Socks for Swollen Feet & Ankles

A roomy top that doesn't dig in

Regular socks hold themselves up with a tight elastic ring. On swollen ankles and calves, that ring presses in and leaves a deep line by evening. Mi Socks are knit loose at the top, so the band stays up without squeezing. The knit has a little stretch, from 5% rubber and 2% spandex, so it gives as your feet change through the day.

The rest of the sock is gentle too: a smooth flat toe seam that lies flat against your toes, and a terry-cushioned sole for padding underfoot.

Socks for swollen ankles: size up

Fit matters as much as the band. A sock that is too small pulls tight across the foot and ankle, which is the last thing swollen feet need. Use the sock size chart to find your size by US shoe size. If your feet swell during the day, or you are between sizes, order the next size up.

Both lengths have the same loose top band. Crew ends at mid-calf, and Knee High reaches just below the knee. If you have been looking for bariatric socks or extra wide socks for wide calves, check the size chart and size up for a roomier fit.

Putting them on: roll the sock down, slip your toes in, then unroll it up your leg. With no tight band at the top, there is less to tug over a swollen ankle.

When swelling needs a doctor

Swollen feet and ankles have many causes, and some need medical care. MedlinePlus, from the National Library of Medicine, says swelling in the feet, ankles and legs often follows long flights, car rides or standing for long periods, and can also come with pregnancy and some medicines.

MedlinePlus says to call 911 if swelling comes with shortness of breath or chest pain. It says to contact your provider right away if a swollen foot or leg is red or warm to the touch, if you have a fever, or if you have new or worse swelling in only one leg.

If you have diabetes and your feet are swollen, mention it to your doctor or podiatrist, and check your feet every day. If you came here looking for socks for swelling, ask your doctor first whether you need compression stockings. Mi Socks are gentle and non-binding, not compression. Our guide to swollen feet and diabetes explains common causes and when to call your doctor.

Non-binding socks are not compression socks

These are two different tools. Mi Socks are not compression socks. Compression stockings your doctor prescribes squeeze the leg on purpose. A non-binding sock is made to stay as gentle as possible. If your doctor has prescribed compression stockings, keep wearing those.

Our guide, Why diabetic socks are not compression socks, explains the difference. For a side-by-side look at what to buy, read our guide to the best socks for swollen feet.

Who these socks suit

People whose feet and ankles swell by evening, people with diabetes, people who stand or sit for long hours, and anyone who is tired of sock marks on their legs.

Packs and prices

A single pair is $9.99. In Crew, a 3-pack is $21.99 ($7.33 a pair), a 6-pack is $35.99 ($6.00 a pair) and a 12-pack is $64.99 ($5.42 a pair). In Knee High, a 3-pack is $22.99 ($7.66 a pair), a 6-pack is $36.99 ($6.17 a pair) and a 12-pack is $67.99 ($5.67 a pair). Every pack ships free in the US.

To keep them soft, machine wash cold on gentle and hang dry. Skip bleach and fabric softener.