Compression socks and support socks may look similar at first glance – both are high socks that provide comfortable support for the calves. But what exactly distinguishes them, and when should you use which?
Whether you want to perform better, recover faster, or just give your legs some extra love in everyday life, there are some differences worth knowing. Here, we clarify the distinction between compression socks and support socks, so you can easily choose the right sock for both training and everyday use.
What are compression socks?
Compression socks for sports are developed for activity and performance. Compression socks are tight-fitting elastic socks designed to provide graduated pressure over the ankle and up the calf. Socks with compression are technically advanced and contribute to increased blood circulation and better support during activity. Compression socks are available in different compression levels, and with or without a foot, known as compression sleeves.
The purpose of compression socks is to:
- Stabilize the calf.
- Increase blood circulation during running and exercise.
- Reduce the feeling of tired and aching legs.
- Facilitate recovery after exercise.
This maximizes performance and provides a more comfortable workout.
Benefits of using compression socks
When you use compression socks, they have graduated compression – meaning the highest pressure at the ankle, which decreases upwards towards the calf. The compression increases blood circulation. This leads to faster removal of waste products and reduced swelling in the legs. Regular use also reduces the risk of varicose veins, which is why support socks are often recommended for pregnant women and individuals with a hereditary predisposition to varicose veins.
Please see our range of compression socks.
What are support socks?
There is a difference between everyday support socks and medical support stockings.
Everyday support socks are designed to provide light pressure over the leg, focusing on promoting blood circulation in daily life. Support socks are used on healthy legs to counteract tired and swollen legs during sedentary or standing work – think office, travel, or long days on the go.
The pressure in support socks is generally lower and more evenly distributed than in compression socks. They are more for everyday support than for sports and performance.
Medical support stockings are used by medical prescription and have different compression classes with controlled pressure, carefully selected by healthcare professionals. These are used to prevent blood from accumulating in the legs. For specific medical needs, you should always consult your doctor.
Explore our support socks.
What is the difference between compression socks and support socks?
Support socks and compression socks are essentially the same type of sock. The difference primarily lies in their area of use and terminology. When the socks are used daily, for example during sedentary work or pregnancy, they are often called support socks. In a sports context, they are referred to as compression socks.
Usually, support socks also have a slightly lower compression pressure than sports socks.
Compression sock or support sock – when should you choose which?
The easiest way to distinguish between compression socks and support socks:
-
Support socks = everyday comfort.
If you move mostly in daily life, sit a lot, or travel often – then support socks with lighter compression can be your best friend. These reduce leg fatigue during sedentary or standing days. -
Compression socks for sports = active performance and recovery.
If you exercise, run, hike, or want to optimize recovery – then compression socks with a higher compression level are the obvious choice.
For training, many choose a firmer compression that provides clear support without restricting movement. Compression Superior is a good choice for running and higher intensity, while Compression is better suited for daily and gentler use over longer periods.
The most important thing is to find a model that fits securely and feels comfortable throughout the entire workout.
Why choose Gococo socks?
Our compression socks have been named best in test, proof that our socks meet standards in both quality and function.
Gococo socks contain 37.5® Technology which actively works with the body to wick away moisture. It's a unique material that keeps your feet dry and blister-free throughout your workout. The result is drier feet, less friction, and lasting comfort – whether you're running mile after mile or just want to give your legs active recovery after a tough session.
