
I’m publishing this post at high risk of losing all fashion credibility. My cool points are definitely on the decline. I’m pretty sure my mom wears compression socks. My grandmother definitely wore them. While supportive hosiery is certainly not a fashion statement most of us want to make, as nurse practitioners on our feet sometimes we must sacrifice looking good for feeling good.
I purchased my first pair of compression socks in nursing school at a medical supply store. They were pretty much the ugliest things I had ever put on my feet. I have since ditched these stockings as my aching legs don’t require quite the intensity of a medical grade stocking and I can’t face embracing fashion trends of 80-year-olds. I wish I had known about these cooler compression options during my NP program. If your aching feet and legs could use a pick me up, check out these more chic picks.
1. VIM&VIGR
Are You Ready to Thrive?
Available in nylon, cotton, or moisture-wick nylon, VIM&VIGR’s understated designs are perfect for work. The contemporary look of these socks makes them wearable with scrubs, or even as part of an everyday outfit. Our favorite design? Cream and grey polka dot. The company even offers free shipping when you order three pairs or more.
2. MARVY
I’m loving the look of MARVY’s color-block compression socks for this season. Not only are they perfect for work, they have added wearability under fall boots. The pop of color peeking out from the top of a riding boot makes the perfect fall fashion statement. Available in stripes, argyle, color block, and prints, MARVY’s got a design for everyone this season.
3. SOXXY
When SOXXY creator Sarah Stabile got tired of her stockings slipping, she got out her glue gun and began drawing X’s and O’s on the inside rim to prevent the dreaded slide. Then, she took the idea to market. From stripes and spots to metallics, SOXXY is changing-up the footwear game combining fashion and function.
4. Goodhew
Goodhew’s compression socks not only look cozy, they increase bloodflow to the legs, decrease swelling, speed muscle recovery, and support your feet. If you’re looking for a more natural look compared to our flashier picks, Goodhew’s line of compression socks features a more organic color palate.
5. Nabee
Using graduated compression therapy, a concept where stockings become slowly less constrictive as they reach the knee, Nabee socks offer both comfort and health benefits. 84% of nurses wearing Nabee’s high tech socks reported less leg pain throughout their shift. Oh, and did we mention that Nabee’s trendy designs won’t leave you looking like your mom while wearing?
Do you wear compression socks at work? What are your favorite brands?
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5 thoughts on “Not Your Mom’s Compression Socks”
OMG! So glad I saw this. I need to wear compression stockings but usually ditch me cuz they are so awful. Going to check these out and try again.
Let us know which ones you like the best!!
Thank you for this info! I tried Marvy and loved the socks so much. Stylish and less fatigue at the end of the shift are a win win in my book!
Vim & Vigr’s socks seem to be the highest quality; and notably they also have a men’s line. Not your dad’s compression socks either.
I love Injinji compression toe socks. The wool blend socks last a long time and wick moisture well.