5 Reasons why people DON'T wear compression (that don't actually matter)

Bring up compression socks at the next happy hour and you're bound to be met with some amount of skepticism. Beyond the basic question, do they actually work? (the answer is a resounding, scientific "yes") there are a couple reasons people will bring up for why they don't wear compression socks.

Turns out, many of those reasons are unfounded or outdated. Let's take a look at some of them.

1. "Are compression socks uncomfortable?"

Compression socks are designed with different levels of compression, so if your socks are so tight they’re uncomfortable, then they’re probably too tight! Listen to your body -- if you’re in pain, you have too much compression. Get a sock with less compression and you'll be comfortable again.

What’s the right amount of compression? Most people don’t need a lot. 15-20 mmHG of compression should be enough for most wearers.

2. Compression socks all look ugly

Remember your mom or grandma’s compression stockings? They certainly looked different than they do today. And, surprisingly, compression socks can still look too medical. 

That’s why Lily Trotters exists! Compression AND style, all in one comfortable pair of socks. Browse our fashionable styles here!

3. Too expensive

If you compare compression sock prices to the cheap normal massive packs of socks you can get at WalMart, you’re going to think they’re too expensive. But there’s a good reason those socks are so cheap: they use the simplest fabric and design to produce the cheaper product possible. They don’t last as long, and they certainly don’t give you any circulatory benefit!

Compression socks combine high-quality materials with unique compression-targeting design to give you the best sock experience. They do more for you than normal socks, which means they’re slightly more expensive. But wow are they worth it.

Having a good pair of compression socks will convince you: these are not normal socks, and they’re worth every penny.

And, despite what some companies would have you believe, they don’t have to be outrageously expensive!

4. Difficult to put on

A compression sock is not a normal sock, and if you try to pull it on as you would any old stretched-out sock, you’ll have a tug-of-war on your hands. The same compression that gives you such great health benefits can make the sock seem more difficult to put on.

But a simple change in technique makes putting on your compression socks a breeze. Our very own Casey, resident POWER CHICK recently put together this tutorial video to turn the tug-of-war into an easy, comfortable process.

5. Cause your skin to get dry and itchy

Any sock that wicks moisture is going to dry out your skin to some degree. When you remove your sock, moisturize your legs daily. Keeping your skin hydrated and healthy, combined with the benefits of compression, will make your legs feel better than ever.