Travel Compression Socks: Stay Healthy On The Move
Traveling by plane can wreak havoc on our bodies, not just with the possible jet lag but physically too.
That’s why some travelers, especially those at higher risk of blood clots, wear compression socks on long-haul flights.
When flying, you’re confined to a small area for a long period of time. You’re sitting for a long time and not able to move much.
Sitting still slows blood flow in the legs and can lead to swollen feet and, less often, DVT (deep vein thrombosis).
The CDC says anyone traveling more than 4 hours can be at risk for blood clots, though the overall risk is very small for most people and rises with other risk factors.
For people at higher risk, one simple solution is compression socks, along with walking the aisle when you can and drinking plenty of water.
With so many to choose from, does it matter which you pick?
We’ve found the best compression socks for flying.
Criteria
If you’re about to take a long-haul flight or are anywhere where you’ll find yourself sitting in a small space for a long amount of time, compression socks are worth considering, especially if you have risk factors for blood clots. Ask your doctor if you're unsure.
They’re often not anything expensive or flashy.
They should come up to the knee and have a comfortable fit, but not be too tight.
Many compression socks are unisex, so go by the brands guide on which size is suitable for you. Check with a doctor first if you have circulation problems such as peripheral artery disease, diabetes with nerve damage, or fragile skin.
Product Information
The Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks for men and women is more than just your ordinary compression sock.
These aren’t a one-time use type of sock. They’re double-stitched and built to last.
The socks are made with anti-bacterial fabric, which is always useful! There’s added support in the calves, heel, and foot.
These travel compression socks have a patented design on the heel in either pink, blue, or grey. The rest of the sock is dominantly black.
The socks are unisex, but you can follow Physix’s guide to see if you are small/medium or large/x-large.
Wide feet?
No problem. These socks will still be suitable and be easy to get on and off. The sock comes to the knee and has a “stay put” cuff and added comfort along the sides of the foot to prevent uncomfortable rubbing by shoes.
The blend of nylon material is breathable, and you can feel how comfortable they are to wear as soon as you put them on.
The compression rating on these socks is 20-30 mmHg, which means it’s a firm compression, but not too tight.
This is a firmer, medical-grade level of compression, so it's sensible to check with a doctor or pharmacist before choosing it.
Graduated stockings are one tool for preventing DVT in people at risk; the CDC says some travelers may benefit from them.
These are a graduated fit, meaning the compression is most at the foot and gradually gets less as it goes up. This is important because it helps circulation improve up and out of the legs.
Pros & Cons
Despite being a compression sock, these by Physix Gear Sport are easy to get on and off without it being too tight.
They’re not very thick either which prevents the legs from overheating but will still provide an adequate layer of warmth, and it helps that it’s also breathable.
They also do great in the wash, keeping their fit, and they air dry quickly.
Some people also wear them for everyday leg swelling. Swelling can have medical causes, though, so get it checked, especially during pregnancy.
Some runners and people who are on their feet all day like them for comfort, but don't count on them to prevent shin splints or boost stamina.
Conclusion
When packing for your next flight, don’t forget to get the travel compression socks!
They can help with comfort and swelling, and for people at higher risk they may lower the chance of DVT. Move around during the trip too.
If you notice pain or swelling in one leg after travel, get urgent medical advice. Chest pain or shortness of breath is an emergency.
The Physix Gear Sport compression socks aren’t only helpful with long journeys but are stylish and have other uses too.
Travel with confidence with the best compression socks for travel.
