Compression gear can help keep muscles warm, reduce oscillation under load, and support venous return—useful when you’re cycling barbells, sprinting between stations, or grinding through heavy sets. Below you’ll find the best tights and shorts for CrossFit and strength work, plus what to look for and who each pick suits.
Why lifters and CrossFitters use compression
- Helps limit muscle oscillation during jumps, sprints, and Oly lifts
- Can support circulation and perceived recovery between sessions
- Keeps tissues warm in cool boxes, improving readiness for heavy sets
- Often wicks sweat better than cotton layers
Best Compression Pants (Tights)
| Product | Tech & Fabric | Best for | CTA |
|---|---|---|---|
| VIRUS AU9 – Bioceramic Compression | Bioceramic FIR knit, quick-dry, snug performance fit | Cold gyms, long WODs, pulling sessions | CHECK BEST DEAL → |
| 2XU Compression Tights (Men) | PWX (80/20) + circular knit; breathable, supportive | All-round training & recovery | CHECK BEST DEAL → |
| Active Research Women’s Compression Pants | Moisture-management knit, odor control | Jogging, metcons, yoga between lifting days | CHECK BEST DEAL → |
| 2XU Women’s Mid-Rise Compression | Graduated compression, flexible mid-rise waistband | Warm-ups, HIIT days, post-WOD recovery | CHECK BEST DEAL → |
Best Compression Shorts
| Product | Tech & Fabric | Best for | CTA |
|---|---|---|---|
| BodyScience V6 Athlete Full Squad | Targeted quad/ham support, seamless hems | Sprints, jumps, barbell cycling | CHECK BEST DEAL → |
| V6 Athlete Core Stability (Men) | Graded compression + 2 mm neoprene core cues | Hinge/brace days, heavy squats & pulls | CHECK BEST DEAL → |
| VIRUS Men’s AU11 – Bioceramic V2 | FIR yarns, moisture management | Prolonged WODs, colder boxes | CHECK BEST DEAL → |
| 2XU Men’s Compression Shorts | Medical circular knit (70D), antimicrobial | Strength sessions, metcon, recovery wear | CHECK BEST DEAL → |
| Nike Women’s Pro Cool 3″ | Dri-FIT, lined gusset for natural ROM | HIIT, plyo, short metcons | CHECK BEST DEAL → |
| Lululemon Sculpt Short | Lightweight knit, wide waistband, minimal seams | Hot boxes, light days, accessory work | CHECK BEST DEAL → |
Mini-Reviews (with Pros & Cons)
BodyScience V6 Athlete Full Squad Shorts
Built for mobility with targeted compression on quads/hamstrings and smooth hems that don’t dig during burpees or box jumps.
Pros
- Noticeable support for sprint/jump work
- Seamless hems reduce chafe on high-rep sets
- Holds shape after repeated sessions
Cons
- Pricey versus basic compression
- Targeted feel won’t suit those preferring uniform squeeze
VIRUS AU9 – Bioceramic Compression Pants
FIR yarns reflect body heat, helping warmth without bulk—handy in cold gyms and for longer stints.
Pros
- Warmth with good moisture management
- Compression stays consistent during long WODs
- Slim profile under shorts/joggers
Cons
- Requires gentle wash/air-dry care
- Fit runs snug—check sizing if between sizes
2XU Compression Tights (Men)
PWX fabric with medical-style circular knit gives even pressure and dependable recovery wear.
Pros
- Balanced compression across major leg groups
- Breathable and durable for frequent washing
- Good crossover for post-session recovery
Cons
- Less “locked-in” than targeted models
- Logo prints can crack over time
Active Research Women’s Compression Pants
Versatile, breathable, and easy-care tights for cardio, circuits, and mobility days.
Pros
- Light, quick-dry fabric for sweaty boxes
- Odor-control helps on double-session days
- Comfortable for yoga and active recovery
Cons
- Compression is moderate rather than high
- Lighter colors can be less squat-proof
2XU Women’s Mid-Rise Compression
A flexible waistband plus graduated squeeze—great for warm-ups and to wear home post-WOD.
Pros
- Graduated compression supports circulation
- Mid-rise stays put through burpees and cleans
- Versatile for gym and street
Cons
- Can feel warm in peak-summer boxes
- Premium pricing
V6 Athlete Core Stability Shorts (Men)
Shorts that cue posture with a thin neoprene panel while delivering graded compression.
Pros
- Subtle lumbo-pelvic stability cues
- Targeted support for heavy hinge/squat days
- Breathable elsewhere for comfort
Cons
- Fit can feel “technical” vs everyday shorts
- Price premium for niche design
VIRUS Men’s AU11 – Bioceramic V2 Shorts
Lightweight, sweat-managing shorts that suit long pieces and chilly spaces.
Pros
- Runs cool and dry for longer efforts
- Supportive without feeling restrictive
- Good under lined training shorts
Cons
- Care routine (cool wash, air-dry) takes time
- Compression is medium rather than high
2XU Men’s Compression Shorts
Dependable training shorts that double as recovery wear thanks to even circular-knit pressure.
Pros
- Durable, washable, gym-workhorse build
- Antimicrobial finish for multi-day travel
- Reliable hold on squats and pulls
Cons
- Waistband can roll if sized too small
- Less targeted than “panel” designs
Nike Women’s Pro Cool 3″ Training Shorts
Minimal, breathable shorts that move naturally during plyo and HIIT work.
Pros
- Dri-FIT fabric stays dry through intervals
- Lined gusset preserves range of motion
- Lightweight and easy to layer
Cons
- Short inseam—coverage not for everyone
- Compression is light
Lululemon Sculpt Short
A lightweight, minimal-seam short with a wide waistband that doesn’t dig.
Pros
- Cooling knit for hot boxes
- Comfort-first waistband stays put
- Low-bulk seams reduce irritation
Cons
- Compression is mild—more “training short” than “support short”
- Premium price for a minimalist build
How to choose compression for CrossFit & lifting
Fabric & care. High-end knits (PWX, FIR/bioceramic) breathe well and hold compression, but usually want cool washes and air-drying.
Graduated vs. uniform. Graduated compression favors circulation; uniform suits people who prefer a consistent squeeze under load.
Fit. If you’re between sizes, most lifters size up for waist comfort and to avoid waistband roll when bracing.
Coverage. Shorts for hot metcons and freedom; tights for warmth and longer pieces.
Verdict
- All-round pants: 2XU Compression Tights—balanced compression, durable, recovery-friendly.
- Cold gyms / long WODs: VIRUS AU9 Bioceramic Tights—warmth with moisture control.
- Best targeted shorts: BodyScience V6 Full Squad—support where sprinters/jumpers feel it most.
- Workhorse shorts: 2XU Men’s Compression Shorts—dependable for strength days and recovery wear.
Pick the compression level and coverage that match your environment and session type, keep the care simple (cool wash, air-dry), and you’ll get steady comfort and support across lifts, metcons, and recovery blocks.
