Compression Stockings & Socks Medical vs. Everyday (Part 1)

Understanding the Basics & When to Use Each Type

1. Introduction

Compression socks and stockings are no longer just for medical use — they’ve become a trusted tool for travellers, athletes, office workers, and anyone who wants to keep their legs feeling fresh and supported. But as their popularity grows, so does the confusion: should you go for medical-grade compression or an everyday option?

This is Part 1 of our two-part guide, where we’ll explain what compression wear is, who it’s for, and introduce the differences between medical and everyday compression. In Part 2, we’ll cover the key distinctions in more detail, when a prescription might be needed, and how to choose the right fit.

Understanding the difference is key to getting the most out of your compression wear — and choosing what’s best for your health and lifestyle.

2. What Is Compression Wear?

Compression wear — including socks, stockings, and tights — is designed to apply gentle pressure to your legs to support healthy blood flow. This targeted pressure helps veins work more efficiently by encouraging blood to move back toward the heart, which can reduce swelling, prevent discomfort, and lower the risk of circulatory issues.

There are different levels of compression, measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg), which indicate how much pressure the garment provides. These levels range from light support for everyday use to higher, medical-grade compression designed to manage specific conditions.

Compression garments are often used to:

·         Improve circulation and reduce tired or heavy legs

·         Manage swelling (oedema) and fluid retention

·         Prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), especially during travel

·         Support recovery after surgery or injury

·         Relieve symptoms of varicose veins or venous insufficiency

The key to their effectiveness lies not just in the pressure applied but in the graduated compression design — where the pressure is strongest at the ankle and gradually decreases up the leg. This promotes upward blood flow and helps fight the effects of gravity, especially during prolonged sitting or standing.

Whether you're looking for relief during long workdays or managing a medical condition, compression wear can make a noticeable difference in leg comfort and overall wellbeing.

3. Everyday Compression: What It Is & Who It’s For

Everyday compression stockings and socks are designed for general support and comfort, not necessarily for medical treatment. These garments typically offer lower compression levels, usually ranging from 8 to 15 mmHg or up to 15–21 mmHg (Class 1). They’re ideal for anyone who experiences tired, achy, or swollen legs due to lifestyle, work, or travel.

Everyday compression is particularly beneficial for:

·         Long hours standing or sitting (e.g. retail staff, teachers, office workers)

·         Frequent travellers — especially on long-haul flights

·         Pregnant individuals experiencing leg discomfort or swelling

·         Active individuals looking to support muscle recovery and reduce fatigue

·         People with mild swelling or early-stage varicose veins

These stockings or socks are easy to wear, available without a prescription, and come in a wide variety of styles and colours — making them suitable for daily wear with casual or professional outfits.

While they may look like regular hosiery or athletic socks, the graduated compression design provides noticeable support, especially at the ankle, to promote better circulation. Many wearers find they reduce feelings of heaviness and improve comfort at the end of a busy day.

It’s important to note, however, that while everyday compression is helpful for general support, it’s not a substitute for medical-grade compression when managing a diagnosed condition.

4. Medical-Grade Compression: Defined

Medical-grade compression stockings and socks are designed to support individuals with diagnosed health conditions affecting blood flow, lymph drainage, or leg function. These garments offer higher levels of graduated compression, typically starting at Class 1 (15–21 mmHg) and going up to Class 3 (34–46 mmHg) or higher, depending on the condition and country-specific guidelines.

These products are classified as medical devices and are manufactured according to strict standards to ensure consistent pressure, fit, and therapeutic effectiveness. Brands like VENOSAN® are trusted globally by healthcare professionals and patients for their clinical reliability and quality.

Medical compression is commonly prescribed or recommended for:

·         Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)

·         Varicose veins and spider veins

·         Post-surgical recovery, especially after vein procedures

·         Lymphoedema or fluid retention

·         Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prevention and management

·         Post-thrombotic syndrome

·         Leg ulcers (as part of compression therapy)

One of the most important distinctions with medical-grade compression is the need for proper sizing and fitting. In many cases, a healthcare professional will measure your legs to ensure the stockings provide the correct level of compression in the right areas. Poorly fitted medical compression can reduce effectiveness or even cause discomfort.

In some cases — particularly with Class 2 or Class 3 compression - a GP, physiotherapist, or vascular specialist will need to assess your condition before recommending or prescribing the correct garment.

While medical compression may look similar to everyday options, it’s crucial to treat them as specialist health garments that play a key role in treatment and prevention, not just comfort.

Coming Up Next:

In Part 2 of this series, we’ll break down the key differences between medical and everyday compression, help you understand when a prescription is needed, and guide you on how to choose the right fit.

Stay tuned — or jump ahead to Part 2 here: Read Part 2 ›