Mythbusters: Compression Sock Edition

There are a lot of misconceptions out there about compression socks. That probably stems from the fact that a lot of sock companies use the term but are not necessarily referring to the same thing!

At Sockwell, it’s important to us that you have a clear understanding of what compression socks are, how they work, and what benefits they provide for your health and lifestyle. Dig in with us as we dispel some common myths about compression socks.

Myth 1: I don’t need compression socks.

The truth is, there are so many benefits to wearing compression socks, and they can be for absolutely anyone! It’s true that compression socks offer distinct benefits for people who are older, struggle with mobility or circulatory issues, or have medical concerns. But they’re also beneficial for people who are young, healthy, and active. In fact, wearing compression socks is a proactive healthy choice (kind of like taking your vitamins!) that can prevent future issues.

Sockwell compression socks can be beneficial in a variety of use cases, including for people who have jobs or lifestyles characterized by prolonged sitting or standing, active people who want to enhance their performance during workouts and recoveries, and people who are seeking general wellness in their daily lives.

Myth 2: Compression socks are ugly.

Okay, we get where this myth comes from. There really are a lot of purely functional and unattractive compression socks out there. At Sockwell, that’s just not how we roll.

We’re the original company to design beautiful compression socks that not only improve your health but also make you feel good about your healthy lifestyle choices. Our socks feature modern, fresh, and optimistic designs in hundreds of styles and colors so you can feel excited about your healthy choices!

Myth 3: Compression socks are all synthetic and make my feet sweaty and stinky.

Synthetic fabrics do have a bad reputation, but it’s important to us that the majority of the fibers that make up our socks are natural. All of our socks are made from merino wool blends featuring bamboo rayon or alpaca. Unlike many other compression sock brands, merino wool is the essential fiber in all of our socks. We believe there’s just nothing else out there for better all-around performance and quality.

In nature, merino wool keeps sheep warm in winter and cool in summer, and it is also incredibly soft, durable, and sustainable. When knitted into a sock, the same qualities that make it great for sheep make it great for your feet by regulating your temperature, keeping your feet comfortable and dry, and eliminating odors!

Myth 4: Compression socks are expensive.

Compression socks can be expensive. If you look around, you’ll find a lot of other compression socks ranging from $45-75. Ours come in at $29.99. Still high when compared to your average pair of cotton socks, but given the benefits of merino wool and graduated compression—that’s a steal.

And with merino wool socks, you don’t need as many pairs of socks. Merino wool actively prevents “stinky feet” and doesn’t need to be washed daily. The average person can probably get away with owning just a few pairs of Sockwell socks and still cover all your bases: exercise, everyday wear, work life, travel, recovery, and so on. It’s quality over quantity.

Compression socks are worth it because they’re about more than fashion or even comfort. Compression socks are good for your health too, as they help energize your legs and feet, reduce swelling, and aid in recovery.

Myth 5: Compression socks can be difficult to figure out the right fit.

While finding the right fit for compression socks has commonly been an issue, at Sockwell, we want your compression sock-wearing experience to be a simple one. We’ve engineered our socks to simplify sizing and fit, so you can put away your tape measure. All you need to find your size in Sockwell socks is your shoe size! Check out our Size Chart for more info, and our How to Put Your Compression Socks the Easy Way video made just for you!

We hope this article has helped to put your mind at ease about some of your most pressing compression sock questions. If you have any others, please visit our FAQ page and our blog to learn more! We’re here to help you live your best life--In Style!