If you find most compression socks uncomfortable, a light pair that can help you get used to the sensation of compression is a great place to start. The SockWell Easy Does It Socks fit the bill; the crew cut and light compression makes them easy to get on and off, and the relaxed fit, seamless toe closure and light cushion on the sole make them extremely comfortable.

Of course, the compression on these socks is light (the mmHg isn’t even provided), so they may only be ideal for mild swelling. Sockwell also offers free shipping only on $75+ orders, and it does not cover return shipping. (The Orthotic Shop, which also sells Sockwell products, offers free shipping.)

In the world of compression socks, JOBST is a leading brand for several key reasons: Materials are high quality, compression is graduated, and the socks are relatively easy to get on and off. The Relief Knee-High Compression Stockings are our top pick for medium-level compression because they come in an impressive variety of calf sizes and two lengths (great news for petite wearers).

Though the hems of these socks are stiff to prevent them from rolling down, they may still roll down depending on your calf size in relation to the sock size. In addition, some customers dislike the nylon feel after several hours of wear. Note that JOBST does not offer free shipping on orders less than $100, though these socks are available on Amazon as well.

High compression socks are notoriously uncomfortable. However, the JOBST Activewear Knee High Compression Socks are as comfortable as they can be given the serious compression they provide. They’re made of dri-release yarn, which feels like cotton and prevents moisture buildup, and the sole is cushioned and has a seamless toe. These socks are an excellent pick if you have mild edema or mild varicose veins during pregnancy, and they help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT). They are also HSA eligible.

On the other hand, these socks are one of our most expensive recommendations. They also don’t come in a petite length. Fortunately, the compression is graduated and you may be able to fold down the top hem if the socks are too long. Still, they may not be as comfortable worn this way. Note that not all sizes for this particular product are available on Amazon.

If compression socks are usually too long for you and cut off your circulation, you need a pair designed for petite legs. The Rejuva Health Mediven Vitality Knee High socks are a great choice because they come in multiple petite sizes depending on your ankle and calf sizes. You can also select your compression level — light/moderate, high and very high compression. Plus, the top band is non-slip.

The sizing for the Mediven Vitality Knee Highs is confusing, so it’s important to check your measurements against the sizing chart. In addition, a few customers have struggled to get the socks to stay up during walks despite the non-slip band. As for shipping, Rejuva Health only covers $100+ orders.

If you prefer a knee-high sock for light compression (instead of a crew cut), the JOBST ACTIVA soSoft Knee High is an excellent pick. It has gradient compression, a reinforced sole, heel and toe, and a thick top band to keep the sock in place and add comfort. Overall, this sock works well for mild swelling and relief of leg discomfort during pregnancy.

Unfortunately, this sock does not come in a petite length, and you may find that the smooth material doesn’t wick away moisture as well as cotton-like materials. Plus, JOBST does not offer free shipping on orders under $100.

You don’t always have to pay over $20 to get graduated compression socks! Meet Dr. Scholl’s Knee High Socks, which come in several cute patterns and colors and offer graduated compression from the toes to the knee. The nylon and lycra spandex blend makes it easy to get these socks on and off, and the thick rim around the top prevents the sock from rolling down. The best part? One pair costs less than $10.

On the other hand, these socks don’t come in petite lengths or wide calf sizes. Some customers also thought that the compression felt even lighter than 8-15 mmHg, though this fortunately makes it easy to fold over the top hem without causing discomfort. Note that these socks also thin out in the heel as time goes on.

The Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks in medium compression are a top seller for many reasons. The moisture-wicking nylon and silver antimicrobial materials keep feet feeling fresh for longer, and the cushioned toe and heel reduce fatigue. In addition, the thick top band prevents the socks from rolling down. Overall, these are an excellent pick for pregnancy. One reviewer wore them while 16 weeks pregnant for a 10-hour car ride and said they saved her legs!

However, shipping is only free on $55+ orders, so you would have to buy more than one pair of socks to reach the threshold. (Fortunately, Comrad offers a buy two, get one free deal.) These socks can also be difficult to get on and off, especially if you are in your third trimester, and they don’t come in petite lengths.

Socks with a compression over 20 mmHg are difficult to find under $30, but the Go2Socks are the exception. These knee-highs have impressive compression that doesn’t stretch out over time, even after many machine washes. They also come in a variety of colors and patterns, from formal to unique.

What you might not like: As with most high compression socks, these are difficult to get on. The patterned socks may also leave imprints in your legs, and Go2Socks does not sell petite lengths. Fortunately, a few customers mentioned that these socks are okay to fold down at the knee and don’t cut off circulation.

Unfortunately, compression socks are not usually made in sizes greater than large. Pro Compression Socks, on the other hand, come in 2X, 3X and 3X sizing to accommodate a wider calf. Compression is a high 20 to 30 mmHg and it’s graduated, so it’s far less likely to cut off circulation around the knee. In addition, the fabric is moisture wicking and smooth against the skin.

The downsides? These socks don’t come in petite lengths, so you will have to fold them down if you have short legs. They can also be difficult to pull on, and they aren’t available at other retailers. Shipping is only free on $79+ orders.

Looking for a cozy pair of compression socks that will last you through many cold seasons? If so, check out Wellow Socks. They come in both regular and wide calf sizes, and all socks have graduated compression. In addition, the material is moisture wicking and antimicrobial, and the socks come in a variety of classic patterns.

However, Wellow does not sell socks in petite lengths, so they may cut off circulation around the knee if you have to fold them at the top. You may also struggle to get these socks on and off, and the inner material may irritate the skin after a long day of wear. Note that shipping is free on $50+ orders.

What makes the SockWell Moderate Graduated Compression Socks a top pick in terms of graduated compression? The compression isn’t so intense that you’ll have a hard time getting the socks on and off, but it is enough to make a significant difference. The gradual rise in compression from toe to knee also keeps blood moving upward. In addition, the merino-wool blended material, arch support and seamless toe closure make these socks comfortable enough for all-day wear. Bonus: Sockwell offers free shipping on $40+ orders, an easy threshold to reach if you buy two pairs.

What could be improved: A few customers have complained that the top band near the knee is too tight. A few have also argued that the socks don’t extend as high as they should in some sizes. Note that these socks don’t come in wide calf sizing.

If you are pregnant and work in healthcare or another job that requires long standing hours, the Clove Compression Socks are for you. These high-compression socks have a soft, cotton-like feel while still offering a decent amount of stretch, and they are relatively easy to get on and off. They also come in cute patterns and colors, and shipping is free on orders over $49 (before tax).

Unfortunately, these socks don’t come in petite lengths, and folding them down creates uncomfortable pressure on the calf. There are also no wide-calf sizes available, and multiple buyers believe they run small, perhaps because of the high compression level. (So, you may need to size up for more comfort.)

Crew cut compression socks aren’t ideal for long periods of sitting because they won’t improve circulation as much as knee-length socks. However, they are great for outdoor adventures or anytime you want a less-restrictive option. They have targeted compression in the arch and ankle to help you recover more quickly on a walk, and the padded footbed increases comfort and prevents blisters. They’re also far easier to get on than knee-high socks!

On the other hand, these socks might be too tight around the ankle depending on your measurements. They may also lose their compression over time, especially if you frequently toss them in the washing machine. Note that shipping is only free on $100+ orders.

If you’re only struggling with mild foot and leg swelling during your pregnancy or you’re diabetic, light compression socks may be the way to go. The JOBST SensiFoot Socks have all the comfort of a traditional sock, thanks to moisture-wicking materials, a cotton-like feel and a smooth toe seam. Plus, the yarns are antibacterial and antifungal.

Importantly, JOBST recommends hand washing these socks. They may lose their shape otherwise. Also, JOBST only offers free shipping on $100+ orders, and the company deducts a restocking fee and shipping costs from returns.

Hoping to find a pair of compression socks that are fun to wear? If so, check out Dr. Segal’s Cotton Energy Socks. They come in a variety of cute colors and patterns, from polka dots to stripes to space dye. Plus, the 15 to 20 mmHg is enough to improve circulation without causing discomfort, and the compression is graduated. The top comfort band is also designed to hold the sock up all day, and the flat-felled seam reduces irritation around the toes.

On the other hand, these socks are pricey, and they don’t come in petite lengths or wide-width sizing. Dr. Segal’s also doesn’t offer free shipping on orders below $75, and it doesn’t cover return shipping.

Bombas Compression Socks rival traditional Bombas socks in terms of comfort and quality. They offer a medium level of support, which is usually more tolerable than high compression on long plane rides. Plus, the compression is graduated, so it doesn’t restrict your calves too greatly. The honeycomb arch support and zero toe seam also increase overall comfort. Note that returns and exchanges are free.

The downsides: Shipping is only free on $75+ orders, and though the socks are a comfortable cotton blend, a few customers still found the material mildly irritating after a long day. In addition, they aren’t sold in petite lengths or wide widths.

If all you need during the day is a gentle squeeze to prevent mild swelling, consider the Dr. Motion Bee Kind Mid-Crew Compression Socks. They prevent the light swelling that happens after walks or light exercise, and they’re great for all-day wear. These socks also withstand cycle after cycle in the washing machine without losing their mildly compressive feel or shape. Plus, they’re affordable at $10 per pair.

However, the compression level on these socks is so light that they don’t have an mmHg rating. They also come in just one size, which may not be large enough for wide-width feet.