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Top 10 Travel Compression Socks for Flying Long Haul

last updated: Mar 25, 2021

The biggest challenge to your health when flying is not a plane crash. It is the development of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT is a condition where the blood in your deep veins clots. It can occur anywhere in the body but is most common in the legs. Wearing long flight compression socks is the recommended way to avoid DVT issues. In this article, we rate and review the top-performing compression socks for long flight travel.

In a Hurry? The test winner after 24 hrs of research

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Rockay Vigor
94/100 our score
Comfort
98
Compression
97
Durability
90
Materials
90
Fit
95
Rockay Vigor
Why is it better?

Made from recycled materials

Graduated compression helps to reduce fatigue

Overall comfort when worn for extended periods of time

Reduces recovery time after workouts

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Researched Sources
42
Researched Sources
Total Readers
11k
Total Readers
Hours Researching
24
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
14
Products Evaluated
Sorting Options
Comfort Compression Durability Materials Fit By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
Comfort
98 %
Compression
97 %
Durability
90 %
Materials
90 %
Fit
95 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92.6
Comfort
95 %
Compression
95 %
Durability
89 %
Materials
90 %
Fit
94 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
$18.14
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
90.4
Comfort
90 %
Compression
95 %
Durability
87 %
Materials
90 %
Fit
90 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
$18.95
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.8
Comfort
90 %
Compression
90 %
Durability
87 %
Materials
90 %
Fit
87 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.2
Comfort
85 %
Compression
90 %
Durability
86 %
Materials
90 %
Fit
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
86.2
Comfort
85 %
Compression
85 %
Durability
86 %
Materials
90 %
Fit
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85.6
Comfort
85 %
Compression
84 %
Durability
85 %
Materials
90 %
Fit
84 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
Comfort
80 %
Compression
82 %
Durability
85 %
Materials
90 %
Fit
82 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
$29.99
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.4
Comfort
80 %
Compression
82 %
Durability
85 %
Materials
90 %
Fit
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
$14.32

Best Travel Compression Socks

1. Rockay Vigor

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
Comfort
98
Compression
97
Durability
90
Materials
90
Fit
95
best offer for today
Pros:

Made from recycled materials

Graduated compression helps to reduce fatigue

Overall comfort when worn for extended periods of time

Reduces recovery time after workouts

Cons:

Not many color options

Rockay recently released their newest pair of compression socks, called Vigor. Made from recycled material, we obviously are into how they are being responsible in their manufacturing process, but how do these actually perform? In a word, Outstanding. The fit is consistent throughout the sock and provides a proper amount of compression to help keep the blood flowing.

Read more

On those longer trips, it's great if you have the chance to get up on your feet periodically, but oftentimes that just isn't an option. So the second-best option is to find an effective way to keep that blood flowing through your legs.

Our top choice is the recently released Vigor from a rapidly growing company named Rockay. Made originally "for runners by runners", the vigor is designed to help with improved blood flow and reduced recovery times on longer distance runs. The same science applies to the requirements needed with long travel. For that reason, as well as their superior performance, We chose Vigor to sit at the top of our list.

The same exceeded criteria also make these perfect for Crossfit and weightlifting. The graduated compression is designed to remain consistent through the entire sock, instead of leaving some portions tighter than others. There is also improved arch support for the midfoot, which offers support in the form of... you guessed it... compression. In all, These satisfied all of our key requirements, without missing a beat. For that reason, they get the number one spot.

2. Travelsox TSS6000

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92.6
Travelsox TSS6000
Amazon Link
Comfort
95
Compression
95
Durability
89
Materials
90
Fit
94
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$18.14
Pros:

Graduated compression

Conforms to the leg

Well ventilated

Cons:

Sizing chart is incorrect

Travelsox TSS6000 is machine washable with the ideal amount of graduated compression starting midfoot. The material in these socks is fungus resistant and recyclable. It will keep moisture and odor away from your feet.

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The Travelsox TSS6000 is a very lightweight, responsive sock that provides you with an effective counter to DVT and other discomforts on your long haul flight. Graduated compression provides you with increased blood flow to counter deep vein thrombosis. The sock conforms to your leg well without restricting your range of motion. It will not slip down or bunch up over the course of your flight, providing you with a very comfortable experience.

The Travelsox TSS6000 is a well ventilated, breathable compression aid. It has excellent moisture-wicking properties, so as to prevent sweat build-up and overheating. It also has anti-odor and antistatic properties to further enhance your wearing experience. The toe section is padded for extra comfort.

3. Travelon Compression Travel Socks

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
90.4
Travelon Compression Travel Socks
Amazon Link
Comfort
90
Compression
95
Durability
87
Materials
90
Fit
90
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$18.95
Pros:

Unisex

Flexible, durable elastane material

Moisture-wicking

Cons:

Not suitable for people with large calves

Travelon Compression Travel Socks are made with no harmful materials or dyes. They are perfect to wear during long flights, sports, or if you have a job where you sit for long periods of time. These socks will stimulation your blood circulation and are great for men or women.

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Travelsox Compression Travel socks are a highly regarded brand that is among the most comfortable wearing and affordable socks in the compression travel socks market. These socks are designed for both men and women to wear. They are made from an elastane material which is very durable and reflexive. The graduated compression brings gentle relief to your feet, ankles and lower legs to prevent deep vein thrombosis. There are no harmful dyes used in this product.

Travelsox Compression Travel socks are very comfortable to wear, being lightweight and breathable. They are flexible enough to be used when playing sport as well as on long haul flights. High moisture wicking properties and anti-odor treatment provide enhanced comfort levels.

4. Vitalsox Graduated Compression VT1211

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.8
Vitalsox Graduated Compression VT1211
Amazon Link
Comfort
90
Compression
90
Durability
87
Materials
90
Fit
87
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Extra arch and heel support

Made in Italy

Drystat fabric

Cons:

Socks a little too long

Vitalsox Graduated Compression socks are made with silver drystat to protect against fungus. These socks keep moisture away from your feet which helps to prevent odor. These socks are patented with their graduated compression to give you the best circulation in your legs.

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The Vitalsox VT1211 is a high-quality Italian made compression sock that is a great choice for long haul travel. It is constructed from Drystat fabric, a highly flexible, form-fitting material that is also very lightweight and responsive. The compression is greatest around the ankle but travels all the way up the leg. This provides an effective defense against deep vein thrombosis. The sock features enhanced padding through the arch and heel to provide extra support.

The Vitalsox VT1211 is an amazingly light sock. It provides an effective level of ventilation to keep the entire lower leg feeling light and breezy throughout your flight. It has a very good moisture-wicking ability to prevent overheating and sweat build up.

5. Fytto 1020

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.2
Fytto Style 1020 Women’s Comfy compression socks
Amazon Link
Comfort
85
Compression
90
Durability
86
Materials
90
Fit
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Specifically for women

15-20 mmHg graduated compression

Generous toe area

Cons:

Too thick for some people

The Fytto Style socks have graduated compression which is medical standard. The compression starts at your ankle and gradually gets weaker as it goes towards the calf. This will give you fantastic circulation. These socks are made with durable quality stitching.

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The Fytto Style 1020 Women’s Comfy compression socks are specifically designed to help women counter the effects of long haul flights on the legs. Women are more prone to deep vein thrombosis and the graduated compression of this sock does an effective job of negating the effects of DVT. The compression level is 15-20 mmHg, which is the level that is recommended for long haul flights by medical professionals.

The Fytto Style 1020 Women’s Comfy compression sock is thicker than many competing socks on the market. This ensures that you get more support and comfort for your long haul flight. Non-binding leg openings and a generous toe area further enhance the comfort level. This sock is also moisture-wicking, and anti-static.

6. U Elite

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
86.2
2XU Elite
Amazon Link
Comfort
85
Compression
85
Durability
86
Materials
90
Fit
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Extra compression panels

Anatomically engineered footbed

Vented toe panel

Cons:

Very tight-fitting

The 2XU Men's Elite compression socks will help keep your leg muscles contained to reduce vibrations which will help with muscle fatigue. They can help with injury recovery. The sock's footbed is ergonomically engineered and a cushioned heel so they will keep your feet comfortable.

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The 2XU Men’s Elite compression sock is a very comfortable form-fitting sock that features an anatomically engineered footbed to alleviate pain on the base of the foot and around the ankle and heel. Graduated compression delivers a great deal of relief all the way up the lower leg in order to counter deep vein thrombosis. It has a vented toe panel which keeps the entire foot area cool and breathable.

The 2XU Men’s Elite compression sock provides a full range of motion as it protects and supports your lower leg. This makes it a good multi-purpose sock, suitable for such activities as basketball, soccer, and running, in addition, to use on long haul flights. This is a well-ventilated sock that wicks away moisture and sweat.

7. CEP Women’s Progressive+

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85.6
CEP Women’s Progressive+
Amazon Link
Comfort
85
Compression
84
Durability
85
Materials
90
Fit
84
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Graduated compression

Reduces vibration

Padded zones

Cons:

Hard to get on and off

The CEP Women's running socks give your feet a comfortable fit and can help you enhance your performance. They can also be worn every day to help with cramping, swelling, or fatigue. These socks are perfect for everything from long-distance traveling to being on your feet all day at work.

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The CEP Women’s Progressive+ compression sock delivers 20-30 mmHg of graduated compression to bring high-level protection against deep vein thrombosis on long haul flights. The enhanced blood circulation and ensuring nutrient and oxygen uptake will bring immediate relief to lower-leg discomfort. This sock is constructed from 85% polyamide and 15% spandex, to deliver a very responsive sock that is also flexible and light. It will eliminate calf vibration while still providing a full range of motion.

The CEP Women’s Progressive+ features enhanced padding zones which provide extra support around the hot spot areas such as the ankle and heel. It is anti-odor and anti-static along while providing effective moisture-wicking properties. Your purchase comes with a money-back guarantee.

8. Sockwell Elevation Firm

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
Sockwell Men’s Elevation Firm (20-30 mmHg) compression socks
Amazon Link
Comfort
80
Compression
82
Durability
85
Materials
90
Fit
82
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$29.99
Pros:

Acufit technology

Light compression sole

Enhanced heel box

Cons:

Socks are a little too high

Sockwell Men's socks are machine washable and easy to care for. They have a firm graduated compression and are good for everyday wear. These socks will help keep your feet from swelling or getting tired when you are traveling or doing sports. They will help with the performance and stamina of your feet.

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The Sockwell Men’s Elevation Form compression sock is a great choice for your long haul flight. It will deliver 20-30 mmHg of graduated compression, with the highest range around the ankle area. The compression level then lessens all the way up the lower leg. Sockwell’s Acufit technology sees spandex inserts strategically placed around the sock to enhance the flexibility and responsiveness of the sock. It also makes the sock very durable, ensuring that it maintains its form all day long.

The Sockwell Men’s Elevation Form compression sock gives you extra padding in the sole and heel areas to deliver extra support to these high profile areas. The overall feel is extremely comfortable and reflexive. The sock is breathable and well ventilated.

9. Physix Gear Compression Socks

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.4
Physix Gear Compression Socks
Amazon Link
Comfort
80
Compression
82
Durability
85
Materials
90
Fit
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$14.32
Pros:

20-30 mmHg graduated compression

One size fits all

Padded footbed

Cons:

A little too snug

Some people have swollen legs, severe pain or sensitive skin, and getting compression socks on and off can be a real challenge. For them, zippered compression socks are a must. Physix Gear Compression Socks are the best ones we found on the market.

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The Physix Gear Compression Socks is a unisex compression sock for long haul travel that provides you with 20-30 mmHg of graduated compression. This high compression level ensures that your lower leg blood circulation is boosted when you’re traveling. The effect will be that more oxygen and nutrients will be transported to your lower legs. This will effectively counter deep vein thrombosis.

The Physix Gear Compression Sock comes in a one size fits all design making it easy to get a snug comfortable fit. There is a padded footbed to give you a super comfy respite to the soles of your feet as you are traveling. These socks are also effective for the treatment of such conditions as shin splints, varicose veins, and Type 1 diabetes. Socks are double stitched in anti-bacterial fabric.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Comfort

Comfort is important in any sock, but especially when you are shopping for compression socks. If you are using them during long trips you want something which is going to easily stay on your feet. Most of the comfort has to do with materials and fit, which we will discuss in more detail.

Compression

Compression, of course, is the most important aspect of these socks. Look for graduated compression which usually starts around the midfoot or ankle and eases as it goes up towards the calf. You want enough compression to take care of your leg, depending on what your needs are, but not so tight it is going to be uncomfortable.

Durability

Durability is important since compression socks cost a little more than regular socks. You want socks that will keep their compression properties wash after wash. It is nice to have material with will not snag or run as well and stitching which will keep its shape.

Materials

Look for good quality materials which are going to last. It is nice to have breathable material that will keep your feet from sweating. There are special materials that naturally keep moisture away and are anti-fungal or anti-static. Of course, if you have sensitive skin, you really need to double-check which material is used.

Fit

Fit is important in a sock, especially if you are going to wear them on long trips or during work. You want socks which have a good space for your toes and a heel which fits your feet. Make sure they are the right length. Too short and they will not stay up which means they cannot do their job. Too long and they will be too bunched around your knees.

expert tips icon
Other Tips For Long Trips

Wearing compression socks will help prevent DVT as well as help with swelling, but there are other things you should do as well. Make sure you stay well-hydrated and try to get up and move around as much as you can. All these things will help keep your legs and yourself healthy.

Use Compression Socks During Pregnancy

Compression socks are great to wear while you are pregnant. Flying while pregnant has an increased risk of blood clots or varicose veins. You should wear the socks for the entire day in which you will be flying, clear up to bedtime.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: What exactly are compression socks?

a:

Compression socks are knee socks that are made of elastic material so they hug your legs. They keep constant pressure on the arteries, veins, and muscles in your legs.

q: Can wearing compression socks be harmful?

a:

For the most part, the answer would be no. Of course, there are always exceptions. Someone who has severe vascular disease should not use any form of compression wear.

q: How much compression do I need?

a:

Most people do well with compression up to about 20 mmHg. Any compression above that amount should usually only be worn as a result of your doctor's advice.

q: Do compression socks have side effects?

a:

There can be side effects to compression socks, although they are minor. Side effects might include skin irritation, broken skin, temporary skin dents, or some discomfort.

q: For how long of a flight should I wear compression socks?

a:

It has been recommended that you wear compression socks if you are on a flight which lasts more than five hours or so. They will protect your legs but also keep them energized and less likely to cramp or ache.