Compression socks are a travel essential for preventing leg swelling and reducing the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during long flights. Dr. Michael Go, an associate professor in the division of vascular diseases and surgery at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, explains that wearing compression socks mimics the contraction function of the calf muscles, even when you aren't walking around. “They are also good at preventing the leg swelling that some people get after a long plane trip,” he adds.
Top Compression Socks for Air Travel
We've rounded up eight compression socks that reviewers say are ideal for flights. Pick up a pair or two before your next travel day for maximum comfort, even in the last row of the plane.
1. Bombas Performance Compression Socks
These sweat-wicking, medical-grade compression socks feature Bombas' strongest level of compression, designed to keep legs feeling energized. Specialized yarn fabrication is moisture-wicking, with discreet airflow vents for breathability and footbed cushioning to absorb impact. Available in a range of colors in three sizes, sold singly or in three-packs and six-packs.
Promising reviews: “This is my second order for the compression socks and they are great and very helpful with my ankle swelling.” — Dinell O. “Purchased to support legs during travel. Comfortable and supportive.” — Lauren B. Women's: $40+ at Bombas; Men's: $40+ at Bombas.
2. Amazon Brand – Fitrell Compression Socks (3-Pack)
Made with moisture-wicking, high-performance material, these athletic compression socks have a mesh design around the calf for added comfort and breathability. They feature a seamless toe design and light padding for extra cushioning. Available in two sizes and ten color combos.
Promising reviews: “Nice compression but not super tight. Currently recovering from a DVT in my legs and these are not super hot in 90 degree weather!” — Bobbi Moore. “Very comfortable, got them to wear on a long flight and they prevented any swelling.” — Grace. “Great fit and worked perfectly for the airplane and walking around town.” — Mark Pittman. $16+ at Amazon.
3. Amazon – Conrad Nylon Compression Socks
Made from bamboo-derived viscose fabric that is soft and breathable, these socks feature anti-odor technology to keep you feeling fresh. Available in four sizes in a wide range of colors.
Promising reviews: “My husband and I each wore a pair on an international flight. After over 12 hours of wearing them, our legs and feet were in amazing shape! The most comfortable socks we own.” — A.L.A. $30 at Amazon.
4. Amazon – Graduated Compression Socks for Pregnancy Travel
These unisex socks have true graduated compression, strongest at the ankle and gradually decreasing up the leg, helping to reduce swelling. Available in multiple colors and patterns in four sizes.
Promising reviews: “True compression socks, quality. Bought for long flight 6 months pregnant. Perfectly easy to get on and not too tight.” — Michaela Kazules. “Perfect for travel! Comfy without being itchy or too tight.” — Lindsay D. $34 at Amazon.
5. Sockwell – Merino Wool Compression Socks
These lightweight socks have graduated compression and arch support, with a seamless toe closure and turn welt top. Merino wool fabric is odor-resistant and moisture-wicking. Available in three sizes and several colors.
Promising reviews: “I work as a deckhand on a boat and got these to help with leg/foot pain. The first day wearing these was like night and day.” — Brenda L. “Bought for long-haul airline travel and they've been great.” — Alfred S. Men's: $33 at Sockwell; Women's: $33 at Sockwell.
6. Figs – Ultra-Comfortable Compression Socks
Figs, known for medical scrubs, offers carefully engineered compression socks with extra-soft fabric, toe and heel padding, and a seamless silhouette. Available in a variety of colors in three sizes for men and women.
Promising reviews: “Bought them for very long flights and they worked better than expected. Perfect amount of pressure while being extremely comfortable.” — Omar L. “Best, loved it very comfortable for standing or sitting for too long. Legs feel super relaxed.” — Rosario M. “We love our FIGS! They do not pinch toes or become uncomfortable after awhile.” — Anne P. Men's: $28 at Figs; Women's: $28 at Figs.
7. Amazon – 8-Pack Popular Compression Socks
These stylish socks look like ordinary knee socks, made with a nylon-spandex blend that is stretchy, flexible, and durable. Lightweight fabric with just the right amount of support. Available in many colors and patterns in two sizes.
Promising reviews: “Really made a difference on a 7 hour flight to London. Had no leg pain whatsoever. I'll never do a long flight again without them.” — Paris. “Worked perfect for flying. My swelling was minimal.” — Diane Pope. $20 at Amazon.
8. Amazon – Bluemaple 6-Pack Copper Compression Socks
These socks are snug and supportive without feeling hot, with copper fibers to relieve discomfort and promote healing. Available in a wide range of color combinations and patterns in two sizes, sold in packs of six.
Promising reviews: “I wore these on about five flights, including long-haul trips. They stay comfortable for hours, don’t slip down, and really help reduce that heavy leg feeling. Stylish, durable, and functional.” — RJ. $16+ at Amazon.
Why Wear Compression Socks on Planes
In previous reporting, Dr. Scott N. Hurlbert, a vascular surgeon in Colorado Springs, Colorado, explained, “When you are traveling by air, you usually don’t have much room to move around. As a result, the blood becomes more stagnant, which can lead to blood clots.” Between that and dehydration, flying may increase your risk of developing a type of blood clot called deep vein thrombosis, or DVT.
Many travelers report that compression socks make a huge difference in how their legs look and feel, allowing them to walk through large airports and scurry between connecting flights while still feeling energized. They are a total game-changer for long flights, and many travelers wear them on flights longer than four hours, as well as on shorter flights and road trips for extra comfort.
