How-to guide.
How to put on compression socks without the struggle.
It doesn't have to be a workout. Here's the technique that actually works.
Why compression socks are so hard to put on, and what to do about it.
Traditional compression socks are uniformly tight: same compression strength from toe to cuff. Getting that much elasticity over your heel and up your leg is a battle. Most people either fight with them every morning or give up and leave them in a drawer.
The technique matters. So does the design. Graduated compression socks, tightest at the ankle, loosening as they go up, are significantly easier to get on once you know how. Here's the method.
The inside-out method.
Pinch heel and turn sock inside out.
Reach your hand inside the sock until you reach the heel cup. Pinch the heel and turn the sock inside out. You should be left with a small opening.
Slide your foot in. Secure your toes.
Slide your foot into the sock. Make sure the toes are comfortable and heel cup is positioned correctly against your heel, it should sit snugly. Don't pull yet.
Pull the cuff up over your heel and leg.
From the cuff, pull the sock up over your heel and all the way up your leg.
Smooth rolls and adjust height.
Smooth out any wrinkles or folds and ensure the cuff sits 1-2 fingers width distance below the crease of the knee.
How Mode is different.
Graduated compression.
The sock is tightest at the ankle and looser as it goes up. That makes the calf much easier to work through, no fighting a uniformly tight tube.
Shaped like a leg.
Mode socks have extra width at the calf because they're designed to match the shape of an actual leg. That curve means less resistance at the widest point.
A stretchy, lightweight cuff.
The cuff is made from a different, lighter yarn: stretchy and comfortable, not rigid and thick. It's easier to grip and pull up, and it doesn't fight back.
Questions? We've got answers.
Why are compression socks so hard to put on?
Traditional compression socks are uniformly tight, which means you're fighting the same level of resistance from toe to cuff. Graduated compression socks are tightest at the ankle and loosen going up, which makes the calf and cuff significantly easier to get over.
Is there a tool that makes putting on compression socks easier?
There are stocking donner devices that help, especially for people with limited hand strength or flexibility. For Mode Compression socks, the inside-out technique above works well without any tools for most people.
How tight should compression socks feel when I put them on?
They should feel snug, not painful. There's a difference between compression that's doing its job and compression that's too tight. If you feel numbness, tingling, or the sock is leaving a deep painful mark, check your size, you may need wide-calf.
Can I put compression socks on by myself?
Most people can, especially with the right technique and a well-designed sock. The inside-out method significantly reduces the effort required. If you have joint issues or limited hand strength, a stocking aid device can help.
When should I put on compression socks?
In the morning as soon as possible after you wake up is best. Swelling builds throughout the day as gravity works against your circulation. Putting socks on before you're on your feet means you're working with your body, not chasing the swelling.
How do I know if my compression socks fit correctly?
They should be smooth with no wrinkles or bunching. Snug but not painful. Your feet and toes should fit comfortably in the footbed. The toes should never feel cramped, the seams should never bulk at the sides and the heel should stay in place. The cuff should sit below the knee, not cutting in. If it leaves a deep mark or rolls down, size may be off.
Easier to put on. Worth keeping on.
Made with cotton. 15-20 mmHg graduated compression. Designed to fit on your legs without a fight.
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