4 Best Compression Socks for Air Travel and Are They Worth Getting

If you fly on long haul flights in economy class a lot, you know how tiring it can get.

Did you know, tough, that there is a thing called the “economy class syndrome” (or more precisely, deep vein thrombosis) which you are at risk of?

One way to try to prevent that happening to you is to use compression socks. In this article, I’ll look at what some of the best compression socks for air travel are, as well as at some of the basics about compression socks – what they are, what their advantages and drawbacks are, and how you should go about choosing a pair.

Before continuing, though, here’s a list of the four socks that I’ll talk about further down.

4 Best Compression Socks for Air Travel

If you are about to embark on a long haul flight and didn’t have the chance to get your pair of compression socks yet – assuming you are interested in them – below is a list of four that should be a good starting point in your search for the right pair.

#1 Wanderlust Travel Compression Socks

If you are in search of a pair of travel compression socks then this one from Wanderlust can be a good option. It is perfect for both men and women and can be worn both when you fly as well as on a daily basis.

The company seems to have a lot of trust in its products and hence offers a 100% “LOVE AT FIRST FLIGHT” satisfaction guarantee – in other words, they will either refund you the full amount you paid or send you a new pair for free if you are not satisfied with the socks you get.

These compression socks provide great therapeutic relief from swelling and pain. They can also energize your feet after a long journey thanks to the seamless toe box that prevents corns and blisters.

Thanks to extra padding and excellent ventilation, they are also worth considering for people with foot injuries and illnesses including blood clots, thrombosis, and restless leg syndrome. As always, though, if you are not sure if compression socks are for you, check with your doctor.

They are easy to wear and take off and even look quite good. Plus, they’re available in different sizes and can fit almost everyone.

Based on a number of reviews, the socks do not leave any marks on your legs even after you wear them for hours. Given that they are comfortable to wear, you can head off to work right after a long journey without having to worry about taking them off.

Overall, the Wanderlust Travel Compression Socks are a good starting point if you are looking for simple and comfortable compression socks. However, they are a bit expensive compared to some of the other products in this list.

Check this pair of socks on Amazon

#2 Travelon Compression Travel Socks

Travelon Compression Socks are great for air travel and offer exceptional compression. Perfect for both men and women, they can be bought in different colors including white/gray (pictured), tan/brown, black/gray.

They are manufactured using highly reliable elastane material that stimulates blood circulation and also prevents DVT and swelling. While made specifically for travel, they can be good for sports and other purposes as well, and so they won’t go unused in your closet for a long time.

They apply the right amount of pressure, about 15-20 mmHg, on your feet and will keep you comfortable and also improve blood circulation. However, due to their thickness, they are not perfect to be paired with tight shoes.

Check this pair of socks on Amazon

#3 Vitalsox Italy Patented Graduated Compression Socks

Vitalsox imported socks are among some of the most affordable compression socks on the market. Furthermore, they are available in a wide variety of colors and so no matter what style you prefer, you should be able to get a pair that suits you.

They are made using Vitalsox Silver Drystat technology that prevents the growth of bacteria and fungus, while also keeping bad odor at bay.

The company is known for producing high quality products and this one is no different. It comes with patented compression that helps your muscles recover fast by improving blood circulation.

The socks are designed to work on the entire foot and will make you feel very comfortable even if you are on a very long flight, thanks to their four-way stretch technology. Moreover, they are perfect for running, walking and working out as well and can be worn by both men and women – including pregnant women.

Some may find these socks to be too long, but that be solved by pulling them down. The one inconvenience of these socks, however, is the fact that their sizing is not very accurate and so you might have to exchange them to get it right. Fortunately, their customer service is fairly good.

Check this pair of socks on Amazon

#4 Travelsox Original Patented Graduated Compression Socks

Travelsox compression socks are ultra thin and will keep your foot comfortable even if you are on a long flight or have to wait at the airport for hours.

The socks massage your lower extremities and provide great ventilation and compression. Moreover, they are quite durable and easy to maintain.

Just like the Vitalsox Italy socks mentioned above, they also offer four-way stretch and patented compression.

While the Travelsox socks are quite reliable and work well, the sizing can be an issue with this pair as well – especially considering that oftentimes they shrink when washed.

Check this pair of socks on Amazon

Compression Socks FAQ

Now, let’s take a quick look at what compression socks are, what their benefits and drawbacks are, and what some of the main things to consider when picking a pair are.

What are compression socks?

Compression socks are designed to apply compression (measured in mmHg) on the foot to improve blood flow and reduce the progression of medical conditions such as thrombosis, phlebitis, and edema. They are often medically prescribed and may even be covered under insurance.

They are often used for:

• People who have just had a surgery
• Pregnant women
• People who have to sit in one position for long, including pilots and air travelers
• People who have to stand for long hours
• People with conditions such as diabetes and varicose veins

While you should never try to fix a problem just with compression socks – instead you should talk to your doctor – compression socks are said to be beneficial for long haul air travel in preventing deep vein thrombosis (economy class syndrome).

What are the benefits and drawbacks of compression socks?

They are very effective and can even slow down the progression of certain issues including edema, spider veins, restless leg syndrome. Plus, they can be worn on a daily basis and are available in different colors and designs – and so no one will “have to know you’re wearing compression socks.”

On the downside, some of the compression socks on the market can be uncomfortable to wear due to their length and thickness. Moreover, some may even lead to dry skin. Buying the right product can help overcome these drawbacks.

What are the main things to consider when buying compression socks?

Make sure to get a pair that fits you well and is suitable for you as some compression socks are only made for men or women. Moreover, the length largely depends on the condition you have. For example, people with DVT typically need a longer pair of socks.

Loose socks provide poor compression and may even lead to pain. Always opt for a pair that is medically tested, comes with a warranty, and is easy to use and maintain.

If you are not sure about whether or not you should get a pair of compression socks – or which pair is ideal for you, make sure to consult with your doctor.

Summary

Aside from all their other practical uses, compression socks can come in handy for travelers that tend to spend long hours in the air. Especially so if you fly a lot of long flights in economy class.

While there are countless models on the market, here’s one last look at the four mentioned in this article – even if you decide to go for some other model than the below, the list should provide you with a good starting point for your search: