6 Compression Socks to Help Combat Swollen Feet and Varicose Veins During Pregnancy

When we started looking at the What To Expect Community to find compression sock reviews, we immediately noticed Comrad being mentioned most often. Hundreds of positive reviews on their own website and Amazon backed this up. These popular compression socks are our favorite overall because of how breathable, comfortable, and effective they are, but also because the brand offers so much variety. 

These Comrad Knee High Compression Socks come in several different colors and prints and offer a graduated compression with a mmHg of 15 to 20 (moderate compression). They are made of spandex and nylon for a stretchier feel, so they’re not too difficult to get on, and they have a cushioned heel and toe for added comfort. The graduated compression is also great for those who don’t need or want anything too intense, making them ideal for all-day wear. Reviewers noted how much these helped with swelling and how easy they were to pull on. 

While we love this basic knee high style, Comrad’s website also shows a variety of heights (like ankle) and compression levels(from light to firm). There’s truly something for everyone. However, it’s worth noting that some reviewers said these were too tight on wide calves, so if you need larger sizing, these might not be ideal. 

SB Sox has thousands of great reviews on Amazon and plenty of happy testimonials with the WTE community as well. At about $20 per pair, they’re fairly affordable and available in a variety of different colors. The more firm compression (20 to 30 mmHg) is great for long flights, especially for people with more uncomfortable swelling. Additionally, there are a lot of features that make them great to wear in the sky — or on the ground. 

The reinforced heel and reinforced toe area make them extra comfortable and help prevent blisters. They also have graduated compression, getting less tight further up in the leg. Reviewers love how much support they give and how well they stay up on their leg, and that they’re made from thick fabric that isn’t too stifling. Some did note, however, that they felt a little tight for anyone with wide feet or calves. 

Compression socks are great for exercise, as they can improve performance and boost recovery. You just want to make sure you wear a pair that can stand up to sweat while relieving pressure. The Zensah Tech+ socks do just that, due in large part to the stretchy, lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric. (In fact, several reviewers say their feet barely sweat in these socks.) The fabric is also super durable, standing up to the toughest workouts.

Offering moderate compression, Zensha Tech+ socks are designed specifically for your left and right foot to ensure a perfect fit which, alone with the seamless toe, helps prevent chafing and blistering. Plus, they come in an array of colors and patterns so you won't mind wearing them to the gym or workout class.

The only downside to these otherwise perfect socks is the price, but moms say they’re totally worth the $50 splurge.

Bombas is known for their quality, comfortable socks, so it's no surprise that their compression socks come highly recommended. Made of a cotton, elastane, and nylon blend, the Bombas compression socks have plenty of stretch and breathability, both of which are crucial during pregnancy. They also have Bombas' signature Honeycomb Support System, which gives you a little extra comfort in the arch of your foot. 

And don't worry about socks slipping down your leg. The band at the top is stretchy enough to accomodate swollen clafs but tight enough to kepp the sock sin place. 

One thing to consider: Bombas' socks are litle thick and may not be ideal for summer. In that case, you may want to consider the ankle compression socks. 

These Kindred Bravely socks are $30 for a pack of two, making them more affordable than many other comparable options. They are made of premium materials, like bamboo, which makes them more stretchy and comfortable. The bamboo offers moisture-wicking properties to keep sweat away and also makes these super soft, making them an absolute dream to wear. 

Another nice thing about these is that they don’t look like your typical compression socks: They have a more versatile appearance to them, which might make them easier to wear for some people. They also have a graduated compression, which can make them ideal for everyday wear or for those who don’t want anything too intense. However, one big downside is that they are only available in “one size fits most.” Some reviewers have noted that they just don’t offer a good fit because of that, so if your feet/legs are smaller or bigger, these might not work out. 

Material: Bamboo, spandex, elastane, nylon

Pressure level: 20-30 mmHg (Firm)

Size range: One size

The tight fit of compression socks makes them hard to put on, especially if your legs are already swollen or if you’re at the stage of pregnancy where bending over is a struggle. TheraMagic’s zippered compression socks might be a little easier to get on because they don’t pull on as tightly. But what sets these apart from other zippered compression socks is the four-way weave which allows for extra stretch, making them even easier to get on.

Of course, there are other features that have earned these compression socks hundreds of five-star reviews. The copper-infused sole helps reduce odor, which is a plus if your feet sweat a lot, and provides additional comfort and support. There’s also a fabric skin guard behind the zipper to prevent potential chafing and irritation. Some reviewers do note, however, that the zipper fabric didn't offer much proteciton when legs were particularly swollen. 

Reviewers love how easy these are to put on and how comfortable they are to wear, especially if you’re traveling for a long period of time. Plus, they have a wide size range, available in sizes up to 4X.