9 Best Compression Leggings for Varicose Veins (Doctor Recommended)

You know that feeling of bluish veins on your legs that look like they want to jut out of the skin. And the way they get everyone staring during the day and cramp or ache at night when all you want is a peaceful rest after a hard and long day at work.

Although pregnancy and genes are the major culprits, anyone can have her veins start swelling in different parts of her legs, but this doesn’t have to be permanent.

Weak valves and vessel walls are the reason behind varicose veins, spider veins, and lymphedema, but graduated pressure from compression leggings and tights will help push blood into better circulation and relax the veins.

We tested several brands and consulted vein specialists such as Dr. Satish Vayuvegula, the National Medical Director at Vein Clinics of America, so you don’t have to gamble with compression garments.

When you click on the links here and better your life with the best compression leggings for varicose veins, we’ll earn a small commission at absolutely no extra cost to you.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Weak vein valves and walls cause varicose veins. Inside your veins, small one-way valves open to allow adequate blood flow. The valves then close to ensure the blood doesn’t flow backward. Due to reasons such as obesity, smoking, and pregnancy, the walls of your veins may weaken and lose elasticity, weakening the valves. If the valves fail to function correctly, some blood will leak and flow backward. This blood accumulates in your veins, making them swell and enlarge, causing the varicose veins. Some factors that increase the risk of varicose veins include:

  • Overweight
  • Old age
  • Pregnancy
  • Standing for a long time
  • Abnormal blood vessels
  • Previous blood clotting
  • A tumor or swelling in the pelvis

What Compression is Best for Varicose Veins?

According to Dr. Satish Vayuvegula, compression stockings are the first recommended therapy for relaxing and preventing the worsening of varicose veins. For a permanent solution, compression therapy is combined with other medical procedures such as sclerotherapy and endovenous laser treatments. That being said, the best compression level from a pair of stockings, tights, socks, or leggings depends on your specific needs.

– 15-20mmHg compression is appropriate for travel, sports, and daily wear, whether or not you have injuries and blood circulation problems.

– 20-30mmHg compression is best for sports and medical recovery and for managing milder problems like spider and varicose veins.

– 30-40mmHg compression is a high level of compression prescribed for severe conditions like blood clots and acute varicose veins.

Top Editor’s Choice for Compression Tights, Pantyhose, and Leggings

Editor’s Pick

Image
Name
Material
Editor's Remark
Price
1. CompressionZ High Waisted Women's Leggings - Compression Pants for Yoga Running Gym and Everyday Fitness. These are one of the best compression leggings for varicose veins.
77% Nylon, 23% Spandex
Most non-see through fabric
2. ABSOLUTE SUPPORT - Made in USA - Small to 5XL Compression Leggings for Women 20-30mmHg - Footless Opaque Pantyhose. One of the best leggings for relaxing varicose veins
Nylon 75%, Spandex 25%
Best for severe varicose veins
3. Absolute Support 20-30mmHg Women’s Opaque Compression Stockings for Circulation - Firm Graduated High Waist Tights Made in the USA. One of the compression tights for nurses, flight attendants, waitresses, and other professionals whose job involves standing for long hours
80% Nylon, 20% Lycra Spandex
Best for people whose work involves standing for long
4. JOBST UltraSheer Waist High 15-20 mmHg Compression Stockings Pantyhose, Closed Toe, Medium, Natural Fit. One of the most durable pantyhose
77% Nylon, 23% Spandex
Most durable pantyhose

Best Compression Leggings for Varicose Veins

1. CompressionZ Women’s High Waist Yoga Leggings

CompressionZ High Waisted Women's Leggings - Compression Pants for Yoga Running Gym and Everyday Fitness. These are one of the best compression leggings for varicose veins.

CompressionZ Women’s High Waist Yoga Leggings are made of thick and long-lasting polyester and spandex. This is tight enough to provide compression that allows effective blood flow thus preventing varicose veins.

The compression leggings for varicose veins are designed with comfort in mind. The breathable, 4-way stretch and chafe-free fabric are the best for taking a walk, jogging, yoga, hiking, and working out. Besides, the pants are moisture absorbent and breathable, so you can always wear them in both cool and warm weather.

The athletic leggings offer full muscle support making them great to wear when running or performing a vigorous workout. They’ll help you reduce the risk of a muscle pull.

Btw workout pants are not worth it if you can’t squat, stretch, or bend without the confidence that you won’t expose yourself. These black compression yoga pants are thick enough and tightly stitched such that people can’t see anything even if they flash a torch on you.

The fabric’s quality is also durable and it’s not compromised by frequent washing.

“I bought a pair of these pants for a friend of mine last year  because she has varicose veins  in her thighs. She absolutely loved them. So this year she asked me to buy her 2 more and I did 🙂 I am so glad it helped her with the pain in the summer time.”- Rania Hassan

A shopper's review on Amazon for CompressionZ High Waisted Women's Leggings - Compression Pants for Yoga Running Gym & Everyday Fitness

Material: 77% Nylon, 23% Spandex

What Reviewers Like

  • Soft, lightweight, and breathable
  • Chafe free
  • No see-through
  • Great for reducing other conditions such as edema and cellulite
What they Don’t Like

  • Some color options such as gray, camo prints, and black don’t have side pockets

2. ABSOLUTE SUPPORT – Made in USA – Compression Leggings Women 20-30 mmHg

ABSOLUTE SUPPORT - Made in USA - Small to 5XL Compression Leggings for Women 20-30mmHg - Footless Opaque Pantyhose. One of the best leggings for relaxing varicose veins

These leggings are made of 75% nylon and 25% spandex, a stretchy but close-fitting fabric that will solve most of the circulation problems in your legs. They are perfect for helping improve blood circulation and reducing varicose veins, spider veins, and other causes of venous insufficiency.

The leggings are tight and strong, making them deliver the right compression for mild to severe swelling of veins and lymphatic vessels. If you don’t need a fit that’s too tight, you can always buy a size or two up.

You can also wear these compression stockings to reduce blood clot risks after a long time of bed rest or sitting for several hours. They are free of latex, making them safe to wear.

They are available in different styles, so you can pick the style that suits or pleases you the most. But the most important thing is to pick one with the perfect tightness and comfort for your situation.

These best leggings for varicose veins look great when you wear them under a short dress (see more reviews of the best leggings to wear under dresses) and promote better blood circulation when you sit down for many hours. The nylon material is durable, so you know the leggings can last for years.

A verified buyer's feedback for ABSOLUTE SUPPORT - Made in USA - S to 5XL Compression Leggings for Women 20-30mmHg - Footless Opaque Pantyhose

Material: Nylon 75%, Spandex 25%

What Reviewers Like

  • A wide range of sizes facilitates moderate to tight compression
  • Latex-free thus one of the best leggings for a sensitive skin
  • Enhances muscle healing
  • Opaque material
What they Don’t Like

  • Available in three colors only
  • They’re tight and strong so putting them on can be a little bit tedious

3. Terramed Best Maternity Compression Leggings over the Belly Stockings – 20-30mmHg

Terramed Maternity Compression Tights Over The Belly Stockings Women 20-30mmHg- best maternity compression leggings

Made of microfiber material, these are the stockings for preventing swelling in the legs. They have a design that allows them to exert more pressure on the lower legs starting from the ankles, and the pressure reduces up the legs. This creates the right pressure gradient to ensure that blood in your lower legs is flowing back to the heart. This is also the most effective way to prevent swelling of the legs during pregnancy and you’ll love it before, during, and after expectancy.

The high-quality microfiber material offers an unmatched combination of therapeutic compression and comfort. The material also makes them durable, breathable, and soft to the touch.

The leggings offer you effective support and look elegant when you wear them with your favorite long tunic or even sports shirt, skirt, or dress. Besides, you cannot see through the tights, making them safe to wear.

These compression leggings are flexible and shape your body more effectively. They have a soft elastic pouch that expands to accommodate your changing tummy throughout the pregnancy period.

They offer the right compression around your legs, allowing a smooth flow of blood and fluids. This helps prevent varicose veins that are common during pregnancy.

What Reviewers Like

  • Graduated compression promotes blood, fluids, and oxygen circulation
  • Shapes the body
  • Breathable, soft, and comfortable
  • Soft but durable
  • Available in a variety of sizes
What they Don’t Like

  • It’s only available in black color

4. Zodeyi Women’s Medical Grade Compression Leggings- Relieves Swelling, Edema, Varicose Veins

Zodeyi Medical Grade Compression Pantyhose for Women 20-30mmHg Opaque Compression Leggings for Promoting Blood and Fluid Circulation in the Legs. Compression Tights that Relieve Swelling, Edema, Varicose Veins, Spider Veins, Lymphedema. One of the best compression leggings for varicose veins

Zodeyi medical compression pantyhose will instantly make your legs looks smooth despite the swelling veins. And they’re the permanent solution for varicose veins and other circulation problems in your legs.

The leggings provide the right pressure at the ankles, with the compression reducing up the legs, which helps promote healthy circulation and keeps you feeling energized all day.

The compression tights have a compression level of 20 to 30mmHg and the top-notch quality medical grade material will still fit snuggly even after a couple of years of washing and wearing.

The best compression leggings for varicose veins are designed with a lightweight, anti-slip, breathable, and sweat-absorbent material that makes you feel better than when wearing ordinary pantyhose. They are also comfortable to wear for lengthy hours, especially if you spend a lot of time standing.

The thick, opaque, and smooth fabric helps hide the appearance of varicose veins, spider veins, blood clots, lymphedema, phlebitis, and other imperfections.

These leggings feature a two-way stretch design that offers additional comfort and makes them easier to put on.

Material: 70% Nylon, 30% Spandex

What Reviewers Like

  • Graduated pressure ensures healthy circulation
  • Breathable and lightweight
  • Sweat absorbent
  • Easy to put on
  • Thick and smooth fabric
What they Don’t Like

  • You may need to order one size up for the best fit

Best Compression Tights for Varicose Veins

The best compression tights for varicose veins exert pressure on your legs to reduce the bulging of the veins. They squeeze the blood flow from your legs back upwards, thus minimizing the pressure of blood piling in the veins.

5. Absolute Support 20-30mmHg Women’s Opaque Compression Stockings for Circulation – Made in USA

Absolute Support 20-30mmHg Women’s Opaque Compression Stockings for Circulation - Firm Graduated High Waist Tights Made in the USA. One of the compression tights for nurses, flight attendants, waitresses, and other professionals whose job involves standing for long hours

If you’re a healthcare worker, or a flight or restaurant attendant who goes for 10 hours while standing, you need to wear these compression stockings to maintain proper circulation in the legs.

Designed with graduated compression technology, these tights help with varicose veins, blood clots, spider veins, cellulitis, among many other problems.

They feature 80 percent nylon and 20 percent spandex, making them comfortable to wear and long-lasting.

They are tight enough to support your muscles and prevent muscle pulls, which makes their elastic compression perfect for exercise, running, yoga, or any other strenuous activity.

The stockings are also sweat-absorbent and breathable, so you always feel comfortable wearing them when you’re walking or exercising.

They feature four to six compression measurements at specific intervals from the ankle to the end of the garment. This ensures that the stockings offer the right pressure distribution and enhance comfort.

“I bought these stockings at the time I was suffering pain from a  Venus ulcer caused by varicose vein . I was not able to work without these stockings. Blood was pooling at my ankle and it was super painful.  These stockings were very helpful  until I was able to get the surgery I needed.”Shandy

A verified buyer's feedback on Amazon for Absolute Support 20-30mmHg Women's Opaque Compression Stockings for Circulation - Firm Graduated High Waist Tights - Made in USA

Material: 80% Nylon, 20% Lycra Spandex

What Reviewers Like

  • Long lasting and comfortable material
  • Balanced pressure distribution from the ankle to the waist
  • It can be used during pregnancy
  • Tight enough for effective muscle support
What they Don’t Like

  • Available in two colors only
  • They’re tight and strong so putting them on can be a little bit tedious

6. Beister Medical Grade Compression Tights with Graduated Support – Open Toe Thigh High Compression Stockings

Beister Best Medical Compression Pantyhose for Women and Men, 20-30mmHg Open Toe Thigh High Compression Tights with Graduated Support. One of the best compression tights for varicose veins

These tights feature a high-quality elastic band that makes them fit well around your tummy. They are also soft, breathable, and comfortable to wear. They don’t exert much pressure, so you don’t feel pain in your legs or tummy.

These best compression tights for varicose veins provide a 5-interval graduated tightness action that is strong at the ankles and reduces as you move up your legs as blood flows back to the heart.

They help ensure proper blood circulation, thus reducing and preventing swellings on your legs. The gradient compression technology used makes the tights effective in preventing varicose veins, spider veins, and leg pain. The pressure delivered is safe and comfortable even after you’ve undergone surgery.

A good high-waist compression garment should not cinch your tummy or leave an unsightly line and redness, neither should it slip nor shift. Its elastic waistband fits snuggly around your belly to prevent slippage, and the crotch junction is one of the safest for squatting without the fear that it might crack open.

I have renal failure and as such  my lower extremities swell beyond belief . Wearing these on just the very first day made a huge, HUGE, difference!  I ordered two more pairs  I’m so impressed!!”-John

Material: 70% Nylon, 25% Spandex, 5% Elastane

What Reviewers Like

  • Soft, elastic, and breathable
  • Tough and reliable crotch gusset
  • Exerts balanced pressure on your body
  • Long-lasting material
What they Don’t Like

  • Sizing can be tricky, so measure well before ordering

Best Compression Pantyhose for Varicose Veins

Compression pantyhose helps boost circulation and reduce venous swelling, easing varicose veins and preventing blood clotting in your legs.

7. JOBST UltraSheer Waist High 15-20 mmHg Compression Stockings Pantyhose

JOBST UltraSheer Waist High 15-20 mmHg Compression Stockings Pantyhose, Closed Toe, Medium, Natural Fit. One of the most durable pantyhose

Varicose and spider vein patients have found these pantyhose stockings as good as the one being recommended to them by their dermatologist but at half the price.

It’s an excellent solution to varicose veins since it provides an anatomically precise pressure gradient. It’s also stylish but comfortable to wear. The reinforced knees, toes, and heels minimize friction and offer better fit and durability.

It is designed with 77 percent nylon and 23 percent spandex, making it long-lasting. Besides, it features double-covered yarn that adds to the long-lasting aspect.

You can wear the pantyhose for many hours because of the knitted-in silicone yarns that make them soft to wear. They are seamless circular knitted for a silky and comfy feel.

The pantyhose feature a compression class of 15 to 20mmHg, making them a perfect solution for relaxing reticular veins.

A legitimate buyer's review on Amazon for JOBST UltraSheer Waist High 15-20 mmHg Compression Stockings Pantyhose, Closed Toe, Medium, Natural

Material: 77% Nylon, 23% Spandex

What Reviewers Like

  • Double layered yarn for durability
  • Strong heels and toes offer better protection against wear and tear
  • Looks stylish when worn under dresses and skirts
  • Easy to maintain either by machine or hand washing
  • The sheer lightweight is best for the warmer months
What they Don’t Like

  • It’s a see-through material so you have to wear something over it

8. AMZAM® Compression Pantyhose for Women- 15-20mmHg Graded Tightness

AMZAM® Compression Pantyhose for Women and Men, Open Toe, Opaque Fabric, Firm Support 15-20mmHg Graduated Compression Stockings, Helps Relieve Swelling, Edema, Varicose Veins, Spider Veins, Lymphedema. One of the best compression pantyhose for varicose veins

AMZAM® Compression Pantyhose is the choice of stockings for wearing with peep-hole shoes, flip flops, and stockings. The toeless design allows free movement of your feet and the garment is also made of top-notch anti-slip, breathable, lightweight, and long-lasting material.

The pantyhose have compression of 15-20 mmHg, and the woven construction makes them retain their tightness even after wearing them for a couple of years.

The compression delivered improves blood flow and circulation and this helps prevent or reduce soreness, varicose veins, spider veins, stiffness, blood clots, DVT, cramps, and swelling.

It is made with a two-way stretch design that offers extra comfort and is easy to wear. They are perfect to wear when sitting, standing, walking, and for matching with both formal and casual attire.

This best compression pantyhose for varicose veins shapes your body, making them perfect for body slimming. Their progressive compression design means that you get more pressure at the ankles, and the pressure reduces moving up the leg, thus preventing the pooling of blood in the lower legs.

 Ordered for my friend  who had varicose vein surgery and even  her doctor complimented on how good those are . I ordered a smaller size before but this time ordered a bit bigger. Will definitely recommend”– Thebeautyjars

“I am in the healthcare field and often spend long hours standing. I have a history of a varicose vein, and do not wish to have more vascular issues. They are true to size; I normally wear medium and ordered medium. It fits well. I will be ordering another pair.  I am always skeptical about products with few reviews , but rest assured these are legit.”Paige C.

What Reviewers Like

  • Anti-slip and light weight
  • Smooth and thick fabric
  • Two-way stretch design offers additional support and comfort
  • Perfect for body slimming
What they Don’t Like

  • It’s hard to get into the first time
  • Hand wash only

9. Yesimeya Compression Pantyhose 20-30mmHg Support Hose for Swelling, Edema, Spider Veins, Varicose Veins

Yesimeya Best Compression Pantyhose for Varicosity with 20-30mmHg Support. Best pantyhose for relaxing swelling on legs, edema, varicose veins, spider veins, and lymphedema

The 20-30mmHg graduated tightness of these pantyhose not only relieves moderate to severe reticular veins, your legs feel less tired and sore after a hard day at work. Its opaque and heavier fabric is also what you need to smooth and mask the flaws on your legs.

They are made of breathable, elastic, and soft material, making them comfortable to wear daily. The pantyhose will fit your legs well and they don’t rub the heels.

The pantyhose are available in a wide range of sizes: you can get the perfect size for you. It’s also worth noting that the elasticity reduces if you don’t wear your new pantyhose for more than a year.

Material: 80% Nylon, 20% Spandex

What Reviewers Like

  • Non-slip and sweat-absorbing material
  • Best for preventing leg fatigue and muscle ache
  • Perfectly non-see-through material
  • Available in different sizes
What they Don’t Like

  • Only two color options are available
  • Elasticity reduces if you don’t wear it for long

Features to Look for in Compression Leggings and Tights for Varicose Veins

When buying compression leggings and tights, here are some of the features you need to consider.

i.) Level of compression

The compression level determines how tight they fit. There are four levels of compression ranging from mild 8 to 15 mmHg to extra-firm 30-40mmHg. You should select the level of compression depending on the severity of the bulging in your veins or lymphatic system. For acute varicose veins, you should get leggings with a high compression level of 20 to 30mmHg to help collapse your veins and relieve the symptoms. If you have mild varicose veins and need to enhance the look of your legs, you need leggings with a lower compression level of about 10-15 mmHg.

ii.) Graduated compression

Most compression leggings deliver the same tightness from the ankle upwards. However, some have graduated compression that delivers stronger pressure on the feet and less pressure on the upper legs. This feature allows the leggings to push blood back to your upper body, thus controlling the varicose veins and other swellings.

iii.) Size

Compression tights and legging pants need to fit you correctly, so this is one of the things to keep in mind when buying leggings. This ensures you will be comfortable and more effective. The garments are available in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes. Check the sizing guide before buying, but note that manufacturers use different size charts. The most important thing is to get leggings fitting snugly but not too tight.

Note that once the swelling on your legs relaxes later in the day, your pantyhose or leggings will feel a bit looser and they may start to slide down. At this point, you need to wear tighter or smaller leggings, tights, or pantyhose, if you still want to feel the high compression. It’s thus important to have a number of these tights with different compression levels.

iv.) Material

Good leggings are designed with top-quality materials and can maintain their shape even after washing many times. They are made with a combination of materials such as polyester, nylon, lycra, and spandex to make them stretchy, moisture absorbent, and comfy.

v.) Design

You can get compression leggings specifically made for either men or women, while others are unisex. For women, check those with more feminine features like hips and a bigger bum. You should also buy leggings matching your preferences, for instance, colors and patterns.

Is it OK to wear compression leggings all day?

Yes. You can wear compression leggings all day. This is because they are made of soft, moisture-absorbent, and breathable materials, so they don’t have any adverse effects when worn for a long time. If you want to wear the compression leggings daily, make sure they are not too tight. Besides, you should make sure they are clean and have a number of them as alternatives.

What is the difference between leggings, pantyhose, stockings, and tights?

Here are the major differences between leggings, pantyhose, stockings, and tights. It’s important to know the differences so that you can choose the best option for you.

Tights

Tights are usually thicker compared to pantyhose. They are also usually completely opaque. Tights are available in different patterns, fabrics, and styles. Unlike leggings, tights are not suitable for wearing alone but under a dress or skirt. They’re also footed with either closed or open toes. Tights are designed from elastic materials, mostly polyester or cotton blends.

Stockings

In most cases, stockings are synonymous with tights. They are tight-fitting and available in various styles, fabrics, and weights. They cover the lower part of your leg including the foot. Stockings are mostly made of nylon, but you can also find some made of silk, wool, and cotton.

Leggings

Leggings are opaque and can be worn alone as normal pants. This makes them a great option to wear when exercising, in the outdoors, or at the office without any fears of exposing your body or appearing indecent. They are close-fitting and most of them are made of stretch fabric. Leggings are not footed, stretching from your ankle to the waistline. They are made of different colors, fabrics, styles, and patterns.

Pantyhose

Pantyhose are thinner than stockings, leggings, and tights and are mostly made of nylon blends. They are footed, so they cover your feet and stretch to your waistline. They come in a wide range of styles such as opacity, patterns, fishnet, and colors.

Conclusion

Varicose veins affect your legs’ appearance and indicate blood circulation and flow problems in your legs. The above compression leggings, tights, and pantyhose for varicose veins are effective in preventing and managing varicose veins, spider veins, and other symptoms of venous insufficiency. The most important thing is to ensure that you choose the one that suits your body size and situation. Take time to check the different features during the shopping process to make an informed selection.

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