If you're new to compression gear, you probably have some questions. Whether you're looking at compression socks, calf sleeves, shorts, or tights, understanding compression levels and what they mean for your body is the first step toward making the right choice.
Below, we'll explain what compression levels are, how compression grades work, and help you decide which level of compression is ideal for different parts of your body.
About Compression Levels
Levels of compression are measured by millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and separated by grade. These degrees of compression indicate how much pressure the garment applies to your body. The most beneficial compression garments use graduated compression, meaning they are tighter at the extremities and gradually decrease pressure as they move toward the core.
This graduation helps push blood back toward the heart, aiding circulation throughout your entire body. Understanding compression grades is essential for selecting the right product for your needs.
CEP Compression Technologies
CEP offers two distinct compression technologies designed for different parts of your body:
3D Compression Technology
Found in CEP's compression socks and calf sleeves, this technology delivers precise, medical-grade compression (20-30 mmHg) to your lower legs. The graduated pressure supports circulation, reduces muscle vibration, and speeds recovery.
Tailored Compression Technology
Found in CEP's compression apparel, including shorts and tights, this technology provides targeted compression to major muscle groups in your thighs, glutes, and core. It supports muscles during activity and enhances proprioception for better movement control.
Medical Grade 1:
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8 to 15 mmHg (mild compression)
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15 to 20 mmHg (moderate compression)
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20 to 30 mmHg (firm compression) – CEP's highest level, available without a prescription
Medical Grade 2:
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30 to 40 mmHg (extra firm compression) – requires a prescription
Medical Grade 3:
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40 to 50 mmHg (prescription-level compression)
What Compression Level Do You Need?
Compression is widely used for both medical and everyday support—from circulation issues, swelling, varicose veins, and pregnancy to long periods of sitting or standing. It's also an essential performance and recovery tool for athletes. Compression technology can benefit anyone looking to improve overall body health and athletic performance.
Compression technology has become very popular among athletes thanks to benefits like fatigue prevention, improved circulation, and decreased swelling. Whether worn on your calves, thighs, or core, compression wear has been linked to:
Compression is widely used for both medical and everyday support—from circulation issues, swelling, varicose veins, and pregnancy to long periods of sitting or standing. It's also an essential performance and recovery tool for athletes. Compression technology can benefit anyone looking to improve overall body health and athletic performance.
CEP's medical-grade compression products are designed for endurance sports like running, hiking, and skiing, and for post-workout recovery. Our products help you achieve personal records without the unnecessary toll on your body.
Compression for Different Parts of Your Body
Lower Legs (Calves, Ankles, Feet): Compression socks and calf sleeves provide graduated pressure that starts strongest at the ankle and decreases up the calf. This is ideal for improving circulation, reducing swelling, and preventing conditions like shin splints and plantar fasciitis.
Thighs and Glutes: Compression shorts and tights support major muscle groups during high-intensity activities. The targeted compression reduces muscle oscillation, which helps minimize fatigue and soreness during long runs or training sessions.
Full Lower Body: Full-length compression tights combine benefits for both your upper and lower legs, providing comprehensive support from waist to ankle. These are particularly beneficial for endurance athletes and those recovering from lower-body workouts.
When Should You Consider Compression?
Beyond athletic performance, there are several situations where compression garments make a significant difference. You may benefit from compression if you experience legs that are chronically swollen, painful, or fatigued. Those with poor blood flow or a known risk for blood clots should also consider compression.
If you have a history or family history of deep vein thrombosis, compression can provide preventive support. Long bed rest after surgery and existing varicose veins or venous leg ulcers are also common reasons to use compression. Athletes often wear compression during training, competition, and recovery to maximize performance and minimize downtime.
How Do You Keep Your Body Healthy?
You may try firm compression to keep your legs and muscles healthy and prevent problems, especially if you stand for long periods or engage in regular physical activity. Compression garments prevent blood from pooling in your veins, which causes swelling and fatigue.
When measuring for compression socks, do so in the morning rather than after you've been on your feet all day to get the correct fit. At night, your legs may be swollen, and your measurements will be larger. Garments that are too large won't provide enough compression. For socks, take your ankle measurement at the thinnest point and your calf measurement at the thickest point. For shorts and tights, follow the sizing guide based on your waist and hip measurements.
Find a Comfortable Level With CEP Compression
If you're new to compression gear, talk to your doctor about which compression level will be best for your health. Once you know, feel free to browse the men's compression and women's compression options at CEP, including socks, sleeves, shorts, and tights designed for your entire body.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What compression level do I need?
The compression level you need depends on your activity and health goals. For everyday wear, 15-20 mmHg offers moderate support. For athletic performance and recovery, 20-30 mmHg provides firm compression. Higher levels (30-40 mmHg and above) typically require a doctor's recommendation.
Q: Is compression good for cellulitis?
Compression may help prevent recurrent cellulitis by reducing swelling and improving circulation. However, compression should not be worn during an active infection. Always consult your doctor before using compression for cellulitis-related concerns.
Q: What is level 3 compression?
Level 3 compression, also known as Medical Grade 3, refers to compression garments with 40-50 mmHg pressure. This is prescription-level compression used for severe venous conditions and should only be worn under medical supervision.
Q: Which is better, 15-20 mmHg or 20-30 mmHg compression?
15-20 mmHg is ideal for daily comfort, travel, and mild leg fatigue. 20-30 mmHg offers firmer support suited for athletic performance, recovery, and managing varicose veins. For running and endurance sports, CEP's 20-30 mmHg products deliver optimal benefits.
Q: What is a compression level?
A compression level indicates the amount of pressure a garment applies, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Higher numbers mean stronger compression. Levels are grouped into grades: mild (8-15 mmHg), moderate (15-20 mmHg), firm (20-30 mmHg), extra firm (30-40 mmHg), and prescription-level (40-50 mmHg).
Q: What level of compression do I need?
For most athletes and active individuals, 20-30 mmHg compression provides the ideal balance of support and comfort. This level enhances circulation, reduces muscle fatigue, and speeds recovery. If you're unsure, start with moderate compression and consult a healthcare provider.
Q: Should I wear compression shorts or compression socks?
It depends on your needs. Compression socks are ideal for lower leg support, circulation, and conditions like plantar fasciitis or shin splints. Compression shorts target the thighs and glutes, reducing muscle fatigue during high-intensity activities. Many athletes wear both for comprehensive support.
