Overview
Sockwell features gradient compression and touts every day wear, offering socks in both the 15-20mmHg and 20-30mmHg range. They are made from wool and bamboo, making them thicker and giving them more of a true sock feel. Compared to Fytto, these are socks with substance that will provide your foot with more cushioning throughout the day and stand up to more wear and tear. The added support also manifests itself in the form of a cushioned sole and arch support.
Effectiveness
These compression socks will help reduce swelling in the feet and ankles as well as minimize pain and tiredness in the legs. Customer reviews are overwhelmingly positive and people constantly praise the relief they feel from pregnancy and standing all day, earning these socks a 4.5/5 on Amazon from 230 reviews. The material blend prevents feet from sweating by regulating temperature. They don’t create any problems such as cutting of circulation or constricting too much at the knees (assuming proper sizing is followed). They stay up all day and are a bit easier getting on than the hose-type of socks; it is worth noting, though, that any compression sock is going to be somewhat difficult to get on because the goal is to be tight and fitted, not loose.
Style
It all comes down to preference. Personally, I’m not crazy about the look of these socks. They have rings around the sock at various levels, mimicking the gradient compression, which is a nice touch. They also come in a variety of fun colors, including purple, teal, and others. Many people enjoy this more fun look and don’t mind that the sock stands out more than the hose variety; of course, if the socks are just going to be under pants and thus not visible, it hardly matters anyway.
Sizing
Many users express difficulty in figuring out which size will work best for them. Sockwell operates largely based off of calf size rather than foot size as the foot size should be expected to fit all due to stretch (although foot size can and should still be taken into account, calf size should just be considered more important). The choices in sizing are either small/medium or medium/large and thus you should pick according to how large your calves are. Some people do express dissatisfaction with this system, in that larger people tend to have difficulty finding any compression socks that fit; Sockwell does not currently have the solution for that and thus should not be considered if you have any doubts about calf size.
Durability
The added foot support in Sockwell helps prevent wear in the heel area, the area most prone to suffering lots of use, which gives these a distinct advantage in the durability category. Furthermore, since they are a thick sock, you don’t need to worry nearly as much about snagging as you would with the pantyhose. The material used is high quality and meant to endure stress over time. Very few customers indicate dissatisfaction with the durability of this Sockwell product, and it’s hard to determine why because their comments about not lasting long are in direct conflict with the overwhelming (and overpowering) amount of reviews that indicate the opposite.
What Sets Them Apart
Sockwell socks are made in the United States, which gives them an edge for buyers who are interested in supporting America’s economy, whereas many other sock manufacturers outsource. This product is also made specifically for women and thus don’t have the fit problems that unisex socks often suffer. Other than that, there are no distinguishing factors.
Still Not Certain?
If you’re not sure whether or not these are the socks for you, consider the following breakdown:
Sockwell Women’s Circulator Compression Socks are Great If
- You want a thick sock that will provide a bit of warmth and added durability
- You want to be able to get the same product in different levels of compression and varying styles
- You require alleviation from foot swelling and leg tiredness
Sockwell’s Compression Socks Might Not Be for You If
- You prefer more discrete footwear that will be virtually invisible
- You want a product specifically designed with athletic purposes in mind (the thickness of Sockwell’s product does allow it to be used for athletics but does not advertise any benefits
- You have larger calves and/or find any amount of tightness uncomfortable
The Bottom Line
Sockwell Compression Socks are comfortable and feature design that promotes durability, a very important feature for an item that is meant to be worn all day, every day. These socks will be noticeable if you’re wearing anything of short length, but some find the bright colors and design very appealing. The compression itself is effective, and that’s what matters most.