Walk into any UK pharmacy before the holidays and you'll see a shelf of "flight socks". Shop online and you'll find "compression socks". Are they the same thing? Mostly, yes. The difference is in the details, and those details decide how your legs feel when you land. If you already know you want a pair, browse our compression socks for flights.
What are flight socks?
"Flight socks" is the everyday British name for compression socks sold for travel. You'll find them in pharmacies, at the airport and in travel shops. Most are knee-high, beige or black, and give light graduated compression.
The NHS 111 Wales travel tips note that flight socks are "available from pharmacies, airports and many retail outlets" and recommend getting advice on size and fit from a pharmacist.
What are compression socks?
Compression socks are the wider category. They use graduated compression: firmest at the ankle and gently easing towards the knee. That pressure is designed to support circulation while your calf muscles are still, which is exactly what happens on a flight.
Compression socks come in different strengths, measured in mmHg. Flight socks are simply one part of that range.
What the mmHg numbers mean
In the UK, compression hosiery is often described by British Standard classes:
| Level | British Standard | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Class 1, 14–17 mmHg | Many flight socks, everyday wear |
| Medium | Class 2, 18–24 mmHg | Longer travel days, long hours sitting or standing |
| Strong | Class 3, 25–35 mmHg | Medical use, prescribed by a professional |
Our Sheer Classic socks give light support at 12–17 mmHg. Our Opaque Extra Soft socks give medium support at 18–22 mmHg.
So what's actually different?
- The name. "Flight socks" describes where you wear them. "Compression socks" describes how they work.
- The strength. Many flight socks are light. Compression socks range from light to strong, so you can choose.
- The look. Flight socks are usually made to be hidden under trousers. Compression socks like ours are made to be seen, with skirts, cropped trousers and loafers.
- The wear. Flight socks often go back in the drawer until the next trip. A good compression sock works just as well on the commute, at your desk or on a long shift.
Made to be seen, not hidden.
More style inspiration on our Pinterest.
Which should you choose for your trip?
- Short flights or warm destinations: light support (12–17 mmHg). Try our Sheer Classic socks.
- Long-haul, overnight or connecting flights: medium support (18–22 mmHg). Try our Opaque Extra Soft socks or the Voyager Set, one pair for the way out and one for the way home.
- New to compression: start light, then add medium for longer journeys.
Whatever you choose, put them on at home, keep them on until you arrive, and walk the aisle when you can.
Made for the flight, and everything after
The best flight sock is the one you'll actually wear. That's why every Corpus Flow pair is made in Italy, comes with a silver Signature Hoop, and is designed to look as good at arrivals as it feels at 35,000 feet.
Keep reading: how to wear compression socks on a flight, what to wear on a long-haul flight and everyday compression.
Shop compression socks for flights
Corpus Flow socks are designed for everyday comfort and travel. If you are pregnant, have a medical condition or have had circulation problems, speak to your doctor before wearing compression socks.