Sock Types
Compression Socks
Graduated compression socks knitted to order, up to 20–30 mmHg, for sport, travel and medical brands.
Compression socks apply graduated pressure that is highest at the ankle and decreases up the calf. Graded pressure is what separates a real compression sock from an ordinary tight sock, and it is created during knitting through controlled yarn tension and a defined pressure profile rather than by using more elastic. Compression ranges are normally described in millimetres of mercury (mmHg): 8–15 mmHg for light everyday support, 15–20 mmHg for moderate support, 20–30 mmHg for firm support, and 30–40 mmHg for the higher medical classes.
SockManufacture knits graduated compression socks to order and produces up to 20–30 mmHg on dedicated compression knitting machines. Every program is built on a calf-circumference sizing chart, because pressure on the leg depends on fit as much as on the knit: a sock that is correct on a 34 cm calf will over-compress a 30 cm calf. We knit a sample first so your team can validate the pressure class and the fit across the size run before bulk production starts.
Yarn choice sets the feel of the sock. Nylon and elastane give compression stability and recovery, and natural fibres — merino wool, bamboo viscose and Tencel — can be blended in for softness, temperature regulation and a premium hand feel. Because the natural fibre share changes how a knit recovers, we confirm the blend per program rather than working to a fixed recipe. Standard production is 300 pairs per style and colour with roughly four weeks lead time after sample approval.
What You Get
Why Source Compression Socks From SockManufacture
Up to 20–30 mmHg
Graduated compression knitted on dedicated compression machines, with light and moderate classes also available.
Pressure Held by Knitting
Ankle-to-calf pressure profile set by yarn tension and graduated zones, verified on a sample before bulk.
Calf-Circumference Sizing
Size charts built from calf measurement, so the pressure class lands correctly on every wearer.
Natural Fibre Yarns
Merino wool, bamboo viscose and Tencel can be blended with nylon and elastane for softness and temperature control.
Anatomical Calf Shaping
Shaped legs and a defined heel pocket keep the sock in place without pinching.
Brand and Private Label
Knit-in logos, embroidered marks and printed detail, plus private label labels and packaging.
Compression classes and what we produce
| Class | Pressure | Typical use | Production |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | 8–15 mmHg | Everyday support, long periods of standing, first-time compression wearers | Available |
| Moderate | 15–20 mmHg | Travel and cabin wear, light training, recovery comfort | Available |
| Firm | 20–30 mmHg | Training and recovery, long shifts, firm support programs | Available — our firmest confirmed class |
| Extra firm | 30–40 mmHg | Higher medical classes | Not produced |
We knit graduated compression up to 20–30 mmHg on dedicated compression machines. Classes above this are outside our production range, and we will say so rather than quote a class we cannot hold.
Indicative calf-circumference sizing
| Size | Calf circumference | Foot length (EU) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 30–34 cm | 36–39 | Short leg / petite builds |
| M | 34–38 cm | 39–42 | Most common production band |
| L | 38–42 cm | 42–45 | Adds length as well as width |
| XL | 42–46 cm | 45–48 | Extended sizes available |
Indicative chart, not a fixed standard. We build and validate the final chart with your program, because compression only works when the size is right on the wearer. Mixed size runs are produced on the same order.
Custom Manufacturing
Send your design or sample and we knit it to spec with consistent quality at scale.
Custom Branding
Knit-in logos, embroidery and printing on socks, packaging and hangtags.
Factory-Direct MOQ
Start from 300 pairs per style and color, with a typical 4-week lead time.
FAQ
Common Questions
What compression levels can you produce?
We produce graduated compression up to 20–30 mmHg on dedicated compression knitting machines, and light and moderate classes are also available. Tell us the mmHg class and the wearer profile and we will confirm the knit and the sizing range.
Can you knit compression socks with merino wool, bamboo or Tencel?
Yes. Natural fibres can be blended with nylon and elastane so the sock keeps its compression recovery. Blend ratios are confirmed per program rather than fixed, because the natural fibre share affects how the knit recovers after washing.
How is compression validated before bulk production?
We knit a sample to your chosen class and size chart so your team can check the pressure feel and the fit across sizes. Once the sample is approved, bulk is knitted to the same program.
What sizing system do compression sock programs need?
Compression socks are sized by calf circumference rather than shoe size. We help you build the chart from measurements or from your existing standard so the pressure class is correct on every wearer.
Do you make medical claims for compression socks?
No. We manufacture to the compression class and construction you specify. Medical, therapeutic or health claims sit with the brand that sells the sock, and are their regulatory responsibility in each market.
What is the MOQ and lead time?
Standard MOQ is 300 pairs per style and colour, with roughly four weeks lead time after sample approval. Private label labelling and retail packaging are available on the same run.
What is the difference between 15–20 mmHg and 20–30 mmHg?
15–20 mmHg is moderate support: it is the class most travel and everyday support programs use, and it suits wearers who want support without a firm feel. 20–30 mmHg is firm support, used for training, recovery comfort and long shifts where the wearer expects a stronger hold. Both are produced here, and the right choice depends on the wearer and the wear time rather than on price.
Which compression class should my brand stock first?
For a first compression run, most brands start with a moderate 15–20 mmHg class for travel and everyday support, because it suits the widest wearer group and is the easiest to reorder. Brands serving training or occupational programs usually add a firm 20–30 mmHg class alongside it. We can knit both classes in the same style and colourway.
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