Frequent flyers know all too well the experience of stepping off planes with swollen ankles.
This swelling occurs because we don’t use our muscles while flying, resulting in fluid pools in the foot area. Cue the dreaded cankle.
The easiest way to combat swollen feet is to wear compression socks. Unless you’re able to stretch your legs in the aisle every hour to keep blood flowing, popping on compression socks is your best bet to avoid uncomfortable swelling sensations.
Compression socks work by boosting blood flow to improve circulation. The compression function of the socks encourages blood flow, reducing the risk of swelling or even blood clots in the lower leg or foot.
What should you look for when buying compression socks?
- Compression levels: compression socks range from mild to firm compression. The latter is better suited to those who struggle with ulcer management or post-thrombotic syndrome, while the former is better for minor swelling and ache relief.
- Style: compression socks can be worn during flights or on a more regular basis. Many are available in fun, sporty or neutral designs which can be worn to the office or for exercise.
- Size: ensure the size of your chosen compression socks is accurate. Consider the size of your leg and your toes and shop accordingly as we do not want the socks to cut into your shin area.
Who should not wear compression socks?
If you live with a peripheral vascular disease that affects your lower extremities, then you should avoid compression socks as the compression can worsen symptoms. Diabetics should also be careful when shopping for compression socks, as neuropathy prevents them from sensing any changes in their feet.
Where else can you wear compression socks?
Compression socks can be worn for any occasion, not just for travel. Legwear brand FALKE notes: “Usually, most people associate compression products with long-distance travelling. Of course, this is one of the biggest uses. Still, the health effect of compression can be useful in any life situation - on a normal office day, during long periods of standing or walking, when going out or during a long day of wearing high heels.”
The brand factors this versatility into its designs: “All products have been designed so that they can be combined with both business and casual outfits. The products are therefore ideal for anyone who wants to have lighter and more revitalised legs.”
Jetting off or simply want to improve your circulation? Shop the best compression socks below.
Shop now
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Scholl Flight Socks
You will have no doubt stumbled across a pair of Scholl flight socks during a Boots dash in Heathrow. The socks are a go-to for long-distance flyers as they help to prevent swollen ankles and tired aching legs while in the air. Not only are the accessories clinically proven to improve circulation, but they are especially effective when relieving the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis.
Buy now £18.98, Amazon
Trtl Compression Socks
If you’re someone who travels a lot, we’ve no doubt you’ve stumbled across Trtl’s excellent pillows. The brand offers more travel-friendly treasures on its site, including compression socks you won’t mind being seen in. They’re made with Coolmax technology with Lycra woven into the knit for an easy yet snug fit. Choose from polka dot, watermelon-themed, lemon-themed and more in three sizes.
Buy now £12.49, TRTL
FALKE Vitalizer Women Knee-high Socks
Banish aches and pains with FALKE’s Vitalizer knee highs. The socks come recommended by the brand: “The FALKE Leg Vitalizer tights and knee-highs feature a medium pressure profile which ensures stimulation of the arteries and veins in the upper layers of the skin. The legs are relieved and feel light and revitalized even after many hours of standing.”
Buy now £33.00, FALKE
DECATHLON Compression socks black
Keep legs feeling light and nimble by slipping on these compression socks that are best worn during long haul flights or to aid recovery after a workout.
Buy now £12.99, Decathlon
DRESHOW 4 Pairs Compression Socks For Women
Cute compression socks are hard to come by but Dreshow manages it with this set of four pink and cream sets. Available in S-M and L-XL sizes, they can be used for sports and travel, helping to keep circulation flowing.
Not sure pink is for you? There are other palettes to choose from, including all-black.
Buy now £9.99, Amazon
FIGS Compression Socks
Compression socks tend not to spark intrigue, but these ones just might. FIGS’ ombre knee-high numbers are available in over 40 colourways, from busy bee prints to bow-clad designs. Aesthetics aside, the socks relieve weary legs with their 360° seamless compression, padding and soft, sustainably sourced yarn.
Buy now £34.00, FIGS
Medi Mediven Elegance Below Knee Compression Stockings
The Medi team were clearly thinking pink when designing these vibrant compression socks. Customise yours and pick from petite or regular fits, in addition to a compression level to suit your physical needs. The socks are particularly suitable for adults of a healthy BMI weight, who do not show any tendency to venous oedema (leg swelling) and have firm connective tissue.
Buy now £52.00, Medi
Koala Socks Argyle Compression Socks
Pamper your pins with some funky prints. Koala Socks merges fashion and function with its dazzling array of compression socks. These argyle numbers are perfect for winter and can be worn for rigorous gym sessions or cross-continent flights. They relieve soreness and promote comfort during long periods of sitting or standing, so be sure to pack a pair in your carry-on.
Buy now £12.99, Koala Socks
