Our editors have tested the best compression socks for long-haul flights.

These socks carried me through pregnancy—some time around the seven-month mark (with twins, no less) when I was measuring full-term and basically unable to reach my poor, swollen feet anymore, the compression socks I’d been using to prevent swelling became a complete necessity. Enter Comrad, which are stretchy in a way where they retain a broader shape before you even put them on; this meant my husband, sister, mom—whoever was around, really—could help me get them on so much more easily than with any of the other brands I owned, and I even finagled getting them on myself a few times when I was in a pinch (which is truly an Olympic-level feat when you’re the size of someone nine months pregnant). All four pairs of Comrads I own are in my hospital bag. I will leave the other models to be used when I am more mobile. —Shannon McMahon, senior destinations editor

Compression level15-25 mmHg

These compression socks were worn on my flights between NYC and Rome, as well as a few domestic trips. I love that you’re able to purchase them in a set of three with multiple colors depending on which goes best with your outfit—and when my travel companions both forgot their pairs, I was happy to share! After the flight I did feel constrained and uncomfortable, as compression socks do when working properly. However, I appreciated that they didn’t make me in pain or have to take them off right away. The fabric was comfortable, durable and easy for me to pull on. —Jamie Spain, travel bookings editor

Compression level15 mmHg

This pair of 2XU compression socks is also a favorite. The other compression socks I have tried were extremely tight, and sometimes difficult to get on. This pair does the job, but are less hardcore in terms of pressure—meaning I can wear them more often. I almost forget that I’m wearing these socks. I also love the super sleek, streamlined design—some compression socks look like they’re medically issued, but I like that these are just black socks. —M.S.

I bought my compression socks at the last minute. Just a few days before my flight to South Africa—on a lengthy New York–to-Nairobi-to–Cape Town flight path—I realized I should probably bring a pair along to wear on the planes. Amazon Prime had this pair with a 4.4 rating and more than 50,000 customer reviews. I decided to buy it. They turned out to work extremely well, and I’ve worn them on every international or cross-country flight since. At 20-30 mmHg, the knee-high socks do take a bit of effort to pull on, but are not overly tight, and I can feel the difference in my calves almost immediately. I chose a classic striped pattern, but these socks are available in all kinds of colors and designs. —Madison Flager, commerce director

Compression level: 20-30mmHg

I’m a newbie to compression socks. Since I used to think they would squeeze my legs and pinch them, I stayed away from them. These $20 compression socks were a great buy on a recent flight from Alberta to Canada. They offer a medium level of support and feel just right—tight enough without being too much to wear for hours. They are super soft and comfortable, which is what I like most about them. They are soft and gentle on my skin. They kept me warm during the cold flight, but also left my legs free of pain. I will definitely wear them on flights from now. —Meaghan Kenny, commerce editor

Compression level: 15-25 mmHg

Copper Fit socks have always been my go-to for long distance travel, and especially flying. They make me feel so comfortable after a 15+-hour flight. Like any compression socks, these fit snugly, but getting into and adjusting them is easy—no wrestling out stubborn wrinkles necessary. The weave still feels secure after three years, even with dozens of washings, weekend runs and long-haul flights. I’ve heard from family members that have the same pair in different sizes and they say the sizing chart was accurate. These socks are also durable for them. Although this pair of socks is only available black and white, a line for women has a variety of colorful athletic options. —Kat ChenEditorial Assistant

Compression levelNot listed

They are compression sleeves that cover your calf. They’re more like compression sleeves that cover your calf—because sometimes that’s all you need. These are great for recovery and muscle support. I wear them at home after a hard workout. Also, they’re perfect for traveling. A compression calf-sleeve was the perfect solution for me when I wanted a flashy ankle at an airport. It offered both style and swollen-reduction. This can also be useful for those who want to compress their leg, but need their foot to remain free. —Matt Ortile, associate editor