Compression Classes for Graduated Compression Hosiery

Edited on 6-Apr-2004.

There are two different standards of compression classes for graduated compression hosiery, namely, the British standard (6612) and the European standard (SS-ENV 12718).

The British standard is divided into 3 classes and the European quality into 4 classes according to the level of pressure exerted around the ankle. The European recommended levels of compression are higher than the British levels.

European Standard

Class	Support	Pressure	Condition
I	Light	18.4-21.1mmHg	Mild varices Venous hypertension in pregnancy Heaviness & fatigue in leg
II	Medium	25.2-32.3mmHg	Pronounced varices Moderate oedema Inflammation of superficial veins After resolution of mild ulceration
III	Strong	36.5-46.6mmHg	Severe varicose veins Post-thrombotic syndrome Pronounced oedema Prevention of venous ulcers
IV	Heavy	Over 59 mmHg	Lymphoedemia Elephantiasis

British Standard

Class	Support	Pressure	Condition
I	Light	14-17mmHg	Mild varicose veins Venous hypertension in pregnancy
II	Medium	18-24mmHg	Moderate varicose veins Mild oedema Prevention of ulcer recurrence
III	Strong	25-35mmHg	Severe varicose veins Prevention of venous ulcers

There is a wider use of the British standard on this website, published as indicated on the packaging. Shoppers are adviced to check the compression in mmHg (millimeters Mercury) rather than based on the compression classes.

The British standard is more widely accepted because a lower compression in the medical hosiery also results in the hosiery being more comfortable to wear and easier to put on.