As a general rule, the higher the compression level, the greater the level of compression provided by the sock. Compression is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg), the same unit used to measure blood pressure.

Key Facts at a Glance

  • What are compression levels? Compression levels indicate the level of pressure provided by a compression garment.

  • Four levels: They range from Level 1 (light compression) to Level 4 (very strong compression).

  • When are they used? The appropriate compression level is recommended by a healthcare provider based on your diagnosis and individual needs.

  • Benefits: Choosing the right compression level helps ensure effective compression therapy.

  • For every need: From everyday support to the management of more advanced venous and lymphatic conditions.

Compression stockings provide the greatest benefit when they deliver graduated compression rather than uniform compression. Graduated compression stockings apply the highest level of pressure at the ankle, with the pressure gradually decreasing up the leg. This gradient helps support blood flow back toward the heart and promotes healthy circulation.

Compression stockings with lower levels of compression, as well as support socks, are available without a prescription from pharmacies, medical supply stores and online retailers.

These non-prescription products are typically available in compression levels of 15–20 mmHg.

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Compression socks with higher compression levels are typically prescribed by a healthcare provider. Your prescription will specify the compression level that is appropriate for your condition. Although a prescription is not legally required in all cases, most pharmacies and medical supply stores do not dispense higher-compression garments without one.

Higher compression levels generally range from 20–30 mmHg to 30–40 mmHg. While these compression levels are safe for many people, they may not be appropriate for everyone because of certain contraindications. For this reason, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare provider before using higher-compression garments. Compression garments are also available in higher compression levels, which should only be used under medical supervision.

A trained healthcare professional should take your measurements to ensure you receive the correct size and compression level. If your healthcare provider does not perform the fitting, they should refer you to someone who is qualified to do so.

Compression Level 1: 15–20 mmHg

  • Mild aching, heavy or tired legs

  • Support and comfort during prolonged sitting or standing

  • Support for everyday leg health and energy

  • Helps support healthy circulation, especially in the legs

  • Extra support on busy or active days, or while travelling

  • During pregnancy, these products may help reduce the risk of developing varicose veins and spider veins
View 15-20 mmHg

Compression Level 2: 20–30 mmHg

The compression class most commonly prescribed by healthcare providers

  • Varicose veins with mild edema

  • Varicose veins during pregnancy

  • Following varicose vein procedures, such as sclerotherapy or phlebectomy

  • Management of orthostatic (postural) hypotension, a type of low blood pressure

  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

  • Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS)

  • Healed venous leg ulcers
View 20-30 mmHg

Compression Level 3: 30–40 mmHg

  • Moderate venous edema and lymphedema

  • Lipedema

  • Following bone fractures and orthopedic surgery

  • Management of skin changes associated with healed venous leg ulcers
View 30-40 mmHg

Compression Level 4: 40–50+ mmHg

  • Severe lymphedema

  • Advanced post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS)
View 40-50+ mmHG

When Should I Consider Wearing Compression Socks or Speak to a Healthcare Provider?

  • During pregnancy
  • If you have chronic swelling, pain or tired legs
  • If you have poor circulation in your legs
  • If you have varicose veins or venous leg ulcers
  • If you are at increased risk of blood clots, especially in the legs
  • If you have a personal or family history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
  • If you are on prolonged bed rest, for example after surgery
  • Prevention: Compression socks may help support leg health and address minor symptoms before they become more serious.

When Should Compression Socks Be Used with Caution?

  • Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), intermittent claudication or limb ischemia
  • Uncontrolled congestive heart failure (CHF)
  • Acute dermatitis, weeping skin conditions or skin infections (cutaneous sepsis)
  • Signs of an active infection in the legs

Other contraindications may also apply. Make sure your healthcare provider is familiar with your medical history before prescribing compression socks.