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We asked real nurses to share their must-have compression socks for long shifts heres what they said.
Photo:Shape / Kevin Liang
Whether working a 12-hour night shift or running rounds, compression socks can provide instant support and relief.
After speaking with nurses and podiatrists, heres what we found to be the best compression socks for nurses.
Theyre just a staple in our wardrobes.
PHOTO: Bombas
Made with extra strong cotton, they dont ride down or lose compression over time.
TBH, we dont anticipate this being an issue, considering how often nurses need to wear compression socks.
FIGS says these provide Class 1 Compression, which equals roughly 20 mmHg.
PHOTO: Amazon
And I love the colors they have to pick from.
I wear them during travel under my cozy sweats, she says.
They are comfy, not itchy, and work great.
PHOTO: FIGS
With 15-20 mmHG, they are an ideal everyday compression sock for those working on their feet.
We’re also delighted at the wider range of sizes, going up to XXL.
A must-have for nurses, Schroeder says she loves that they stay tight all day.
PHOTO: Amazon
Due to the high compression level, they might be too tight for some.
But if youre looking for arch support with your compression sock, a sleeve is not for you.
Opt for one of theVIM & VIGR closed-toe compression socksinstead.
PHOTO: Amazon
Heads up that VIM & VIGR’s sizing is a little different.
Sizes run from 1 to 3, with 1 being the smallest.
We found these super comfortable, especially in therecycled cotton fabric, which felt extra breathable.
PHOTO: Clove
Were also intrigued by the gradual compression in these nurse-loved socks.
Heads up, these feel much lighter in compression than other options we tried.
Copper-infused material, in case you dont know, has antimicrobial properties that prevent odor from developing.
PHOTO: Amazon
First, we focused on the material, compression levels, and silhouettes.
From there, we narrowed it down to the brands and styles that were most accessible and functional.
), and design.
PHOTO: Comrad
Using their expertise and our own research, we found the best compression socks for nurses.
Dr. Pidich says there are typically three compression levels.
While they should be tight enough to gently squeeze your legs, they should not be uncomfortable.
PHOTO: Nurse Yard
And its important to note that compression socks can be too loose.
Typically this looks like the socks falling down while being worn or no sense of tightness when wearing them.
They should quickly disappear.
PHOTO: Lululemon
During sleep, our bodies are horizontal, she says.
Therefore, gravity isn’t working against our veins.
They can also bunch up and accidentally occlude [or block] circulation while you sleep.
PHOTO: Copper Compression
The short answer is for as long as you are standing.
Dr. Perkins adds that this should usually be no longer than eight hours.
Why Trust Shape
Lauryn Higginsis a journalist whose work focuses primarily on public health and wellness.
She reviews products in the fitness, beauty, and lifestyle categories.
She currently works as a journalist and adjunct professor of journalism at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Chanel Houston Perkins, DPMis an Assistant Professor, Division of Podiatry at the University of Texas Medical Branch.
Shes Board Certified through the American Board of Podiatric Medicine.
