JOBST Relief Knee High Graduated Compression Socks, 15-20 mmHg - Comfortable Unisex Design - Closed Toe, Black, Medium

Why it's worth it

JOBST Relief is a unisex knee-high with 15–20 mmHg of graduated compression, built to medical-garment standards rather than athletic-sock ones. It disappears under dress shoes, it comes in a wide size range, and it's the brand a vascular doctor is most likely to write down for you.

This is a medical garment that happens to be great for flying. JOBST is the number one physician-recommended compression brand in the US among doctors who name a brand, and the Relief line is the everyday workhorse behind that reputation. The fibers are specified for daily medical wear, and the pressure profile is held across the size chart rather than approximated. If you already see a cardiologist or a vein specialist, this is the pair you can mention without a raised eyebrow.

Fifteen to twenty is the right number for most healthy flyers. It's the band used in most of the trials behind flight compression advice, and it's what guidance points to for economy passengers on flights past four hours. It's also far easier to pull on than a firm 20–30 mmHg sock, which matters more than it sounds — the pair you can get on in a hotel room at five in the morning is the pair you'll actually wear.

From our review of 8 compression socks for travel, by Eleanor Vance, Health & Beauty Editor

What we like

• +This is a medical garment that happens to be great for flying
• +Fifteen to twenty is the right number for most healthy flyers
• +The closed toe and slim profile fit under real shoes
• +The size range is wide and the fit is honest

What to know

• –They look like what they are
• –Fifteen to twenty isn't enough for everyone