Compression socks for airplane travel ?

I got some compression socks off Amazon. I have also borrowed Bomba compression socks which I really liked. I think compression socks would benefit you, but I'd recommend talking to you doctor about sock types since you have an underlying medical condition.

There seem to be so many different types, levels of compression .

Don't mean to sound snarky, I really don't, but considering your medical situation, you really need to consult your doctor. His or her opinion and recommendation is the only one you should follow.

My local hospital's pharmacy sold compression socks so I bought those and didn't have a problem. Perhaps your doctor has a recommended option?

Jen, in buying compression socks for my 90 yr old mom, I have learned the different levels of compression can be a very important factor. I agree with consulting with your doctor and see if she/he recommends a particular level. Then try that level to see if they are comfortable. My mom can’t/won’t wear the higher leveled ones bc they are too restrictive. We tried/returned several pairs with different levels in order to hit the sweet spot. Amazon is great (and I try not to frequent that site, but for something like this I relented) for the ease of returns. Best of luck with this!

Compression level is critical especially if dealing with a medical problem. Generally your doctor will recommend a compression level. Then you work with the provider to get the proper fit. This should not be taken lightly.

I agree with the other comments to follow your doctor's advice re: how much compression and what length to get. I would also ask whether you would benefit from wearing them while you're walking around, as well. I have always worn over-the-calf/knee-high socks. I like the ones from Sockwell because they have a range of sizes and some merino content. Also, they have cute patterns. REI has a great selection, and you can often find good discounts on Sierra. I have one pair that are all synthetic, and I don't use them anymore because I prefer the ones with merino. The prescription ones I've seen have been all synthetic and pretty ugly (white or beige), but maybe that's changed in recent years.

I’m in London now. For flights, long walk days, bus days I use Vim & Vigor Cotton compression socks. The cotton is comfortable regardless what the temperature. Synthetic was hot.
I hand wash when traveling. These take a full day or day and half to dry. I pack two pairs plus regular Wright cool max anti- blister quarter socks.
https://vimvigr.com/collections/cotton-compression-socks?srsltid=AfmBOoq3TEFFEuAA4MMaaLwhNFL66RE8w3MvqJ2ynwV61QSo-Y2JwVal

PS I wear closed toe. Open toe are not comfortable to me.

I also like the cute patterns from Sockwell BUT again, please check with your physician on compression level, etc etc. versus advice from a public forum.

Yes, your doctor can recommend a compression level. Then go to one of the specialized pharmacies that carry medical equipment. They can measure your calf and sell you a sock that fits you properly. The compression level could be too tight or loose if the fit isn't correct.

I had never used compression socks for long flights, but began to notice swelling and discomfort. I bought a pair of Bombas compression socks and they really made a difference!

They sell two levels of compression socks: “everyday” with 15-20mmHg and “performance with 20-30mmHg. I use the everyday socks on flights now and I’m much more comfortable.

https://bombas.com/collections/compression-socks?utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=BRANDSEARCH-Search_US_Bing_B_General_Exact-Sock-ACQ-NONE&msclkid=e910ccafc7c91f017aa7a4cfeae2f17d&utm_term=bombas%20compression%20socks&utm_content=Compression%20Socks

Like others have suggested, I would recommend you check with your doctor about your specific needs.

I'm a Nurse, 57 yrs old, and have worn compression socks all my working days since I was 21. I also fly in them. I have tried them all, even all the ones mentioned above and ones prescribed to me by MDs.

If you have vascular issues or vascular disease or Diabetes- definitely consult a MD for proper measurements and compression mmHg that you need. The wrong size or wrong compression/mmHg can do more harm than good.

If you are just looking for compression socks for flights, I highly recommend Sockwell - they make merino wool/bamboo blend ones that are SO GOOD. They can be worn many times before washing. See their website for proper washing and how to put them on as most people put them on wrong. They should also be put on before you get out of bed and the blood has already pooled in your feet & ankles.

We also take a baby aspirin/or reg aspirin before flying.

TC, I don’t think your advice is snarky at all. Jen O, if you wear compression socks on your doctor’s advice, he or she will recommend what is best for you and your condition. I bought several pairs over a couple of years at the medical supply store as my Aetna supplemental insurance covered one pair every three months. My doctor told me what compression level and the medical supply store measured my size. Then I discovered Amazon which sells many types for a fraction of the price. Since then I’ve been told that they are of equivalent quality and that anytime the store name includes “Medical” you pay a dear premium. I now buy 7 pairs for the price I paid for one pair. I don’t dispense medical advice but this has been my experience. Talk to your doctor. Good luck, and good health.

Hi, I just had vein surgery earlier this year. I wear CEP brand knee socks (merino hikers) or the no- show athletic socks with running shoes.

I agree with the earlier comments about speaking with a doctor about compression level needed.

Thanks for the advice, everyone. Just a clarification -- For people who said to ask my doctor ---- YES, I already brought it up on my own. She didn't give me specifics on any kind of compression, so I will go back and ask again. I don't have vascular disease or have a circulatory issue. I'm taking Tamoxifen (3 years after diagnosis of breast cancer) and that medication comes with a long list of side effects and warnings. So she told me that because we are flying, to take 1 baby aspirin a day and I asked about compression socks and she said yes, good idea. She's great, but I find it can help if I do my own research, go back to her, and then ask for recommendations.