Both numbers describe pressure at the ankle, measured in millimeters of mercury. The knit is tightest there and eases as it climbs toward the knee. That is the whole idea behind the word graduated.
15-20 mmHg
The lighter gauge, and the one most people start with. It pulls on with one hand, sits under trousers without a ridge, and is the gauge on 22 of the socks here. A long shift on your feet is the usual reason someone buys it.
20-30 mmHg
Noticeably firmer. Getting it over the heel takes two hands, and rubber dish gloves make it far easier because they grip the knit instead of sliding on it. 21 socks in the catalog are cut to this gauge.
No stated gauge
The six low cut ankle pairs are cushioned athletic socks with elastic support rather than a rated compression band. They are listed without an mmHg figure, and we have not invented one for them.
Which sock carries which gauge
| Gauge | Socks | Sections |
|---|---|---|
| 15-20 mmHg | 22 | Wide calf, Bamboo viscose |
| 20-30 mmHg | 21 | Firm & open toe, Bamboo viscose, Cotton blend, Wide calf |
| No stated gauge | 6 | Ankle |
Getting a firm sock on
The trick that actually works is a pair of rubber dish gloves. They grip the knit instead of sliding across it, and a 20-30 mmHg knee high goes over the heel in one movement rather than five. Roll the sock down to the heel pocket first, seat the heel, then unroll up the leg. Pulling from the cuff stretches the cuff and nothing else.
If you have a circulation condition or a leg injury, the gauge is a question for your doctor. We sell clothing and cannot answer it.