Thigh Compression Stockings

What Are Thigh Compression Stockings?

Thigh compression stockings are medical hosiery garments that extend from the foot to the upper thigh, providing graduated compression along the entire length of the leg. Like all medical compression hosiery, they apply firmest pressure at the ankle, gradually decreasing up the leg to support healthy blood flow back towards the heart.

Thigh-length stockings are often recommended when symptoms or conditions affect areas above the knee, or when full-leg coverage is preferred over below-knee stockings. They're available as individual stockings (sold singly for one leg) or in pairs, depending on your needs.

Who Benefits from Thigh Compression Stockings?

Thigh-high compression stockings are commonly recommended for people with varicose veins extending above the knee, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or post-thrombotic syndrome, lymphoedema affecting the thigh, lipoedema, chronic venous insufficiency, post-surgical recovery (including after vein surgery or joint replacement), and significant leg swelling (oedema) affecting the full leg.

They're also a practical choice for anyone who finds that below-knee stockings cause discomfort or constriction just below the knee, or who simply prefers full-leg coverage. If you need compression for both legs and prefer a single garment, compression tights may be an alternative worth considering.

Attachment Styles Explained

Thigh compression stockings are available in several attachment styles to suit different preferences and needs.

Hold-ups (self-supporting) feature a silicone-dotted band at the top that grips the thigh to keep the stocking in place without additional support. These are the most popular choice for everyday wear, offering convenience and discretion under clothing. Most brands in our range, including JOBST, SIGVARIS, and Solidea, offer hold-up options.

Waist attachment stockings connect to a waist belt via clips or hooks, providing secure support for those who find hold-ups slip down, or who require higher compression levels where the silicone band may not be sufficient. Credalast Nylon and several medical-grade ranges offer this option.

Suspender belt stockings are designed to be worn with a traditional suspender belt, offering an alternative for those who prefer this classic attachment method or have skin sensitivity to silicone bands.

Your healthcare professional can advise on which attachment style best suits your needs, or feel free to contact us for guidance.

Choosing the Right Compression Level

We stock thigh compression stockings across the full range of compression levels:

Light compression (10-18mmHg) provides gentle support for mild symptoms, tired legs, and prevention during prolonged standing or sitting. Moderate compression (15-24mmHg) offers enhanced support for visible varicose veins, moderate swelling, and post-sclerotherapy care. Firm compression (20-30mmHg) is recommended for significant varicose veins, DVT prevention and treatment, moderate lymphoedema, and post-surgical recovery. Extra firm compression (>30mmHg) provides maximum support for severe venous conditions, significant lymphoedema, and chronic venous insufficiency.

If you've been prescribed compression hosiery, your healthcare provider will specify the appropriate level. For guidance on choosing the right strength, see our guide to levels of compression.

Open Toe vs Closed Toe

Most thigh compression stockings are available in both open toe and closed toe versions. Open toe stockings leave the toes exposed, which can be more comfortable in warm weather, easier to check circulation, and allow the stockings to be worn with open-toed footwear. Closed toe stockings provide complete foot coverage and a more traditional hosiery appearance.

The choice is largely personal preference unless your healthcare provider has specified one style. Some people with longer toes or foot conditions find open toe more comfortable.

Featured Brands

We stock thigh compression stockings from trusted manufacturers including JOBST® with premium ranges such as UltraSheer, Opaque, and Classic, SIGVARIS® offering Swiss precision engineering with Style and Essential collections, Juzo® providing German-made medical hosiery known for durability and comfort, Activa® with reliable British Standard compression at accessible prices, Credalast® offering excellent value across Comfort, Cotton, and Nylon ranges, duomed soft® with soft, comfortable medical compression, Varisan® combining Italian styling with therapeutic compression, Solidea with fashion-forward designs including the elegant Marilyn range, and VENOSAN® with the popular LEGLINE collection.

Getting the Right Fit

Proper fit is essential for thigh compression stockings to work effectively and stay in place comfortably. Measure your legs first thing in the morning when swelling is minimal. Key measurements typically include ankle circumference, calf circumference, thigh circumference at the widest point, and leg length from floor to gluteal fold.

Each manufacturer provides specific sizing guides, and it's important to follow these carefully as sizes vary between brands. If you're between sizes or have unusual proportions, made-to-measure options are available from several brands including JOBST, SIGVARIS, and Juzo.

For help with measuring and sizing, see our fitting guides or contact our team for personalised advice.

Caring for Your Compression Stockings

To maintain the effectiveness and longevity of your thigh compression stockings, wash them daily in lukewarm water with mild detergent, avoid fabric softeners and bleach which can damage elastic fibres, air dry away from direct heat and sunlight, and avoid wringing or twisting. Most compression stockings will maintain their therapeutic effectiveness for three to six months with proper care. Having two pairs allows you to alternate daily while one pair is drying.

Is Compression Right for You?

Thigh compression stockings are suitable for most people, but certain conditions require medical advice before use. If you have arterial disease, peripheral neuropathy, heart failure, or skin conditions affecting your legs, please consult your GP or specialist before wearing compression hosiery. See our guide to contraindications for more information.

For more on how compression therapy supports leg health, visit our guide to the benefits of compression.