Compression Size Chart | Fitting Guide - CSO Australia
Best Results: Measure in the Morning
Leg swelling increases throughout the day. For the most accurate fit, measure first thing in the morning before swelling develops.
- Measure at the narrowest part of your ankle
- Position the tape just above the ankle bone
- Tape should be snug, not tight
- Find the widest part of your calf muscle
- Usually about halfway between knee and ankle
- Keep the tape level all around
- Measure at the widest part of your upper thigh
- Usually about 2-3cm below the groin
- Keep the tape level all around
- Stand straight with feet shoulder-width apart
- Measure from just below your knee to the floor
- If unsure, you can skip this
Your measurements are an excellent match for this size.
Clinically accurate sizing tables for Juzo, Venosan, Sigvaris, Jobst, and Bauerfeind — trusted by Australian healthcare professionals.
Getting the right compression stocking size is the single most important factor in effective compression therapy. An incorrectly sized stocking can be medically counterproductive — too tight creates dangerous tourniquet effects, while too loose provides no therapeutic benefit. This comprehensive guide provides the exact measurement instructions and brand-specific size charts used by vascular clinicians across Australia.
Whether you have been prescribed compression stockings for chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prevention, lymphoedema management, or post-surgical recovery, this guide will ensure you find the perfect fit from any of the five leading medical-grade brands available in Australia.
How to Measure for Compression Stockings
All measurements should be taken first thing in the morning (within 30 minutes of waking) before any gravitational oedema develops. If morning measurement is not possible, elevate your legs above heart level for 15–20 minutes before measuring.
What You Need
- A flexible cloth or tailor's tape measure (not a metal builder's tape)
- Pen and paper to record your measurements in centimetres
- A helper (recommended for thigh measurements)
Step 1: Measure Your Ankle Circumference (cB)
Sit or stand with your foot flat on the floor. Locate the narrowest point of your ankle, which is typically just above the ankle bone (medial malleolus). Wrap the tape measure around this point, keeping it:
- Parallel to the floor
- Snug against the skin (no gap, no compression)
- Flat (not twisted)
Record this measurement in centimetres. This is the most critical measurement — it determines the graduated compression starting pressure.
Step 2: Measure Your Calf Circumference (cC)
Stand with your weight evenly distributed on both feet. Find the widest part of your calf muscle — this is usually 12–15 cm below the knee crease. Wrap the tape around this point horizontally.
Record this measurement in centimetres. This measurement ensures the stocking can accommodate your calf without creating pressure points or rolling.
Step 3: Measure Your Thigh Circumference (cG) — For Thigh-High Stockings
Stand upright with your legs slightly apart. Measure around the widest point of your upper thigh, approximately 5 cm below the gluteal fold (where your buttock meets the back of your thigh).
Record this measurement in centimetres. This ensures the silicone grip band sits securely without being too tight.
Step 4: Measure Leg Length
Stand upright on a hard floor (no shoes):
- Below-knee (AD) length: Measure from the floor to the bend behind your knee (popliteal crease).
- Thigh-high (AG) length: Measure from the floor to 5 cm below the gluteal fold.
If your measurements fall between two sizes, choose the larger size for daily comfort wear, or consult your prescribing clinician. For post-operative or acute oedema management, your vascular specialist may recommend the smaller size for tighter compression control.
Compression Stockings Size Charts by Brand
Each brand uses slightly different size ranges and measurement parameters. Find your brand below and match your recorded measurements to determine your size.
Juzo Size Chart (Below-Knee)
Juzo uses ankle (cB) and calf (cC) circumference as primary sizing parameters. Juzo stockings are manufactured in Germany and are available in Standard and Short lengths.
| Size | Ankle (cB) cm | Calf (cC) cm | Length (Standard) |
|---|---|---|---|
| I (Small) | 18–20 | 28–34 | 35–43 cm |
| II (Medium) | 20–24 | 30–38 | 35–43 cm |
| III (Large) | 24–28 | 34–44 | 35–43 cm |
| IV (X-Large) | 28–32 | 38–48 | 38–46 cm |
| V (XX-Large) | 32–36 | 44–54 | 38–46 cm |
Juzo ranges: Juzo Soft, Juzo Inspiration, Juzo Attractive. Custom-made sizes available for measurements outside standard ranges. Sizes VI and VII available in select models.
Venosan Size Chart (Below-Knee)
Venosan (Swiss-made) uses ankle circumference as the primary parameter, with calf circumference as secondary. The Venosan 4000 and 6000 series are TGA-listed Class II medical devices in Australia.
| Size | Ankle (cB) cm | Calf (cC) cm | Length (Standard) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S (Small) | 19–21 | 29–35 | 34–38 cm |
| M (Medium) | 21–25 | 32–40 | 34–43 cm |
| L (Large) | 25–29 | 36–44 | 38–46 cm |
| XL (X-Large) | 29–33 | 40–50 | 38–48 cm |
| XXL (XX-Large) | 33–37 | 46–56 | 38–48 cm |
Venosan ranges: Venosan 4000, Venosan 6000, Venosan Silverline (antimicrobial). Short and long lengths available in all sizes.
Sigvaris Size Chart (Below-Knee)
Sigvaris (Swiss-made, global leader) uses a dual-parameter system: ankle circumference and calf circumference. Sigvaris offers the widest ready-to-wear size range of any medical compression brand globally.
| Size | Ankle (cB) cm | Calf (cC) cm | Calf Short | Calf Long |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S (Small) | 18–20 | 28–34 | 30–37 cm | 37–43 cm |
| SS (Small-Short) | 18–20 | 28–34 | 25–30 cm | — |
| M (Medium) | 20–24 | 32–38 | 30–37 cm | 37–43 cm |
| MS (Medium-Short) | 20–24 | 32–38 | 25–30 cm | — |
| L (Large) | 24–28 | 34–44 | 30–37 cm | 37–43 cm |
| XL (X-Large) | 28–32 | 38–48 | 32–40 cm | 40–47 cm |
Sigvaris ranges: Sigvaris Cotton (medical), Sigvaris Essential (everyday), Sigvaris Performance (sport). Sizes SS through XL, with Plus widths in Cotton range.
Jobst Size Chart (Below-Knee)
Jobst (by Essity/BSN Medical) is the #1 physician-recommended brand in hospital settings. Jobst uses ankle and calf circumference with proprietary SoftFit™ technology that allows a slightly wider fit tolerance.
| Size | Ankle (cB) cm | Calf (cC) cm | Length (Standard) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S (Small) | 18–21 | 26–33 | 34–38 cm |
| M (Medium) | 21–25 | 30–38 | 34–43 cm |
| L (Large) | 25–29 | 34–44 | 38–46 cm |
| XL (X-Large) | 29–33 | 40–50 | 38–48 cm |
| XXL (XX-Large) | 33–38 | 46–56 | 40–50 cm |
Jobst ranges: Jobst Relief (everyday), Jobst UltraSheer (cosmetic), Jobst forMen (dress/casual), Jobst ActiveWear (sport), Jobst Travel. FC (Full Calf) widths available in Relief and forMen ranges.
Bauerfeind VenoTrain Size Chart (Below-Knee)
Bauerfeind (German-engineered) uses their proprietary Perfect Fit System with ankle and calf circumference. Bauerfeind stockings are known for anatomical shaping and high stiffness index, making them particularly effective for advanced venous conditions.
| Size | Ankle (cB) cm | Calf (cC) cm | Length Normal | Length Short |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 (XS) | 17–19 | 27–32 | 34–39 cm | 28–34 cm |
| 2 (S) | 19–22 | 30–36 | 34–39 cm | 28–34 cm |
| 3 (M) | 22–25 | 33–40 | 37–43 cm | 31–37 cm |
| 4 (L) | 25–28 | 37–44 | 37–43 cm | 31–37 cm |
| 5 (XL) | 28–32 | 40–48 | 39–46 cm | 33–39 cm |
| 6 (XXL) | 32–36 | 44–54 | 39–46 cm | 33–39 cm |
Bauerfeind VenoTrain ranges: VenoTrain Business (men's dress), VenoTrain Micro (ultra-sheer), VenoTrain Soft (sensitive skin), VenoTrain impuls (high-stiffness for advanced CVI). Plus widths available in all ranges.
Thigh-High Compression Stockings Size Reference
For thigh-high stockings, you need all three measurements: ankle (cB), calf (cC), and thigh (cG). Below is a consolidated reference for thigh circumference ranges across brands.
| Size | Juzo (cG) cm | Venosan (cG) cm | Sigvaris (cG) cm | Jobst (cG) cm | Bauerfeind (cG) cm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S / I / 2 | 40–50 | 42–52 | 40–50 | 40–52 | 42–50 |
| M / II / 3 | 46–56 | 48–58 | 46–56 | 46–58 | 48–56 |
| L / III / 4 | 52–64 | 54–64 | 52–62 | 52–64 | 54–62 |
| XL / IV / 5 | 60–72 | 60–72 | 58–70 | 58–72 | 60–70 |
Understanding Compression Classes (Australian Standard)
In Australia, compression stockings are classified according to the European RAL standard (measured in mmHg at the ankle):
| Class | Pressure (mmHg) | Clinical Indication |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | 18–21 mmHg | Tired/heavy legs, mild varicose veins, travel, pregnancy prevention |
| Class 2 | 23–32 mmHg | Moderate varicose veins, post-DVT, post-sclerotherapy, mild oedema |
| Class 3 | 34–46 mmHg | Severe CVI (C4-C6), post-thrombotic syndrome, lymphoedema stage I-II |
| Class 4 | 49+ mmHg | Severe lymphoedema, elephantiasis (specialist prescription only) |
In Australia, Class 2 and above compression stockings are claimable through private health insurance extras cover (check your policy). Stockings prescribed by a vascular surgeon or GP may also qualify for DVA (Department of Veterans' Affairs) coverage or NDIS consumables funding for eligible participants.
Common Compression Stocking Sizing Mistakes
Even experienced wearers make these errors. Avoid them for proper compression therapy:
- Measuring in the afternoon/evening: Legs swell throughout the day. Afternoon measurements can be 1–3 cm larger than morning measurements, leading to oversized stockings that slide down.
- Using a metal tape measure: Metal tapes don't conform to leg contours and give inaccurate readings. Use only a flexible cloth/tailor's tape.
- Measuring over clothing: Always measure on bare skin. Even thin socks can add 0.5–1 cm.
- Not standing for calf measurements: Calf circumference increases when weight-bearing. Always stand with equal weight on both feet.
- Ignoring leg length: A stocking that's too long will bunch behind the knee, creating pressure points. Too short and it won't provide full coverage.
- Assuming both legs are the same: It is common to have a 1–2 cm difference between left and right legs. Measure both legs independently and order accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I get the wrong compression stocking size?
Wearing the wrong size compression stocking can be medically counterproductive and potentially dangerous:
- Too small (tight): Creates a tourniquet effect that restricts venous return, may cause numbness, tingling, skin discolouration, pain, and in severe cases tissue ischaemia. A too-tight stocking can worsen the very condition it is meant to treat.
- Too large (loose): Fails to deliver adequate graduated compression pressure at the ankle. The stocking will slide down, bunch, and create irregular pressure zones. Therapeutically, it is equivalent to wearing a normal sock — no clinical benefit.
Signs your size is wrong: Numbness or tingling in toes, skin indentation marks that last more than 30 minutes after removal, the stocking rolling down at the top, difficulty getting the stocking on/off (beyond normal for compression garments), or pain/discomfort that worsens throughout the day.
If you experience any of these signs, stop wearing the stocking and re-measure. Consult your healthcare provider if symptoms persist.
What is the best time of day to measure for compression stockings?
The clinically recommended time to measure for compression stockings is first thing in the morning, within 30 minutes of waking. This is before gravitational oedema (fluid pooling in the lower legs from standing/sitting) develops.
During the day, legs can swell by 3–5% in healthy individuals and up to 10–15% in people with venous insufficiency or lymphoedema. Morning measurements represent your leg at its true baseline circumference.
If morning measurement is not possible:
- Lie down and elevate your legs above heart level for 20 minutes before measuring
- Alternatively, have your measurements taken by a trained fitter at a pharmacy or vascular clinic first thing in the morning
- Avoid measuring after exercise, hot showers, or prolonged standing — all increase temporary leg volume
How often should I re-measure for compression stockings?
Clinical guidelines recommend re-measuring for compression stockings every 6 months as standard practice. However, re-measure sooner if:
- Weight change: A gain or loss of more than 5 kg can alter leg circumference by 1–3 cm
- Pregnancy: Re-measure each trimester as leg volume changes significantly
- Post-surgical: Swelling reduces progressively — re-measure at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months post-procedure
- Change in condition: Worsening oedema, new DVT, or progression of CVI may require size adjustment
- Stockings feel different: If stockings that once fit well now feel loose or overly tight, your legs have changed
Important: Compression stockings themselves lose 30–40% of their elasticity after 4–6 months of daily wear (washing accelerates this). When replacing worn stockings, always re-measure rather than reordering the same size automatically.
Choosing Between Brands: Clinical Considerations
While all five brands (Juzo, Venosan, Sigvaris, Jobst, and Bauerfeind) meet RAL medical compression standards, each has distinct characteristics that may suit different patients:
- Juzo: German-made with the widest custom-sizing options. Best for: patients with non-standard leg shapes, lymphoedema requiring custom flat-knit garments, or those needing sizes V–VII.
- Venosan: Swiss-made with Clima-Fresh technology for temperature regulation. Best for: Australian climate (breathable in heat), sensitive skin (hypoallergenic formulation), antimicrobial needs (Silverline range).
- Sigvaris: Global leader with the broadest ready-to-wear size matrix. Best for: patients who fall between sizes in other brands, those needing Short/Long length options, and athletes (Performance range).
- Jobst: Hospital standard with SoftFit™ silicone band technology. Best for: post-surgical patients (continuity from hospital to home), men who prefer a dress-sock aesthetic (forMen range), and those with sensitive skin at the grip band area.
- Bauerfeind: German anatomical engineering with highest stiffness index. Best for: advanced CVI (C4–C6, impuls range), men needing business-appropriate compression (Business range), patients requiring high working pressure for mobility.
Special Sizing Situations
Pregnancy Compression Stockings
During pregnancy, leg measurements should be taken in the first trimester for initial fitting, then re-assessed each trimester. Most pregnant women will move up one size between first and third trimesters. Maternity pantyhose styles (available from Sigvaris, Jobst, and Juzo) accommodate abdominal growth with expandable panels. Class 1 (18–21 mmHg) is standard for pregnancy prophylaxis unless otherwise prescribed by your obstetrician or vascular specialist.
Post-Surgical Sizing
After vein surgery (stripping, EVLA, sclerotherapy), your legs will be at their most swollen. Your surgeon will typically apply initial stockings in-theatre. When transitioning to your own stockings at 1–2 weeks post-op, re-measure — your leg dimensions will continue changing for 3–6 months as swelling resolves. Many patients move down one size between the 2-week and 3-month post-operative marks.
Asymmetric Legs (Different Sizes Left vs Right)
It is clinically normal for left and right legs to differ by 1–2 cm in circumference. If the difference is more than one size between legs, you should order different sizes for each leg. All five brands sell stockings as individual units (not only as pairs), making mixed-size ordering straightforward. Contact us for assistance with split-size orders.
Still unsure about your size? Our qualified fitters are available via phone or email to help you find the perfect fit. We stock all five major brands with full size ranges, and offer free exchanges on unworn stockings if your size needs adjusting. Free shipping Australia-wide on orders over $100.
Quick Size Conversion Between Brands
Switching brands? Use this quick cross-reference to find your equivalent size:
| Ankle (cB) | Juzo | Venosan | Sigvaris | Jobst | Bauerfeind |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18–20 cm | I | S | S | S | 1–2 |
| 20–25 cm | II | M | M | M | 2–3 |
| 25–29 cm | III | L | L | L | 4 |
| 29–33 cm | IV | XL | XL | XL | 5 |
| 33–37 cm | V | XXL | — | XXL | 6 |
Note: Always verify with the full brand-specific chart above. Cross-brand equivalencies are approximate — calf circumference may push you to a different size in one brand vs another.
When to Replace Your Compression Stockings
Compression stockings are medical devices that lose therapeutic efficacy over time. Replace your stockings when:
- They have been worn daily for 4–6 months (elastane fibres degrade with washing and wear)
- The fabric feels noticeably less firm when you stretch it
- The stocking slides down during the day despite fitting correctly when new
- Visible signs of wear: thinning fabric, runs, holes, or pilling
- The silicone grip band no longer holds securely
Pro tip: Owning 2–3 pairs and rotating daily extends the life of each pair and ensures you always have a clean pair ready. Wash in cool water (<40°C) with gentle detergent, air dry away from direct heat or sunlight.
This guide is for informational purposes. Always follow the specific sizing instructions provided by your prescribing healthcare professional. Compression stockings Class 2 and above should be used under medical guidance. Last updated: June 2026.