Buying
Compression socks sizing guide
Updated 2026-09-08 · 8 min read · All guides
General information only — not medical advice. If you are unsure whether compression is suitable, ask a clinician first.
Why size matters
Too loose and you get little useful pressure. Too tight and you risk discomfort, pinching, or worse — especially around the cuff. Brand charts differ, so measure yourself rather than guessing from shoe size alone.
What to measure
- Ankle circumference — usually at the narrowest point above the ankle bone
- Calf circumference — at the widest part of the calf
- Sometimes calf length or height for knee-high styles
Measure in the morning if your legs tend to swell later in the day, and follow the brand's own instructions.
Fit checklist
- Smooth fabric with no large wrinkles
- Cuff secure but not painfully tight
- Toes can move; no numbness or colour change
- You can put them on without extreme struggle (some firmness is normal)
When to stop and seek advice
Remove the socks and speak to a clinician if you get persistent pain, tingling, cold toes, skin breaks, or increasing swelling. Do not "push through" warning signs.