According to Dr. Valjee, there are three main levels of compression, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg): Ajit Chaudhari, associate professor of physical therapy, orthopedics, mechanical engineering, and biomedical engineering at the Ohio State University, phone interview, July 13, 2017 People who travel long distances. When you sit for prolonged periods, your circulation declines. That can increase swelling and your risk for blood clots, Dr. Valjee says, noting that people who travel by plane are especially at risk because of the high cabin pressure during flights. Borkow G, Gabbay J. Putting copper into action: copper-impregnated products with potent biocidal activities. FASEB J. 2004;18(14):1728-1730.

Compression level: 15-20 mmHg | Materials: Nylon, elastane, polyester and spandex | Sizes: S-M and M-LThis two-pair bundle by Hatch is made from a blend of nylon and elastane with a compression level of 15-20 mmHg. They’re designed for everyday wear, whether at work or on the go, as well as for travel. Choose between two size options based on your calf circumference. Raetz J, Wilson M, Collins K. Varicose veins: diagnosis and treatment. Am Fam Physician. 2019;99(11):682-688. Compression level: 15-20 mmHg | Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane and nylon | Sizes: Men’s M-XL, Women’s S-L

Grace Wu most recently updated this article. She's a Textiles Product Review Analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute who oversaw recent in-Lab and consumer tests. Prior to joining GH, Grace earned a Master of Engineering in Materials Science & Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Fiber Science from Cornell University.Compression level: 20-30 mmHg | Materials: Cotton, elastic, spandex, nylon and polyester | Sizes: S-L