Compression socks for daily wear and travel.
Attractive and Healthy
It’s been years since I broke my leg, but my foot and ankle still swell when I fly. That’s why I wore Sockwell’s Women’s Lotus Lift graduated compression socks on a recent 10-hour flight. I knew I’d arrive in Europe completely jet lagged, but I wanted to minimize additional issues.
I had a hard time selecting a sock to test because Sockwell has so many fun styles, including: stripes, polka dots, flowers, hearts, birds, leopard spots, and more! I settled on the Lotus Lift style because I appreciate the lotus flower’s symbolism (purity and enlightenment—what could be better for a much-needed overseas vacay?).
The Women’s Lotus Life socks provides graduated compression, which means more compression where I need it—around my feet and ankles—and gradually less compression as the socks reach over my calves. Sockwell categorizes the Women’s Lotus Lift socks as providing firm compression, but my doctor says that 20-30 mmHg is really more of a moderate compression level. (Check with your doctor to determine which compression level might be best for you.)
Comfortable Compression
The Women’s Lotus Lift socks took a tiny bit longer to put on than my usual socks, but it was worth slowing down a bit to make sure my feet lined up with the heel and toe areas. The socks feature defined heel cups, woven arch support that grip my feet, and seam-free toes. All of those design elements helped keep my feet comfortable. The socks cover my calves and are snug without feeling tight. I really didn’t think of my feet for most of the flight because I never felt that the compression level was too much for me, and the socks felt good against my skin.
I like these thin socks. They have very light cushioning on the soles, which is quite subtle. I’m used to wearing much thicker and more cushioned socks, but I liked the thin socks for their effectiveness, breathability, and coverage. After several wearings and washing, these durable socks still look new. I also like the wide ribbing at the top of the socks that grips my legs (above the calf) without feeling binding.
Effective
My ten-hour flight was only half of my journey. On the other end of that flight I had an eight-hour layover, an hour-long plane ride, a 20-minute train ride, and a short taxi ride to my ultimate destination. I was a stinky mess by the time I arrived. I don’t sleep on planes, so I was delirious from jet lag. At least my feet held up well and didn’t smell, thanks to the 32% merino in the yarn.
First thing I did when I got to my hotel was take a shower. My “bad” foot was a bit puffy, but much less so than I have experienced when not wearing compression socks. That was a win for me.
Breathable
Sockwell makes the Women’s Lotus Lift socks out of a custom-made yarn comprised of 32% Merino Wool, 31% Bamboo Rayon, 32% Stretch Nylon, and 5% Spandex. The socks are breathable, so my feet don’t get overheated or sweaty.
Available in sizes S/M and L/XL in six colors, including: Charcoal, Barley, Denim, Black, Lavender, and Ocean.
Manufacturer: sockwellusa.com/
$29.99 (see Sockwell’s store on Amazon)
Note: this review contains one person’s experience with compression socks. It is NOT meant to diagnose any medical conditions or to recommend any medical treatment.