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Monday, Jun 19, 2023 6 min read

Should You Wear Compression Socks for Flying?

Bridget Reed

Should You Wear Compression Socks for Flying? product
Should You Wear Compression Socks for Flying?

Are you an active traveler looking to make your long flights more comfortable and beneficial for your health? If so, compression socks may be what you're missing in your travel essentials. These specially designed socks apply gentle pressure to your lower legs, supporting blood circulation and helping to soothe discomfort during extended periods of sitting. 

 

Whether you're an athlete or enthusiastic about staying active, you'll appreciate how compression socks support your lifestyle, especially during those long-haul flights.

 

Do you want to discover how compression socks can offer comfort during your next flight? We’re ready to cover all the info you need.

 

What Are Compression Socks?

Compression socks, also known as compression stockings, provide a snug, supportive pressure to your lower legs. They are designed to maintain blood flow and soothe discomfort and tension often experienced after long periods of standing or sitting.

 

Graduated compression socks, for instance, are tighter around the ankle and loosen as they move up the leg. This design helps to push blood up the legs, supporting circulation and comfort. They come in various levels of compression, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), typically ranging from 15-20 mmHg to 20-30 mmHg compression socks. The higher the mmHg, the stronger the compression.

 

Compression socks are often made from a blend of materials, including spandex for stretch and copper infusion for reducing odors. Copper Fit's compression socks are made from a proprietary blend that offers four-way stretch for ultimate flexibility, moisture-wicking properties for dryness, and enhanced anti-chafing for comfort. 

 

Their contoured design provides a perfect fit, ensuring effective compression and extra support without restricting your freedom of movement.

 

How Do Compression Socks Work?

Compression socks operate on a simple yet effective principle. Applying graduated compression to your lower legs supports blood flow from your legs back to your heart. 

 

By supporting blood circulation, compression socks help to soothe symptoms of discomfort and tension in your legs, particularly after long periods of inactivity, such as during a long flight. They also support your body’s natural fight against fluid build-up in your legs.

 

At Copper Fit, our compression socks are known for their advanced technologies and materials, delivering maximum support compression that can temporarily soothe muscle and joint aches and support recovery. Made with copper infusion, they reduce odors and provide enhanced support to your legs, ensuring you can maintain your active lifestyle with less discomfort, even during long flights.

 

Can Compression Socks Provide Support During Air Travel?

Sitting for long periods, such as during a long-haul flight, can lead to discomfort and tension in the lower legs. This, in part, is due to decreased blood flow and potential fluid retention, which may increase the risk of leg swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body's tissues.

 

Copper Fit's high-quality, copper-infused compression socks with menthol infusion offer cooling sensations, providing additional comfort during your flight.

 

Wearing compression socks during travel can help provide multiple benefits, including healthy blood circulation and relief from discomfort. They are also designed for maximum support and comfort, featuring moisture-wicking properties that help keep your feet dry and fresh during long flights.

 

What Are the Best Compression Socks for Travel?

Choosing the right compression socks for your travel involves considering several factors. The level of compression is critical — if you're new to wearing compression socks, a moderate compression level (15-20 mmHg) may be a good starting point. If you require a higher level of support, socks with a higher compression level (20-30 mmHg) might be a better choice.

 

Material choice is crucial for comfort and performance. All of our copper compression socks offer moisture-wicking capabilities to keep your feet dry and comfortable. High-quality socks should also be durable and machine washable. Our copper-infused fabrics also reduce odors — an extra bonus when flying (you may just want to bring an extra pair to offer your seatmate!).

 

From arch-supporting Ankle Compression Socks to tension-melting Ice Compression Socks or colorful knee-high Energy Compression Socks, add a pop of fun to your next flight. We have a wide range of sizes, colors, and support options available at Copper Fit, including comfortable options suitable for wide calves.

 

How Should I Wear Compression Socks During Travel?

Compression socks are most effective when worn properly. For long flights, put your compression socks on before you start your journey and keep them on until your flight is over. 

 

They can also be beneficial if worn for extended periods after the flight to assist in the recovery process.

 

How Else Can I Achieve Support During Long Flights?

While Copper Fit compression socks are vital for maintaining comfort and supporting good circulation during long flights, they can also be incorporated into a larger wellness strategy to ensure a more comfortable — and safer — journey.

 

  • Pack for comfort: When preparing for a long flight, consider what other carry-on items can enhance your comfort. Packing items like a travel pillow or a blanket can make a significant difference in your in-flight experience. Pair these with Copper Fit's compression socks, and you'll create an environment geared towards your comfort and well-being. The contoured design and maximum support compression of Copper Fit's socks ensure that your legs remain comfortable, helping to reduce the typical tension and discomfort that can arise from long periods of inactivity.
  • Move and stretch regularly: Remember to incorporate movement into your flight routine when it's safe to do so. Try to get up and move periodically during long flights. Performing simple exercises like extending your legs and flexing your ankles or pulling each knee up towards the chest and holding it for 15 seconds can help maintain healthy blood flow in your legs, especially when coupled with the support from Copper Fit compression socks.
  • Check-in with a healthcare professional: Compression socks should complement, not replace, other healthcare advice for air travel. Always consult a healthcare professional if you have existing medical conditions before using compression socks or planning any significant changes to your travel routine. If you're on anticoagulants or blood thinners, it's vital to adhere strictly to your healthcare provider's guidelines regarding medication use. 

Who Should Wear Compression Socks?

While compression socks are beneficial for many people, they're particularly helpful for those who lead active lives or those who experience discomfort and swelling after extended periods of inactivity, such as long flights. They can be an excellent asset for athletes seeking healthy recovery, individuals aiming to maintain an active lifestyle, and those wanting to soothe tension and discomfort during and after travel.

 

However, it's also essential to note that compression socks are not just for travelers or athletes. Copper Fit compression socks, for instance, provide maximum support compression, maintaining healthy circulation and temporarily soothing muscle and joint aches. They also offer additional benefits like moisture-wicking and odor reduction through copper infusion.

 

However, while compression socks can offer various benefits, they're not suitable for everyone. Compression socks might not be recommended if you have certain medical conditions, such as insufficiency or severe peripheral neuropathy. In these cases, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before using compression socks to ensure they are safe and suitable for your specific needs.

 

Elevate Your Travel Comfort With Compression Socks

Wearing compression socks, particularly during long-haul flights, can offer numerous benefits. They can support blood circulation, soothe discomfort and tension, and support recovery after extended periods of inactivity. Copper Fit's compression socks are designed with an advanced blend of materials, providing a comfortable, supportive, and effective solution for maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle.

 

At Copper Fit, we aim to empower you to stay active, feel better, and enjoy life — every day, even when flying. After all, an active lifestyle is not just about physical strength and endurance; it's also about ensuring comfort, proper care, and the freedom to enjoy your adventures without hindrance. 

 

We’re here to support you, providing innovative solutions that enhance performance and recovery, making every day, and every flight, a journey toward a more comfortable, active, and enjoyable life.

 

Sources:

How long should I wear compression stockings to improve my circulation? | NHS

Odor in textiles: A review of evaluation methods, fabric characteristics, and odor control technologies - Rachel H McQueen, Sara Vaezafshar, 2020 | SAGE

Compression Garments for Medical Therapy and Sports | PMC


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