To find the perfect fit for compression socks and stockings, start by measuring your ankle and referring to our size chart. If you're unsure, consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

It depends on where you are. Orders processed here will take 5-7 business days to arrive. Delivery details will be provided in your confirmation email.

Ready-to-wear and standard off-the-shelf compression garments do not require a prescription. However, some of our medical and AES compression socks do require sign off from a doctor.

Both flight socks and DVT socks are alternative names for compression socks. The main difference in the compression socks is the compression level - this is what makes them suitable for different uses e.g. flying vs medical use.

Compression stockings can have side effects if the wrong size is worn, such as skin irritation, pain or discomfort, bruising or chafing, leg cramps and tenderness. It is important to order the right size and compression level for your needs. Please consult our size charts or get in touch if you are not sure, we are always happy to help.

We don’t recommend wearing compression stockings if you suffer from any of the following:

• Serious circulatory problems
• Leg swelling due to heart problems
• Infection of the leg/phlebitis
• Diabetes
• Problems with nerves in the legs and feet leading to decreased sensation
• Open leg sores below the knee
• Peripheral neuropathy

Please consult your doctor if you have any of these conditions:

• Those who have blood clots already/have family history of blood clots
• Those suffering from or have had treatment for cancer
• Certain blood diseases
  Treatment for heart failure or circulation problems
• Recent surgery especially on the hips or knees
• Those who have an inherited clotting tendency

Yes, you can wash your FITLEGS compression socks, however, we recommend the following care instructions:

• Machine wash do not exceed 40°C/167°F
• No bleach products should be used
• Do not iron
• Do not dry clean
• Do not tumble dry
• Wash dark colours separately. Store in cool dry place, avoid direct sunlight. Do not dry over heat source (e.g. radiator).
• Maximum of 30 washes recommended for each FITLEGS garment

Yes, in some cases, compression socks can be worn to bed, but for some conditions or for higher compression levels, night time wear is not recommended. Compression socks come in different compression ratings, referring mostly to the tightness or compression level of the stocking.

For Class 1 (light) levels around 14-17mmHg, compression socks should be safe to wear to bed. For Class 2 (Medium) compression level stockings which are usually 18-24mmHg under the British classification system, it is safest to check with the medical professional before wearing them at night time. This is because AES stockings can be useful to help a variety of conditions, some of which may not be suited to night time or prolonged wear.

It depends, you can sleep in Class 1 (light) compression socks with a compression level below 18mmHg. However, for Class 2 and 3 compression garments, it's often recommended to take them off at night to let your legs and skin breathe.

In some cases, such as if you suffer from skin conditions and allergies, or have cardiovascular and circulation issues, you shouldn't even wear Class 1 socks at night. Compression socks may continue to offer circulatory support whilst you are lying flat, however this effect isn't as prominent as when you are standing.

Yes, compression socks may help with shin splints. The compression can help relieve pain and improve circulation in the lower leg, helping reduce fluid buildup and delivering fresh blood to the area to help recovery. We recommend Class 1 (light) compression socks with a rating of 14-17mmHg to begin with.

However, compression socks alone are unlikely to help you recover. You still need plenty of rest to let your body heal naturally, and you can then start introducing light exercise and physical therapy into your routine to build up strength again.

Wearing sports compression socks during your workouts may also help prevent shin splints from developing in the first place.

The best way to put on compression socks is to line up the heel and toe section, and gather the rest of the sock together in your hand, creating a pouch or pocket for your toes. Once your toes are inside, you can slide the foot section over your heel. When you've got this in place and are comfortable, slide the rest of the sock up your calf, straightening up wrinkles and creases as you go.

There is no right answer to when you should put your compression socks on before flying, and when you should take your compression socks off after a flight. Most people choose to put them on while they're waiting at the gate. Putting socks on within the confines of the plane may be quite tricky, so the extra space is welcome. Some people also like to put them on at home and wear them for the duration. This is especially ideal if you're wearing light compression socks like our Everyday Life range.

When you take them off is also personal preference but most people choose to do so once they're off the plane and have some space to do so. If it's a long flight, changing into fresh, looser-fitting socks might be a welcome change. However, you may also find benefit in keeping them on for a couple of hours to help your legs recover.

Compression socks are designed to be worn for long periods of time so they can be worn all day. We suggest removing them once daily for 30 minutes to give your skin a break. Our Everyday Life range, for example, can easily be worn all day while at work, travelling or out and about.

Higher-compression socks, such as some of those in our AES Medical range are also designed to be worn for more than 23.5 hours a day, allowing for a 30 minute break for the skin, although as these are usually recommended by health practitioners for specific conditions, its best to take advice from your doctor based on your specific circumstances.

This depends entirely on the nature of your surgery, the recovery that's required and the instructions of your surgeon. You may need to wear compression socks or stockings for anything from a couple of days for minor surgeries, to several weeks for major procedures. Your medical history and any specific conditions will also need to be taken into account.

Your doctor or another medical professional will be able to advise you on the best course of action, as well as how to wear and remove the compression socks safely. They will also be able to guide you on how long you should be wearing them, including overnight or not, and the compression level you'll need.

While compression socks are safe for most people, those who suffer from certain conditions may be prevented from wearing them. This is especially true for higher-compression, medical socks and stockings. You must always consult with your doctor or care professional to determine whether compression garments are safe for you.

There are some conditions where compression stockings are not recommended. For the Fitlegs Everyday Life range at 14-17mmHg, those with serious circulatory problems, leg swelling due to heart problems, infection of the leg/phlebitis, diabetes, problems with nerves in the legs and feet leading to decreased sensation, open leg sores below the knee or peripheral neuropathy should avoid wearing.

For our higher compression socks, such as Fitlegs 18mmHg AES medical compression stockings, those with severe peripheral vascular disease, severe dermatitis, gross oedema/oedema of the legs, deformity of the legs, peripheral Neuropathy or a recent Skin Graft should avoid wearing.

You should check the contraindications for each product before purchasing and as always, if unsure you should check with your health practitioner.

As some compression garments use latex, silicone or other synthetic materials, some people with allergies and skin conditions can't wear them. Fitlegs compression socks contain Nylon and Elastane.

Lastly, people who are fully bedbound or are unable to communicate should not wear compression socks without medical supervision.

Yes, wearing compression socks while you're out walking can bring a range of benefits. Our Sports Compression socks help to improve circulation which can reduce pain, swelling and muscle fatigue, as well as increase performance and recovery. If you work in a job that means you spend a lot of time on your feet, such as a medical professional, a teacher, manual labourer, or countless other professions, Everyday Life or sports compression socks can also help.

If you're planning on wearing them all day, Class 1 compression socks with a compression level of between 14-17mmHg should be ideal.

Yes, the terms 'flight socks' and 'compression socks' are broadly interchangeable. Some people also call them DVT socks because they help reduce the chances of developing DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) when sitting for long periods of time. They offer graduated compression, that is highest at the ankle, to improve blood circulation, prevent swelling and reduce pain and discomfort on long journeys. That said, they're also a great choice for people who spend a lot of time sitting down for their job, or also who spend lots of time on their feet.

However, the comparison is most similar with Class 1, light compression socks that are designed to be worn all day and essentially function as regular socks. Class 2 and Class 3 medical-grade compression socks and stockings are different and are designed to help with specific conditions. These may be excessive for most everyday conditions, and may also require medical supervision and a prescription to buy them.

For our Everyday Life and Sports compression socks, in most cases, they're generally stretchy enough to cover a few shoe sizes, so you don't have to be exact, although calf and ankle measurements are usually provided so you can double check before purchasing.

However, when it comes to medical compression stockings (our AES and FITLEGS 2), sizing is more important. In this case, you (or a care provider) will need to measure your ankle, calf and potentially your thigh circumference.

We recommend measuring your ankle size early in the morning, before any swelling has the chance to form. Start by taking a tape measure and measuring your ankle circumference in mm/cm. Measure just above the bone of your ankle and again around your calf. If needed, do the same around the middle of your thigh.

Each Fitlegs product has a size guide included on the website so you can check before purchasing. Fitlegs AES also include a fitting and measuring guide.

Compression socks should be comfortable to wear for extended periods, so if your legs ache, it could be a sign that something's wrong. In most cases, it's likely that you're wearing socks that are too tight, so try buying a size up to see if that makes any difference. Compression socks that don't fit properly can restrict blood flow which may lead to pain, numbness and a tingling sensation. If you experience these symptoms, take the socks off immediately.

If buying a larger size doesn't work, it may be a sign that you're wearing the compression socks for too long, too often or not taking long enough breaks between wearing them. It may also be sign of underlying circulation issues which need to be addressed. We always recommend consulting with a medical professional to ensure you are able to wear compression socks safely.

Finally, we find that some people simply don't like the feel of compression socks and are sensitive to tight feeling.

You should always listen to do your doctor or care professional regarding whether you can wear compression socks with any medication or health condition. However, compression garments are usually fine to wear while taking your blood thinning medication.

Blood thinners help to improve circulaton and prevent blood clots forming in your veins and blood vessels. Compression garments aim to do the same thing, and your doctor or surgeon may recommend utilising both as part of your recovery from surgery or managing certain health conditions. As part of managing DVT, compression stockings can help with existing clots and reduce the risk of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) that can cause leg pain, swelling, and skin changes.

How long you should wear compression socks after your C-section will vary, depending on your age, health and other risk factors, and how quickly you recover. However, patients typically wear compression socks or stockings for at least 10 days after the procedure. As with any medical condition or operation, it's essential that you consult with your surgeon or doctor and follow their advice on how long you should wear compression socks, the compression level itself, and how often you should remove them.

Most patients are discharged from hospital with compression socks and are instructed on how to wear them at home to continue their recovery, and reduce the chances of blood clots forming.

Compression socks should fit snugly but not tightly. You should feel like your foot, ankle and lower leg is well-supported while you're standing or walking. Because of the graduated compression, they should feel tighter around the foot and ankle before loosening slightly around the calf. However, they should still stay up on their own.

However, the socks should not feel tight or cause discomfort. If you feel like you're losing sensation in your leg, it's going cold and numb, or you feel tingling, you should take them off as they're too tight. It's also important that you don't roll compression socks down. This can cause excess pressure in certain areas, reducing their efficacy and increasing discomfort.

Yes, compression socks can be helpful in reducing varicose veins, and the pain, swelling and discomfort comes with the condition. They improve blood circulation which helps remove fluid buildup and deliver fresh, oxygenated blood to the lower limbs. However, compression socks do not cure varicose veins and should only be used as part of a treatment programme which includes lifestyle changes, physical activity and potentially other medical intervention.

Yes, compression socks of all levels are highly effective at reducing swelling in the legs and ankles as they help move blood around the lower limbs, preventing it from pooling. They're especially useful for people who spend long periods sitting down, or who have reduced mobility.

You can usually wear light compression socks, such as those with compression levels under 18mmHg, throughout the day. These socks, like our Everyday Life range, are most effective when you put them on in the morning and take them off for the evening and to go to sleep. You can wear light compression socks to bed, but it's often best to give your feet a chance to rest and breathe.

Medical-grade compression socks are much tighter and need to be worn with medical supervision. Your doctor or care provider will tell you how often and for how long you should be wearing them.

Yes, our range of Sports Compression Socks are designed specifically for running, walking and other physical exercise. Not only do they help improve circulation during exercise which can improve your athletic performance, they should also help you recover better and manage the aches and pains that can come after physical exertion.

Yes, you can wear light, Class 1 compression socks all day. In fact, our Everyday Life range is designed for just that, to be worn at work, at home and while travelling.

Yes, compression socks and stockings may help as part of a range of treatments and management solutions for Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). The feeling of compression can act as a counter for uncomfortable sensations in the legs which are associated with RLS. They also help improve circulation in the legs which may also reduce the severity of symptoms.

It's important that any compression sock or stocking you choose fits properly and is suitable for you, so it's essential you consult with a medical professional.

All of our compression garments come with care instructions, which you must follow, but you can wash most compression socks on a cool and delicate washing machine cycle. We recommend avoiding harsh chemicals, detergents or bleaches and allowing them to air-dry. You can also handwash compression socks with warm water and a mild detergent. Do not Tumble Dry.

Yes, compression socks can be used to help manage and reduce leg cramps. Everyone can benefit from them, but they're especially useful for people with poor circulation, reduced mobility, spend a lot of time sat down, or who suffer from conditions like varicose veins and DVT.

Compression socks should feel snug, but not painfully tight. However, compression socks are available in different compression levels and some will feel tighter than others. Class 1 (light) compression socks, commonly used as flight socks, are the lowest compression level and will feel the least tight. Class 2 (medium) and above will feel tighter as they are designed to be that way, but they shouldn't hurt or cause discomfort. Compression socks will feel tighter than a standard sock by design, as the compression is what helps blood flow and circulation, bringing the benefits of wearing them. Consult with your doctor if you aren't sure which compression sock is right for you.

Compression socks help runners (and walkers, cyclists and other athletes, for that matter) improve their circulation in their legs, reduce the chances of muscle soreness, recover faster, and potentially avoid certain injuries.

The graduated pressure they apply up the leg helps the body pump blood more effectively (known as venous return), delivering fresh blood to the leg muscles and removing metabolites such as lactic acid and preventing water retention. Not only does this help during exercise, but wearing compression socks after your run can help you recover faster and avoid the dreaded DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness).

Compression socks are usually recommended for pregnant women to wear after the first trimester until after the baby has been born. Because they help reduce pain and swelling, they can be particularly helpful during the last trimester. Your doctor will recommend which compression level you need to wear, and if you have varicose veins or are considered higher-risk, they may recommend medical-grade compression socks. If not, normal Class 1 socks should be fine.

Pregnant women are often advised to wear compression socks throughout the day, taking them off at night and to sleep. Your doctor may also recommend you wear them for a few weeks postpartum to reduce the risks of blood clots forming.

Compression socks normally finish just below the knee, like football or rugby socks do. If they go over the knee, they are usually referred to as compression stockings. However, these terms are often used interchangeably.

Yes! In fact, it's not just nurses who can benefit from compression socks. Anybody who spends a lot of time on their feet such as doctors, cleaners, manual labourers, teachers, postal workers, and many others, are often recommended to try wearing them throughout the day.

Yes. Although you need to consult your doctor first, pregnant women can be at a heightened risk of developing varicose veins, DVT and pain from poor circulation - all of which can be made worse by sitting still on a plane or in a car for a long period of time.

You may be wondering what happened to our dedicated fitlegs.com site… We’ve moved FITLEGS to gandnhealth.com, but why?

For over 50 years, our parent company, G&N, has been developing science-backed healthcare solutions for hospitals and healthcare providers. Now, through our new G+N Health brand, we’re bringing that same clinical expertise into the home with innovative solutions focused on compression, rehabilitation, and recovery.

FITLEGS is an important part of this family of at-home healthcare solutions, and we wanted to bring everything together in one place.  That’s why gandnhealth.com is now the official home for both our FITLEGS Compression Socks and G+N Recovery brands. 

The FITLEGS brand is owned (and always has been) by Griffiths & Nielsen Ltd, or G&N.  G&N is a ltd company with over 50 years of medical heritage, supplying evidence-backed healthcare solutions to hospitals and private healthcare providers.  Starting as the UK market leader of hospital anti-embolism stockings, FITLEGS is also available to people at home as medical, sports and everyday life compression socks.  

Still owned by G&N, FITLEGS now falls under the new G+N Health brand of at-home healthcare solutions.