Last Updated: February 9th, 2021

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OMG! This hurts so bad…

I’ll not run tomorrow again…ever…

Why nobody told me that this will so bad…

If this is you, then compression tights are your answer.

If you are no sure if compression gears are for you or not, I’ve discussed this in great detail in an article.

You will get to the point answer about should you wear compression tights during running.

Here is an assortment of 10 best compression running tights in 2023.

Also, be sure to check our Buyer’s Guide to make the right decision for you

✅ Tips: We think 2XU Men’s Recovery Compression Tights is the best choice for men

Find out what customers have to say about it

Also, CW-X Women’s Mid Rise 3/4 Capri Stabilyx is the perfect compression tights for women.

This is what the customers have to say

Best compression running tights in 2023

#5

Editor Rating:
(4.5)
Anthem Athletics - 10+ Styles - HELO-X Grappling Spats Compression Pants Tights - BJJ, MMA, Muay Thai

#7

Editor Rating:
(4.2)
SKINS Women's DNAmic Compression Long Tights

#8

Editor Rating:
(4.2)
2XU Men's Refresh Recovery Compression Tights
Editor Rating:
(4.8)
2XU Men's Recovery Compression Tights
2XU Men’s Recovery compression tights are graduated compression tight.

Hence, it promotes maximum blood flow.

The PWX POWER fabric of these compression tights generates more pressure.

This helps you to recover faster as it improves blood circulation.

As a result, your muscles speedily recovers and you have less soreness.

One of the features of these compression tights is that the compression is more in the lower part of the leg.

This improves the return of the blood to the heart and the effective removal of lactates.

It also keeps your legs cool by up to 3 Degree Celcius as this fabric is very breathable

This fabric is anti-bacterial. So, you will be bad odor-free for a longer period of time.

Material

8o% Nylon

20% Lycra

Type

Graduated

Purpose

Running, Training

Special Feature

Anti-Bacterial

+ POSITIVES
  •   Lightweight PWX POWER fabric which gives you a graduated compression
  •   Multi-directional stretch
  •   Moisture-wicking capacity and keeps you dry
  •   UPF 50+ Sun protection
  •   Recover faster from IT band and general hip problems
  •   Feels like a second skin and can be worn for long hours without feeling claustrophobic.
  •   Perfect fit for most of our users
 NEGATIVES
  •   Some of our users found that the stitches of the waistband is a bit irritating.
  •   You may find this overpriced.
  •   You may feel less roomy near the groin region.

My Final Opinion

2XU Men’s Recovery Compression Tights is a great compression tight.

It gives you graduated compression in the right places.

You can wear them discreetly under your pants.

And, play and go on with your regular activities while your muscles are recovering.

Also, these will keep your legs cool and has antibacterial properties to keep you fresh for a longer period of time.

You may find these expensive, but, I always believe in spending on quality materials when it comes to sports gear.

This saves spending a lot of money in the future on gears and doctors and also mostly delivers on their promises.

Editor Rating:
(4.7)
Sub Sports Mens Compression Leggings Tights Running Layer Sweat Wicking Fabric

These compression tights have a 4-way stretch which gives you a great fit.

Materials of these tights have excellent sweat-wicking capacity.

The seams are flat locked hence you will have a chafe-free experience.

This material fits tightly to the skin and provides targeted compression to your key muscle groups.

It regulates your body temperature and prevents the build-up of lactic acid.

The price is very affordable but that doesn’t affect the quality.

Also, you can machine wash these bad boys at 30 degrees.

Material

82% Nylon

18% Elastane

Type

Graduated

Purpose

All Kinds Of Sports

 Special Feature

Reflectivity

+ POSITIVES
  •   High sweat-wicking capacity keeps you cool and dry.
  •   The right amount of compression on the key muscle groups.
  •   Extremely affordable.
  •   Prevents build-up of lactic acid and minimizes soreness.
  •   Great fit with 4 way stretch.
 NEGATIVES
  •   For some, the material may feel a bit restrictive in the groin area.
  •   Not waterproof.
  •   No sun protection
  •  The appearance of the elastic waistband resembles that of an undergarment and may not be acceptable for some.

My Final Opinion

Don’t want to blow a fortune on a pair of tights, then Sub Sports Men’s Compression Tights is for you.

Apart from being extremely affordable, the material has excellent sweat-wicking properties.

This controls your body temperature and keeps you cool and dry.

Though it has some shortcomings at this price, the quality is unbeatable.

Editor Rating:
(4.5)
Under Armour Men's ColdGear Leggings

These tights are meant for colder weather.

So, they are made in such a way that they retain the body heat to keep you warm.

The fabric is dual-layer, with a warm brushed layer and an extremely soft exterior.

The material is also fast drying keeping you dry during those high-intensity workouts

For proper ventilation, these pants have stretch-mesh gusset and inseam panels

It is ultra-light and feels like a second skin.

It has anti-odor technology.

This prevents the growth of odor-causing microbes, giving you a fresh feel always.

Material

87% Polyester

13% Elastane

Type

Not Graduated

Purpose

All types of sports

 Special Feature

Anti-Odor Technology

+ POSITIVES
  •   Anti-Odor technology prevents microbe build.
  •   Quick-drying material keeps you fresh.
  •   Very Lightweight
  •   Fits perfectly
  •   Warm and vanishes under any regular pants. Now you can recover while you work.
  •   The 4-way stretch will give you better flexibility.
 NEGATIVES
  •   No sun protection.
  •   Durability maybe not as expected.

My Final Opinion

Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Armour is a decent compression tight at a very affordable price.

The quick drying material and anti-odor technology, keeps you fresh even after a heavy workout.

The durability is not wow, but not bad also.

Also, at around a very affordable price you are getting a tights which keeps you warm, is decently flexible and lightweight.

Editor Rating:
(4.5)
Zoot Sports Men's Ultra Recovery 2.0 CRX Tights

This is one of the most versatile compression tights that are there in the market.

To make it odor-free it has been integrated with a 99.9% SilverTECh anti-odor barrier.

For better muscle alignment, there are inbuilt DynamicX panels.

It also delays lactic-acid build-up by improving the return blood flow to the heart.

The material which is responsible for this is the Compressrx.

These tights also have a heel opening. This ensures that it doesn’t ride up during your exercises.

Another feature that is very much needed for runners is sun protection.

These tights come with UPF 50+ sun protection. 

Material

70% Polyester

30% Spandex with SilverTECH

Type

Non Graduated

Purpose

All kinds of sports

 Special Feature

Unisex

+ POSITIVES
  •   Well made recovery tights.
  •   Excellent compression with the fit being firm and comfortable.
  •   Great stretch.
  •   SilverTECH layer for an odor-free experience.
  •   UPF 50+ sun protection.
  •   DynamicX for better muscle alignment.
  •   Compressrx delays lactic acid production by improving return blood flow.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Some find putting it on a bit difficult.
  •   If you are not wearing socks, the stitches can become uncomfortable.
  •   The seams are not very durable.

My Final Opinion

Zoot Sports Men’s Ultra Recovery 2.0 CRX is one of a kind compression tight.

It is Unisex, which is uncommon in compression tights.

The great stretch and lightweight along with odor-free SilverTECH technology makes it a must-have.

I agree that the durability of the tights is not very high.

However, the price and the features it comes with, makes it a must-have.

Editor Rating:
(4.5)
Anthem Athletics - 10+ Styles - HELO-X Grappling Spats Compression Pants Tights - BJJ, MMA, Muay Thai

The compression materials that these pants are made of is strong, durable and lightweight.

They having excellent moisture wicking capabilities.

Hence, they keep you dry during those high performance activity days.

The construction is multi panel. This makes the pants very durable.

To make these pants skin irritation or blisters free, the inside stitching of these pants are flat-locked.

The waistband sports an innovative double lock, which gives these tights, optimal fit.

Also, the graphics and logo are fully sublimated.

So, they will never peel off with usage.

Material

80% Nylon

20% Spandex

Type

Graduated

Purpose

Running, BJJ, Kickboxing, MMA

 Special Feature

Double lock Waist Band

+ POSITIVES
  •   Great quality at a very affordable price.
  •   Can be used for high-performance sports like BJJ/Grappling other than running.
  •   Great compression around the legs.
  •   Extremely durable.
  •   Fits great.
  •   The material has a good stretch.
  •   Very breathable.
 NEGATIVES
  •   The drawstring comes out after washing, if not removed before.
  •   Some of our users felt that the material is too stretchy.

My Final Opinion

Anthem Athletics HELO-X is multipurpose compression tights.

It is lightweight and the fit is extremely comfortable.

It gives proper compression around the legs and keeps them warm during workouts.

If your size falls somewhere in the middle of two waist sizes, the brand recommends you purchase one size up.

Overall, a great looking stylish tights and at this price is a must-have.

Editor Rating:
(4.3)
Under Armour Women's Fly-By Printed Run Capri

This is ultra-tight compression pants that fit like a second skin.

This is a HeatGear fabric and is ultra-lightweight so it will not weigh you down.

It has superior moisture-wicking capabilities and keeps you cool and dry throughout your workouts or running.

The fabric has a 4-way stretch and gives you a perfect fit and improves mobility.

It is made from antimicrobial technology which keeps your gear fresher and odor-free for longer.

The Seams are held in place with a Flatbed lock which gives you a chafe-free experience.

Also, the waistband is wide and has internal drawcords for a secure fit.

 

Material

80% Polyester

20% Elastane

Type

Non Graduated

Purpose

Running, Jogging, Cycling

 Special Feature

Anti microbial

+ POSITIVES
  •   Very durable and shows no signs of wear and tears even after multiple washes.
  •   Conveniently located side pockets are waterproof and have zips.
  •   There are mesh leg panels that make these Capri extremely breathable.
  •   Reflective logos make you visible even in low light.
  •   4-way stretch for better flexibility and agility.
  •   For most, fit is as expected.
 NEGATIVES
  •   For some of our users, the fit is not tight enough.

My Final Opinion

Under Armour Women’s Fly-By Capri is a favorite of our lady gang.

They provide extremely good stretch and flexibility.

With 80% Polyester and 20% elastane, the fit is optimal tight.

Also, the side mesh panels makes the Capri extremely breathable.

The anti odor technology keeps you fresh throughout your workouts.

Our women readers loved working out in this Capri, and I’m sure you will love it too.

Editor Rating:
(4.2)
SKINS Women's DNAmic Compression Long Tights

These are gradient tights that provide you with premium compression.

The panels and seams are strategically placed to wrap around your most active lower body muscles like calves, hamstrings, glutes, and quads.

Skins sizing system is based on BMI.

This ensures that you get a proper compression no matter whatever is your size.

The tights are made of proprietary yarn, which reduces muscle vibration and oscillation.

As a result, the wear and tear are minimal.

It also reduces DOMS (Delayed onset muscle soreness) after a workout.

The fabric has the superior moisture-wicking capability and provides 50+ UV protection. 

You will also have an internal key pocket and a wide waistband. This ensures that you get a secure fit.

The fabric is super breathable and provides great durability.

It can be worn discreetly underpants for post-workout recovery.

Material

75% Nylon

25% Elastane

Type

Graduated

Purpose

Running, Training

 Special Feature

50+ UV protection

+ POSITIVES
  •   Very comfortable to wear.
  •   Great fit.
  •   Keeps you cool and dry.
  •   SPF 50+ sun protection.
  •   The material is soft and extremely breathable.
  •   Can be worn under pants for post-workout recovery.
  •   Super sweat-wicking capabilities.
 NEGATIVES
  •   For some, the compression is not up to the mark.
  •   Comparatively expensive.
  •   For some, the material is scratchy.

My Final Opinion

These tights are one of the best compression tights available in the market.

They wrap around all the large muscle groups giving you the right amount of compression exactly where you need it.

SPF 50+ protection is present for the most part however, the side transparent panels don’t have it.

So if you are a sun-sensitive person, a better choice will be Zoot Sports Women’s Ultra 2.0 CRX Tights.

Other than that Skins Women’s DNAmic Long is excellent compression tights.

Editor Rating:
(4.2)
2XU Men's Refresh Recovery Compression Tights

Power-Weight-Flex or PWX is the signature fabric of 2XU.

It provides graduated compression and support to the muscles.

Hence the strain on the muscles is less and it improves their agility.

Using these tights you will also get optimum blood flow towards the heart.

This aids in faster muscle recovery and reduced swelling

The waistband is wide. Hence you can wear this comfortably for an extended period of time.

The superior stretch of this fabric comes from Invista Lycra.

This kind of material gives you multi-directional stretch, exceptional fit, and support 

Apart from a great fit, this kind of fabric also wicks away moisture very easily and keeps your temperature regulated.

Hence you are cool and dry even after running long miles or high-intensity workout.

If you are sun sensitive, then also you are protected, as this fabric offers protection of 50+ SPF.

Also, the seams of these tights are flat locked. This prevents your skin from getting chaffed.

Material

65% Nylon

35% Elastane (Invista LYCRA®)

Type

Graduated

Purpose

All kinds of Sports

 Special Feature

UPF 50+

+ POSITIVES
  •   Lightweight and breathable.
  •   Graduated compression.
  •   Reduces swelling or fatigue of muscles.
  •   Very comfortable cushioning due to the use of a variety of foam materials.
  •   Invista Lycra gives a superior stretch and fit.
  •   Great moisture wicking capability.
  •   UPF 50+ sun protection.
  •   Faster recovery when worn after the workout.
 NEGATIVES
  •   The waistband looks like that of an undergarment which can be uncomfortable for some.
  •   Comparatively expensive in the lot.

My Final Opinion

Many of our users said that with 2XU Men’s Refresh Recoverythey felt less muscle soreness.

It is more prominent when they wore it after a workout.

You will also have less chafing and this fabric will keep you cool and dry.

However, you may not experience a significant boost in your performance and it is pricey.

Overall a decent compression tight if you can overlook the price.

Editor Rating:
(3.5)

The fabric of this material is made up of recycled Jade which gives you a natural cooling sensation.

It has the superior sweat-wicking ability and regulates your body temperature by around 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

So, you stay always cool and dry, even after a high-intensity workout.

These tights provide you with greater support for big muscle groups and joints.

This helps in boosting blood circulation and reduces inflammation.

The fabric also has a four-way stretch and fits nicely providing you with greater agility.

The nano-infused fabric also adds protection from mat borne infections and diseases.

Also, this keeps skin abrasion and injuries to the minimum.

For added protection, it also has a front protective mesh panel and internal mouth guard pocket.

Material

88% Polyester

12% Spandex

Type

Graduated

Purpose

Running, Training, Grappling

 Special Feature

Recycled Jade infused fabric

+ POSITIVES
  •   Jade infused fabric to regulate body temperature.
  •   Very comfortable to wear.
  •   More compression on the big muscle groups and joints.
  •   Reduced inflammation and soreness.
  •   Boosts blood circulation.
  •   Extremely durable.
  •   Protects from mat borne diseases.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Putting them on could be tedious.
  •   For some, the fit is not proper.

My Final Opinion

CompressionZ Men’s Compression Pants is a decent compression tight.

It doesn’t have too many fancy features and does best for what it is made for, which is compression.

The fabric is recycled Jade infused and so provides a better cooling during workouts.

However, it has its fair share of shortcomings, like the fit is not proper for some of the users.

So, though a decent product, I would recommend you to try and then buy.

Editor Rating:
(3.5)
CW-X Women's Stabilyx Joint Support 3/4 Capri Compression Tight

The fabric is a combination of Polyester and Lycra Spandex.

This gives you a great stretch and fit.

There is an ab support panel that provides extra support to the lower abs hips and back.

The seams are flat stitched. This gives you an abrasion-free experience.

This also helps you to have a better fit.

Patented Exo-Web helps the muscles and ligaments band together to stabilize the knee joint.

This fabric also provides great moisture-wicking capability and keeps you cool and dry.

You are also protected from UVA/UVB sun rays since the fabric provides UPF 50+ protection.

Material

80% Coolmax Polyester

20% Lycra Spandex

Type

Non Graduated

Purpose

Running, Jogging, Cycling

 Special Feature

UPF 50+ protection

+ POSITIVES
  •   4 Way Stretch for a very comfortable fit.
  •   Lower abs, hip, and back support.
  •   Great Sweat-wicking capacity keeping you cool and dry.
  •   UPF 50+ protection.
  •   Patented Exo-Web to stabilize the knee joint.
  •   Affordable price.
 NEGATIVES
  •   For some, the knee fit can be a bit low.
  •   If your thighs touch each other when you move, there will be a rubbing sound due to the presence of extra stabilyx in that area.

My Final Opinion

A decent pair of tights. However, CW-X Women’s Mid Rise 3/4 Capri Stabilyx may not give you the outstanding experience you are looking for.

Though it provides proper support and stability, however for some the fit is a bit awkward as they find the knee area is a bit lower.

However, if you are on a budget or you are a beginner, I would suggest going for it before trying a more expensive one.

Buyer’s Guide

Now let’s look into the basics of Compression Tights.

Why should you wear compression tights?

Compression tights help you in many ways. You will be able to run longer, and better.

They also help you to recover faster by reducing the amount of lactic acid production and improved return blood flow to the heart.

They also provide you with better muscle support and helps in reducing muscle and skin vibration.

For this, the amount of muscle wear and tear is also less and you will be less sore after the workout.

 

Benefits of Compression Tights

  Improved blood circulation.

  Less production of lactic acid.

  Faster recovery.

  Greater support to the muscles.

  Reduced inflammation.

  UPF 50+ protection (Mostly).

  Keeps you dry for a longer period of time, even with hard workout sessions.

  Makes you look sexy.

What should you look for when purchasing a Compression running tights?

Here are some guidelines…

Polyester/Lycra Mix

The compression of the tights come from Lyra/Spandex.

More the Lycra the tighter the fit.

So, if you don’t like too much tightness then you should go for a lesser amount of Lycra.

Some tights with less amount Lycra is VIRUS PERFORMANCE Men’s Stay Cool (RX8) for men and  CW-X Women’s Mid Rise 3/4 Capri Stabilyx for women.

Graduation

What is graduation?

Not all the tights are made the same.

Some of the tights like 2XU Men’s Recovery Compression Tights are made to provide more compression for the big/key muscle groups.

This is called graduation.

So, while picking your tights, be sure to check this.

Gender

Many companies have tried to create compression gear which is gender-neutral.

Zoot with Zoot Sports Men’s Ultra Recovery 2.0 CRX  has some success.

But given the old school I’m, I would recommend you go for gender-specific compression tights.

Why?

The reason is very simple.

Physiologically, Men and Women are different.

Men need more room in the Groin Area and Women to have wider hips.

So, stick to your gender.

Price 

This is obvious and is completely dependant on you.

However, if you are just starting out, I would suggest that you should stick to some inexpensive ones like Anthem Athletics HELO-X.

However, you are free to choose your own.

FAQs

Should I wear compression tights when running?

Yes, you should wear compression tights when running.

This is truer if you are running longer distances like a marathon.

Why?

While there are a lot of benefits of wearing compression gears, one major advantage is that it reduces muscle oscillation.

This means that you will have to deal with less pain after your running.

However, you should not wear your tights long after running.

Otherwise, it may create a blood pool in your foot and may cut off circulation.

What are the best men’s compression tights?

There are a lot of running tights that are great for men.

If you are looking for something durable and multipurpose, then you can go for Anthem Athletics Halo X.

They are not only durable but also are very affordable. Also, they come in edgy, lively prints and will give you a break from those black and grey boring tights.

However, if you still want more options, you can always check the complete list of running tights above.

I’m sure you will find your perfect fit.

Do tights help running?

Yes, tights help running. However, if you are looking for performance enhancement, then they may not be the answer…

They will reduce DOMS and muscle oscillation during running.

However, there is no conclusive evidence that they will increase your performance.

In other words, it helps to deal with the impact of your running.

Conclusion

The above recommendations are in no way exhaustive. There are so many other tights that are great for running.

However, I’ve tried my best to find the cream of the crop.

Feel free to do your research and let me know your results.

 

According to you, Which is the best compression running tights in 2023?

Madhusree Basu

Madhusree Basu

Author, Admin

Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.

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