Travelling overseas? Make sure you buy a pair of flight socks.

If you are planning on travelling overseas then think seriously about a pair of flight socks to avoid that uncomfortable swollen legs feeling or worse deep vein thrombosis(DVT). DVT is a blood clot that forms in a vein somewhere in the body. These clots generally occur when blood clumps, pools or clumps together. What makes DVT so serious is many deep vein blood clots occur in the lower leg or thigh. Sitting idle for long periods of time causes blood to pool in our legs giving us that 'heavy legs' feeling. In some cases it causes DVT.

However cleverly designed flight socks utilise graduated compression to promote circulation within the legs, increasing circulation and in doing so keeping your feet and legs healthy. More importantly, flight socks play an integral role in preventing DVT. In fact, quality flight socks have been proven to reduce heavy, sore and tired legs, in addition to DVT on long haul flights of 6 hours or more. The key behind flight socks is their graduated compression.

What is graduated compression?

Graduated simply means the compression gradually tapers off. When applied to flight socks this the bottom of the sock around the ankle is firmer, whilst the further up the sock the compression tapers off. The result is it is less firm at the calf. The science behind this is the graduated compression causes blood to be forced up the leg into the rest of the body. This enhances circulation of blood throughout the leg and body, which in turn decreases and prevents blood pooling, clots and DVT!

Quick Facts:

1. If you fly for more than 6 hours you need flight socks.
2. The greater the time flying, the greater the risk of DVT and sore and tired legs.
3. There is no research to indicate travelling in first class or business class will prevent DVT.
4. Flight socks have been proven to prevent DVT and sore and tired legs.
5. Not all flight socks are made equal, so look for socks with graduated compression.
6. Graduated compression means the socks are specially designed to be tighter at the ankle and less tight at the top of the calf.

Risk Factors

If you answer yes to any of the following questions your risk of DVT is much greater:

1. Over 60 years of age
2. Smoker
3. Overweight
4. Large varicose veins
5. Recently had surgery

Small price to pay!

There you have it - an insight into flight socks and the reasons why you should consider them. If you are in one of those 'at risk' groups or wish to avoid DVT, then the cost of a pair of flight socks really is a small price to pay!

Check out of full range of flight socks today.