Step 1: Choose The Compression Level A good rule of thumb to follow is: 15-20 mmHg: Great for daily wear, travel, and sports. They help improve circulation without being too tight. 20-30 mmHg: Great for sports recovery, daily wear, medical recovery, and to manage mild symptoms of varicose and spider veins.

For most healthy travelers on long-haul flights, moderate compression (15-20 mmHg) is the recommended "weight" or pressure level. This level of graduated compression is strong enough to promote blood circulation and prevent the uncomfortable "economy class syndrome" (swelling and deep vein thrombosis) without being so tight that it requires a prescription. If you have a history of varicose veins or mild swelling, this 15-20 mmHg range—often labeled as "Class 1"—is the standard choice. For those with a higher risk of DVT or more severe circulation issues, a doctor might recommend firm compression (20-30 mmHg), which is noticeably tighter and often requires more effort to put on. Mild compression (8-15 mmHg) is also available but is generally considered more for everyday comfort rather than the intense pressure changes experienced during air travel. Always ensure you choose a "knee-high" length, as this is the most effective style for managing blood flow from the lower legs back toward the heart during long periods of sitting.