure For Compression Socks – Size Guide
Styles based on fit
Here are some styles you will find and choose as per your comfort fit:
Your most common fit could be irritating if you don’t consider your medical health. Having diabetes and varicose veins means choosing the socks that fit well, doesn’t matter what is the actual size you have.
Compression levels
In addition to the material that compression socks are made out of, it is also important to consider their level of compression.
They typically come in different levels of compression, including mild, moderate, and firm. The level of compression that you need will depend on your specific needs and medical conditions.
There are many different compression levels provided by socks, and they range from mild to moderate and even high. Some of the most popular compression levels include:
8-15 mmHg (Mild Compression)
This level is ideal for the nurses who are on their feet for long periods. It allows you to exercise comfortably in your socks and prevent swelling and leg fatigue that is caused by standing for prolonged hours.
15-20 mmHg (Moderate Compression)
This level is also appropriate for people who are recovering from surgery or other conditions that require more support, or nurses standing for long hours. If you are post-surgery, for example, you should use this kind of compression for the first few weeks after surgery until your circulation has stabilized.
20-30 mmHg (Firm Compression)
These socks are a good starting point if you’re looking for form-fitting compression. They will still provide moderate support, but they won’t be as tight as socks that compress closer to 40 mmHg. This is a good option if you’re looking for comfort and support while also being able to wear them throughout the day.
30-40 mmHg (Extra Firm Compression)
This is a more intense form of compression that provides more extra support can just be worn if you are facing severe varicose veins, or have gone though a surgery. These can be used for longer periods without causing fatigue or soreness. Be sure to consult a doctor before taking this kind of compression if you are suffering from circulatory problems or have diabetes.
Don’t Forget:
When choosing between a standard pair of medical grade socks and ones that offer higher levels of pressure against your skin, make sure they’re made from 100% cotton so they’re breathable and don’t irritate your skin as synthetics might do.
More Features as per your needs
The next thing to consider when choosing your compression stockings is whether or not they come with any other features.
Moisture-wicking power
Some socks come with features like moisture-wicking properties or added padding around the ankle area which can help prevent wear and tear on your feet as well as improve circulation throughout your lower body.
breathability
Another important feature to consider when buying compression stockings is whether or not they are breathable or not. When choosing breathable socks, it’s important to look for ones that have a cotton/polyester blend because this will allow air circulation through the material allowing your body heat to escape more easily without constricting airflow in any way whatsoever!
Abrasion-resistant
Compression stockings are made with an abrasion-resistant material, which means they will not tear or wear out easily. They are also anti-microbial so that bacteria and viruses cannot get inside of them and cause infection in your body. This helps prevent skin irritation and rashes by reducing the friction caused by walking on hard surfaces when wearing these socks.
Anti-microbial
The anti-microbial properties of these socks mean that they will not absorb sweat from your feet like normal socks would do if worn during hot weather conditions such as summer time or rainy days where there is no ventilation system.
If you are still unsure and looking for a detailed information about choosing, read our Ultimate Guide.
Also Read Our Other Reviews:
FAQs
Compression socks are a great addition to your nursing uniform. They help keep you feeling comfortable and more energetic during long hour shifts. They prevent injuries from occurring by reducing the amount of blood that travels through your lower body and also reduces the chance of developing blood clots or other issues. If you’re a nurse you can just put them on when you need them. No need to buy anything new every day!
Nurses wear compression socks because they help prevent blood clots, which can be life-threatening. Some common reasons for which nurses prefer wearing them are:
Lower leg pain that comes and goes
Swelling in the lower leg
Numbness or tingling in the foot or toes.
These stockings make it easier for them to walk since the they are made from a material that is more durable and supportive than regular socks.
8-15 mmHg and 15-20 mmHg are the best pressure levels for nursing compression stockings. The reason for this is that the blood flow through the body is dependent on the pressure in the arteries and veins. The lower the pressure, the higher the flow rate.
Also, they socks are easily available over the counter and do not require and medical prescription.
Read in detail: Why Do Nurses Wear Compression Socks?
Final Thoughts!
And so, there you have it! We have reviewed the top products on the market and have provided detailed reviews of each product so that you can easily decide which product is best suited to your needs. The pros and cons of each product are mentioned to ease the process.
For your convenience, we also included a buying guide so that you can make an informed decision before you purchase and you don’t have to spend money on something that doesn’t work or doesn’t fit well.
We hope you found this article helpful and that you’re now on your way to finding the product!