For added comfort and something that can be worn in a variety of exercises, compression leggings are more than having a moment right now. It seems as though there is no sign of their popularity going away which is good news for the various quality brands making excellent products. Not only are they comfortable, but they can be worn in and out of the gym, are great for yoga, and offer a seamless shape with a decent product.
The problem is, there are a lot of low-quality brands making cheap imitators, so it is important to do a little research. This is why we have created a list of the best compression leggings available.
Quick Summary of Best Compression Leggings
Reviews
Editor’s Choice: Dragon Fit Compression Workout Leggings
- Moisture-wicking
- Hugged design
- 5.5-inch waistband
- Hidden pocket
- Different designs
Best For Casual Wear: IUGA High Waist Yoga Pants with Pockets
- Lots of color options
- Side pockets and a hidden pocket
- Non-see-through
- Conforms to the body
- Great value
- Other brands are more durable
Best For Men: Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Armour Compression Leggings
- Fast drying
- Brushed interior with plenty of ventilation
- 4-way stretch technology
- Elastic waistband
- Women’s equivalent not quite as good
Best Design: CompressionZ High Waisted Women’s Leggings – Compression Pants
- Great design
- Affordable price
- High waistband
- Muscle support
- Other products offer more compression
Best High-End: 2XU Women’s MCS Run Compression Tights
- Moisture-wicking
- Rear zip pocket
- Reflective logo
- Takes the strain off of certain muscles
- May be a little pricey for some
Best For Blood Flow: Skins Women’s DNAmic Performance Compression Long Tights
- Gradient compression for optimal blood flow
- Less fatigue
- Engineered waistband for a better fit
- Could be a bit pricey for some
Compression Leggings Buyer’s Guide
Even a fitness enthusiast can give themselves the edge in their next time exercising with the right tools, and one product that seems to be growing in popularity more than ever is compression leggings. A universal product that is donned by both women and men alike, they are worn by professionals day in day out for a reason, so any product must be good for an amateur right?
Unfortunately, there are a lot of sub-par brands making ineffective products which is why it is so important to do a little research before buying. This is why we have created the following buyer’s guide.
What To Look For In Compression Leggings
Comfort
Above all else, compression leggings need to feel good when on and a lot of this will be down to the fabric. Anything breathable is going to feel better when working up a sweat and although you want compression, this should not mean they are too tight.
Compression
As the name suggests, this is one of the main traits to expect from these leggings. Anyone who suffers from poor blood circulation should use them, as should those who want to enhance their athletic performance. The compression helps to keep everything in place and the pressure is measured in mmHg (mm’s of mercury). Typically, they range between 8 – 20 mmHg although anything around 15 is usually a good fit for most.
Price
Although spending a bit more is likely to get you a performance level of compression leggings, there is something to be said for some of the brands making reliable products for half the price. The level of compression should still be clear, and the brand should enjoy a reputation for products that have a lasting elasticity. If it seems to good to be true, then it probably is, so stick with a reputable brand.
Sizing
Much like the high street, all brands make their clothes in slightly different sizing to others meaning a medium in one might not be such a good fit compared to a medium in another. Because of the pressure applied by the compression, this becomes more important to get right than other types of tights and leggings.
They should hug the body without being suffocating and fine for wearing all day long.
Fabric
Quality fabric not only makes the compression leggings more comfortable but will ensure they last a long time. Still, some quality fabrics are designed to only be hand washed so be sure to read the instructions for this before the first wash. Some of the most common fabrics include polyester, spandex, and polyamide. The seams are also important as these should be made in a way that stops chaffing.
Pockets
When wearing compression leggings for everyday purposes, it is always good to have pockets, but even a hidden pocket has its uses. When going for a run, it is better to have a place to store a key than to have to carry them.
Why Wear Compression Leggings?
Although they are a common sight in gyms, classes, and runners around the world, not everyone understands the numerous benefits. For some people, the high waistband helps to tighten the core, and the tight fit is considered to be complementary for a lot of people. Still, the benefits go far deeper, and the compression itself is a good place to start. Because it helps to keep the muscles compressed so the blood flow is directed to all the right areas, something that is vital during exercise.
When oxygen gets to the right places, it reduces fatigue and can enhance recovery which is why so many professional athletes train using compression clothing. They make exercise more efficient so a cyclist, runner, or even a yoga enthusiast can benefit.
Can You Wear Compression Leggings After A Workout?
This is a common time for a lot of people to wear them. The benefits are at their peak after exercise where recovery is key, and compression leggings help blood flow to get oxygen to the right places and muscles. A lot of experts recommend wearing them for 3-4 hours after exercise.
Can You Wear Compression Leggings All Day?
The level of compression will determine how long they should be worn, anything of 20 – 30 mmHg around the ankles should be fine for longer periods. If they feel comfortable, compression leggings can be worn all day, but be mindful of anything that compresses too much that may negatively impact blood flow.
How Much Do Compression Leggings Cost?
This vairs depending on the brand with performance leggings being closer to $100 and beyond. These are going to offer a higher level of compression but it is possible to purchase a pair of everyday compression leggings for around $30. These may not increase blood flow to the same standard but will do a better job than a pair of shorts.
What Are The Benefits Of Wearing Compression Leggings?
Some of the most common benefits circle athletic performance including reduced muscle fatigue, increased blood flow, added power, better endurance, reduced likelihood of strains and injuries, less muscle soreness, groin support, and increased comfort among others.
What Are The Best Compression Leggings?
After reviewing a variety of products, we found the best overall to be Dragon Fit Compression Workout Leggings. Their hugged design and moisture-wicking fabric make for a comfortable product and the 5.5-inch waistband adds to the comfort. There is a hidden pocket inside, and all at a reasonable price where elite brands can be less comfortable for three times the price. These are the best compression leggings for women, for men, we found the Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Armour Compression Leggings to be superior to the rest.
Are Compression Leggings Worth It?
This depends on the level of performance and how sore the wearer usually feels after a workout. Some people suffer from sore legs even when they do not work out and this is where wearing compression leggings in the day can help. There have been many studies pointing to the fact that recovery was enhanced in those who wore compression leggings for a period after their workout as well as during.
Do Compression Leggings Make Your Legs Look Slimmer?
Many people believe that their legs get more definition and look longer and slimmer as a result of wearing them. Because they streamline the appearance of legs, this is understandable. They can prevent the legs from moving around so much, causing them to look firmer but this very much depends on the brand.