Quick answer: "diabetic stockings" is used for two different things. Most often it means diabetic compression stockings: graduated compression socks (usually 8-15, 15-20 or 20-30 mmHg) made with diabetic-friendly features like a smooth toe seam and moisture-wicking fabric. Sometimes it means non-binding diabetic socks, which add no compression at all and are designed not to squeeze the leg. Which you need depends on whether you want pressure (for swelling or tired legs) or no pressure (for sensitive feet and sock marks).
What are diabetic stockings?
"Stockings" traditionally means a knee-high or thigh-high hose, and in medical settings it almost always refers to compression. So when people search for diabetic stockings, they're usually looking for compression socks that are safe and comfortable for someone with diabetes.
The two kinds side by side:
| Diabetic compression stockings | Non-binding diabetic socks | |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure | Graduated, firmest at the ankle (8-15, 15-20 or 20-30 mmHg) | None; the top is designed not to squeeze |
| Main purpose | Help limit swelling, ease tired or heavy legs, support circulation in the lower legs | Comfort and protection for sensitive feet; no marks or rings on the leg |
| Height | Usually over the calf, just below the knee | Ankle, crew or upper calf |
| Diabetic features | Smooth toe seam, moisture-wicking knit, a top that doesn't roll into a tight band | Smooth toe seam, soft knit, roomy fit, wide non-binding top |
| Ask your doctor? | Yes, especially for 20-30 mmHg or if you have neuropathy or artery problems | Not usually needed |
Diabetic compression stockings
Diabetic compression stockings apply gentle, graduated pressure: tightest at the ankle and gradually looser up the leg. That helps keep blood and fluid moving back toward the heart instead of collecting around the ankles, which is why people use them for swelling, heavy legs and long days sitting or standing.
What makes a compression stocking suitable for diabetes is the construction around it:
- A smooth, flat toe seam so nothing rubs a foot you may not feel well
- Moisture-wicking fabric that keeps skin dry
- A choice of strengths, so you can start light
- A top that stays put without rolling down into a tight band
Our diabetic compression socks are over-the-calf stockings in 8-15, 15-20 and 20-30 mmHg for men and women, knit from a breathable nylon and spandex blend in Alabama. Not sure which strength? See compression levels explained.
Non-binding diabetic socks
Non-binding diabetic socks do the opposite: they're built to add no pressure. The top is knit wide and soft so it stays up without digging in, the fit is roomier through the foot and ankle, and the toe seam is smooth. They're the usual choice for people who have sensitive feet or neuropathy, get sock marks from regular socks, or have been told compression isn't right for them.
See our diabetic socks for men and diabetic socks for women.
Which do you need?
- Swelling, heavy legs, long flights or standing all day? Diabetic compression stockings, starting at 8-15 or 15-20 mmHg, if your doctor agrees.
- Sensitive or numb feet, sock marks, or no need for compression? Non-binding diabetic socks.
- Peripheral artery disease, very poor circulation, or open wounds on the legs? Talk to your doctor before wearing any compression.
- Both? Many people wear compression stockings during the day and non-binding socks in the evening or at night.
More detail in diabetic compression socks vs. regular compression socks and the benefits of compression socks.
How to wear diabetic stockings safely
- Measure your ankle and calf in the morning and size by the compression size chart.
- Put them on in the morning and take them off at night. See how long to wear compression socks.
- Smooth out every wrinkle. Our guide on how to put on compression socks has tips if reaching your feet is hard.
- Check your feet and legs every time you take them off, especially if you have neuropathy.
- Stop wearing them and call your doctor if your toes go numb, pale or blue, or pain gets worse.
Frequently asked questions
Are diabetic stockings the same as compression stockings?
Often, yes. Most "diabetic stockings" are compression stockings with diabetic-friendly features. Non-binding diabetic socks are different: they add no compression.
Can diabetics wear compression stockings?
Many can, and they can help with swelling and tired legs. People with diabetes should check with a doctor first, because artery problems and neuropathy can make compression unsafe or hard to judge.
What compression level are diabetic stockings?
Usually 8-15, 15-20 or 20-30 mmHg. Most people start at 8-15 or 15-20 mmHg.
Are diabetic stockings covered by insurance or FSA/HSA?
Compression stockings and diabetic socks are often eligible for FSA or HSA funds. See diabetic socks and FSA/HSA.
Do diabetic stockings help neuropathy?
They don't treat nerve damage, but compression can help with swelling that often comes with it. See do compression socks help neuropathy.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Updated September 2026.
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