Compression Socks
Compression Socks for Nurses & Healthcare Workers
Your feet carry you through 8-, 10-, 12-hour shifts on hard floors. The right compression sock reduces leg fatigue, limits ankle swelling, and keeps circulation moving so you finish the shift feeling like a person — not a statistic. Infectious stocks nurse-specific compression socks from trusted scrubwear brands, in a range of compression levels, fabrics, and patterns to suit every shift and every style.
Support Socks vs Compression Socks: Which Level Do You Need?
Not all compression socks are the same — the key difference is the pressure level, measured in mmHg (millimetres of mercury). The higher the number, the firmer the compression. Our collection spans two distinct tiers so you can match the sock to your shift demands.
| 🩺 Support Socks — 8–15 mmHg (e.g. Cherokee PrintSupport) |
💪 Compression Socks — 15–25 mmHg (Cherokee LX Support — Bamboo) |
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| Gentle graduated compression — tighter at ankle, easing toward the knee | Higher graduated compression — firmer support for longer shifts and heavier leg fatigue |
| Ideal for nurses newer to compression wear or those with lighter shift loads | Ideal for experienced compression wearers, nurses on 10–12 hr shifts, and those managing leg fatigue or swelling |
| Available in fun prints and bold patterns — great for personalising your uniform | Available in 2 sizes (S/M and L/XL) for a precise fit — critical for effective compression |
| Nylon/spandex blend — durable and easy care | Bamboo fabric — naturally soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking for all-day wear |
| One size fits most — simple and convenient | Sized for accurate compression delivery — fits the way a compression garment should |
Not sure which level is right for you? As a general guide: if you're new to compression wear or just starting to notice leg tiredness, begin with a support sock (8–15 mmHg). If you're regularly on your feet for 10+ hours or already managing swelling or varicose veins, step up to the 15–25 mmHg compression range. When in doubt, talk to your GP.
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New Arrival Cherokee LX Support Compression Socks — Bamboo 15–25 mmHgThe Cherokee LX Support is our highest-compression nurse sock — and the only bamboo compression sock in our range. Firmer graduated compression (15–25 mmHg) means more active support for the veins and valves in your lower legs, helping fight swelling and fatigue through the back half of long shifts when cheaper socks have already given up.
Pairs beautifully with Cherokee scrubs and nursing scrubs from our full range. |
Fun & Printed Compression Socks — Support Socks with Personality
Who says workwear has to be boring? Our support sock range (8–15 mmHg PrintSupport styles) comes in bold prints and cheerful patterns — holiday prints, Pink Ribbon designs, novelty graphics, and more. They're the conversation starters of the ward, and they keep your legs feeling comfortable throughout the shift.
Fun prints are a simple way to lift your mood and your patients'. Pair them with any of our nursing scrubs, Cherokee scrubs, or Wink scrubs for a complete, co-ordinated look.
Why Nurses Wear Compression Socks
Healthcare workers who spend 8–12 hours on their feet face a specific set of physical risks that regular socks simply aren't designed to address. Compression socks work by applying graduated pressure — strongest at the ankle, decreasing toward the knee — which helps push blood back up toward the heart, counteracting the effects of prolonged standing.
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How to Size Your Compression Socks
Sizing matters more for compression socks than for regular socks — a sock that's too loose won't deliver the right pressure, and one that's too tight can cause discomfort. Here's how to find the right fit:
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1. Measure in the morning | Before swelling occurs — measure your ankle circumference at the narrowest point above the ankle bone |
| 2. Measure your calf | At the widest point of your calf muscle — this determines whether S/M or L/XL is right for you |
| 3. Check the size chart | Each product's size guide is on the product page — always use the brand's own chart, not just shoe size |
For our PrintSupport styles (one-size), shoe size is a general guide. For the LX Support bamboo socks, use the S/M or L/XL guide based on ankle and calf measurements.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What compression level is best for nurses? Most nurses start with 15–20 mmHg (moderate compression) and move up to 20–30 mmHg if they need more support. Our PrintSupport range at 8–15 mmHg is a comfortable starting point for nurses new to compression wear. The Cherokee LX Support at 15–25 mmHg suits nurses on longer shifts or those already managing swelling and fatigue. |
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What's the difference between support socks and compression socks? Support socks (8–15 mmHg) provide passive resistance to swelling and are great for everyday comfort. Compression socks (15 mmHg and above) apply active graduated pressure on the leg's venous system, actively improving circulation. The Cherokee LX Support bamboo socks (15–25 mmHg) sit firmly in the compression category and deliver meaningfully more therapeutic benefit than lower-rated support socks. |
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Are bamboo compression socks better for nurses? Bamboo fabric is naturally moisture-wicking, temperature-regulating, and softer against the skin than synthetic alternatives — making it an excellent choice for long shifts. The Cherokee LX Support bamboo socks combine these comfort benefits with higher compression (15–25 mmHg) for nurses who want both performance and all-day comfort. |
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How long should nurses wear compression socks each day? Most healthcare workers wear compression socks for 8–12 hours during their shift. Put them on first thing in the morning before any swelling develops, and remove them when you get home. Consistency is key — the circulatory benefits build with regular use. |
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Do I need a prescription to buy compression socks in Australia? No prescription is required for the compression socks in our range. Mild to moderate compression (up to 20–30 mmHg) is available over the counter. If you have a diagnosed condition such as chronic venous insufficiency, severe varicose veins, or peripheral artery disease, we recommend consulting your GP before choosing a compression level. |
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Can I wear compression socks on a 12-hour shift? Yes. Compression socks are specifically designed for extended wear during long working days. For 12-hour shifts, a higher compression level (15–25 mmHg, like the Cherokee LX Support) tends to provide more sustained support than lighter support socks, which may feel less effective in the final hours of a long shift. |
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What brands of compression socks does Infectious stock? We stock compression and support socks from Cherokee — one of the world's most trusted scrubwear brands. Our range includes the Cherokee PrintSupport (fun prints, 8–15 mmHg) and the new Cherokee LX Support Bamboo Compression Socks (15–25 mmHg, sized S/M and L/XL). All styles are designed specifically for healthcare professionals. |
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