Hey Crossfit guys and girls! Welcome to my honest review on the 
7 Best Compression Shorts for CrossFit.
I am a Crossfitter that has tried dozens of pairs of compression shorts. I finally have found some of the best compression shorts for Crossfit to improve your CrossFit game
If you work out and want to look attractive in the gym, you need a high-quality pair of compression shorts. Every elite athlete uses compression shorts to make them feel sexier, more tone, and improve performance. Compression shorts make you feel and look the best.
There are many benefits to wearing compression clothing for workouts and it has been proven that they can improve overall performance. Also, makes me feel a lot hotter and sexier at the gym.
There are lots of compression shorts in the market. How do you know which one is best? In this article, we give you a list of the 7 best compression shorts for CrossFit and tell you why each would be a good choice.
We also give you a few factors to keep in mind as you shop. Some of these considerations are general while others are specific for both men or women.
We recommend selection #1 McDavid cross compression shorts for men and selection #6 Copper Compression ones for women.
Table of Contents
7 Best Compression Shorts for CrossFit – A Comparison Table
Let's review 7 of the Best Compression Shorts for CrossFit for both Men and Women.
1. McDavid Cross Compression Shorts
Looking at the McDavid cross compression shorts on a fellow Cross Fitter looks like it was wrapped around their body. This is a unique design inspired by McDavid Athletic Council (MAC).
McDavid cross compression technology mimics taping methods used by athletic trainers to warm and stabilize muscles. This provides additional support to quads and hamstrings which reduces muscle strain and promotes beneficial recovery.
It forms a hip spica wrap that treats hip flexors.
Medical grade fabric which in this case is 80% nylon, helps to improve performance and hDC moisture management technology makes sure it stays cool and dry for all-day comfort.
There is an expanded panel between the thighs which allows for better mobility and flexibility.
You don’t want to buy a pair of compression shorts every other month so durability is an aspect McDavid seeks to take care of. The fabric is thick and utilizes 6-thread flat-lock technology which adds strength to the seams and also makes them more comfortable.
An important detail to note is that these shorts run quite tight. You may need to order one size larger than your regular exercise shorts.
Pros
- Cross compression technology
- Treats hip flexors
- Very durable
- The expanded panel between the thighs
Cons
- Run tight
- Exclusive McDavid Cross Compression Technology
- Forms a hip spica wrap for treatment of hip flexors
- hDc moisture management
- 6-thread flat-lock technology for comfort and strong seams
2. Under Armor Heat Gear Compression Shorts
Under Armor Heat Gear Compression shorts are designed to be worn as an undergarment. They give you a second-skin fit but are still comfortable enough to wear all day.
The material used to construct the shorts is 56% nylon, 40% polyester, and 4% elastane.
4-way stretch construction makes the shorts flexible, giving you a wide range of movement.
A key feature is a stretch-mesh gusset for extra comfort and movement. Inseam panels improve insulation to make them more breathable. The fabric is also moisture-wicking which helps to prevent discomfort when you sweat. It is also fast drying.
The fabric is treated with anti-odor technology to prevent the growth of microbes which cause an odor in clothes.
There is a wide range of sizes available. The smallest has a 27-inch waistband and the largest is 56 inches. A 2-inch elastic waistband and 6-inch inseam are common in all.
Pros
- Stretch mesh gusset
- Moisture-wicking material
- Anti-odor treatment
- 4-way stretch construction
Cons
- Pricey
No products found.
3. ChinFun Performance Compression Shorts for Women
These are a base layer pair designed to be used as briefs when you know you will be spending some time at your local box.
The fabric used is a blend of polyester and spandex which enables the shorts to provide compression while remaining soft on the skin. This fabric is also moisture-wicking to keep you feeling dry and fresh even after long and intense workouts.
The crotch is gusseted to ensure you enjoy a full range of movement and a no-fly pouch provides extra support.
The designers behind these shorts aim for a seamless feel. There is a minimal number of seams and each of them is designed to sit completely flat. A soft elastic waistband maintains a tight but comfortable fit and is kind on the skin.
ChinFun compression shorts are available in a wide variety of colors with a 6-inch inseam.
One complaint we have heard from users of these shorts has to do with sizing differences. One pair fits perfectly in a particular size but the same size in a different color is too tight or too loose.
Pros
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Gusseted crotch
- Supportive no-fly pouch
- Few, flat seams
Cons
- Sizing problems
No products found.
4. Compressionz Brand Compression Shorts for Men
These Compressionz compression shorts are ideal for wearing under your regular workout shorts. They provide about 25mmHg compression which serves to improve blood circulation and muscle recovery. The tight fit, along with flatlock seams prevents chaffing which often happens with regular workout shorts.
The thick material used ensures you don’t suffer any irritation and gives you a good balance between form and fit. It is 85% nylon and 15% spandex so you are assured of decent stretch and the fabric remains strong.
It is weather resistant. This means that it is designed to keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Foul-smelling shorts are a common problem caused by the growth of microbes. This fabric has anti-odor treatments as well as anti-bacterial treatment. It is also a moisture-wicking fabric that helps to keep you dry and prevent the uncomfortable feel of sticking clothes when you sweat.
Different WODs call for different kinds of movement, some of which may be restricted when in tight-fitting clothes. These shorts utilize a 4-way stretch technology that targets the quad and hamstring muscles to prevent muscle cramps and pain.
The waistband is often the first part of compression shorts which starts to show signs of aging. That is indeed the case with these. In my experience, the waistband started to twist after a few months of regular use. This can adversely affect the overall fit and definitely doesn’t look great.
Pros
- Fabric is moisture-wicking
- Has anti-odor and antibacterial treatment
- Weather-resistant
- 4-way stretch material
Cons
- Waistband twists
No products found.
5. Born Primitive Double Take Booty Shorts
These are a multicolored pair of compression shorts for the stylish female Cross Fitter.
They have a thick waistband to keep you covered, give you added comfort, and of course an extra dose of confidence.
The fabric, made of 87% nylon and 13% Lycra stretches enough to give you the compression you need but is still very comfortable. A short inseam makes them short shorts.
These are designed for women who have had it with thin fabrics that peek through. This one is thick and well lined so you don’t have to divide your attention between a tough lift and the possibility that the guys behind you will see your undies.
This pair tends to run large. If you are going out to buy a pair, it is best to try them on to find the ideal size before buying. If you intend to make an online purchase, it is advisable to order one size down from your regular shorts.
Pros
- Thick, lined fabric
- Multicolored
- Wide waistband
Cons
- Runs large
No products found.
6. Copper Compression Women’s Shorts
No, they don’t actually look like copper. These look like any other compression shorts but are distinctly different. The material used is 88% copper nylon.
There are other fitness garments that are sprayed with copper but these shorts provide a lot more compression. The copper is infused into the fabric and the manufacturer says they have the highest copper content in the market. This makes them an ideal option if you have stiff or sore muscles.
What is it about copper that makes these shorts superior? For one it improves blood circulation which is essential in fitness clothing. It ensures nutrients and oxygen are efficiently supplied to the working muscles.
Secondly, copper- impregnated clothing is known for heat insulation. In compression shorts, it helps to regulate body heat while remaining light and comfortable.
Lastly, it has anti-microbial properties which make the shorts odor-resistant.
A more contested claim worth mentioning is that these shorts also contribute to skin health. It is claimed that copper in the shorts promotes elastin and collagen growth. This serves to reduce wrinkles, thinning of the skin and reduces dryness.
These shorts are machine washable. They can be tossed in the machine after every workout without losing form.
Pros
- Copper-infused fabric
- God heat regulation
- Anti-microbial properties
- Machine washable
Cons
- Sizing problems
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7. FITTIN Active Fitness Ladies Compression Shorts
These shorts are designed for a second-skin kind of fit although some people prefer a loser fit.
The fabric used is 90% polyester and 10% spandex. This makes it great for compression because it stretches well without losing strength thus giving you all the flexibility you need and more.
It is a moisture-wicking fabric so you don’t have to worry about sweating too much. It absorbs moisture and dries quickly so you never experience any discomfort.
It is also a light breathable fabric which makes the shorts very comfortable in any weather.
Ladies' compression shorts rarely have pockets. These ones have a small pocket included on the right side. Although it is generally advised that you don’t carry anything in your pockets during Cross Fit workouts, sometimes you have no choice. Fit a few keys, a credit card, or a phone in there, and proceed with your workout.
Sizing may be a bit of a challenge. However, the rule with these shorts is to go true to size if you want a regular fit. If you are looking for a real compression fit, go one size down.
Pros
- 1 pocket
- Breathable and light
- Moisture-wicking
Cons
- Sizing problems
- Small pocket
No products found.
Benefits of Wearing Compression Shorts for CrossFit
It has become a necessity for many cross fitters across the country at gyms and Cross-Fit stores.
I must admit that at first the attraction to compression shorts for training was purely for aesthetic reasons.
They look good. But they also feel good and are very comfortable.
A quick scan around at your local box and you will likely notice that compression shorts are the preferred form of clothing. At competitive CrossFit events, this is what everyone has on.
What is it that makes them the garment of choice for Cross Fitters? These are some benefits of wearing compression shorts for CrossFit.
Pain reduction
First, muscle pain and soreness are typically relieved by applying pressure on the area. That is the basis of pain-relieving massages in sports.
In this case, compression shorts help in pain reduction by doing just what their name suggests… compression. It is therefore no surprise that users say wearing compression shorts helps to reduce muscle pain and soreness during and after training.
Post-workout recovery
Recovery after intense training is often undervalued. Improper or prolonged recovery affects overall performance.
Compression shorts could be useful in general recovery after a workout. In this sense, improved circulation helps clear lactic acid from muscles which in turn helps reduce soreness.
Another form is when you are recovering from an injury. In this case, it is best to keep the muscles tight to reduce discomfort and avoid interfering with the healing process.
Improved Performance
CrossFit WODS are as much a mental challenge as they are a physical one.
Studies have shown trends of increased performance in Cross Fitters wearing compression shorts.
This is an interesting concept because it has little to do with the physical advantages of wearing compression shorts. It is more about the mental benefits.
Here we consider the RPE (Rating of Perceived Exertion). It is a subjective measure of how hard you feel you are working during your training.
Athletes wearing compression shorts recorded significantly lower RPEs compared to those in other clothing.
Factors to Consider When Buying Compression Shorts for CrossFit
There are more than a few considerations to keep in mind when you go out to buy a pair of compression shorts. Some considerations are general and others are specific to men or women.
General considerations
Material
Like a lot of other fitness clothing, compression shorts are generally made of synthetic material. They are easy to wash, quick-drying fabrics.
Compression shorts often have material treated for additional benefits like moisture-wicking properties. This helps to keep you cool and dry despite lots of sweating.
Anti-bacterial properties help to ward off bacteria and fungus you may come across. Let’s face it, CrossFit boxes are not the cleanest, places in the world.
Anti-odor properties help to prevent foul smells in your shorts.
Level of compression
This is really a matter of personal preference. Different brands have shorts with varying levels of compression even for identical sizes. It is as a result of varying ratios of materials used.
Some people prefer moderate compression because too much of it is uncomfortable or too restricting. Others prefer high compression which feels like a rubber glove because it provides localized blood flow to the glutes, quads, and hamstrings.
Different considerations for men and women
Waistband
The waistband in men’s compressions shorts tends to sit just below the waist.
In women’s shorts, waistbands tend to be wide. Some are so wide that they come high enough to cover the navel. Others sit just above the waist and beneath the navel.
The bottom line is that even the slimmest waistband in women’s shorts comes higher than the one in men’s shorts.
Gusseting
What is a gusset? It is a piece of fabric (usually a diamond, triangle, or rectangle-shaped) inserted in certain parts of garments to allow for additional space and ease of movement.
Both men’s and women’s compression shorts could be gusseted but at different places to serve different purposes.
Men’s shorts often have a gusset at the front or crotch area. Gentlemen, you are looking to compress muscles without suffocating your junk in the process. The gusset provides extra space and breathability for this sensitive part of the male anatomy while maintaining compression in the rest of the body.
In women’s shorts, there is no need for a front gusset. You may find gussets in the inner thigh or at the hip. In this case, it is for easier movement rather than extra space.
Colors and prints
Girls will be girls. Even with compression shorts, colors and prints will often be a preferred option. Men’s shorts often come in plain, or dark colors. Women’s shorts could be plain or have colors and prints.
It is also worth noting that most men prefer to wear compression shorts under another pair of looser shorts so they are like workout underwear. Women on the other hand often wear compression shorts and nothing else.
Conclusion
Compression shorts don’t just look good, they also help to improve your performance during workouts. I dare say they are essential especially for Cross Fitters who do it competitively.
Their compressive nature makes them good for muscle pain relief and it has been confirmed that they promote better recovery after workouts.
The material used and compression levels are some general points to consider when you go out shopping for a new pair. The gusset is a key consideration for men while women have to think about waistband sizes and choice of colors and prints.
Last update on 2024-12-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Martin Torres
According to Martin Torres, keeping fit is not just about getting on the treadmill or your spin bike early in the morning or late in the evening. There are meal plans to be engaged, for example a reduction in sugary foods, carbs and junk will go a long way in helping with weight loss. The above not withstanding getting the right fitness equipments also accounts for the relevant body goals. There are equipments that will work on your upper torso, others on your lower torso and some will work your full body. So, depending with your body goals, you will have to get the right equipment, the reason we are providing you with informative excerpts on fitness equipments, to help you make an informed choice when it comes to your fitness goals.
