Compression Socks FAQ
What are compression socks?
Compression socks provide gentle, graduated support to the lower legs. They are designed for everyday activities, travel, work and periods of prolonged sitting or standing.
Are Vital Socks medical-grade compression?
No. They are not medical-grade compression and are not meant to treat a vascular or any other medical condition. They are intended for general consumer use and everyday comfort. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or medical condition, and are not a substitute for prescribed medical compression therapy or professional healthcare advice.
If you have persistent swelling, a diagnosed vascular condition, lymphoedema, a history of DVT, diabetes with circulation or sensation problems, or another condition that may affect the safe use of compression garments, consult your healthcare professional before use.
How are compression socks different from normal socks?
Compression socks are made to fit closer than ordinary socks. The compression is graduated: firmest at the ankle and easing off towards the knee. Vital Socks are knee-high, sized S, M or L by your ankle circumference rather than by shoe size alone, and are everyday compression socks, not medical-grade compression.
How does compression work?
Graduated compression socks apply gentle pressure that is firmest at the ankle and eases off towards the knee. They're designed to feel snug and supportive through long days of standing, sitting or travelling.
Are these compression socks suitable for everyday wear?
Yes. They are designed for everyday use and can be worn while working, commuting, travelling or spending long periods on your feet.
Are compression socks suitable for flying?
Yes. They can be worn during flights and other long journeys where you may be sitting for extended periods.
What level of compression do these socks provide?
Our socks provide 18–21 mmHg of compression, offering a comfortable level of support for everyday wear.
How should I wash my compression socks?
Hand wash every 2–3 days in cold water using a mild soap. Gently remove excess water and leave them to air dry in the shade. Avoid bleach, harsh detergents, tumble drying and excessive heat.
How should compression socks feel?
They should feel snug and supportive without causing pain, numbness, tingling or significant discomfort. The sock should sit smoothly against your leg without excessive bunching or rolling.
Can I wear these if I have a medical condition?
Vital Socks are not medical-grade compression and are not meant to treat a vascular or any other medical condition. These socks are not intended for people who require medically prescribed compression without prior advice from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
If you have persistent swelling, a diagnosed vascular condition, lymphoedema, a history of DVT, diabetes with circulation or sensation problems, or another condition that may affect the safe use of compression garments, consult your healthcare professional before use.
If you experience pain, numbness, skin discolouration, unusual discomfort or increased swelling while wearing the socks, remove them and seek appropriate medical advice.
What are the socks made from?
Our socks are made from a blend of 75% combed cotton, 22% polyester and 3% elastane. Combed cotton provides a soft, comfortable feel against the skin, while polyester adds durability and helps the socks retain their shape. Elastane gives the stretch needed for a comfortable, supportive fit. So you get a soft, durable sock for everyday wear, whatever the season.
How is the compression level measured?
The compression level is determined during manufacturing, using specialised knitting technology and controlled production. An Orthotist specified the level, and each sock is knitted to give consistent, graduated compression along its whole length.
How do I find my size?
Vital Socks are sized by ankle circumference rather than shoe size alone. Measure around the narrowest part of your ankle, ideally in the morning, and enter it in the size guide. Add your calf measurement and the fit finder will tell you if it falls outside the usual range for that size.
No tape measure at home? See how to measure your ankle with string, a phone cable or a strip of paper.
Can you show me an example of finding my size?
Yes. Say you measure around the narrowest part of your ankle, just above the ankle bone, first thing in the morning, and the tape reads 24 cm. That falls in Medium (23 to 26 cm), so you would order M. Then check your calf: sitting with your foot flat, measure around the fullest part. Medium suits calves of 34 to 44 cm, so a 40 cm calf fits.
Two more: a 21 cm ankle is a Small (19 to 22 cm), and a 28 cm ankle is a Large (27 to 29 cm). The full chart is in our size guide.
No tape measure at home? See how to measure your ankle with string, a phone cable or a strip of paper.
How long are Vital Socks?
Knee-high. Vital Socks end just under the knee.
Which sizes do you make?
S, M and L, chosen by ankle circumference. The full chart, with calf ranges, is in the size guide.
Which designs are available?
Five: Cherry Pop, Espresso, Checker, Daisy and Black.
Do you deliver across South Africa?
Yes. Delivery is R100 per order anywhere in South Africa and takes 3 to 5 business days once your order is sent. Our Shipping policy has the details.
Do you have bundle deals?
Yes. Buy 2 pairs for R250 each, 3 or 4 pairs for R225 each, or 5 or more pairs for R200 each. Mix any designs and sizes; the bundle price is applied automatically in your cart.