14 Compression Shorts That’ll Make Your Workouts So Much Better

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If you’ve ever worked out—and if you haven’t, you should probably get on that—then chances are you’ve owned a pair of compression shorts. This type of bottom can be worn just about anywhere, from the gym to your jog to your CorePower yoga class. It’s an essential form of exercise gear.

Compression shorts not only leave you feeling (and looking) fresh, but they also keep you locked in. This means they add a critical extra layer to any attire, so your neighbor on the leg-press machine doesn’t accidentally get an unwanted eyeful. Beyond maintaining decorum, these types of garments can help reduce muscle injury, prevent embarrassing odors during even the sweatiest session, and promote more coordinated movement. See why they’re a crucial part of every guy’s workout arsenal?



The best compression shorts on the market are designed to withstand even the most intense use and still maintain their shape and compression over time. You should choose styles that are engineered for performance as well as those that fit snug around your body (but not uncomfortably tight), are a combination of polyester and Spandex, and offer a wide range of movement. Our experts tested and reviewed multiple options to find you a selection that fits your fitness needs. Even if you’ve owned a pair in the past, now is the time to up your compression-shorts game.

Dri-FIT Long Shorts

Experience the perfect mix of form and function with the Nike Pro Collection—designed to make you feel confident while working out. These meticulously engineered compression shorts feature advanced sweat-wicking capabilities, thanks to Nike's cutting-edge Dri-FIT technology. By evaporating moisture from the skin, they promise a state of unrivaled dryness and comfort. With the freedom of movement at their core, you can perform any activity with ease.

One Nike user said, "I love these compression shorts. The pockets are very convenient, making it safe to keep my phone there while working out. They're also very light and breathable. I honestly lounge around the house in these."

Limitless Compression Shorts

Whether you're running, training, or hiking, these Vuori compression shorts will become your new workout buddy. Made with performance stretch knit fabric, they have a brushed waistband, hidden pocket, and flatlock seams to prevent chafing.

Elevation Compression Shorts

You'll stay winning with these bad boys on your bottom. Crafted by Rhone—a brand known for creating comfortable and functional athletic wear, the Elevation Compression Shorts are technical yet soft and able to stand up to even the toughest workout. An added bonus? You can also wear them as a layering piece for outdoor activities in those cooler months.

One Rhone user said, "These are top-notch compression shorts. The pockets on them are awesome for phones and other things while lifting and running."

HeatGear Compression Shorts

When it comes to high-performing compression gear, Under Armour is as good as it gets. Their HeatGear shorts are designed with super-light fabric that provides superior coverage without weighing you down, and their strategic mesh panels add ventilation where you need it most. Trust us, they're the OG of compression shorts.

One Under Armour user said, "These compression shorts were a perfect fit and are super comfortable!"

Stratus Compression Lined Shorts

If you're looking for an option with a little more coverage (hey, whatever floats your boat), look no further than the Mack Weldon Stratus Compression Lined Short. This innovative, active short is powered by a special technology that keeps you cool, dry, and fresh and maximizes every movement and muscle recovery.

Compression Shorts

These compression shorts by Ten Thousand are the definition of luxe. Cut from a premium Italian knit fabric, they have permanent odor control, a gripper hem that keeps them from riding up, and an external pocket so you can keep your phone close during your training.

5 Pack Compression Shorts

If you want the best bang for your buck, this 5-pack of Telaleo compression shorts will be right up your alley. Although they're sold at an affordable price, the quality is far from cheap—they have flat-lock stitching that prevents chafing, moisture-wicking fabric, and a 4-way stretch that moves with you.

One Amazon user said, "From the moment I slipped them on, it was like a sigh of relief for my entire core. The gentle compression was supportive but not suffocating, holding everything in place without feeling constricting. Walking, even just around the house, felt easier and less painful."

Balanced Compression Micro Tights

If you've ever wanted to work out, swim, or even run a marathon in your underwear (I mean, haven't we all), well now you can. The Micro Tight by Leorêver is a non-transparent, supportive style with a double-layered crotch panel and flatlock stitching. Featuring a three inch inseam, it offers the same superior support in the hips and glutes as other longer compression tights.

Compression Shorts

Champion might be more famous for its iconic take on the all-American sweatsuit, but don't sleep on its more performance-oriented pieces. These compression shorts gently mold to your body for extra support during intense workouts and have targeted ventilation zones in the front and back for cooling airflow.

One Champion user said, "They look good and feel good. I love these compression shorts."

Control Baselayer Shorts

Gym Shark's baselayer shorts are so light you can barely feel them. Made with premium stretchy material for a full range of movement, they'll make sure you're always in control of your training—no exceptions.

License to Train Lined Shorts

If you like the feel of compression shorts but don't love the look of that standard tight fit, may we introduce to you the Lululemon License to Train Lined Shorts. This hardworking option has abrasion-resistant fabric that wicks away moisture and a waistband drawcord that can be worn inside or out. Plus, they have a tapered fit designed with room for the quads and glutes and a zippered pocket to fit all of your shit.

One Lululemon user said, "The best training shorts I’ve tried. They can be used for everything and are my go-to for Spartan Races."

Performande Liner Shorts

Lightweight and stretchy, these all-activity shorts feature a supportive inner compression layer, a back shirt loop, and silver-ion technology that helps fight odors. This option is truly a no-brainer.

Performance Hybrid Shorts

If you love their shoes (and if you don't know what we're talking about, click here ASAP), then you'll love their performance-based gear. On's sleek and stylish option features airy outer shorts and supportive inner tights that can be worn together or separately. You can truly rock these bottoms from the gym to going out—with this style, you're in total control here.

Jersey Cycling Shorts

As per usual, Mr Porter has you covered when it comes to the creme de la creme of whatever product you're looking for: case in point, these ultra-luxe compression shorts from District Vision. This close-fitting style is made from Italian-milled recycled jersey that wicks moisture and controls odor, and the stylish, elastic drawstring waist provides a secure and adjustable fit.

Why You Should Trust Us

We’re not going to say something is great unless it’s actually great. Every product in Esquire’s round-ups is carefully curated by our fashion and e-commerce teams.

When it comes to compression shorts, you can rest assured that we’re hand-selecting styles that we’ve personally tested, tried, and loved, along with styles that the rest of our stylish colleagues here at Esquire endorse for their own wear.

We’ve had to go through a lot of trial and error, and these compression shorts are the ones that are simply the best. Every pick on this list (and our other lists) comes from years of wearing different things, seeing what we love and what we don’t, and going from there. No two tastes are the same, and no two men are the same. Your proverbial mileage may vary. But if you’re looking for the right place to start, with advice from folks who and care (possibly too much!) about this sort of stuff, this is the place to be.

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