Although it is a very popular choice for comfort, there are reasons for safety and health that lead some experts to advise caution in its use during air travel. The issue is not related to clothing or appearance codes, but to the materials and the impact they may have in emergency situations or in long periods of inactivity.
Comfort or risk? The fashion that dominates the airports
Nowadays, it is common to see passengers opt for lightweight, fair and elastic clothing during plane trips. With the popularization of a more sporty style, many people favor comfort, especially in long travels. However, some experts warn that certain materials and clothing cuts may pose increased risks in the event of an accident or health complications related to blood circulation.
Flammable materials and the risk of burns
Aviation Security Expert Christine Negroni, known for her investigations in this area, has warned for the dangers associated with the use of clothes made with very fair synthetic fibers to the body during flights, namely leggings. Negroni, who is writing a new book entitled “Do not use leggings on an airplane – and other unhappy landings”, stresses that, in the event of a fire -risk accident, this type of material may aggravate the situation.
“The problem is in the nature of the fabric: they are highly flammable oil -derived fibers. In case of fire on board, as in an emergency landing, these pieces can melt the skin and cause severe burns,” he explains. According to Negroni, most air accidents with survivors are not so much of the impact, but from the subsequent fire caused by the fuel.
Natural clothes are a safer choice
In this context, it recommends choosing clothes made with natural fibers, such as cotton or wool, which not only offer lower risk of burns, but also ensure greater mobility – something essential if it is necessary to quickly evacuate the aircraft.
Clothing also affects circulation
Circulatory health specialists also warn of the purposes of very fair pieces during flights. Dr. Hugh Pabarue, a doctor specializing in venous diseases, recalls that “tight clothes can compromise blood circulation, especially on the legs.” This restriction can cause swelling, pain, varicose veins or, in more severe cases, deep vein thrombosis – a clot that forms in the deep veins of the leg.
The reduced atmospheric pressure inside the plane, combined with long periods sitting, aggravates the problem. The vascular surgeon Peter J. Pappas adds that “staying motionless for several hours favors the accumulation of blood in the legs, increasing the risk of complications.” Very tight clothes at the waist, thighs and ankles can contribute to this by restricting the normal flow.
We recommend:
When compression is beneficial
But what about compression parts? In fact, there are exceptions. According to medical degree compression, socks and compression pants are designed specifically to stimulate circulation by applying pressure in a controlled manner. “These pieces neutralize the negative effects of cabin pressure, prevent swelling and help prevent clot formation,” says Cappas.
What the lymphatic drainage says
According to Val Oliveira, a specialist in lymphatic drainage, the difference is in the way the pressure is distributed: “Proper compression parts favor venous and lymphatic return, unlike ordinary tight clothing, which can block these flows.”
There are currently compression options made with natural fibers, such as wool or bamboo, which combine circulatory benefits with security in case of fire. The general recommendation is to choose certified and adjusted products to the body, without causing discomfort, and consulting a doctor before using compression, especially in cases of diabetes, vascular diseases or dermatological problems.
The lymphatic system also suffers
Lara Henderson, a lymphatic system specialist, also advises the use of very fair pieces during flights. “The lymphatic system is just below the skin and is very sensitive to pressure. Any tight part can function as a tourniquet and prevent natural drainage, aggravating liquid retention and weight sensation on the legs,” he explains.
How to travel with comfort and safety
Although it may seem a harmless and comfortable choice, leggings can be used in both safety and health. Opting for natural materials, loose clothing and staying moving during the flight are simple measures that can make a difference in unforeseen situations and help reach the destination with more comfort and safety.
Also read:
