Sizing charts can be a little confusing, so LegSmart has come up with this handy little tutorial for converting your measurements to a size.
The images used here are for illustrative purposes only. The sizing chart for your brand and model of compression stocking might look a bit different, so please read each sizing chart carefully and always double check your measurements when placing your order.
Need to take your measurements? Check out our tutorial, How to Measure for Compression Stockings.
Here are some simple tips on how to use each products sizing chart. You can find sizing charts located in the tab "Sizing Chart" on each product page.
Let's get started!
LegSmart Pro Tip: Every sizing chart have quick tips that tell you which measurements you need to find the right size for your knee high, thigh high or waist high. Look for this box to guide you.
Step 1: Start at the Ankle
Your ankle measurement is important because your compression stocking's graduated compression begins at the ankle. An accurate fit at the ankle will allow your compression sock or stocking effectively deliver its graduated compression to your legs.
It is recommended that you take this measurement in the morning. Swelling that occurs throughout the day may affect your measurements if you take them during the end of the day. We want to fit your compression garment for the time of day when you put them on, which is first thing in the morning. Please note that sometimes, your ankle measurement will be different from leg to leg.
Step 2: Find your Calf measurement
If you are fitting for a knee high compression stocking, this calf measurement is important. If you choose a size that is too tight, the top band of the compression garment may bind or roll. If a larger size is chosen, the compression garment may slip or fall throughout the day. Either way, we want your calf to be comfortable. Thus, it is advised that you choose a size that puts your calf measurement in the middle of the sizing range.
Step 3: Find your Knee length
If you are fitting for a thigh high or waist high (pantyhose, maternity/plus size or leotard), jump ahead to steps 4 and 5.
The length of your lower leg will determine if you fit into a Short or a Long. In general, an individual that is taller than 6 feet would not expect to fit into a Short. Looking at your calf length measurement, determine if you are above or below the threashold for the length (in this example: 16 inches or 41 cm). A compression sock or stocking that is too short will not hold the calf and be prone to falling down. A garment that is too long might roll or both your when you bend your knee.
Step 4: Find your Thigh measurement
The thigh measurement is very important when sizing for a thigh high compression stocking. Similar to the calf measurement, this will determine how your stocking will fit at the very top. A tight fitting thigh may cause discomfort or rolling at the top band. A top thigh measurement that is loose will cause the thigh to fall down the leg.
Step 5: Find your Thigh length
A thigh high compression stocking that is too short for an individual will have a hard time staying up on the leg. With a pantyhose or a maternity panty, a stocking that is too short will pull on foot. Compression stockings stretch in length and in circumference. A short compression stocking that is overstretched in length on a long leg will cause the garment to fit tightly around the leg. Although this may not seem like an immediate problem, a garment that is too short may cause discomfort and provide inadequate compression. This may also cause increased wear and tear on certain parts of the garment.
A garment that is too long will have trouble staying on the leg. The excess in material will also cause the garment to be a loose fitting.
Step 6: You have your size
Congratulations
You now have your size. You're ready to try our Compression Stocking Wizard and answer a few simple questions to find the right compression stocking for you!
If you're still unsure about your size, or your measurements don't fit perfectly into some of the sizing ranges, drop us a line and our Customer Care Team would be more than happy to help.