Great Compression Socks for Flying
 

I have been having a lot of swelling in my legs after my longer flights. I found these socks that I was told would keep the swelling down, reduce fatigue and have a positive effect on circulation and DVT. After 10 days and a few long flights, they really helped. They are thinner than cotton athletic socks, about the same thickness as dress socks.

DeCompressor socks

These are worth trying.
I don't often wear socks, but when I do ...

Seems like a good idea ... I've thought about this before but the high price (insert cheap pilot joke here) has kept me away. I wonder of these cheaper socks are a similar product?

Nordstrom Compression Trouser Socks (3 for $33) | Nordstrom

I once saw an infomercial for the Miracle Socks below, phoned the "800" number to order them and decided not to when I heard the outrageous s&h charge.

Buy Miracle Socks Anti-Fatigue Compression Socks, Unisex, Small/Medium, Black & More | drugstore.com

But do they make good puppets ?

I've purchased compression socks from the uniform shop in the past.

I use skins for before and after doing triathlons. Really helps in keeping swelling down and great for travel. Official SKINS

You guys have some nerve, trying to extend your careers. I mean really, how about a little consideration for those younger guys, whose seats you've taken. ;) Next you'll be talking about depends and drool towels for those over-water flights.:eek: Seriously, if you need compression socks, what's next, exercise? Just because you can die from a spontaneous blood clot, doesn't mean you should actually do something about it. I think that retirement, immediately, is a far better option, and if you don't believe me, just ask someone junior to you.;)

However, failing that, here's a really good article on the subject: prevention of air travel blood clot fatalities

JJ

Wait...You're using skins before and after triathlons? And, trying to keep the swelling down? You must have some libido. :rolleyes:

Compression socks?!! To stay flying? REALLY?!!

RETIRE ALREADY!!!!

Let's start a thread on Depends Undergarments advice...that way you guys can make it to 70...

Actually, it's to extend my retirement, or at least make it to my retirement.

FYI had a DVT at age 40 and in great shape at the time....

So........... so a bloody prime rib, a baked 'tater with real butter, some high quality whisky followed by a good cigar. All bought with money that used to go to the gym membership.

When it's your time, it's your time. Somebody slap me silly if I show up in the cockpit with compression socks. :D

funny jet jok :)

I've heard that you can get compression socks through our (FDX) uniform vendor.

Mark,
I could've sworn that you wore nylons when we flew together light years ago? My retirement memory is still fading? Any chance I can come back as a "two A off, one B on" type? ;)

Does anyone remember that company that sends pilots 12 free pair every year? You just need your doctor to sign a a form that you send the company. I did this about 6 years ago but forgot the name of the company. Thanks

At 40 also from knee injury. It should be noted that leg swelling could be from a number of things and is best checked by a Dr. Organ failure, heart failure, Peripheral Artery disease and reaction to some long term BP meds use are among the few.

But do they go with my New Balance?

​​​​​​​Yes, I wear them when I fly long distances. As I grow older, the blood circulation in my legs is also affected. Staying standing for long periods of time or sitting in a chair will make my legs swell. The doctor suggested that I use these socks to improve swelling, they are indeed effective, and I can feel obvious leg support.

I have raced and currently coach a number of triathletes, cyclists and runners. I also have a family member in the household that stands all day for living. Compression socks are a part of every day life for the persons involved in these type of activities. Flying and being seated for prolonged periods of time is also very demanding on the legs.
I was not sponsored by any particular brand nor have any current relationships with any manufacturers.
For pilots, several items of interest are:

• graduated compression spec 20-30mmHg- important functional distinction-some socks come with lesser compression rating and are not graduated, they are less efficient
• tall socks to below knee level- needed to assist in blood evacuation at needed rates, shorter socks less efficient
• proper fit sized to calf circumference- need to be snug, may have difficulties putting on and off however that may differ from model to model, generally they should be somewhat more difficult to put on and off if they fit correctly and have graduated compression properties
• thickness, summer or winter, they do make a comfort difference, preferred is thinner in the Summer....
• color- black or navy blue is manufactured by some but not all
• prices will vary and maybe rather deceptive, can be ranging from $20 to $60, you do have to know the brands to trust the quality and that they really achieve the intended goal rather than placebo effect, sales are often found

Here is the sample of some reputable brands below, if curious, search google with the name, when you do buy, direct buy or third party sellers can be equally good to locate deals. There are many more out there beyond listings below.

• CEP- proven in the sport of triathlon, proven as medical grade tool
• SKINS- proven in the sport of triathlon
• Zensah- runners and triathletes well known
• Pro Compression- huge variety in colors, have colors to complement the uniform
• Compresssport- euro brand, high quality on expensive side
• Sigvaris- Swiss well known brand in medical field and medical quality socks- limited in colors

There are many more out there. If they fit correctly and are quality brand, they do the job, the difference is noticeable.

Thanks for this atasic!!!

I've been using Jobst 20-30 mmhg compression socks ever since I started flying long haul. I can definitely tell the difference after a long flight, and won't go on a trip without them anymore.

Had Multiple DVT's in my left leg 4 years ago. Compression socks when I fly are just a way of life....