Compression socks for Disney rash aka Golfer’s vasculitis

[AK Granola]

Hey all

There’s an old thread on here about compression socks, but I think the post was more about physical performance than trying to address a specific problem. I get the red rash on my ankles and sometimes my feet, whenever I hike in hot weather. It’s painless until it gets really swollen, then it’s uncomfortable. Not itchy. 99% sure it’s Disney rash or Golfer’s vasculitis. Harmless and goes away after a few days. Elevating my legs up a tree or rock helps, soaking in cold streams helps, but it doesn’t prevent it. It only happens in “hot” weather, but hot for me is about 70F so in the summertime no matter where I am, I get the rash.

I’m thinking about trying compression socks to see if I can prevent it in the first place, although they sound miserably hot and maybe will cause other issues? I have no idea. I’m sitting here as my husband recovers from surgery wearing his compression stockings to prevent blood clots in his legs, and thinking, maybe this would work for my problem. Are there ones specifically made for backpacking or hiking? Any that folks on here with this same problem would recommend?

[Bill Budney]

I don’t think you need anything special to try them — compression socks are mostly similar. Some compress tighter than others, but few tell you the pressure. Like any other socks, you just have to close your eyes and try them.

Fox River makes “Fatigue Fighter” socks for military types, who tend to do a lot of backpacking/rucking. I’ve used their socks successfully. They use a lot of synthetic materials, which worked fine for me, especially in warm weather. I don’t find them warmer than any other Summer-weight socks (except for ultra-thin liner socks, which are nice for cooling but are not cushy).

And that’s what leads me to think that any old compression socks will probably work. They are usually synthetic, and often lightweight, not unlike most Summer hiking socks.

[Author]

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