DVT, a more pressing concern with pregnancy and the venous system, is a type of Venous Thromboembolism or VTE. VTE is the number one cause of maternal death in developed countries. About 7 out of every 1,000 pregnant women suffer from VTE. Additionally, pregnant women are five times more likely to be diagnosed with VTE over non-pregnant women. This disorder occurs throughout the same process of leg blood flow obstruction by the growing uterus.

So how do you prevent these issues when pregnant? The best answer is wearing compression garments. The symptoms of heavy, tired, and aching legs as well as these venous disorders occurs with prolonged sitting or standing, genetic venous disorders, multiple pregnancies, or pre-existing venous conditions. To combat these issues, compression garments assist the venous system in blood circulation and delivering blood back to the heart. They also reduce the swelling and tiredness of the legs and feet. Not only do compression stockings aide in blood circulation, but research shows that compression reduces risk of edema. What is important to know, is that the symptoms of these disorders can continue into the post-partum period, and compression can assist in relieving symptoms after childbirth.

Compression hosiery can be used for venous disorder and to help reduce accumulation of fluid and swelling in legs. Compression should especially be worn from the third month of pregnancy until two to three months after delivery. Most brands have style options and colors to match your lifestyle. You can purchase pantyhose with a comfortable belly panel for your baby bump (note the panel does not contain compression), thigh-high stocking, or knee socks. Your physician or midwife can help you find what is best for you.


Always listen to your body during your pregnancy, rest when you need it and stay active when you feel up to it. You can download a brochure to share with your clinician and speak about your compression options using this link: https://mediusa.box.com/s/sjgwhqb25obkfiw9hme64z12mo63a38v

We wish you luck with your current or future pregnancy!

The options for open toe compression socks and stockings are vast. You have the full range of compression levels as well as options of knee high, thigh high and pantyhose so no matter what style you need or prefer, we have you covered. Best of all, you aren’t limited in color choices, the spectrum ranges from a variety of neutral colors to match skin tones to wild colors and tie dye patterns.

Our Allegro line offers affordable options and high quality choices that are all made in the USA. We have had a lot of customers asking for open-toe compression socks in 8-15 mmHg, especially a sheer. We heard you and are pleased to announce that we have added this to the Allegro line up. The Allegro line of open toe stockings has a variety of fabrics, compression levels and styles available, even an open toe/open heel option.

The Jobst open toe compression stocking choices have the caliber of compression you need and sizes to fit any leg, from petite to full calf. A full range of styles are available, but if you are looking for a luxury sheer, the Jobst UltraSheer has been a best-seller for over a decade.

Juzo offers the widest variety of toeless compression socks and stockings. With Juzo, you can find the highest level of compression we offer, 40-50 mmHg as well as all style options. If you want subdued color, they’ve got it as well as fun bright colors and tie dye.

Mediven colors are on the subtle side, but if you are looking for plus size or maternity open toe selections, this is the brand for you. Most Mediven compression stocking styles come in 14 sizes for a near custom fit. Their Sheer & Soft line is unequaled sheerness, a soft feel and features ClimaComfort to keep your legs cool and comfortable.

Rounding out your choices is Sigvaris with luxurious fabrics and natural fibers for a beautiful look. These open toe compression stockings offer the widest range of colors to match a variety of skin tones, from warm sand and toasted almond if you have pink undertones, to mocha for those with brown undertones. You can also find compression up to 40-50 mmHg as well as plus size and wide calf selections.

If you want to be barefoot but still need compression on your legs, RejuvaHealth has some footless compression selections you will want to check out. The leggings from this brand are a popular choice with customers and are also available in a stirrup style. Also available is the sheer compression leggings which are great under skirts and dresses.

When it comes to compression socks and stockings, especially the open toe variety, the choices and selections can be overwhelming. If you have any trouble at all finding the color, style and size you need, our experienced Customer Service team is at your ready. 

The first and most important step is consulting with your doctor about wearing medical grade (20 mmHg of compression or more) compression therapy garments. The amount of compression is important to determine prior to purchase, because your body may need more pressure on veins and valves to pump blood back to the heart and decrease pooling. Also, there is a big important word called contraindications, meaning drugs, products, and procedures could affect you negatively. Therefore, your physician should perform an ABI (ankle brachial index) test to ensure safety of compression therapy. After this step your doctor will have determined your prescription of which compression range (20-30mmHg, 30-40mmHg, etc.) and style of garment – calf, thigh, or panty length.

The second stage of choosing your garment is considering your lifestyle. Are you outside quite often? Getting decent exercise or mostly staying indoors? Whatever it may be, your most common footwear is a good indication for choosing which style product you need. Are you more of a formal dresser for the office or do you have a job requiring work boots? It may not seem like it, but there is an important relationship between footwear and your compression garment. For example, some stockings come with open toe options to allow for wearing sandals and other open toe shoes. Most likely, you spend time in a variety of footwear and will need a full collection of compression products to suit those needs.

What is the difference between compression stockings and compression socks?

Next you have to consider which style of compression you need and like. Stockings are generally products that resemble traditional hosiery garments. Each stocking comes in a variety of compression levels, styles, colors, and materials. Most commonly stockings are paired with lifestyles and dresswear that are on the formal side. They are made with more lightweight materials and designed for formal footwear or be paired with a “cover” sock when used with other shoes.

 On the other hand, compression socks are made with heavier yarns and with a different knitting structure. This provides you with a thicker foot that fits and performs better in most athletic footwear and work boots. Most often, compression socks come in calf length styles. Also, compression socks usually cover the therapeutic and medical grade compression's and come in a rainbow of fun colors and patterns. Compression socks are actually the fastest growing segment of compression as there is a trend towards more casual footwear. This explosive growth has brought new technology and creativity to the entire compression category.

What are the best compression socks?

 Again, time to do some self-assessments. If you are an athlete looking for performance products to help train, perform, and recover then the clear choice is CEP Athletic Compression Socks, they offer a great selection and are used by athletes today. CEP has a variety of compression wear; tall and short socks for running, calf sleeves and Plantar Fasciitis sleeves. Their products come in fun and vibrant colors as well as classic looks that fit any person’s style. Most importantly, CEP’s technology positively enhances your recovery time, leg health and active lifestyle.

 For the remainder, there are several great choices from our quality manufactures Jobst®, Juzo®, medi USA® and Sigvaris®. Again, depending on your lifestyle, the decision is up to you and what you prefer. One compression sock that suits an active lifestyle but isn’t necessarily for heavy training is the mediven active sock. These are perfect for casual footwear usage and have a bit of a thicker feel to keep your boots or other footwear from rubbing. Most importantly, these socks still provide more energy to the legs and allow for better performance and recovery.

How to choose the right compression sock?

The following list contains options for specific needs of your compression and lifestyle.

• Quality knit structure is important for delivering optimal long-lasting compression as well as satisfactory comfort with a smooth and soft feel. The sock should appear to have a consistent stitch pattern that provides durability to the sock and provides strong compression therapy. Some fabrics that have this type of solid, yet moveable, knit structure are nylon and spandex. To identify if the socks have quality knit structure when shopping online, most quality manufacturers provide clear images that will allow you to zoom in to the product to see the detail of the socks. The following images depict the Mediven® Active sock and a leading competitor:     

• Attention to detail using elastic yet strong yarns is important for long-lasting socks with soothing comfort. You’ll know if your choice of sock has good attention to detail from a close look of the knit structure in the product imaging. You can see from the images below, a quality yarn looks smooth and strong. If the sock material looks to be loosely knit then the quality of the fibers on the sock may not be made from a long lasting material. Materials that have great yarns are usually made form nylon and spandex. Cotton is not as durable of a fiber, because it absorbs moisture and is susceptible to loosening yarns.

        Competitive product shown on the left, Mediven Active shown on the right

• Precise finishing on all seams is important for all day comfort and will not irritate the legs or skin. You want to purchase a product with a flat seem versus a ropey looking seam. This ensures the seam won't rub against your feet for comfort while walking. Materials that have an uncomfortable seam can be made of polyester and cotton which aren’t as easy to create a precise finish with machine techniques. Flat seems are created by quality machine techniques that are used by market leading and trusted manufacturers.

 Competitive product shown on the left, Mediven Active shown on the right

• It is also important to make sure your sock is breathable with excellent moisture regulation for all temperatures. Having the ability to see the open mesh pattern between seams and knits on the product while shopping online is important to know if the product will be breathable or not. Some feature lists also describe knit fabrics which may be breathable like nylon and spandex. These types of fabrics are more expensive for brands to use, but create the perfect sock with all around comfort. They have quality yarn that helps wick moisture which allows the sock to evaporate excess dampness. This process would not be as successful in a thicker material sock like cotton.     

• Look for a soft padded foot for all day comfort. Take a look at the product online to see if there is a good amount of thickness for foot support. If the image doesn’t quite show it, there may be a description below the product describing the detail for the foot of the sock.

The Mediven Active checks all the boxes for an elite compression sock.  Available in gray, black and white as well as two compression levels, 15-20 mmHg and 20-30 mmHg. The quality of this product shines through providing tremendous value that should outlast its 6-month warranty.  Perfect for healthcare professionals, teachers or anyone who spends long hours on their feet.  All Medi products come with a 30-day comfort wearing guarantee to ensure 100% customer satisfaction.

This blog was written by guest contributor Kelsey Berens. 

Some of us don’t have the option to go sock-less when the weather heats up. We HAVE to wear compression socks or stockings all year long. So, what are the best compression socks options for staying cool and comfortable during the summer months? We think fabric choice is the most important decision in selecting summer compression socks and stockings. Here’s what we suggest if you’re looking for breathable socks and stockings for summer: 

1. Cotton is a natural fiber that’s ideal for hot months. It lets air in and quickly wicks away any moisture on your skin. It’s also perfect for anyone who has sensitive skin. A few cotton options to explore:

• Sigvaris Sea Island Cotton socks for Men and Women are available in 15-20 mmHg and 20-30 mmHg. These Sigvaris socks are great for spring and summer because they are made with a soft and breathable cotton fabric.
• Allegro Allegro Italian Cotton Knee High are made of luxurious Italian cotton – imported just for your summer sock needs! Also available in 20-30 mmHg and with an open toe (for your flip flops!)
• For more stylish cotton options, check out the try the Allegro Men’s Mosaic Cotton Compression Sock or the Allegro Women's Mosaic Cotton Compression Sock. Both with 20-30 mmHg of graduated compression 

2. Microfiber is another great summer fabric for socks. It’s soft, stretchy and breathable. It also wicks away moisture from the skin to keep you cool and comfortable. Some people will choose microfiber over cotton because it’s a thinner fabric, which can be better for dress shoes.

• The Allegro Microfiber collection includes socks, thigh highs, and pantyhose to meet all your compression needs at an affordable price! Choose from 8-15, 15-20 and 20-30 mmHg compression levels. Made from a soft, comfortable fabric.
• Sigvaris Midtown Microfiber for Men is a collection of men’s knee high socks in 15-20, 20-30 and 30-40 mmHg. These latex-free socks are super stretchy and durable. Looking for stripes? Try Sigvaris Shades for men and women, available in 15-20 and 20-30 mmHg in a variety of striped patterns and heather colors.
• Sigvaris Soft Opaque for Women is a line of stylish compression wear that comes in a wide variety of colors. It features an advanced moisture management system that keeps legs cool and dry.
• The EASE Microfiber Collection by Therafirm comes in knee highs, thigh highs and pantyhose in a variety of colors and compression levels. EASE by Therafirm is available in microfiber, opaque and sheer fabrics with a closed or open toe style.

3. Silver and Copper infused fabrics are another great addition to your summer wardrobe. Silver and copper will eliminate any dangers of stinky, sweaty summer feet because it kills the bacteria around your feet. Additionally, the fibers in these socks have thermodynamic properties so you will stay cooler in the summer.

• Juzo Silver Socks are the best of the best. Socks are available in anklets, crew length, knee highs, and thigh highs. Compression options range from zero to 30-40 mmHg.
• Allegro Athletic Copper Support Socks has copper, (which kills 99.9% of bacteria), embedded in the foot bed. This soft, ribbed sock is made with a heavily padded foot and features a fitted toe to prevent blisters and irritation. This durable sock is affordable and is great for summer runs!

4. Sheer stockings are great for summer! We offer a wide variety of sheer, open toe stockings for those of you who want stockings that are less visible for summertime. Customer favorites for warm, humid climates are:

• Mediven Sheer and Soft: Available in 4 different compression levels and a wide variety of sizing, both male and female customers love this line of breathable sheers. A customer in Georgia said, “Living in the south, the summer is very hot and humid but I don’t like to go without hose to work. Compression hose are often uncomfortable hot on a humid day but these are terrific. I can’t say enough about the comfort.”
• Allegro Essential Sheers: Available in 3 compression levels, with many open toe and wide calf options, these stockings are a great affordable option for summer-time wear. Even our customers in Santa Fe are raving about them, “With it being summer, I wanted something I could still wear sandals with. These open-toe stockings are the answer!  And they are sheer…I have had several people comment that they couldn’t even notice I was wearing them.”

Additional Options: The compression experts have been creating their own technologies and materials to keep you cool. Check out these additional, moisture-wicking and skin-cooling fabric options:

• Mediven Comfort for Women: Medi’s patented Climafresh and Clima-Comfort systems allow for high breathability, reliable temperature control and the prevention of odor formation.
• Therafirm Ease: Made of high stretch, moisture wicking CoolMax fibers to provide all-day dry, comfortable coolness. Available in knee high, thigh high, and pantyhose. This line is also available with open toes and an even thinner sheer fabric.
• Go for a run or hit the gym in Jobst Active compression socks, available in black and white. Wear 20-30 mmHg to enhance performance or wear 15-20 mmHg to speed up muscle recovery or help relieve fatigue and swelling after your workout. Now available in full-calf sizes!
• Core-Spun Patterned Compression Socks come in a variety of stylish patterns in 4 compression levels for men and women. These socks are made with an ultra stretchy fabric and CoolMax polyester to make them nice and cool!

Armsleeves: For those of you who wear armsleeves during the summer, we have some great options for you too. Juzo  features a ton of fun patterned armsleeves, gloves and gauntlets. The best part is, these garments are made with a soft, moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cool and dry during the hotter months. 

Rock Your Summer Stockings In Style

Now that you have the basics down, here are some fashionable ways to pair compression with your favorite warmer-weather outfits.

When it's still a bit chilly outside, rock a pair of patterned compression socks with jeans and a tank top or t-shirt. Some of our favorite stylish brands include Sockwell, Sigvaris, and Rejuva.

Not ready to show off your untanned winter legs? Throw on a pair of sheer stockings with your short shorts or a dress for a polished look. There are patterned ones too for a fun vibe.

Looking for something a bit more casual but not boring black? Rock a pair of Sigvaris compression socks under your khakis for a punch of color this season!

If you’ve watched all the videos on properly putting on, or taking off your compression socks and you’re still having trouble, this blog is for you. Let’s face it – putting on and taking off compression stockings is a challenge. Don’t let your frustrations win out and give up, try out some of these tips, tricks and tools to help you get your socks on and off easily.

Let’s start with how to get your socks on. This video demonstrates three different ways to put your compression stockings on – the heel pocket method, wearing donning gloves, and using a stocking donner:

The heel pocket method is a great way to get on stockings made from a thick fabric or socks that provide a high level of compression (over 20 mmHg). Don sheer or less firm compression socks with donning gloves to protect delicate fabric from snags and runs. Donning gloves are great for anyone with limited hand mobility, arthritis, or have weak hands or fingers - it gives you a better grip on the fabric. Gloves are the easiest, cheapest and most effective tool available to help you put your compression socks on.

Wearing pantyhose? Here’s a helpful video on putting on compression pantyhose.

The Best Donning Gloves:

Donning gloves are a great assistant for getting socks on, as well as off. The Jobst donning glove is unique because it is actually a cotton mitt with the palm and fingers dipped in a latex solution to grip onto support hose. It is a loose fitting glove which can be easier to put on for people with limited hand mobility. On the downside, there are no ridges or nubs on the latex which limits its ability to move stockings up the leg. We have heard from customers that this glove wears out too quickly.

If you are sensitive or allergic to rubber (latex), try the latex free Juzo donning gloves. These gloves work well for protecting the fabric, but do not have any nubs to help grip the garment. If you want something that will get a strong hold on the sock, try these: Sigvaris Latex Free Donning Gloves.

The Medi glove has textured fingers and palms for additional gripping power to help you get the compression stocking over your foot and heel. Then you can use your palms to slide the hose up your legs rather than pulling. The Sigvaris glove is our highest-rated glove and features very pronounced ridges that makes it easy to don stockings and armsleeves. Here’s what our customer’s have to say about Sigvaris gloves:

“My donning gloves are my best friend in the mornings. I would not be able to get my socks on without them. I also use them to remove my socks in the evening. Great product. I have tried other gloves and have to go back to the Sigvaris brand.”

“These are the best donning gloves that I and/or my patients have found for compression stockings of all materials and compression amount. I have been working with patients who have Lymphedema and are required to wear high amounts of compression. It’s a struggle to get them on even when you have the strength and mobility, so these gloves are a great aide for everyone. The price is very reasonable compared to other compression stockings manufacturers.”

The Best Stocking Donners:

If you have trouble bending over or crossing your legs, stocking donners do the work for you. Donners come in regular and wide-calf sizes, as well as some for putting on armsleeves and pantyhose. Long story short – there’s a donning device to make anyone’s life easier! Stocking donners require patience and practice and are most useful for individuals who have trouble bending at the waist. Since there a lot of donners to choose from, we’ll cover our customer’s favorites.

Sigvaris launched the SIMON donning and doffing aid in 2018 – and it has been getting amazing feedback from customers. The SIMON is convenient for a number of reasons – its long arms are perfect for anyone with limited bend at the waist or strength in their hands and arms. Unlike many of the bulky donners on the market, it can fold down for easy storage or travel. It can be used for knee highs, pantyhose and thigh highs – it can also be used to help take your stockings OFF. This is available in four different sizes – based on your calf measurement. Check out the video below to see just how magical it is:

Here’s what our customers have to say about the SIMON aid:

“Very satisfied. Ordered it because I couldn't get thigh highs support hose on. Makes putting on both the thigh high and knee high stockings and quick and easy task.”

The Jobst and Medi stocking donner’s have the classic fixed style that our customers have been using for years. Simply stretch the stocking over the frame and step into the sock until your foot is on the floor. Slowly lift the handles to work the stocking up your leg. Both Jobst and Medi offer donners designed specifically for larger calves. Here’s how it works:

Once you master using the Juzo Slippie Gator, you’ll be incredibly happy with it. This tool is especially useful for customers who have a lot of trouble bending over to touch their feet. Using a leg sleeve with handles and a rubber foot pad, you’ll be able to quickly and comfortably pull your stocking on in minutes. Like the Doff ‘n Donner, the Gator can be used to put stockings on and take them off.

A healthcare worker told us, “I bought the Juzo Slippy Gator to try with some of my clients. Most people I work on can’t bend over, much less pull compression socks up. The Gator is a great tool and has moved two of my clients to independently donning their socks.”

Watch this video to learn how to use the Juzo Slippie Gator:

The Easy-Slide for Open-Toe Stockings is only available for open toe socks and stockings, but it is simple to use and makes putting open-toe socks on a breeze. It’s getting rave reviews from customers and therapists alike.

“This device makes placing compression stockings on my patients a breeze. No more pinching, no more struggling to place the stockings on the patient. Saves me quite a bit of time in my busy day.”

This video shows you how the Easy-Slide works:

Going somewhere? The Magnide Easy-Slide for Closed Toe Stockings is washable and easy to transport. This is one of the easiest closed toe stocking donners available. Here’s how it works:

The Juzo Slippie and the Easy-Slides for open and closed toe use slippery and durable “parachute” nylon fabric that you put on your leg and pull the stocking over. Using your new favorite donning gloves, work the stocking up the leg and pull the donning aid out from the top of the stocking or through the open toe. If you wear closed toe stockings, make sure you are using a donning aid designed specifically for closed toe style stockings.

Tips and Tricks:

Once the stocking is in the right position, use the palms of your hands to smooth out any wrinkles. Your stocking is applied correctly if the toe is in the toe box, the heel in the heel box and their are no wrinkles around the ankles or leg. Ideally, your knee-high should end about one inch below the crease in your knee. Never pull the stocking up the calf or thigh by just the top of the garment.

If you have swelling or edema, it is best to don your stockings early in the morning when you get out of bed. Our legs start to swell while we are standing and the compression stockings applied early will keep the swelling down throughout the day.

Before you put your compression socks on, apply baby powder, corn starch or Alps Fitting Lotion to help the stocking glide up your leg more easily. As an added bonus, this lotion protects sensitive skin and makes dry, chapped skin feel silky and smooth.

Help! I can’t get these compression socks off!

Now let’s talk about how to get your stockings off. Taking compression socks off can be as difficult as putting them on, especially when dealing with a higher compression, full length pantyhose or the heat of summer. First you want to grab them from the top of the stocking where the fabric is, NOT the top band. Grabbing them by the top band can cause them to rip so be sure you are holding the fabric of the stocking. Once you have a grip on the sock, slowly fold the stocking down your leg, similar to peeling a banana. Then, you should be able to slip it right off your foot. Here is a helpful video on how to take your compression socks off:

Stocking Doffers:

The gloves we mentioned above under Donning Gloves, not only help you get your stockings on, but can help you take them off as well. Same for the Sigvaris SIMON, and Doff N’ Donner, both of these aids assist in getting your stockings on and OFF! The Medi Butler Off works like a shoe horn in reverse, slide the horn into the top of your stocking and gently push down. As a bonus, it makes a great, long handled shoe horn too! Here’s what our customers have to say about the Medi Butler Off:

“Ingenious. Makes everything possible.”

“For me, this tool is the perfect length. A convenient handle for my hand. And the best for last, is that HOOK on the back,to push the stockings off. I feel like I have help now,(I just love that little hook!)”

The Sigvaris MELANY donning and doffing device for compression stockings is excellent for those with limited mobility. No more gripping the foot or extreme bending efforts are required when donning and doffing stockings. Height-adjustable grips adapt to body size. One customer said: 

"Neat product. I've used it for over a year. The socks go on easy and off even easier. Be sure to get the donning gloves also. They do make a difference"

Do you have another tool that helps or tips and tricks to share? Let us know in the “Comments” section. Check out all of our donning and doffing aides at lebontadipio. If you are still struggling or have questions, give us a call at (+31)262843975.

It can be really hard to find a sheer stocking that perfectly compliments your skin tone. Sigvaris recently added some new color options and gave us great tips on how to choose the perfect stocking. Check it out:

The Sigvaris EverSheer Collection comes in three compression levels and a variety of gorgeous sheer color options (as shown above). Choose from knee highs, thigh highs or pantyhose. EverSheer stockings are made with double-covered yarns for increased durability, ease of donning, and a less shiny appearance.

Now that you have a general idea of the sheer color you need, here are a few more brands to check out:

Another customer favorite is the Medi Sheer & Soft line. These knee highs, thigh highs and pantyhose come in a variety of colors and four compression levels. Made from a soft, moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cool and comfortable. Medi Sheer & Soft offers some of the sheerest hosiery on the market. These fabulous stockings are available in different lengths and maternity styles too!

The EASE Collection is relatively new to Therafirm. Available in Sheer, Opaque and Microfiber, the EASE line features soft, stretchy, and easy to don compression garments. These stockings are available in three compression levels and two lengths. Choose from a variety of colors to complete the perfect look.

The Jobst UltraSheer line is another customer favorite. These compression stockings come in knee highs, thigh highs, pantyhose and maternity options. Available in a variety of colors and come in two lengths. Made from a durable, lightweight fabric.

Looking for sheer stockings on a budget? Allegro comes in fewer color options, but offers sheer knee highs, thigh highs, pantyhose and maternity stockings at a very affordable price point. These soft, durable stockings come in three compression levels and are even safe to machine wash and dry! Full calf options are available.

If you still have questions about which sheer stocking is best for you, our team of certified fitters is happy to assist you. Just send us a an email or give us a call at (+31)262843975 M-F 9am-6pm EST. Thanks for reading!

Every trip wheter by car, train or plane, needs a pair or two of compression stockings.  Frequent flyer miles are great, but you don’t want to arrive for your dream vacation with sore, swollen legs and feet. The reason your legs and feet get so achy when traveling is that your muscles are not being flexed or used enough, and blood pools in your leg veins. This lack of fresh oxygenated blood can cause soreness and cramping in your legs, and swelling in your ankles and feet. If you’re at higher risk for blood clots, are overweight, or you have notoriously poor circulation, this could lead to more serious problems like Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).

There are a number of ways to increase circulation when you’re on a long flight. First, and most important is to get up and move! Stand up, shake your legs, and walk the aisles when possible. Unfortunately, that’s not always an option if the seat-belt light is on. The easiest way to increase circulation is by wearing compression socks or stockings, often called “travel socks.”  Travel socks provide graduated compression from your ankles to your knee. This increases circulation naturally, coaxing the blood to flow back to your heart, instead of getting trapped in your legs and feet. Here are a few things to look for when shopping for compression socks to take on your trip:

• Medical-grade compression socks will have a compression rating of 20-30 mmHg or 30-40 mmHg, but for traveling, it’s fine to wear socks that have a compression rating of 15-20 mmHg. (This is assuming you don’t suffer from other venous disease.) These ratings simply tell how tightly the compression socks will squeeze your leg (i.e. 15-20 mmHg is a lighter compression than 30-40 mmHg, which will feel much tighter on your legs and be more difficult to put on).
• Find socks that have graduated compression. This means that the compression will be tighter at the ankle, and will gradually become looser as the sock extends up your leg. This will help return blood to your heart.
• Pay attention to the material the socks are knit from. Travelers often prefer natural fibers like cotton, because they’re plush, absorb moisture, and are very comfortable.  Polyester, merino wool, and fabrics embedded with copper and silver are great for absorbing excess moisture on the skin, keeping your feet cool, and decreasing foot odor. No one wants stinky feet on a plane!
• Socks don’t have to be labeled as “Travel Socks” to be used on a long trip. You only need to find socks with a stated compression of 15-20 mmHg, and at least knee high.  If you prefer thigh-highs or tights, they work just as well in the same compression level.
• When you arrive at your destination, don't rush to take off your compression socks. Let your body acclimate to being out of the car or on the ground again before removing your socks. 

If you’re looking for the best quality compression socks at a great price, be sure to check out our full selection of Travel Socks.  If you think of compression socks as thick, flesh-colored tights your grandmother wears, you will be pleasantly surprised with these. No one will know you’re wearing compression!

Allegro Premium – Italian  Cotton Socks are a favorite among flight attendants – so you know they’re good!  Compression socks are great for everyday wear while traveling too.  They provide all day leg comfort while hiking, on city tours, and country walks.

The Medi Assure Knee High is a unisex sock that has 15-20 mmHg of compression. While it isn't available in a wide array of colors (Beige or Black), it does come in a wide variety of sizes. It is also available in an open or closed toe style. Plus they are machine wash and dry for easy care.

If you’re someone who likes to roam the plane in only socks during flight – try The Sockwell Circulator Stripe available in  men's and women's, with 15-20 mmHg compression and your choice of a variety of colors. These socks have a fun striped design you’ll want to show off! The Sockwell brand offers a wide variety of natural fiber blend socks that are a customer favorite.  We stock the full line, and there are colors and patterns available for every taste. 

Don’t travel without compression…. And Bon Voyage!

The Basics:

Here is a diagram of a Sockwell compression sock. This sock uses triple zone graduated compression, which means you feel the most pressure at the ankle and decreases moving towards the top of the leg. Sockwell compression socks are made with Merino Wool for moisture management and natural thermoregulation, which is great for working out or for those with sweaty feet. The seamless toe closure is designed to prevent irritation and is ideal for diabetics or people with sensitive feet. These socks feature a reinforced heel and toe for durability.

What features should I look for in a compression sock?

The features you want in a compression sock depend on what you find most comfortable and beneficial to you. There is a large variety of options to choose from, including the fabric material, color choice, sheer or opaque styles, open or closed toe, and so on. Start by measuring to determine what size you need. Some socks and stockings are available in short and long lengths, petite, wide calf and plus sizes for the best fit. Depending on the fabric material and compression level, some garments can be softer and more stretchy than others.

If you are worried about wear and tear, look for socks with a reinforced toe for durability. These socks are designed to prevent your toes from sticking through or holes appearing from rubbing against your shoes. However, socks with a reinforced heel or toe may be visibly darker in these areas in order to be stronger to provide more protection to the stocking.

The Allegro Essential – Sheer Support Knee Highs (#16) feature a reciprocated heel and balloon toe for added comfort. A reciprocated heel is knitted in to the stocking and contoured for a better fit. This is so the garment feels more natural and and doesn’t wear out as fast. A balloon toe gives you more wiggle room, which is great for those with sensitive feet.

The Allegro Essential – Sheer Support Knee Highs (#81) feature a sandalfoot, meaning the reinforced area does not stand out from the rest of the stocking. Compare this knee high to the #16 stocking above. This extremely sheer stocking is perfect to wear with flats or sandals since there is no dark toe or heel area.

What is a silicone top band?

Most knee high compression socks feature a wide knit top band that sits comfortably below your knee without digging in or squeezing.  If you have trouble with your compression socks falling down or rolling, you can choose a sock that is made with a silicone top band that gives a bit of extra grip. The Juzo Soft 20-30mmHg Knee High features a silicone band at the top to comfortably keep them in place all day. This is a great option for people with larger calves or if you move around a lot throughout the day.

If you want the strength of silicone without the feeling, check out the Jobst SoftFit and Sensitive Bands. These high-tech, breathable bands are made by cleverly knitting silicone threads into the top band to give you the power of silicone with the comfort and softness of a knit band.

How do compression socks benefit athletes?

The Core-Sport Compression Sock is made with a high-tech fabric that’s antimicrobial to prevent odor and also wicks moisture away from the skin while exercising. Core-Sport by Therafirm features arch protection for added support and a cushioned heel and foot to reduce impact. This sock provides 15-20mmHg graduated compression, which helps to increase circulation to reduce muscle fatigue and recovery time.

What’s the difference between compression socks and sleeves?

If you want the benefits of compression with the freedom to choose any shoe you want to wear, compression sleeves may be for you. However, to get the full benefits of recovery, compression socks are your go-to. Socks more effectively increase circulation to prevent and provide relief for swelling and fatigue, whereas sleeves only cover your ankle up to your knee. But for a nice run or when you hit the gym, compression sleeves are great to wear. Check out this great Zensah infographic to see what’s best for you:

Still have questions? Comment below!

Donning (putting on) and doffing (taking off) compression hosiery can be difficult. Especially for people who have difficulty bending at the waist or with limited hand dexterity. This is especially true if you must wear a compression level over 20mmHg.

There are a lot of “donning aids” available but some are better than others. Based on feedback from our customers we recommend the following, in no particular order:

1. Easy-Slide for Open Toe Stockings
2. Magnide Easy-Slide for Closed Toe Stockings
3. Alps Fitting Lotion (open or closed toe)
4. Compression Assist (open or closed toe)
5. Mediven 2in1 (open or closed toe)
6. Juzo Slippie Gator with Pad (open or closed toe)

Except for the fitting lotions (3 & 4 above), these all use a very slippery and durable “parachute” nylon fabric that you place on your leg and then pull the stocking over. Using rubber donning gloves, you work the stocking up the leg and then pull the donning aid out from the top of the stocking or through the open toe. If you wear closed toe stockings, it is important to use a donning aid designed to work with closed toe stockings.

We now have instructional donning videos on our website for the Easy-Slides, Mediven 2in1, stocking donners and a donning video using the “heel pocket” method. You can watch the videos before you make a purchase to determine if the donning aid is right for you. And you might want to watch again after you receive your purchase to ensure you’re using the device properly.

Do you have any donning or doffing tips? Let us know!

Pete@lebontadipio
Google+

The heel pocket method works very well for stockings that are thicker or have a lot of compression. Sheer and less firm stockings are best put on with donning gloves. The gloves protect the delicate fabric from snags and runs and gives you a better grip on the fabric.

Here's how to put your socks on in 4 simple steps:

Step 1:

With the sock turned right side out, reach inside and grab the heel of the stocking.

Step 2:

Holding onto the heel of the sock, turn it inside out, stopping at the heel. This creates a "pocket" to stick your foot into.

Step 3:

Slide your foot all the way into the sock, just over the back of the heel. Adjust the toe and heel areas to make sure they are in the right place. Make sure the sock isn't twisted around!

Step 4:

Grab the top of the sock and pull it over your heel and up your leg. The sock should rest about two finger-widths below the crease of your knee.

Other Options:

The metal frame Stocking Donner is a great solution if you have difficulty bending or crossing your legs. Stocking Donners are available in regular size, wide-calf size and even a specially designed two-leg donner for pantyhose.

Need more help? Check out this video on how to quickly and easily don your compression socks:

Pete@lebontadipio
Google+

First, you pre-position the stocking over a wide circular metal frame. You begin the donning process by using your leg muscles and gravity to step into the stocking until your foot is flat on the floor. Next, grab hold of the donner’s handles and pull up, pulling the stocking up your leg. It sounds easy to use, and really is, but figuring out how to use the device can be difficult. Now you can watch a short 1 minute video demonstration.

There are 4 different stocking donners available. The Jobst Stocking Donner is the most basic and priced at $26.95. If you have average sized legs and a moderate amount of mobility this donner should work for you.

Individuals with big legs will need the Medi Big Butler. The big butler has an extra wide frame to accommodate wide calves and is priced at $59.95.

The Vario Donning Butler by Medi has adjustable height handles. Perfect for people with difficulty bending or limited mobility.

Finally there is the Medi Double Butler, which is made for stepping into both legs of pantyhose.

Whichever butler you choose, they all work in the same way and after watching our video you’ll be donning your stockings like a pro.

Pete@lebontadipio
Google+

There are a lot of donning aids available but some are better than others. Based on feedback from our customers we recommend the following, in no particular order:

1. Easy-Slide for Open Toe Stockings
2. Easy-Slide for Closed Toe Stockings
3. Alps Fitting Lotion (open or closed toe)
4. Mediven 2in1 (open or closed toe)
5. Juzo Slippie Gator with Pad (open or closed toe)

Except for the fitting lotion, these all use a very slippery and durable “parachute” nylon fabric that you place on your leg and then pull the stocking over. Using rubber donning gloves, you work the stocking up the leg and then pull the donning aid out from the top of the stocking or through the open toe. If you wear closed toe stockings, it is important to use a donning aid that works with closed toe stockings.

We now have instructional videos on our website for the Easy-Slide for open toe, Easy-Slide for closed toe, and the Mediven 2in1. You can watch the videos before you make a purchase to determine if the donning aid is right for you. And you might want to watch again after you receive your purchase to ensure you’re using the device properly.

Getting compression hosiery off can also be a challenge. We now offer the Sock-Eez Removal Device. Slide the plastic paddle between your leg and stocking. Place the hook over the top hem of the stocking. While sitting you straighten your leg and push down on the Sock-Eez to push the stocking off. This device takes advantage of muscles in your upper body and does not rely on just tugging with your hands, which can cause strain and damage the fabric.

Do you have any donning or doffing tips? Let us know!