Looking to soothe tightness, prevent strain, and speed up recovery? Then look no further than a pair of Compression Pants for Running.
Many runners swear by wearing compression gear, whether leggings, compression socks, shorts, or other items, touting an increase in athletic performance and recovery rate.
Originally prescribed by physicians and sold in drug stores, compression gear was initially designed to improve circulation for issues like arthritis and diabetes. In fact, compression gear has been employed as far back as ancient Greece to help with wound healing. However, these days, compression gear has taken the fitness market by storm.
When choosing compression clothing, there are a few key factors to consider, including size, material, and length.
In this guide, I’ll address all your concerns about selecting the right running compression garments. So, whether you’re looking for enhanced performance or faster recovery, read on to find the perfect compression gear for your running needs.
What Is Compression Clothing for Running?
Compression pants, often referred to as compression leggings, are snug-fitting garments primarily made from breathable spandex. They closely resemble leggings but are designed to be even tighter, hugging your body from the waist down to your ankles.
Originally, compression leggings were developed to prevent vein-related issues like varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis from becoming chronic conditions. However, their benefits extend beyond medical applications.
Runners, in particular, have embraced compression pants for various reasons.
Key Benefits of Compression Pants:
- Support for Affected Areas: Compression pants provide targeted support, making them ideal for managing lower-body pain or injuries (excluding the feet). They act as a second skin, offering stability and reducing muscle strain.
- Moisture Wicking: These pants are designed to wick moisture away from your skin, preventing chafing, blisters, and rashes during your runs.
- Muscle Warmth: Compression technology keeps your leg muscles warm, reducing the risk of muscle injuries and promoting faster recovery.
- Pain Reduction: If you experience muscle stiffness or soreness, compression pants can help alleviate discomfort and improve overall comfort.
- Joint Stability: They offer added stability to your joints, which can be particularly beneficial during high-impact activities like running.
Why Wear Compression Leggings for Running
Ever wondered why some runners swear by compression leggings? These snug-fitting garments offer more than just a stylish appearance; they can significantly enhance your running experience.
Let’s dive into a few of the reasons you need to be sporting these compression wonders:
- Reduced Muscle Oscillation: Compression leggings provide a tight fit that minimizes muscle oscillation during high-impact activities like running. This stability can lead to improved running form and less energy wasted on unnecessary movement.
- Enhanced Circulation: By compressing the muscles, these leggings help push blood back towards the heart, improving circulation. This can lead to better oxygen delivery to your muscles, reducing fatigue and enhancing endurance.
- Aerodynamic Benefits: Research published in the “Medicine & Science in Sports and Exercise” journal has shown that compression gear can provide a “small aerodynamic drag reduction.” This advantage is especially relevant for speed sports like running, where every second counts.
- Joint Support: Compression leggings offer added support to your joints, reducing the risk of injuries during intense workouts. Research in the “Journal of Sports Science” has highlighted the positive effects of compression gear on joint movement control and muscle torque.
- Improved Running Economy: These leggings can enhance your running economy by promoting better biomechanics and muscle coordination. This can translate into increased running efficiency and reduced energy expenditure
Additional Resources:
- Here’s the full guide to calf compression sleeves for running
- Here’s the full guide compression socks for running.
How To Choose Running Compression Pants
Now that you know a thing or two about compression pants, let’s look into how to choose the best pair for you.
Size and Length
Before making a decision, familiarize yourself with size charts provided by most brands. Many brands offer online size guides to help you choose the perfect fit. Trying on a couple of sizes and returning those that don’t suit your body shape is a smart move.
Compression pants come in various lengths, including 7/8 length, capris, ½ length, and shorts. Your choice of length should take into account the season and your personal preferences.
Opt for shorter lengths like shorts or 7/8 tights in hot summer weather to stay cool and comfortable. Full-length tights may not be the best choice in the scorching heat.
Shorter Vs. Longer
Shorter pants offer better ventilation and a wider range of movement. Longer pants, on the other hand, help prevent chafing, making them ideal if your thighs tend to rub together during runs.
Avoid Loose Fit:
Remember that compression pants that are too loose won’t provide the desired pressure for your muscles and joints, diminishing the benefits of compression gear. Ensure a snug but comfortable fit.
Prevent Overlapping:
If you opt for 7/8 tights, pairing them with long socks can prevent any uncomfortable overlapping.
Additional Resource – Your guide to running jackets
The Right Tightness
Your compression pants should fit snugly but not be so tight that they cut off your circulation. They should feel like a second skin, providing support without restricting your movement.
When you first put on your compression pants, they should feel exceptionally tight. Don’t be alarmed; this is normal. The fabric will gradually adapt to your body shape, and the tightness should diminish with wear.
Choose Your Regular Size:
Start with your regular size when selecting compression pants. Keep in mind that they should feel tighter initially but become more comfortable over time
Additional Resource – Your Guide To Joggers Nipples
Material Quality
Look for compression leggings made from materials that offer stretchiness for flexibility, breathability to keep you cool, and moisture-wicking properties to keep sweat at bay.
Most running compression pants use materials like polyester, polyester-spandex blends, or nylon blends to provide a snug fit. Polyester-spandex blends offer excellent stretch and moisture management.
Fabrics with a higher concentration of nylon are excellent for wicking sweat away from your body quickly, helping you stay dry during your runs.
For colder weather, look for compression pants that may incorporate merino wool for added warmth.
If you sweat a lot or often run in hot conditions, opt for compression leggings with anti-microbial properties to help prevent odors and bacteria buildup.
Avoid Cotton:
Steer clear of compression pants that contain cotton. Cotton dries slowly and can lead to chafing, making it unsuitable for active workouts.
Additional resource – Your guide to running compression arm sleeves
High Visibility
Look for compression pants that feature reflective strips. These strips can enhance your visibility in the dark, especially during early morning or evening runs when visibility is limited.
If you prefer compression pants in dark colors, consider pairing them with bright-colored tops or accessories. This contrast can help you stand out to drivers and pedestrians.
Add reflective accessories such as vests, armbands, or hats with reflective elements. These can further enhance your visibility.
Consider wearing multiple layers, including a reflective vest or jacket, for added visibility during nighttime runs.
Choose well-lit routes or paths that are less likely to pose safety hazards. Familiarize yourself with the area to know where potential obstacles might be.
Additional resource – Sore quads after running
Pockets
Pockets in your compression pants allow you to carry small essentials like keys, cards, or gels without the need for additional accessories or belts.
You can enjoy a more comfortable and distraction-free run when your essentials are securely stored in your pocketed pants.
Compression pants with well-placed pockets can prevent items from bouncing or shifting during your run, ensuring they stay in place.
Need to access your keys or energy gels? Pockets in your compression pants provide easy access without having to stop or slow down.
When choosing pocketed compression pants, consider your specific needs. Some pants have small key pockets, while others feature larger or multiple pockets. Think about what you’ll need during your run and select pants that cater to those requirements..
Additional Resource – Prevent chafing when running.
Price of Running Compression Pants
High-quality compression pants are designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use. They’re less likely to wear out, tear, or lose their compression over time, saving you money in the long run.
Premium materials and construction methods make for a more comfortable running experience. You’ll appreciate the fit, feel, and breathability of quality compression pants during your workouts.
Quality compression pants are engineered to enhance your performance. They offer better muscle support, moisture-wicking properties, and improved compression, helping you perform at your best.
While cheaper options may seem like a deal, they often need frequent replacement. High-quality compression pants can last for several seasons, ultimately saving you money.
Compression pants with medical-grade compression can provide valuable benefits like improved circulation, reduced muscle soreness, and faster recovery. These benefits are well worth the investment.
Additional Resources
- Your guide to the best running hats.
- Your guide to running belts
- How to find cheap running gear
Compression Pants for Running – The Conclusion
There you have it! If you’re planning to purchase a set of compression leggings for running, then today’s post has you covered. The rest is just details.
Please feel free to leave your comments and questions in the section below.
In the meantime, thank you for dropping by.
