Anthony Maritato, a licensed physical therapist, says, “Compression socks are a great option for anyone who works behind a computer all day. Compression socks support the lymphatic system. Our body is designed to move. Movement creates muscle contractions in the foot and ankle which helps to pump lymphatic fluid back into the the body’s natural detoxification system. If we spend hours sitting or standing in one place, our lymphatic system cannot do its job and a compression sock may help to reduce some of the fluid accumulation in the lower legs. As a physical therapist I frequently recommend over the counter compression socks for clients who experience increased swelling or foot pain at the end of the day. These compression socks may also help improve muscle recovery after a high intensity workout as they will help reduce blood pooling in the foot and ankle during a post workout recovery.” Strained ankles experience shocks while performing day-to-day activities that lead to constant blood flow to your toes, resulting in ankle or foot swelling. And compression socks are best known to provide faster recovery. They improve blood and oxygen circulation while preventing and reducing swelling. Additionally, the socks are highly recommended for post-surgery or injury recovery. These socks would help you even after workouts, everyday errands, outdoor activities, and sports. They help relieve pain caused by minor fractures, swelling, sprained ankle, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, arthritis, etc. Keep scrolling to check out the ideal 13 picks listed below.

13 Best Ankle Compression Socks

1. Best Moisture-Wicking Fabric: CWVLC Athletic Ankle Compression Socks

The CWVLC Athletic Ankle Compression Socks give you high stretchability for quick and easy wearing and removal. These ankle-high compression socks are made from a blend of nylon, moisture-wicking fabric, elastic, and spandex. They boost blood circulation, give optimum arch support, and prevent swelling. The pair fits your feet perfectly and prevents blisters, bunching, or slipping. The moisture-wicking fabric keeps your feet dry and clean, maintains a good air-flow channel to prevent sweating, and keeps odor at bay. It also absorbs shock and gives proper cushioning and a comfortable feel. It has left and right leg with précised design according to the plantar. These versatile ankle-high compression socks are most preferred by athletes, trainers, and people who often indulge in running, hiking, biking, gym workouts, or other outdoor activities. Key Specifications:

Material: 53% Nylon, 29% Moisture-Wicking Fabric, 13% Elastic, and 5% Spandex Sizes Available: Small, Medium, Large, and X-Large Color: Watermelon Pack Contains: 3 Pairs

Pros

Breathable fabric Comfortable for long hours Soft and cushioning effect Anti-odor feature Easy to wear and remove Moisture-wicking Highly stretchable Machine washable

Cons

Average quality May stretch out a bit after a few washes

2. Best Anti-Odor: Toes&Feet Anti-Sweat Ankle Compression Socks

The Toes&Feet Anti-Sweat Ankle Compression Socks are stylish and highly comfortable for everyday use. They are made off cotton, spandex, polyester, and nylon blend. They are anti-odor, moisture-wicking, lightweight, and breathable which makes them ideal for wearing them for long hours. They feature compression arch support, has easy-to-pull front and back tabs that also look stylish. The snug fit of these ankle compression socks helps in keeping your feet secured, reduces lactic acid build up, and ensures fast muscle recovery. The toe area is designed to give your feet a shape while giving it enough room to move your toes to avoid blisters. Key Specifications:

Material: 30% Cotton, 30% Spandex, 20% Polyester, and 20% Nylon Sizes Available: Small, Medium, and Large Color: Red Pack Contains: 2 Pairs

Pros

Anti-odor material Moisture-wicking Durable Lightweight Breathable Secured and snug fit Comfortable and soft Machine washable

Cons

The size chart runs small.

3. Best Open-Toe Design: KEMFORD Ankle Compression Sleeve

The KEMFORD Ankle Compression Sleeve is a lightweight and breathable sleeve that is suitable for everyday use. It is made of a nylon and spandex blend which makes it highly stretchable yet fits snugly and securely with a 20-30mmHg compression. With an open toe design, these socks relieve you from severe pain by providing proper arch support from heel to toe. They are highly recommended for those who suffer constantly due to Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, surgery or injury, sprained ankle, edema, heel spurs, varicose veins, fallen arches, lymphedema, and swollen ankles. These socks reduce soreness, inflammation, and swelling. They also ease fatigue and improves blood flow. They can be used during running, hiking, jogging, dancing, cycling, or gym workouts or by healthcare workers, teachers, and retail workers. Key Specifications:

Material: 75% Nylon, and 25% Spandex Sizes Available: Small, Medium, Large, and X-Large Color: Beige Pack Contains: 1 Pair

Pros

Comfortable and snug fit Durable Stretchable Easy to wear and remove Lightweight and breathable Moisture-wicking Suitable for men and women

Cons

Sizing issues

4. Best For Achilles Tendonitis: TechWare Pro Ankle Brace

The TechWare Pro Ankle Brace acts as one of the best ankle stabilizers for post-surgery and post-injury recovery. It is made from a blend of nylon and spandex. It is super thin yet highly supportive. It keeps you comfortable even when you wear it for long hours. It stretches 4-ways and gives your feet a snug and secure fit with full mobility and maximum compression. It works like a boon for those suffering from constant ankle pain, sprains, fractures, arthritis, swelling, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, or even ligament tear. It helps in bringing down swelling, improves blood circulation, and helps in faster recuperation. It also aids in treating edema, bunion, and bursitis. The high-quality fabric is breathable, moisture-wicking, ultra-soft, and comfortable. If you are into extensive exercises, dancing, cycling, etc., these ankle compression sleeves are a must-have! Key Specifications:

Material: 80% Nylon, and 20% Spandex Sizes Available: S / M, L / XL, and XXL Color: Black Pack Contains: 1 Pair

Pros

Lightweight and breathable Moisture-wicking Ergonomic design 4-way stretching ability No-slip snug fit Versatile Easy to wear and remove Durable Available in 8 colors

Cons

Not suitable for machine wash May stretch out a bit after a few uses

5. Best For Promoting Blood Circulation: PAPLUS Ankle Compression Sock

The PAPLUS Ankle Compression Sock is a thin, moisture-wicking, and highly comfortable pair of socks ideal for everyday use. It is ideal for ankle swelling, improving blood circulation, reducing fatigue, and faster injury recovery. The socks are made from nylon and spandex. They allow a full range of comfortable movement and joint flexibility while preventing blood pooling and foot pain. The socks provide sturdy and strong targeted compression of 15-20mmHg and are designed to promote consistent oxygen flow to your feet to prevent cramps and help in quick muscle recovery. They keep your feet secured at the right angle to reduce sports injuries while providing ankle support. The fabric keeps your feet dry and cool, which makes it a great choice for those who are active in sports, gym workouts, yoga, running, or are into other outdoor activities. Check out the review of this product on YouTube to know why it is one of the best out there. Key Specifications:

Material: Nylon and Spandex Sizes Available: Small – Medium, and Large – X Large Color: Black and Grey Pack Contains: 4 Pairs

Pros

Targeted compression Ideal for post surgeries and injuries Easy to wear and remove Lightweight and breathable Moisture-wicking Durable Suitable for machine wash

Cons

Uncomfortable at the toes

6. Best For Arch Support: TechWare Pro Ankle Compression Socks

The TechWare Pro Ankle Compression Socks fit your feet like a second skin. These compression socks can be used if you suffer from a sprained ankle, Plantar Fasciitis, swelling, fractures, Achilles tendonitis, arthritis, and other foot fatigued issues. These compression socks brace the splint area to relieve ankle, heel, and arch pain. The nylon and spandex blend used to make these socks provide optimum compression and support to your feet and help you with faster healing and recovery. The fabric is thin, breathable, moisture-wicking, and soft. The socks have an anatomical left and right design that give you a snug and proper fit. They are ideal for those who are often into gym workouts, kickboxing, gymnastics, martial arts, dance, cycling, or any athletic fitness sport. Key Specifications:

Material: 80% Nylon, and 20% Spandex Sizes Available: Small, Medium, Large, and X-Large Color: Black / Grey Pack Contains: 1 Pair

Pros

Versatile Moisture-wicking Easy to wear and remove Lightweight and breathable Suitable for men and women

Cons

The size may run small.

7. Best For Targeted Compression: PAPLUS Low Cut Compression Ankle Socks

The PAPLUS Low Cut Compression Ankle Socks are made of nylon which has high elasticity and stretching abilities. This sock is designed to provide targeted arch compression that makes your feet feel secure and stable. The soft and durable material, knitted in unique mesh techniques, has sweat-wicking properties that keep your feet fresh and dry. These socks help improve blood flow for faster and better maneuverability using less energy. They provide consistent oxygen flow to prevent fatigue, cramping, swelling, and muscle spasm. The arches of these ankle compression socks are designed with a Y-like pattern to provide support for the medial and lateral sides of the foot. This pair of socks can be a good choice for those who actively participate in sports, gym workouts, yoga, running, walking, or are up on their feet for long hours. Key Specifications:

Material: Nylon Sizes Available: Small – Medium, and Large – X Large Color: Black, White, and Gray Pack Contains: 6 Pairs

Pros

Durable Breathable and highly ventilated Y-design for arch support Versatile use Easy to wear and remove Moisture-wicking Suitable for machine wash

Cons

Expensive Extremely thin

The smooth toe seam construction does not cause discomfort and even reduces the friction and abrasion that leads to causing blisters. The reinforced heel and toe provide your feet with support and compression with cushioning effect for athletic performances. In this YouTube video, you will find a detailed review of this product. Key Specifications:

Material: 60% Cotton, 32% Polyester, 5% Nylon, and 3% Elastane Sizes Available: Small, Medium, and Large Color: Black Pack Contains: 6 Pairs

Pros

Comfortable Lightweight and breathable Easy to wear and remove Cushioning zone Durable Stays in place Machine washable

Cons

Prone to shrinking after wash

9. Best For Power Support Technology: Crucial Compression Foot & Ankle Compression Sleeves

For all-in-one protection, compression, and faster recovery, try the Crucial Compression Foot & Ankle Compression Sleeves. This pair is made from nylon, rubber, spandex that fits your feet like a glove and gives it instant support and relief. With Power Support technology, this ankle compression sleeve improves circulation and provides secure support in all the targeted places. It works perfectly for those going through post-surgery or injury pain, arthritis, sprains, swelling, Achilles tendonitis, or any other ankle-related pain. The sleeves are lightweight and breathable. The ergonomic design does not obstruct blood circulation or oxygen flow. The socks are thin enough to be worn with shoes without restricting your mobility or causing discomfort. This pair of ankle compression sleeves is ideal for walking, hiking, workout, jog, or cycling. It is also suitable for athletes who perform cross-fit, fitness, training, soccer, football, tennis, or any other sports activities. Key Specifications:

Material: Nylon, Rubber, and Spandex Sizes Available: Small, Medium, and Large Color: Pink Pack Contains: 1 Pair

Pros

Breathable Flexible and stretchable Comfortable Versatile Ideal for men and women Easy to wear and remove Affordable Durable Ergonomic design

Cons

May have sizing issues

10. Best Cushioned Heel Tab Design: Geyoga Compression Ankle Socks

The Geyoga Compression Ankle Socks are made of breathable nylon and have a reinforced cushioning design for heel and toes. They help in reducing fatigue, strain, swelling, and cramps while helping muscle recovery for those who work out intensely or are an athlete. The breathable and comfortable fabric also has sweat-wicking properties that keep your feet dry and cool even when worn for long hours. This pair of socks has a comfortable elastic band at the arch part, which prevents your socks from moving or slipping off easily. Key Specifications:

Material: Nylon Sizes Available: Socks sizes 9 to 11 Color: Multicolor Pack Contains: 10 Pairs

Pros

Soft and comfortable Breathable and ventilated Anti-skid Versatile Easy to wear and remove Durable

Cons

Expensive

11. Best For All Day Long: TechWare Pro Ankle Compression Socks

For Therapy Grade Cushioning effect and strong compression at 20-30mmhg, try the TechWare Pro Ankle Compression Socks. These are the best compression socks for ankle swelling as they target the concerned areas with their cushioning effect and help in relieving pain. For those who stand all day long, or walk a lot and face constant ankle inflammation, these ankle compression socks can come to your rescue! It also supports those suffering from Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis and helps in providing optimum shock absorption for maximum comfort. These compression socks provide ample ventilation to keep you cool and dry. They also have anti-skip strips which prevent the socks from slipping, bunching, rolling down, or moving. The ergonomic design of the socks fits in an optimal ankle sleeve alignment, provides maximum comfort, and prevents blisters and friction. The socks are best suited for those who play athletic sports like basketball, soccer, hiking, tennis, volleyball, kickboxing, gymnastics, martial arts, cross-fit, cycling, or any other outdoor activity. Key Specifications:

Material: 80% Nylon, and 20% Spandex Sizes Available: Small, Medium, Large, and X-Large Color: Black / Grey Pack Contains: 1 Pair

Pros

Durable Stretchable Easy to wear and remove Lightweight and breathable Suitable for men and women No-slip snug fit Versatile

Cons

Not comfortable for long-hour use

12. Best For Muscle Recovery: Aoliks Copper Ankle Compression Socks

With light compression and thorough arch support, the Aoliks Copper Ankle Compression Socks are sure to be your favorite pair of socks! They are made of nylon, spandex, and copper fiber that helps in eliminating feet odor. They are lightweight, breathable, snug-fitted, and have amazing moisture-wicking qualities that keep your feet dry and breezy. The mild compression caters to improving the blood flow, oxygen flow, thus preventing cramping, fatigue, swelling, along with faster muscle recovery, and plantar fasciitis. The double welt top, heel, and toe design make these ankle compression socks comfortable for long-hour use. Key Specifications:

Material: 85% Nylon, 8% Copper Fiber, and 7% Spandex Sizes Available: Small – Medium, and Large – X-Large Color: 01 Beige Black Pack Contains: 5 Pairs

Pros

Durable Comfortable for long hours Soft and ventilated Lightweight Moisture-wicking Anti-odor Easy to wear and remove Ergonomic design Suitable for men and women

Cons

Extremely light compression

13. Best For Seamless Toe Coverage: Physix Gear Sport Low Cut Ankle Compression Socks

The Physix Gear Sport Low Cut Ankle Compression Socks provide your feet with the perfect balance of compression and comfort. They are made from polyester and spandex that mold to the curves of your feet and fit them seamlessly. They support your heels and arch while giving a seamless toe coverage. The moisture-wicking material keeps your feet dry, sweat-free, and odor-free and eliminates friction causing blisters. It gives a proper ventilation to keep your feet comfortable and dry during the hot climate. They are one of the best compression socks for ankle swelling, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and heel spurs. They instantly reduce fatigue, cramping, and swelling in your feet, thus helping you walk, run, or hike comfortably. For those suffering from injuries, or underwent surgery, these ankle compression socks help in faster healing with optimum support. Key Specifications:

Material: 60% Polyester, and 40% Spandex Sizes Available: Small, Medium, and Large Color: Black and Grey Pack Contains: 2 Pairs

Pros

Affordable Ideal for men and women Snug fit Comfortable for hot weather Anti-odor and anti-sweat Stretchable and breathable Convenient to wear and remove Machine washable

Cons

Prone to ripping easily The seams may cause slight discomfort.

Ankle compression socks are a relief for anyone dealing with an ankle strain. Sports enthusiasts generally prefer wearing these lightweight socks as they provide additional support and cushion to the ankle while resisting sudden shocks. Here is a buying guide to assist you in knowing what features to look for when buying the best ankle compression socks.

What To Consider When Buying Ankle Compression Socks – Buying Guide

Size

Your ideal size is the first thing to consider while looking for the perfect pair of ankle compression socks. Opt for ankle compression socks that give a snug fit, remove easily, and do not slip from your feet. In addition, they should be comfortable enough with high stretchability to avoid further injury and accidents such as stumbling or falling. Consider checking the manufacturer’s size chart to know your size before you buy them.

Material

While purchasing the best ankle compression socks, go for a breathable and moisture-wicking material. Though not all ankle socks are 100% cotton, they are blended with other fabrics like spandex, polyester, nylon, or elastane to keep your feet cool while working or exercising. In contrast, always watch out for pure spandex or nylon that may cause skin irritation and are not moisture-wicking.

Versatility

Look for multifunctional compression socks, suitable for long periods of standing or even for outdoor or gym activities, athletes, cycling, or jogging. With minimal cost, a pair of ankle compression socks can be used for various tasks.

Length

These compression socks have many lengths, including no-show, micro, tiny crew, over-the-calf, and open-toe styles. Although there is no set rule, and you can decide based on personal desire, choose the length based on the activities. For example, opt for no-show socks for running, cycling, and gym workouts, and mini-crew or crew-length socks can be worn for winter activities. At the same time, the-calf socks can be used in mountainous places to shield yourself from the harsh heat.

Additional info

Look for additional features in ankle compression socks to get the most out of them. Anti-odor socks can keep your feet odor free and fresh for long hours. Also, look for socks that give maximum compression and improve blood flow. They help in easing blood flow to the heart. A comfortable elastic band is an important factor. Staying on your feet for long hours or excessive walking may cause ankle swelling. So you need the best ankle compression socks. They are an ideal way to faster recovery from certain injuries or post-surgery. In addition, these are ideal for relieving pressure on your ankles and preventing ankle swelling. It would be a great help to invest in a good pair of ankle compression socks to boost blood circulation and minimize sports injury. However, restrain from using socks that cause discomfort to your feet.

Why Trust Stylecraze

The author of this article, Aditi Naskar, has a diploma in health and wellness, and she believes that physical activity is essential to keep you healthy. So she brings her readers research-based products. She went through hundreds of reviews on online forums and followed various key specifications of the products. And the ankle compression socks listed above provide fast healing and support to wear for long hours. Do compression socks help ankles? Yes. Compression socks prevent your ankles from getting tired or achy. They also improve blood flow and reduce swelling. Are compression socks good for a sprained ankle? Yes, a compression sock will reduce the ache and swelling of your sprained ankle faster. What are the best compression socks for swollen ankles? The CWVLC Athletic Ankle Compression Socks reduce swelling in your ankles. Can compression socks improve your running performance? Yes, compression socks reduce the ache and prevent your ankles from getting tired. They help improve your running performance. How can compression socks alleviate ankle swelling? Compression socks will squeeze your ankle area to prevent fluid development in the tissues and alleviate ankle swelling. What does 15-20 mmHg mean for compression socks? 15-20 mmHg is the compression range for the socks, where 15 is the amount of compression at the top of the socks and 20 is the compression amount at the foot. Is it ok to wear ankle compression socks every day? Yes, you can wear ankle compression socks daily for better blood flow and prevent any pain or swelling in your ankles. However, choose socks that provide enough space to move without forming blisters. How many hours a day should you wear compression socks? You can wear ankle socks for the entire day and take them off before going to bed. What level of compression socks do I need? If you wear compression socks for daily wear or travel, you need a 15-20 mmHg range of compression, while the 20-30 mmHg range of compression is better if you have any sports injury.

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