Compression clothing quick picks
Compression leggings: Booty Boost Active 7/8 Leggings
Compression shorts: Limitless Men’s Compression Short
Compression tank top: Wunder Train High-Neck Cross-Back Tank Top
Compression shirt: Men's HeatGear OG Compression Short Sleeve
Compression bra: DKNY Sport Balance Compression Racerback Crop Bra Top
Whether you’re looking to hit a personal record at the gym or simply feel really nice and tucked in while you go about your day, there’s certainly a place for compression clothing in your athleisure wardrobe. More than just a tight fit around your body, compression clothing is designed to strategically boost exercise performance and help you recover from strenuous activity or even rehabilitate from surgery or an injury — while looking and feeling your best.
Why opt for compression clothing?
For a sculpted look that enhances your natural curves, look no further than compression-forward activewear. “Compression apparel is designed to provide a sculpting contour fit and enhance your body’s natural shape while you work out,” says Joe Nardolilli, senior director of retail and e-commerce at Orangetheory Fitness.
But compression clothing isn’t just a pretty face — it boasts serious therapeutic perks too. “Compressive clothing offers multiple benefits, including support for your form and alignment that brings blood and oxygen to important muscles,” says Kate Williams, vice president of women’s design at Fabletics. “Evidence suggests that compression clothing can really aid in recovery and reduce muscle fatigue, which is why it’s often worn during or after a strenuous workout.” Beyond circulatory support, Bobby Cohen, president of Copper Compression, says wearing compressive materials offers benefits such as enhanced proprioception (mind-muscle connection), joint support and temperature regulation, which are all helpful whether you’re lifting at the squat rack or staying put during a long-haul flight.
Additionally, compression clothing tends to boast four-way stretch, which moves with your body and allows for unrestricted movement in all directions, according to Nardolili. “This combination of contour, fit and four-way stretch makes compression apparel ideal for feeling comfortable and confident during workouts,” he says.
What to look for in compression clothing
First, determine your purposes for selecting compression clothing. “If it’s for serious recovery after a marathon, everyday compression leggings may not do what you want or really aid your recovery,” Williams says. “But if it’s to feel held in right by a pair of leggings, then it’s all about finding a nice flat waistband that doesn’t dig in with compression further up the leg, and materials that have a higher percentage of spandex or stretch.”
Not all compression garments are created equally, so whether you’re shopping for activewear in person or online, be sure to experiment with smaller sizes for a tighter fit that won’t compromise blood flow. “Ensure the garment offers the right compression level, [such as] light for everyday wear or firm for intense workouts,” Cohen says. Additionally, he says to prioritize garments made from durable materials and from reputable brands that’ll withstand the test of time, workouts and multiple washes. Moisture-wicking properties to help manage sweat, along with antimicrobial features like copper infusion to promote skin health and odor control, are also important factors to consider.
Below, check out the best compression clothing, according to experts.
The best compression clothing
The best compression bottoms
Cohen recommends looking toward Lululemon for its compression clothing, and its Wunder Train line made of highly compressive and moisture-wicking Everlux fabric is hard to beat. This option will suck you right in with its flatlock waistband, while its discreet drawcord customizes your fit without the bulk. Plus, side pockets make it functional enough to go purse-free during a day full of errands.
It’s not hard to see why these light-as-air Airlift leggings have accrued a cultlike following: They feel like a second skin, absorb moisture in a pinch, feature four-way stretchy elastane to keep you feeling limber and help compress your figure.
There’s a fine line between shapewear and activewear with compressive benefits. That’s where one of our favorite brands, Spanx, comes in: These leggings work to lift your assets, prevent chafe with a seamless construction and promote range of motion and comfort through a breathable four-way-stretch material.
Designed to be worn under your roomier shorts, these compression shorts make running and hiking a breeze with their flatlock seams and longer inseam that hits just above the knee for a chafe-free fit. Hidden pockets add functionality to the garment you never knew you needed.
The best compression tops
The high neck on this on-trend cross-back tank offers more material, thus more compression (which is especially helpful for larger-chested folks during high-impact cardio). You’ll love the open back for extra breathability and its fun colorways that’ll make you excited about hitting the gym or enjoying a night out on the town.
Cohen recommends all things Under Armour if you’re looking to aid in your performance and recovery through compression garments. Don’t miss this snug short sleeve that’s at once cooling, compressive and chafe-proof for a comfortable and successful workout.
Funnel circulation to your upper limbs in this influencer-approved crop top that’ll create a cinched silhouette without compromising your form and alignment. It’s got a classic round neck, thumbholes to secure the sleeves in place and a sweat-wicking fabric to keep you nice and dry.
Made with the brand’s most compressive and cooling SculptFlex fabric, this full-length tank offers compressive support all throughout the torso along with extra range of motion through the classic racerback construction at the back and its high spandex content.
With its built-in cups, this bra-tank hybrid loaded with spandex can be worn under roomier clothing for an extra-supportive feel or on its own with a pair of high-rise leggings for a productive workout.
