Shorewood MedicalCompression Socks Zipper 20-30mmHg: Knee-high, Open Toe

I ordered these for my husband. We both have medical issues and I was fearful neither of us would be able to pull them up. He wasn't crazy about having to wear these, so I knew it would be up to me to get them on for him. As it turned out, it went much better than anticipated, even with my arthritic fingers. I had him lying down on his back. Once his heel was in position, I was able to pull up the rest of the stocking, and while pulling the stocking together with one hand, I was able to zip up the stockings with the other ... a few inches at a time. The zipper was an added bonus compared to when I would put them on for my clients 20 years ago. The zipper seems to be a high quality and one that will stand up to the tugging that is necessary when putting on compression stockings. I find these an excellent quality and value at a reasonable price.

I like these. I will likely purchase a second pair, despite a few issues (none of them are deal breakers). Details follow ...I'm no stranger to compression stockings. I was diagnosed a few years ago with chronic venous insufficiency. No varicose veins, no DVT -- just faulty valves that result in reflux that can (and has) caused tissue breakdown, stasis ulcers, and other unpleasantness.I was prescribed stockings by my vascular specialist, and at the encouragement of the tech at the medical supply place where I ordered my *exorbitantly* expensive custom zipper knee highs, I tried several "over the counter" brands in the same strength as my prescription, including some non-zipper ones as well as 2 different zipper brands.I like these the best as they seem to fit the best of the two brands I tried. I really prefer closed toe socks, but I can wear "regular" socks over these if needed. But the material is excellent quality and the zipper is definitely sturdy enough to withstand the effort needed to get into these.A few tips:1. They run a little small. My calves measure 19.5" and ankles measure just a hair over 12". I *should* be able to fit in the XL. I ordered 2XL, and I'm glad I did. There's no way I could have gotten myself into the smaller size. I would say that unless you're at the *bottom* of the size range in calf measurement, GO UP A SIZE. You won't be sorry. These fit nicely and come up to just below my knee without binding.2. They are REALLY tough to get on. I'm single, live alone, and let's just say I have a bit more real estate and tonnage than I should, so I'm not terribly lithe and flexible. Add in some rather severe arthritis (hands and shoulders) and things kind of go downhill from there. That said, I was able to get myself into these with no help. Pay no attention to the photo above showing the slim young thing easily pulling up the zipper with two fingers. Ain't gonna happen. You first have to get your foot inserted, and you need to make sure you have the heel in the right place. Then you have to pull the sides of the zipper together as best you can and HOLD them together as you zip a bit. Then HOLD the zipper tab in place while you again pull the sides of the zipper together and do the next bit. Keep going until you reach the top, pulling "up" as you move along. I can do about 3"-4" at a time, and the tab does occasionally "escape" so I have to repeat a section or two. Patience will help. I'm hoping this will get easier over time (I'm on day 5 with these).3. The foot section below the heel tends to "bunch" and that can cause some finding around your arch. Be careful when slipping into shoes/socks to keep that section smooth. You will thank me later.A word about the zipper. I'm always a little nervous about whether or not the zippers in compression socks can take the daily assault involved in getting these suckers on -- the pulling, stretching, etc. So far, I've had no problems or noticed any issues with the zippers in these. They seem to be VERY strong -- so don't be afraid to give it a tug if needed to get the sock over your heel, or whatever.So that's it -- be prepared for a real physical workout getting into these, and do be careful with sizing -- order up a size if in doubt. I like them, and will likely order a second pair. They'll be great for travel when I can't take my "sock donner" to help me get​ into non-zip socks.

I bought these for my father. They were not easy to get on; he needed to have a helper at his assisted living facility help him. On the third day that they were used, the zipper broke off on one of the socks. Picture attached.

The quality of the stocking is very good. It was not very difficult to put the stocking on, you always expect some difficulty with compression stocking, these were very doable. The zipper was very smooth to secure. The compression was almost perfect. The only problem was that unusual pucker on the topside of the stocking at the ankle, it bunched up and caused a painful "pleat" to form across the topside of the foot between the ankle and the instep, I could not wear the stocking for long periods of time because it became painful and when I removed the stockings I had deep impressions caused by the stocking. I'm not sure I will purchase these stocking again.

I have worn compression stockings for many years. Retirement came along and needs didn't change but dollars did. So looking for satisfactory socks with a lower dollar amount, these were very tempting. However, I am only 5' tall and the stockings were too long for my short legs. Sadly they had to be returned. That is a problem I see as I look for replacements. The measurement from knee to floor is not included and is really important. Folding at the knee increases compression almost as if there was a tourniquet on it and in no time, it is painful.''

Sadly, my friend for who I purchased the compression stockings forcwas unable to wear them. Her legs were just too, too swollen. I emailed the company asking for an address to return them and get her money refunded. I received an immediate response refunding her money and a very nice message indicating that I should keep the stockings. My husband tried them on and loved them. So easy to put on. We both wear compression stockings when we fly. His calves are large and he has always struggled with putting his on.The stockings are very well made and work beautifully. I would recommend them to others. Even my elderly friend who has severe back problems was able to get the on by herself. She was disappointed that they were not able to help her with the pain associated with her PAD. But the company could not have been more prompt, professional and helpful.

These socks did not work for my Dad. The one he tried left a welt at his ankle. But I need to shout about EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE!TIPS;If these are for an older adult, have someone there to help them with fitting and getting it on right. Put them on early, as the directions say. If they help, consider also buying devices that help get the socks on - and OFF. I hope they continue to try to find better solutions for this problem!

These zipper compression stockings are a lot easier to put on than normal type and with less frustration. The zipper made them easier to put on over my heel and then zip up the rest of the way. Hospital provided stockings were very difficult to use; these were so much better.