What is a compression stocking?
A (sports) compression stocking is actually a derivative of the well-known Therapeutic Elastic Stockings that everyone knows from his or her grandmother. Those stiff / tight (often brown) stockings against the edema (fluid) in the legs. In essence, the (sports) compression stockings are the same as the Therapeutic Elastic Stockings, only the demand for help is completely different. A compression stocking is a stocking made with a special knitting method that incorporates the shape of the leg (calf). These stockings or socks can be made in two ways:
- Flat knit: A flat knit stocking or sock is knitted as a flat piece and then stitched together through 1 long seam, creating a compression stocking. A flat knit stocking can therefore also be recognized by this seam.
- Circular knit : A circular knit compression stocking is knitted completely round. So no separate stitching is needed for this. This technique requires more specialized knitting machines and is a more expensive production technique. The result is always better because there is no seam that can wear or press / sand.
In addition, compression stockings and compression socks are available in different shapes and with different pressure classes. In terms of shape you can choose from compression stockings with a pedestal and without a pedestal. The pedestal stockings provide more even pressure from toes to the knee while the pedestal stockings (also known as ‘ Tubes ‘) only provide pressure over the calf. We do notice that the so-called tubes are becoming increasingly popular. This popularity is mainly due to the easy donning. And the fact that the usual running socks can continue to be worn in this way.
In addition to the shape, there is also a difference in the pressure of the stockings. Compression stockings normally come in four different pressure classes. This pressure is expressed in mm HG (millimeters of Mercury).
| Compression class |
Single pressure (mm Hg) |
| A – Light |
10 – 14 |
| I Mild |
15 – 21 |
| II Normal |
23 – 32 |
| III Strong |
34 – 46 |
| IV Extra Strong |
> 49 |
Sports compression stockings for use during training or competition are normally in class 1 or 2 with a pressure between 15 and 30 mm Hg. Nowadays there are also stockings especially for after training. These stockings have a milder pressure, often between 12 and 22 mm Hg and promote the removal of waste after exercise.
What does a compression stocking do?
Regardless of which manufacturing method or compression class the compression stockings have, the stocking provides dosed pressure from the ankle to just below the knee. The stocking is designed in such a way that the pressure at the ankle is higher than just below the knee, this improves the muscle pump effect and stimulates blood flow in the lower leg. This blood flow is necessary to provide all muscles with oxygen and nutrients. Especially during endurance sports, a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients is essential. Waste substances such as lactic acid are released during the burning process of muscle activity. The improved blood flow ensures a good discharge of these waste materials, which can reduce the risk of muscle pain.
Due to the constant circular pressure of the compression stockings, these are also often used for surmenage injuries of the lower leg. Think about:
- Shinsplints
- Achilles tendon injuries
- Sore / cramped calves
However, there is insufficient scientific evidence to advise anyone with these complaints compression stockings or tubes. With these types of injuries, it is always important to rule out other causes such as worn out shoes or overtraining. When in doubt, it is always best to contact your (sports) doctor or physiotherapist. Otherwise, there is a risk of long-term injury.
The socks (with pedestal) can also be worn after training or competition for recovery, or use the special ‘ Recovery Socks ‘ with a lower pressure for this. However, the tubes (without pedestal) must be pulled out after the effort.
Measure your compression stocking
Compression stockings and compression tubes are available in different sizes and colors. Especially the sporty (neon) colors have become very popular in recent years. Many varieties only require a number of sizes from the calf and a length from the lower leg. In some cases, customization is even possible! Please contact our helpdesk for this.
Other applications of the compression stockings
(sports) Compression stockings can also be worn well by non-athletes. People who have to stand or walk a lot for their work also benefit greatly from wearing compression stockings. Thanks to the circular pressure, it takes much longer for the legs to feel tired. Compression stockings also have a preventive effect on varicose veins. Finally, compression stockings are increasingly worn by people who have to travel a lot or who are often on the plane.
For this group of people, beautiful compression stockings are also available that do not have screaming (sports) colors but are neutral in color and can be worn well in combination with your (work) clothing or suit.
The only contraindication to the use of compression stockings is open wounds and thrombosis. In that case, you will first have to consult with your treating doctor to discuss whether compression stockings are suitable for you.
Found the right compression stockings? Place your order!
How can you place your order on ProBrace.nl?
After you have found the compression stockings you want on ProBrace.nl, you should select the size, color and silk if possible. Then click the ‘Add to cart’ button.
With this you have added the product to your digital shopping cart. You can then return to the webshop to select another product or to pay.
As soon as you click on ‘checkout’ you will be guided step by step through the ‘check out’ process. First you will be asked for the desired shipping method:
- Shipping
- Pick up
- Cash on delivery
You must then provide a number of necessary details such as name, address and place of residence. After this you can choose from different payment options:
- Banktransfer
- Ideal
- PayPal
- Credit card
- Mr. Bancontact
- Afterpay
Once you have made your choice you will be asked to read and approve the Terms and Conditions . Until you are sent to the desired secure payment environment you can change the contents of your shopping cart or cancel the order.
After you have paid, you will receive a confirmation of your order by email with the invoice for your personal administration in the attachment. Any answers to questions about shipping and / or returning your ordered compression stockings can be found here.
