These Super Comfy Compression Leggings Help You Avoid Muscle Soreness
These Super Comfy Compression Leggings Help You Avoid Muscle Soreness
You want your workout leggings to have a snug fit so that your pants don't slide down mid-run, but true compression leggings have benefits beyond just staying in place. Compression is designed to help increase blood flow, reduce muscle fatigue, and prevent strain. Many women wear compression leggings not just during exercise, but also pre- and post-workout in order to fully reap the warm-up and recovery benefits.
However, it's important to know that the term "compression leggings" is not regulated, meaning any leggings brand can advertise as such even if it does not provide sufficient compression benefits. Read on to shop the most trusted brands and their most popular styles in this list of the best compression leggings on the market.
How to shop for the best compression leggings
?Don't be alarmed if they look small at first. Follow each brand's sizing guide to find your best fit — because compression leggings are meant to be quite tight, they may look smaller than standard leggings, but should fit perfectly once on.
?Find a comfortable level of compression. You should expect compression leggings to feel much tighter than traditional leggings, but they should still be comfortable and not dig into your skin. Compression leggings are available in a range of actual compression (a.k.a. pressure). If you are new to compression leggings, we recommend opting for a lower compression style to see how they feel during a workout before committing to more pressure.
?Try a moisture management test. Here's a quick test to make sure your leggings are moisture-wicking: Drop a small amount of water on the inner fabric that would touch your skin. It's moisture-wicking if the water spreads out quickly (meaning it'll easily evaporate so you stay cool and dry). Avoid leggings where the water beads on the fabric, as they'll leave you feeling sweaty after working out.
These are the best compression leggings you can buy:
1) Mid Rise 3/4 Capri Stabilyx Compression Leggings
CW-X
amazon.com
$89.04
One of Amazon's most popular styles of compression leggings, these ? capri leggings from CW-X provide targeted compression and stabilization, particularly to your knees. When putting them on, make sure the web is aligned symmetrically on both knees for proper support. These feature Coolmax fibers to help keep your body cool when building up a sweat. Another pro: They are available in a ton of fun prints and colors.
2) Compression Capri Leggings
CompressionZ
amazon.com
$34.99
If you're unsure if compression leggings are right for you, try a more affordable option with less compression. These start at just $20 — way less than most compression styles. The fabric is designed to stretch in every direction so they move with you while preventing chafing. With over 1,000 rave reviews, Amazon shoppers love the level of compression and find them super comfy to wear when running, practicing yoga, or completing errands.
3) Endurance Generator Joint & Muscle Support Compression Tights
CW-X
amazon.com
$168.19
CW-X's compression tights are designed to promote endurance when completing high intensity exercise. These compression pants focus on the hip flexors, quads, hamstrings, and calves to help prevent strains. The waistband features a flat drawcord for an adjustable fit and a small pocket for your keys. These are machine washable, but we recommended hanging dry.
4) All The Right Places Pant II 28
Lululemon
lululemon.com
$128.00
Our GH Institute testers have consistently raved about how comfy Lululemon's workout leggings are when exercising. Lululemon recently launched these compression style leggings, designed to keep your key muscles supported with light compression. Using Lululemon’s classic Luxtreme fabric, these leggings are designed to feel smooth and breathable when wearing. Reviewers love the 7 available shades and how flattering these leggings are – especially for your booty!
5) DNAmic Compression Shorts
SKINS
amazon.com
$55.37
If you're headed to a spin class or for an outdoor run on a humid day, these compression shorts will provide pressure on your quads and help maintain circulation, while keeping you cool. There are small cutouts on the side with mesh paneling, to allow more airflow. Reviewers love that these shorts stay in place and "don’t cut off circulation at the hem."
6) Women's Compression Run Tights 3.0
CEP
cepcompression.com
$124.95
When running long distances, you want to give your knees a little extra love. These compression leggings feature extra compression around your knees to provide more support and stabilization. Reviewers rave about the benefits of CEP compression during and after marathon races, as many found its leggings help reduce soreness. Note that these leggings sit a bit lower on the waist compared to other styles.
7) A400 Compression Long Tights
SKINS
amazon.com
$129.99
When jogging outside, especially in low light, you want to be visible. Certain colorways of these leggings feature reflective designs to help you stand out to drivers so you stay safe. Compression legging from Skins have tighter compression in specific areas to stabilize key muscle groups when exercising. These leggings feature gradient compression, so the compression is just right in every spot for ultimate comfort.
Hate that sore feeling after a workout? Try these leggings.