Compression Men: What They Can Do for You
For guys who need compression garments, choosing them can be intimidating. After all, unlike women, most guys may have no experience buying legwear. But buying compression men garments doesn’t have to be a challenge. Compression stocking retailers are well aware that men experience varicose veins, leg cramps, leg fatigue, and other ailments that can be aided by support stockings. Or maybe you’re a runner or cyclist looking for the athletic edge offered by calf sleeves, sports compression, or running compression.
Common brands of compression gear for men include Sigvaris, Jobst, Juzo, and Mediven. A sales person at your local medical supply store, online legwear retailer, or running or cycling specialty store can suggest some pros and cons of each available brand.
Compression garments for men come in a variety of styles, including:
- Knee high support hose (available in common men’s sock colors, such as black, white, and tan) and ribbed socks
- Thigh high support hose (also available in common colors like black or tan)
- Compression shorts
- Compression socks
- Compression shirts and sleeves
Before you can buy, you’ll need to measure yourself carefully. Generally, you’ll need to measure the circumference of each calf, thigh (around the top part of the leg, by the buttocks), and knee, as well as the overall length of your leg.
Sigvaris, Juzo, Jobst, and Mediven compression for men come in the following mmHg compression levels (mmHg stands for millimeter of mercury):
- 8-15 mmHg
- 15-20 mmHg
- 20-30 mmHg
- 30-40 mmHg
- 40-50 mmHg
- 50-60 mmHg
Once you choose, you’ll have to learn how to care for your garments properly. Whatever brand you choose, the retailer should provide washing instructions. If you’re using medical stockings, your doctor can tell you how long to wear your stockings each day.
Using your support hose properly will help reduce the risk of varicose veins, ensure your legs are fatigue- and ache-free, and reduce the risk of dangerous blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis and other ailments. People with diabetes often wear men support socks since their circulation is often impaired due to diabetes.