I recently started wearing knee high compression stockings about 4 months ago, size XL 20-30 mmhg. I've gone through 5 pairs because of the discomfort I was experiencing. I wear my stockings 10-12 hours a day. My issues were the top band was way too tight and the pressure with the closed toe style hurt my big toes. When I walked, foot moves forward and created pressure on my toes. Most compression wear is not cheap. After wasting my money through trial and error, not easy when you're retired & on a budget, I finally came across this heavenly 5th pair by Jobst, their Softfit style (3 of the 5 bought were the Jobst brand). The open toe is refreshingly nice and my toes have freedom again. The open toe band is comfortable, not too tight and it doesn't bunch up & ride up to the heel. The top band does not choke my legs, due to the new technology of using soft silicone yarns on the top band. This provides much more comfort and less tension without compromising the stockings falling down. Overall the 20-30 compression is great. I highly recommend these knee stockings.