Compression Level Frequently Asked Questions
Short answers to the questions buyers ask most often about Compression Level.
What does it mean?
pressure applied to the body by a garment. Working figures for Compression Level normally sit around light 8-15 mmHg, firm 20-30 mmHg in mainstream production. Note RAL-GZ 387 compression classes on the tech pack so nobody tests against an older revision.
What value should be specified?
Start from light 8-15 mmHg, firm 20-30 mmHg and adjust for the end use of the garment. Record elastane content alongside Compression Level, because blends shift the measured value. A result outside light 8-15 mmHg, firm 20-30 mmHg usually points to process drift rather than to the fibre itself.
How is it tested?
RAL-GZ 387 compression classes. Keeping reference values for Compression Level lets suppliers quote without extra sampling rounds. Ask for conditioning details together with RAL-GZ 387 compression classes, since both affect the reading.
Why does it change between lots?
Process variables such as finishing temperature and elastane batch cause the normal spread of results. Working figures for Compression Level normally sit around light 8-15 mmHg, firm 20-30 mmHg in mainstream production. Note RAL-GZ 387 compression classes on the tech pack so nobody tests against an older revision.
Can results be compared across suppliers?
Only when the same standard revision and conditioning are used; otherwise measurements are not equivalent. Record elastane content alongside Compression Level, because blends shift the measured value. A result outside light 8-15 mmHg, firm 20-30 mmHg usually points to process drift rather than to the fibre itself.
