Support & Compression Socks 

Compression socks are manufactured under strict medical and technical specifications, including consistency and durability, to provide a specific level of ankle pressure and graduation of compression.  They are generally safe to wear, with relatively few complications.

The fabric is made with resistance and the ability to withstand stretching. The elasticity in them allows them to yield to some stretching so that they can be put on more easily.

They are more likely to include higher percentages of materials such as merino wool, cotton, Silver and patented moisture-wicking synthetic materials in additional to elastic properties.

They are popular with people who:

• stand on their feet at work for many hours a day and who may work in cooler, damp environments such as dog walkers, assembly line workers
• are athletes and runners who benefit from less leg fatigue and quicker recovery
• have heavy, tired, achy legs and feet due to varicose veins and other vascular conditions
• are nurses and doctors who like to add colour and comfort to their uniforms and environments
• love the outdoors and/or have sweaty or cold feet.
• are business men and women who want stylish, business type-socks that offer compression

Support and compression socks come in a variety of colours. Some are better for the winter or colder environments and others are thinner, better suited for warmer seasons or environments.

Research also exists that has shown that athletes gain more endurance and recover more quickly after an event as a result of wearing compression socks or garments.

Many people report that as a result of wearing compression socks, their legs feel refreshed and energized.

Compression socks 

Most of the compression begins at the ankle and then gradually reduces as the stocking ascends the leg. The amount of compression is graded and decreases as the socks travel up the legs.

With a knee high, by the time the stocking reaches below the knee, you will receive around 70% of maximum compression when compared to the ankle area. With thigh-highs, by mid-thigh you receive around 40% compression.  

This means that even if you purchase crew length socks, you will still receive a considerable amount of compression.

Products come in different strengths or grades and are measured in units of mm Hg (millimeters of mercury). The higher the number, the greater the degree of compression.

It is very important to follow the advice of your medical practitioner once your condition has been assessed, before wearing  moderate (20-30 mmHg) or firm (30-40 mmHg) compression hosiery to make sure that they are safe for you to wear and so that you choose the right compression level. 

Each of our product pages detail the materials used in their construction.

Merino wool: Are natural fibres that are:

• breathable
• moisture wicking which helps keep feet dry
• thermal-regulating meaning they keep your feet warm in the winter and cooler in the summer
• quick to dry
• less durable than cotton

Cotton: Is a natural fibre that makes socks soft and comfortable and are:

• breathable
• absorbs moisture 
• thermal-regulating meaning they keep your feet warm in the winter and cooler in the summer
• slower to dry than Merino wool
• affordable

Coolmax: Are synthetic polyester fibres and are:

• breathable
• moisture-wicking
• thermal-regulating in design, meaning they keep your feet warm in the winter and cooler in the summer
• durable
• dry more quickly than cotton

Synthetic Fibres: Are known to be and include:

• moisture-wicking
• durable
• quick to dry
• light weight

Nylon (used in combination with cotton, polyester and spandex), 

Spandex also known as Lycra/Elastane (known for its exceptional elasticity and ability to return to the original shape after stretching and is faster drying) fabrics.

Microfibre (made of Polyester and Polyamide) is know to be soft on the skin like cotton and Merino wool.

Polyester is moisture wicking, breathable, durable, lightweight, strong and quick to dry.

We are here to help!

Do you have a question about sizing or the difference between different Brands?

Please send us an email at info@onestopcompressionsox.com.