Open Toe vs Closed Toe Compression Stockings: What's the Difference?

Have your compression stockings ever made your toes feel cramped? Do you have sensitive toes that need freedom of movement? Have you ditched your summer compression stockings for fashion?

If you need more wiggle room in your toes, or want to wear something on your summer sandals, there are open-toed compression stockings that keep your legs fit and your toes free. There is no difference in the medical benefits offered by open and closed toe stockings - it's a personal style preference. Here's everything you need to know about open-toed and closed-toe compression stockings.

open toe elastic stockings

Most people are familiar with closed toe compressions, but what exactly is open toe compressions and how can they benefit you?

Open-toed garments extend over the entire ankle and heel, across the entire arch, and down to the base of the toes. This ensures that you get the pressure you need without leaving your toes uncovered by any fabric.

When to wear open-toed compression stockings?

Open-toed compression socks end at the bottom of the toe, so are perfect for summer sandals, flip-flops, and open-toed shoes. Not to mention, your toes are exposed, so they also help with ventilation.

Also applies to:

• People with large shoes or long toes
  
• People with sensitive toes or front of feet
• People with ingrown nails, bunions, or open sores
• People looking for comfort without cramped toes

If you experience any discomfort or tightness in your toes while wearing a compression garment, or any of the above toe conditions, the open toe option is great for you as it allows more freedom of movement for your toes.

Open-toed stockings provide the same medical pressure as closed-toe stockings.

Pro tip: If you need to wear open-toed shoes for certain situations, but want to wear a closed toe, you can place your open-toed compression knees under a pair of regular ankle socks. This will give you the coverage you need inside the shoe without cramping.

closed toe elastic stockings

You may be more familiar with closed-toe compression stockings. Closed-toe compression socks provide full foot coverage and cover the toes like traditional socks and socks.

When to wear closed-toe compression stockings?

Closed-toe compression stockings are great for wearing closed-toe shoes for extra warmth in the colder months, and when you don't want to wear another sock or stocking over your supportive garment.

If you're nervous about the fit of open-toed stockings or trying to get them right, closed-toe stockings are a great option.

To put on closed-toe compression socks, reach into the sock and grab the toes of the sock. Then pull the stocking from the inside to the heel. Next, slide your foot into the sock and attach it to your foot and heel. Now you can grab the stocking and pull the rest over your leg. Once the stockings are pulled to the top, be sure to smooth out any wrinkles and folds.

You can also use gloves and application aids to help put on the stockings.

How to choose open toe and closed toe compression socks

Both open and closed-toe compression stockings are great for improving leg health. Which would you choose?

Unless you have certain toe disorders, such as bunions, sensitive toes, etc. Choosing between open and closed toe compression stockings is just a style preference. Below is a review of each benefit to help you decide.

The benefits of open-toed compression stockings

• Great for summer shoes and warm weather (also great for women showing off their pedicures and painted toenails)
• Great for anyone with toe pain, ingrown toenails, bunions, hammer toes and more.
• Easier to put on and off
• No narrow or crowded toes
• Hierarchical compression support, shaping and toning effects
• The benefits of closed-toe compression stockings
• Great for cold weather and closed toe shoes
• Full foot coverage and protection
• Hierarchical compression support, shaping and toning effects

You can also get the compression you need by wearing open-toed compression socks and whatever type of socks you want.

Pro tip: Open-toed clothing is not the same as footless clothing. In fact, the difference is huge! Footless garments end below the ankle, while open-toed garments will extend over the entire ankle and heel, over the entire arch, and down to the base of the toes.