The billion-dollar business hidden in stockings: How silver economy influence medical textile industry

Jul 25, 2025  |  by Zhong Mengxia
Driven by the accelerating global aging population and increasing health consciousness, compression stocking market is experiencing rapid growth. According to the latest data from Grand View Research, the global compression therapy market reached $4.25 billion in 2024, with medical compression stockings, as a core segment, boasting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of nearly 6%.
 
The rising prevalence of venous diseases such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), lymphedema, and varicose veins, coupled with heightened health risks associated with sedentary lifestyles and prolonged standing, has fueled a surge in demand for medical compression stockings, which offer both preventative and therapeutic functions. Against this backdrop, global textile companies are driving the industry towards greater functionality, comfort, and intelligence through material innovation, process upgrades, and smart technology.


From single therapy to scenario-based solutions
 
The core of modern medical compression products lies in the precision of gradient pressure design. Leading companies commonly employ technologies like "multi-knit techniques and zonal pressure application." This involves designing gradient pressure from ankle to shank, utilizing 3D knitting for differentiated pressure zones, and incorporating novel materials such as antibacterial silver fibers, Coolmax, etc.
 
SOUERMEI, a domestic brand with alomost 20 years of expertise in medical compression devices, launched its C5pro200 medical compression stockings based on deep insights into user needs. Its precise pressure application technology effectively promotes venous blood return in the lower limbs, alleviating swelling and fatigue. Simultaneously, a widened cuff design significantly enhances comfort, preventing the common issues of traditional stockings slipping down or constricting the skin, making them particularly suitable for office people who stand or sit for a long time.
 
Furthermore, the brand innovatively employs zonal pressure technology, providing targeted compression and support specifically for the calf muscles and tendons. This design adheres to the medical standards for gradient pressure therapy against varicose veins while also meeting the protective needs of athletic scenarios. Whether for daily wear, running, or fitness activities, the stockings offer stable and effective support.
 
Competitive landscape
 
German brand medi, a globally renowned medical specialty retailer, offers a range of compression socks and tights at different pressure levels based on the nature and severity of the condition, addressing venous diseases, lymphedema, or lipedema. Their product line includes models for patients with healthy veins, as well as options specifically designed for men and pregnant women. They also offer related medical adaptive pressure products for edema and leg ulcer treatment.
 
Swiss brand SIGVARIS is a leading global brand in medical compression socks, specializing in lower limb venous health management. Its products utilize patented knitting technology, combining natural rubber elastic fibers with highly breathable cotton materials to ensure precise pressure, comfort, and durability. As a benchmark brand certified by multiple international medical standards, SIGVARIS balances functionality and comfort, making it a popular choice for doctor recommendations and sports protection.
 
Zhende Medical, one of the drafting units for China's varicose vein stocking industry standards, has focused on compression products for 16 years. This year, Zhende collaborated with Aerospace China to launch a varicose vein stocking specifically designed for men. Tailored to male physiology, it employs scientific gradient pressure technology and utilizes the highest standard 7A-grade antibacterial fabric, maintaining its antibacterial function even after 150 times water washing.
 
New opportunities
 
From postoperative recovery to sports protection, from sedentary office work to pregnancy care, the convergence of preventative medicine and consumption upgrading is pushing this high-potential market beyond traditional boundaries, driven by textile technology. For textile enterprises, deeply researching cross-disciplinary innovation at the intersection of medicine and engineering is key to seizing opportunities within the broader healthcare industry.

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