How Compression Socks Work
How Compression Socks Work: A Comprehensive Analysis of Their Design and Principles
The design and principles behind compression socks cover 4 key topics: the manufacturing process, compression levels, measurement units, and future developments. This will give you a clear understanding of how our compression socks work and the potential advancements we’re exploring.
Manufacturing Process of Compression Socks
1. Material Selection
Compression socks are typically crafted from a blend of functional fibers and elastic materials, such as LYCRA and polyester, which provide excellent stretchability. The required compression level determines these materials' selection, with higher compression socks utilizing more elastic fibers to meet the necessary compression demands.
2. Compression Distribution
The core mechanism of compression socks is their graduated compression design, which adjusts compression levels across the leg. Maximum compression of 100% at the ankle propels blood toward the heart, while compression gradually decreases to 70% and then to 50% at the top, ensuring smooth circulation and preventing blood backflow. This design reduces vein diameter, increases blood flow, improves venous return, boosts muscle pump function, and supports lymphatic drainage. (Reference source: National Institutes of Health )
Note: Compression values may vary slightly based on production parameters. Please refer to the actual specifications.
3. Knitting Technology
SUN POLAR uses Lonati and MERZ knitting machines, which offer precise control over yarn density. During the knitting process, the fabric at the ankle is knitted with higher density, creating a tighter structure, while the density gradually decreases as the sock extends upward. This results in higher fiber density in high-compression areas, such as the ankle, and a looser structure in low-compression areas, such as the thigh or knee, effectively achieving the desired graduated compression.
4. Compression testing and inspection
Throughout the manufacturing process of compression socks, compression tests and multiple inspections are conducted to ensure that the compression in each area meets design specifications. SUN POLAR utilizes advanced compression testing equipment to ensure that the compression distribution conforms to the intended standard
5. Heating and setting treatment
For professional medical stockings or high-compression level socks, SUN POLAR employs a heat-setting machine for heating and setting treatments to ensure the socks maintain their optimal form and compression performance. Additionally, to enhance durability and comfort, reinforcement stitching is applied to the toe and heel areas, increasing strength and reducing wear.
6. Post-Processing
Based on customer requirements, SUN POLAR offers a wide range of post-processing services, including 360-degree digital printing, pad printing, Thermal transfer printing, silicone treatment, reflective printing, and the use of different materials in overlock, providing advanced custom processing solutions.
Compression level
The compression levels of compression socks are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and are classified based on the amount of compression applied. These levels cater to various needs, ranging from mild to medical-grade therapeutic compression. The classifications are as follows:
8-15 mmHg
Suitable for daily wear and commonly used for travel, providing light support to help relieve fatigue and leg swelling.
Recommended for: Daily use, such as work, household activities, or individuals who are frequently on their feet.
15-20 mmHg
Suitable for daily wear and regular training, providing support to reduce ankle and leg swelling. Commonly used for the treatment of mild spider veins and varicose veins.
Recommended for: Daily use such as work, household activities, or individuals who are frequently on their feet; long-distance travelers, especially those flying or sitting for extended periods.
20-30 mmHg
Medical-grade compression level, commonly used for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) as well as moderate spider veins and varicose veins.
Recommended for: Individuals in post-surgery recovery, especially those who have undergone major surgeries (such as joint replacements or vein surgeries); athletes who frequently engage in high-intensity exercise.
30-40 mmHg
Higher-range medical-grade compression helps to promote blood circulation and accelerate recovery.
Recommended for: Individuals with moderate edema, recovering from deep vein thrombosis (DVT), post-surgery patients, those with varicose veins or phlebitis, and pregnant women.
Above 40 mmHg
Effectively reduces severe swelling, promotes blood circulation, accelerates recovery, and supports venous health.
Recommended for: Individuals with severe edema, lymphedema, advanced varicose veins, post-thrombotic syndrome, and chronic venous insufficiency. This compression level is also suitable for patients with severe skin ulcers and those in the critical recovery phase post-surgery.
Before custom-fitting your compression socks, please follow the measurement steps on our website and provide the data to SUN POLAR to ensure the proper fit and effectiveness of the socks.
Note: Before using compression socks with a compression level of 30 mmHg or higher, please consult a healthcare professional to ensure it is suitable for your health condition.
Compression measurement units
Compression levels are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), the standard unit for compression, derived from blood pressure readings. A compression level of 15-20 mmHg is typically adequate for daily use, while individuals undergoing medical recovery may require higher levels.
Denier (Den) measures yarn thickness, defined by the weight in grams of 9,000 meters of yarn. For example, if 9,000 meters of yarn weighs 200 grams, it is labeled as 200D. A higher Denier indicates thicker fibers and denser fabric, affecting the compression sock’s elasticity, strength, and durability. In compression socks, higher Denier fibers are used at the ankle for higher compression, while lower Denier is used at the thigh for comfort and flexibility.
- Low Denier: Finer fibers, thinner socks, better breathability.
- High Denier: Thicker fibers, sturdier socks, more durability.
Although both mmHg and Denier affect compression socks' performance, they are not directly related. Denier influences fiber thickness and sock structure, while mmHg measures the compression applied to the leg. Higher compression socks often use higher Denier yarns to provide the strength and durability needed to deliver the required graduated compression.
(Reference source: WIKI)
What’s Next for Compression Socks
According to Persistence Market Research, the global compression sock market is projected to grow steadily, reaching $751.7 million by 2025 and $1.0556 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 4.3% from 2025 to 2032. This growth trend reflects the increasing demand for effective and comfortable compression socks, with fashion trends also making socks an essential part of outfit coordination. Whether paired with high heels or sneakers, compression socks seamlessly combine personalized style and comfort, becoming an integral part of modern fashion.
In response to the rapidly expanding market, SUNPOLAR maintains a leading position in the industry through its exceptional expertise and stringent quality control. The company leverages advanced manufacturing technologies and partners with top knitting machine manufacturers, Italy's Lonati and Germany's MERZ, to precisely adjust the knitting density and gradient compression of each pair of compression socks, ensuring the optimal balance between comfort and performance.
Additionally, SUN POLAR offers a diverse product range, including compression socks, knee supports, ankle supports, wrist guards, plantar fasciitis supports, and other progressive compression gear to meet a wide variety of athletic and medical needs. We also provide a range of stylish custom finishing services, tailored to each customer’s specific requirements. Whether paired with athletic wear or integrated into daily outfits, SUN POLAR continues to blend health, comfort, and fashion, providing professional and reliable product solutions for your brand.
Want to stay informed about the latest advancements in compression technology? Follow us on LinkedIn for real-time updates on innovations, products, and industry developments.
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