10 Flight Attendant Compression Socks, Stockings, and Pantyhose

As a frequent flier, it never ceases to amaze me how flawless flight attendants look, especially the women in their tailored skirts and tights ensemble. 

I always thought that tights were a part of the uniform until Desiree, a flight attendant with American Airlines, told me recently that she actually wears compression pantyhose because they offer support and circulation in flight. Even though she’s usually on her feet and walking the aisles (as opposed to passengers who are sitting and thus more susceptible to swelling and blood clots), Desiree said that they are key to her routine.

“Compression socks [and stockings] are great for travel because they reduce leg swelling, fatigue, and the risk of blood clots during long periods of sitting,” shares podiatrist Dr. Saylee Tulpule, DPM. Most travelers will benefit from mild compression socks, she says, which apply light pressure to the lower legs to decrease blood pooling. “They support the calf muscles, minimize edema in the feet and ankles, and can help reduce that heavy, achy feeling after flights.”

Whether you’re dressing up or dressing down, compression socks and stockings are travel essentials—and we’ve rounded up 10 pairs recommended by flight attendants and Dr. Tulpule that are worth adding to your airport outfit.

Flight Attendant-loved Compression Socks, Stockings, and Pantyhose

Orgood Compression Pantyhose

Flight attendant Ally Case likes to buy sheer pantyhose from Salvere, a brand that offers medical-grade compression therapy. Many of the styles are only available via wholesale, so these Orgood compression stockings are a great alternative available for the everyday traveler. Available in a wide range of sizes, they’re lightweight for comfort, and they have an elastic waist that prevents them from slipping down. With a high compression style of 20-30 mmHg, these will be especially effective on long-haul flights when you need the extra support.

Jobst Relief Knee High Graduated Compression Socks

These Jobst compression socks are a popular choice recommended by physicians, including Dr. Tulpule. The comfortable, unisex design with high compression (20-30 mmHg) makes these socks an easy go-to for everyday wear, but especially for travelers on flights of six hours or more. Travelers also say that they are long-lasting, holding up after multiple wears and washes.

PhysFlex Compression Socks

When Desiree is flying as a passenger, she turns to these PhysFlex compression socks are her go-to. They offer high compression (20-30 mmHg) for plenty of support, plus they have moisture-wicking properties that you’ll be thankful for after a long-haul flight. Available in a variety of colors, they’re also great to wear for long days of walking or exercise. 

Comrad Nylon Knee High Socks

When it comes to socks, Case swears by this Comrad knee-high pair, which has a graduated compression design that’s strongest at the ankle and then decreases up the leg. This way, the socks naturally encourage healthy blood flow. They also offer lighter compression, 15-20 mmHg, which some travelers might prefer, especially if you’re taking a shorter flight.

Ames Walker Sheer Support Tights

Ames Walker has specialized in graduated compression products for over 30 years, combining supportive hosiery with aesthetic appeal. These sheer support tights are favored in the travel industry, according to Case. They offer 20-30 mmHg of compression, so you’ll have plenty of support, plus they offer two-way stretch for easy moving.

Ames Walker Sheer Support Stockings

For anyone who prefers stockings over tights—we get it, not every passenger wants to dress up and put on a pair of tights under their sweatpants—these Ames Walker sheer support stockings are a great alternative. The knee-high design works in the same way as the tights, offering compression to improve circulation in a fashionable design that conforms to your shape. This pair has 15-20 mmHg of compression, the perfect moderate amount for a shorter flight.

Dr. Scholl’s Compression Socks

Flight attendant Sydnee Y. points to these trusted Dr. Scholl’s compression socks, which have been accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) as promoting good foot health. Designed with mild compression (8-15 mmHg), these won’t feel as constricting as socks with higher support, which might be preferred by some travelers. Even with the lighter compression, they still provide the same benefits of easing swollen and achy legs. 

Sigvaris Sheer Calf Compression Socks

Another trusted compression therapy brand is Sigvaris, which makes these sheer calf compression socks. Dr. Tulpule also recommends these for their versatile style and high compression design (20-30 mmHg) to provide plenty of support for long flights. Although they have high compression, they feel light when worn, according to shoppers. 

Apolla The Performance Compression Crew Socks

It’s typical to find compression socks in calf or knee-high length, but crew socks are more unique. Dr. Tulpule says she loves these Apolla compression crew socks, which offer not only targeted compression but also arch and ankle support. Plus, they have extra cushioning, with padded areas in the heel and ball of your foot. Despite their smaller size, these socks pack in high compression (20-30 mmHg), so they’re a great option for travelers who want more targeted support in their ankles and foot.

Sockwell Circulator Moderate Graduated Compression Sock

Sockwell is a popular compression sock brand, known for its special modular compression zones, targeting four areas of your feet, ankles, and legs for optimal support. Available in a variety of colors, these Sockwell compression socks also have 31 percent Merino wool in the fabric to help regulate temperature. This way, your feet won’t get too cold or too sweaty—the latter of which is a huge game-changer on long flights.

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