What’s the benefit of copper fabric? Some brands use copper-infused materials because of the metal’s natural antimicrobial properties, which supposedly help reduce the spread of foot odor. Copper Fit doesn’t provide a precise pressure rating for these socks, but they do boast a comfortable cushioned arch as a bonus.
The Best Multi-Pack Compression Socks: SB Sox
Dr. Rimawi’s go-tos are from SB Sox, which he favors for their breathability and moisture-wicking properties, which are pretty huge for preventing excess sweat build-up that can lead to a gnarly case of athlete’s foot. These offer a no-slip cuff for all-day, comfortable wear, and the socks even come in a variety of colors and patterns.
The Best Compression Socks for Serial Travelers: 2XU Vectr Full-Length Socks
If you spend most weeks shuttling between airport terminals, you’re going to need a pair of compression socks specifically designed for your high-flying lifestyle. Don’t believe us? Take it from Isaac Shapiro, a first officer pilot who met his wife—GQ‘s own Nicole Shapiro!—on…a plane. (Hallmark, feel free to reach out any time.) Shapiro wears compression socks three to four days a week and cycled through myriad less expensive options before, ahem, landing on 2XU’s $50 version. He promises you’ll feel the difference.
The Best Splurge Compression Socks for International Travelers: Sigvaris
While working as a private flight attendant, Carolyn Paddock, the founder of In-Flight Insider, always made sure to keep a grip of Sigvaris’ compression socks handy for clients and crew members, especially on longer trips. At around 40 bucks a pop they’re not cheap, but a quality cosign from the pros is tough to beat. Sigvaris also uses a very excellent blend of cotton for supreme comfort, perfect for those long-haul flights or brutally long road trips.
The Best Budget Compression Socks: FuelMeFeet Knee-High Socks (3-Pack)
If you’re panic-shopping a week before takeoff and price is top of mind, there are plenty of options in the budget category, too. David Adler, founder and CEO of The Travel Secret, favors three-packs you can score on the low from Amazon, which come in all sorts of zany patterns and promise to help keep your blood circulating when you’re stuck in a middle seat and opportunities to stretch your legs are few and far between.
Best for Outdoorsmen: MudGear Compression Socks
Martin Soto—an intrepid blogger at the Travel Explorator—also shouts out a pricier option from MudGear. The aptly named brand specializes in compression socks designed to withstand the worst of the elements, all while keeping your feet dry—and perfectly pressurized—in high style. These socks are truly built for the outdoorsiest amongst us. According to the brand, these are the only compression socks that offer padding on the lower leg and calf, which is meant to prevent from injury during a mud run (hence the brand name).
Plus, 7 More Options We Like
Beyond our explicit expert recommendations above, there are also some newer compression socks out there that adhere to our professionals’ recommendations and don’t look overly geriatric, from trusted sock purveyors like Bombas to the good folks over at Dickie’s (so you can discreetly wear yours under a pair of their cargo pants). Here, all of our favorites.
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