Economy Class Syndrome refers to the situation of being trapped on an airplane in a rigid seat with little leg room or room in the cabin to walk around. Not only is this an uncomfortable situation, it can also be dangerous to your health. Sitting for extended lengths of time can impede blood flow in your legs causing swelling, fatigue and even blood clots. Travel socks are very helpful to use in these situations because they counteract this problem. They are medically designed to apply gradual compression to promote good circulation in your legs and feet. They are tightest around the ankle and the pressure lessens up the leg. This stops blood from pooling or clotting. For this reason, travel socks are also great for alleviating the pain and discomfort of varicose veins and can prevent muscles from going into spasm.

Some of the features that travel socks have are a comfortable fit, tops that don’t bind or pinch the legs, but which stay up, and smooth seams. They come in all kinds of colors and styles for men and women, and are generally available in either a spandex and/or cotton nylon blends. Be sure to keep a few pairs on hand for whenever you need to travel to counteract the discomfort and risk of economy class syndrome!