Support socks for women, purpose and daily use
Short answer: Support socks give a light, even pressure around the foot and calf and are worn by women who stand or sit a lot or have tired legs. They are not a treatment, and if you have symptoms or a diagnosis you should talk to your doctor before choosing.
What are support socks for women
Support socks have a light pressure that is strongest at the ankle and eases up the leg. Many women wear them in daily life when they work on their feet or sit for long periods, and they come in bamboo versions. The purpose is comfort, which is not the same as medical treatment.
Which days they suit
Many women choose support socks for long days at work, for travel and for days with a lot of walking. The socks feel like a light embrace around the leg, and some find their legs feel fresher. The experience is personal, and it is perfectly fine to try things out.
Bamboo in support socks
When a support sock is made of bamboo, the material is viscose from bamboo, often blended with other fibres that give stretch and pressure. Bamboo gives a soft surface against the skin, but the cut and knit decide the pressure. You can see the range under bamboo compression stockings and read the fibre content.
Size and fit
A support sock should sit smooth without wrinkles and without cutting in at the edge. Measure your leg using the size guide instead of guessing from your shoe size, because the wrong size can give an uneven fit. If you are unsure, ask in a shop or ask your doctor.
How to put them on
Roll the sock down to the foot and pull it up in full lengths so the fabric does not tighten in one spot. Do it in the morning while your legs are most relaxed, and avoid long nails and jewellery that can catch in the knit. Rubber gloves give better grip.
Care and washing
Wash support socks as the care label says, usually a gentle cycle, and avoid fabric softener, which can weaken the elastic. Hang them up to dry and avoid the radiator, because heat wears the thread. With good care the socks keep their fit for longer.
When to talk to your doctor
If you have swollen legs, pain, varicose veins or a diagnosis, talk to your doctor before choosing socks. Support socks for daily use cannot replace professional advice, and some conditions need a specific type. Ask too if you are pregnant or if the socks hurt.
Combine them with the rest of your clothes
Support socks can be worn under trousers, dresses and skirts, and they come in neutral colours that suit most things. For a long day you can combine them with all bamboo socks for women, so you have a pair for every occasion. Under a dress a soft bamboo slip works well.
Frequently asked questions
Are support socks the same as compression stockings
Not quite. Support socks give a lighter pressure for daily use, while compression stockings can be stronger and are worn on professional advice. Ask your doctor if you are in doubt.
Can I sleep in support socks
It is often advised against unless your doctor has said so. They are made to be worn while you are up, so take them off in the evening and let your legs rest.
How long do support socks last
It depends on use and care. Wash them gently and hang them up so the elastic lasts longer, and replace them when they lose pressure or fit badly.
