Compression socks are great alternatives to regular socks as they are composed of a more compressed fabric to help relax your feet. Since a compression sock’s primary function is to apply a compression force on the leg, who needs it better than nurses? The best compression socks for nurses make work more accessible and help them relax while on that 12-hour shift, helping save lives.
Compression socks have also been shown to lower the incidence of deep vein thrombosis and swelling, Which might arise all day wearing socks. Hence, the best compression socks should be the best friends of all nurses since they lower the risk of varicose veins, edema, blood clots, and more.
But how do you know which compression socks to choose as a nurse? I’ll help guide you. Though I am not a nurse, I am trained medical personnel who have nurses as colleagues, and they have all provided valuable information, which I have used in this piece. From the factors to consider when choosing the best compression stockings for nurses to the types and pros and cons of each.
Best Overall Compression Socks for Nurses
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SB SOX Compression Socks
One of the most excellent compression socks for nurses now on the market is from SB SOX Compression Socks (20-30mmHg).
With their outstanding graded compression, these socks help improves blood circulation. The manufacturer has specially created this pair of compression socks to offer greater comfort and pain alleviation without endangering your health.
This pair of socks come in four sizes and has excellent breathability for an all-day wear experience. They are also suitable for both men and women.
Pros
- Breathable and comfortable
- It offers just the correct compression
- Excellent support for the heel and toes
- Great for all-day wear
- Great value for money
Cons
- The length of the sock bothers some buyers.
- Heavy fabric
- The site redirects you to buy on Amazon
Buy for $13.95 – $23.95
Best for Graduated Compression
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Vitalsox Patented Graduated Compression Socks Carbon Series
The well-liked socks’ quick-drying polypropylene material’ absorbs sweat as you walk. Its modest toe and heel cushioning help support your feet and prevent blisters, something nurses will enjoy.
They come in 16 various colors and are unisex as well.
Pros
- Highly breathable and comfortable
- Suitable for all-day wear
- Multiple colors
- Graduated compression
Cons
- A bit significant, especially for women
- Not durable enough
Buy now for $14.61 – $35.00
Best Therapy Compression Socks for Nurses
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BLITZU 20-30mmHg Therapy Compression Socks
One of the best compression socks for nurses is the Blitzu Compression socks 20-30mmHg from Blitzu. With them, you can spend your whole day walking and running without the risk of muscle strains, cramps, and fatigue.
The graded compression and Blitzu Kinesiology taping designs enable the product to improve blood flow, which can help avoid edema and cramping, among other benefits. The k-tape design wraps explicitly around the ankle and across the top of the foot.
They come in various colors, making them one of the highest-rated compression socks on Amazon.
Pros
- Superior ankle stability
- Graduated compression
- Provides lasting comfort
- Easy to put on
Cons
- Quite hard to put on
- Too narrow for large feet
- Not enough reduction in the calf area
Buy on Amazon
Most Versatile
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Go2Socks Compression Socks for Men Women Nurses Runners 20-30mmHg Medical Stocking Athletic Compression
This sock is made explicitly for nurses, though it can be worn by cyclists, pregnant women, and others. Their high-quality fabric helps avoid odor and bacteria, all while ensuring maximum comfort.
The socks provide significant relief for aching legs, calves, ankles, and feet, allowing you to manage edema or DVT in comfort and style.
They also come in multiple sizes and different varieties.
Pros
- It provides enhanced stability for the foot
- Multiple colors and sizes
- Extra cushioning underneath
- Best for therapy compression
- Inexpensive
Cons
- They roll out sometimes
- It can be uncomfortable when not worn correctly
Buy for $16.97 – $29.99
Best Compression Socks for Female Nurses
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Sockwell Women’s Chevron Moderate Graduated Compression Socks
Sockwell graduated compression socks are made of 32% Merino Wool, 32% Nylon, 31% Rayon, and 5% Spandex. They are the best socks for women on this list and are also suitable for everyday wear. Their high-performing yarns have excellent moisture retention and odor management.
They only offer 15-20 mmHg but have features like the Accu fit technology, a turn welt top, a seamless toe closure, and an ultra light cushion sole, all game changers.
According to one pregnant nurse;
As a pregnant nurse on her feet forced 12+ hrs at a time, good compression socks are a necessity. My problem is finding socks that provide compression and stay up after a few washes! Well, these are the ones.
They come in multiple colors, too, at least four sizes, and have a whooping 4.7 rating on Amazon!
Pros
- More cushioning under the feet
- Breathable and comfortable
- Easy to put on
Cons
- Some users complained that the socks were hard to put
- They roll at the top, which can be uncomfortable
Buy for $24.99 – $29.99
6. Charmking Compression Socks for Women
Wearing compression socks lessens the strain on nurses’ legs by having a moderate compression of 15-20 mmHg. These socks also help prevent the development of varicose veins by promoting healthy blood flow to your lower limbs.
They have 360-degree flexibility and are constructed entirely of nylon for breathability. These socks have received close to 50,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, indicating how good they are.
They are very cheap too, and have a variety of colors, including; Navy, Gray, Black, Blue, and Navy.
Pros
- Affordable eight-pack
- Moisture-wicking
- Good value for money
- Exquisite comfort
Cons
- Too small for some
- It sometimes keeps sliding off
Buy now for $17.99 – $25.99
Best for Men
7. FIGS Just Go For It Compression Socks
These socks are made of a combination of nylon and spandex and are flexible and durable enough. The compression is very low. Hence it is perfect for use as all-day wear and even more impressive as it is constructed with Technical Comfort
.
The socks have minimal seams and padding along the heels and toes, making them even more comfortable to wear or stay on your feet all day.
The FIGS socks come in only one color and only limited sizes.
Pros
- Comfortable and highly breathable
- Perfect for all-day wear
- Lightweight compression
Cons
- Unknown specific compression level
- Limited size range and colors
- The site doesn’t display all reviews
Buy for $28
Best Ankle Compression Socks for Nurses
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Techware Pro Ankle Compression socks
These socks are particularly great if you have plantar fasciitis, which affects the sole of your foot. They offer significant compression, even though unspecified.
They’re made of a tough, flexible nylon and spandex blend with progressive compression technology and a flared front that promotes blood flow while lowering inflammation.
They have cotton that wicks away moisture and keeps your feet fresh and comfy, arch compression, and a supportive fit. The toes and heels have also been reinforced.
The socks come in 7 colors for people who want variety and multiple sizes.
Pros
- Breathable and flexible
- Moisture wicking
- Reinforced toe and heel
- Great value for money
Cons
- No specific compression information is provided.
- It may rip or get holes after usage.
Buy for 15
Best Unisex
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Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks
There aren’t many compression socks that work better than these sleek socks made of 70 percent nylon and 30 percent spandex. They are designed with 20 to 30mmHG gradient compression, which fits your calves tightly enough to wear underneath jeans and rock your crocs while you save lives.
I like these because they are cheaper than their competitors and come in 13 colors. You will indeed feel comfortable in these socks.
Pros
- Cheaper than its competitors
- Gradient compression
- No swelling and pain
Cons
- Nonspecific sizing
Buy for $9.53-21.58
Best Warm Compression Socks
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Bombas Merino Compression Socks
Most compression socks are strong and lightweight, but Bombas are even warmer in case of a cold. The company uses a warm merino wool blend to create these compression socks.
So, the socks will not only be soft and pleasant, but they should also keep you warm for 15-20mmHg compression socks.
Pros
- Soft and comfortable
- Medium compression
- Variety of colors
- Great for long time shifts
Cons
- Falls below the knee sometimes
- Very expensive
Buy $150 on Amazon
Factors to Consider When Buying Compression Socks for Nurses
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Compression Level
The pressure on your leg will determine the compression level, expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
Your leg will be under more pressure as the compression increases. There are many compression levels for compression socks, including 10-20 mmHg, 30–40 mmHg, 40–50 mmHg, 50–60 mmHg, and 60–70 mmHg.
Naturally, you will feel more at ease with less moderate compression socks.
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Choose the Fabric
Different textiles are used to make compression socks. They can be made from various materials, including nylon, cotton, spandex, wool, and acrylic.
Your choice of material should be able to keep your feet relaxed throughout the day while offering comfort and support.
Since they help enhance blood circulation in your legs by reducing swelling and discomfort from swollen or varicose veins, compression socks have grown in popularity, especially among nurses who require them for all-day wear.
Make sure that the compression socks you buy meet all of your quality standards like durability, moisture absorption, and feel before you buy them because there are many subpar ones on the market that might not fulfill your needs despite their claims.
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Size
There are several different sizes and lengths of compression socks. Your shoe size determines the sock’s size, expressed in millimeters.
This must be considered while determining the type of compression socks that work best for you.
You should get compression socks shorter than your feet if your legs are shorter than usual.
Consider purchasing a pair of short sleeve compression stockings from Amazon if your calves are relatively small or if they have a tendency to swell up after physical activity. Medium-length sleeves will work just as well if they are large enough and have a broad circumference.
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Quality
Based on my personal experience, I would argue the question you should ask yourself before buying the best compression stockings for nurses is, “will this last?” Don’t purchase it if it doesn’t!
When purchasing something so pricey (compression socks range in price from $25 to $100 per), it’s better to be safe than sorry.
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Comfort
Comfort is the most crucial feature of any pair of socks. The socks won’t assist with anything else if they don’t feel comfortable on your feet.
Conclusion
Having socks on your feet all day long might be excruciatingly unpleasant, yet usually part of nursing work. It is natural, and the legs get under a lot of pressure and tension from all the walking and standing. Over time, such stress may result in swelling, pain, and other adverse effects.
This article helps you pick the best compression socks for nurses to serve your needs. Let it serve as a guide to help pick out the best compression socks for your needs, including all details you need to know, such as the cost, pros, and cons of each pair of socks you choose.
