Denier verses Compression: An informed choice
Cabin crew members are the unsung heroes of air travel, ensuring passenger safety and comfort in a punishing environment. From the constant change in cabin pressure to spending long hours on their feet, they face unique demands. Here, we'll explore the difference between Denier and Compression and what they can do for you.
Denier is a measure of weight that is used to determine the thickness of the yarn used in creating stockings. This directly affects both transparency and durability.
- Sheer Elegance (Less than 20 Denier): Sheer stockings with a denier of 20 or less provide a touch of coverage while maintaining an elegant and professional appearance. Opt for these when you want to strike a balance between style and comfort.
- Semi-Opaque Support (20-50 Denier): When you're on your feet all day, a bit of extra support can go a long way. Stockings in the 20-50 denier range offer more coverage and a subtle level of support, helping to maintain comfort during long shifts.
- Opaque Resilience (Over 50 Denier): provide complete coverage and added warmth. These can be a lifesaver when you need an extra layer of protection against the elements and because of their thickness, can last longer.
Compression stockings are designed with graduated pressure, meaning they are tighter (higher compression) at the ankle and gradually reduce moving up the legs. Long hours on your feet or changes in altitude can affect blood circulation and cause discomfort. Compression stockings are a valuable addition in combating this:
- Enhanced Blood Flow Reduces Fatigue: Because the pressure reduces from ankle to hips, graduated compression tights help improve blood flow. The pressure these stockings put on your legs helps your blood vessels work better. The arteries that take oxygen-rich blood to your muscles can relax, so blood flows freely. The veins get a boost in pushing blood back to your heart.
- Reduced Risk of Spider / Varicose veins and Deep Vein Thrombosis: Compression tights encourage blood flow back towards the heart, preventing it pooling in the lower extremities.They minimise pressure on the blood vessels and therefore, reduces the chance of spider and varicose veins or the chance of blood clotting and blocking circulation (DVT).
Understanding the distinction between denier and compression stockings empowers you to make informed choices to cater for your unique challenges. From the elegant sheerness of lower denier stockings to the functional support of compression stockings, there's a leg wear solution for every situation. Whether you're dressing for style and comfort or to combat the challenges of a long working day, the right choice can help you feel comfortable and minimise the damage caused by long hours on your feet.