The Best Men’s Compression Shorts for Running 2024
Performance-driven compression shorts to power through your route.
Whether you’re logging the long-distance miles, training for speed, or simply out for some fresh air and easy strides, having the right running gear makes all the difference.
If you want a successful run, you’ll need a pair of shorts that’s distraction free.
And the best way to reduce any distraction or discomfort is to invest in a pair of quality compression shorts specifically designed for running.
The snug and smooth fit of compression offers superior coverage, comfort, and support for any running style or distance.
And a great pair of quick-drying and sweat-wicking compression shorts will keep you forging ahead through hot and humid conditions.
So, we’ve put together our list of the best men’s compression shorts for running.
Check it out, grab a pair, and don’t let anything slow you down as you power through your route.
Determining the Best Compression Shorts for Running
Here are the criteria we used for putting together our list of the best compression shorts and half tights for running:
Hot-Weather Design: While a general pair of compression shorts would fare better than other fabrics in hot weather, we’re looking for shorts specifically designed to keep your body from overheating. Lightweight, breathable, and sweat-wicking technology.
Extended Comfort: We’re looking for compression shorts that don’t sacrifice comfort for support. Whether you’re going a long or short distance, these two should work hand in hand to keep you focused and free of distraction.
Performance Driven: Once you lace up your running shoes, you don’t want anything holding you back or slowing you down. We need a waistband that stays up and stays put, full mobility in our legs, and a performance design that can handle speed.
Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by Compression Athlete. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.
1. WOLACO Distance Half Tights
The WOLACO Distance Half Tights feature premium double-layered fabric that’s extra comfortable, sweat-wicking, and chafe-reducing. These compression shorts have a signature high-stretch modesty layer in front and are 100% opaque and squat-proof.
Shop at WOLACO: WOLACO Distance Half Tights
WOLACO’s Distance Half Tights sport a drawcord waistband with silicone stay-put grip, two sweat-proof side compression pockets, and two high-stretch back pockets for no-bounce storage. These compression shorts are available in both 8-inch and 10-inch inseam lengths.
Why We Like It: Hands down the best compression shorts we’ve ever worn. Luxe feel, super high-quality construction, and a comfortable and innovative modesty layer.
2. WOLACO Sprint Half Tights
The WOLACO Sprint Half Tights feature an aerodynamic design built for speed with lightweight ultra-luxe warp knit fabric. These compression shorts sport a signature high-stretch modesty layer in front and are 100% opaque and squat-proof.
Shop at WOLACO: WOLACO Sprint Half Tights
WOLACO’s Sprint Half Tights utilize two sweat-proof compression pockets for secure storage and a silicone interior t-shirt loop for extra grip. These compression shorts have a drawcord elastic waistband and are available in both 8-inch and 10-inch inseam lengths.
Why We Like It: All the qualities that make WOLACO compression shorts superior in an extra lightweight and streamlined design that also has two sweat-proof pockets.
3. Nike AeroSwift ½-Length Running Tights
The Nike AeroSwift ½-Length Running Tights are designed for optimal speed performance while providing premium comfort. These compression shorts utilize innovative AeroSwift technology for an extra stretchy, lightweight, and breathable fit.
Shop at Nike: Nike AeroSwift ½-Length Running Tights
Nike’s AeroSwift ½-Length Running Tights offer distraction-free coverage and a Flyvent waistband for ventilation. These compression shorts have an internal brief for support, as well as a center back zipper phone pocket and extra waistband pockets.
Why We Like It: Streamlined for speed with stylish and effective ribbed stretch-woven fabric that increases breathability for a cool fit.
4. 2XU Light Speed Compression Shorts
The 2XU Light Speed Compression Shorts are designed with Muscle Containment Stamping technology to reduce muscle movement, damage, and fatigue. These compression shorts feature flexible, lightweight, and quick-drying PWX fabric.
Shop at 2XU: 2XU Light Speed Compression Shorts
2XU’s Light Speed Compression Shorts use flatlock seams to reduce chaffing and 360-degree stretch for extra comfort. These compression shorts have a large phone pocket and an adjustable drawstring waistband with multiple pockets for storage.
Why We Like It: Seriously high-quality fabric and features to bring out your best in a stylish look with great storage options.
5. Lululemon SenseKnit Running Shorts
The Lululemon SenseKnit Running Shorts feature signature SenseKnit technology for targeted support, breathability, and unrestricted running freedom. These compression shorts sport a 10-inch inseam and a molded pouch for optimal space and support.
Shop at Lululemon: Lululemon SenseKnit Running Shorts (Black)
Shop at Lululemon: Lululemon SenseKnit Running Shorts (Colors)
Lululemon’s SenseKnit Running Shorts have a flat waistband, secure drop-in side pockets, and easy access gel pockets. These compression shorts utilize engineered grippers at the hem to keep in place and reflective details for improved visibility.
Why We Like It: Nothing beats Lululemon fabric when it comes to comfort and freedom of movement. You can count of these to look and feel amazing.
6. Adidas Adizero Control Running Short Tights
The Adidas Adizero Control Running Short Tights feature Adizero control with soft and flexible RHEON that provides dynamic support to your muscles as you run.
Shop at Adidas: Adidas Adizero Control Running Short Tights
Adidas’ Adizero Control Running Short Tights sport moisture-absorbing AEROREADY fabric with back waist perforations for breathability. These compression shorts have stylish reflective details and are available in 2 color options.
Why We Like It: Very cool design with RHEON responsive control that provides dynamic muscle support while you run.
7. LSKD Race Day Short Tights
The LSKD Race Day Short Tights feature a quick-drying performance fabric with a compressive feel that moves with your body. These compression shorts have a supportive and comfortable internal pouch that reduces chafing and an 8-inch inseam length.
Shop at LSKD: LSKD Race Day Short Tights
LSKD’s Race Day Short Tights sport extra lightweight fabric, a stay-put compression waistband, and silicone-lined hem to anchor the shorts in place without any ride-up. These compression shorts have dual side phone pockets and a rear zip pocket.
Why We Like It: A clean and classic look that’s all about comfort and performance. An internal pouch, silicone-lined hems, and secure storage take these to the next level.
8. Under Armour Pro Runner ½ Tights
The Under Armour Pro Runner ½ Tights feature RUSH infrared technology that reflects your body’s energy for increased endurance and recovery.
Shop at Under Armour: UA Pro Runner ½ Tights
Under Armour’s Pro Runner ½ Tights utilize sweat-wicking and quick-drying material with side mesh panels for added breathability. These compression shorts sport a comfortable encased elastic waistband, back drop-in pockets, and a 7-inch inseam length.
Why We Like It: Sleek and stylish design with energy reflecting infrared technology. You’ll love putting these shorts on and they’ll take you far, fast.
9. Under Armour Launch ½ Tights
The Under Armour Launch ½ Tights feature incredibly light and smooth HeatGear fabric with a front rise liner that provides additional coverage. These compression shorts sport comfortable 4-way stretch material and are available in classic navy and black colors.
Shop at Under Armour: UA Launch ½ Tights
Under Armour’s Launch ½ Tights utilize sweat-wicking material that dries quickly and minimizes odor. These compression shorts have an expandable center-back waistband phone pocket that’s water-resistant and eliminates bouncing.
Why We Like It: Classic compression short look with luxe fabric and a no-bounce center-back phone pocket. Everything you need for your run, nothing you don't.
10. Saucony Endorphin Half Tights
The Saucony Endorphin Half Tights feature a nearly weightless performance design with extra lightweight material and body mapped perforations for superior breathability.
Shop at Saucony: Saucony Endorphin Half Tights
Saucony’s Endorphin Half Tights sport chafe-free bonded fabric and a sweat-wicking TurboWick waistband to keep you dry and comfortable. These compression shorts have 3 exterior bonded back pockets that lay flat when not in use.
Why We Like It: Streamlined race day fit with super lightweight material and bonded lay-flat back pockets.
11. Saucony Elite Shorts
The Saucony Elite Shorts feature an elite performance design that’s lightweight, breathable, and extra comfortable. These compression shorts are sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and provide lightweight support that prioritizes speed.
Shop at Saucony: Saucony Elite Shorts
Saucony’s Elite Shorts have an encased elastic waistband with an internal drawcord for a customizable fit, as well as a bold and stylish Saucony logo.
Why We Like It: A lightweight performance option with a stylish look and superior sweat-wicking capabilities.
12. Rabbit Speedsters Short Tights
The Rabbit Speedsters Short Tights feature a built-for-speed design with a snug low rise fit and a no-roll leg construction. These compression shorts sport a 9-inch inseam length and an internal drawstring for a custom fit.
Shop at Rabbit: Rabbit Speedsters Short Tights
Rabbit’s Speedsters Short Tights utilize an extra lightweight and quick-drying fabric with UPF 50+ protection that’s available in multiple color options. These compression shorts have a convenient 3-pocket design with 2 side stash and a center back zip.
Why We Like It: The snug and secure fit of your favorite pair of running tights in a half-tight design that’s super lightweight and designed for speed.
The Benefits of Wearing Compression in Hot Weather
When the temps and humidity rise, having the right gear becomes essential for athletes.
Whether you’re training, competing, or just out for some endorphin-boosting exercise, compression garments are the best available clothing choice for hot weather.
The unique fabric blend of compression dries quicker than any other fabric choice, which is helpful when you’re pouring out sweat.
This way there’s no trudging along in sweat-soaked garments that can hamper your range of motion and cause chafing.
Additionally, the breathability and sweat-wicking capabilities of compression will help you stay cool, comfortable, and dry.
Compression fabric is not only lightweight and breathable, but also moves sweat away from the body to allow for proper body temperature regulation, which is especially important in warm conditions when overheating can occur.
Another beneficial element of compression wear that shouldn’t be overlooked is improved muscle oxygenation.
Whenever you’re moving, exercising, training, competing, or whatever it may be, the muscles in your body start working harder and demand an increase in oxygen.
Compression can assist your body in this process, as the compressive pressure is designed to increase the levels of oxygen your muscles receive through improved blood flow.
This improved muscle oxygenation helps athletes perform at a higher level for longer periods.
There’s also the added benefit that better muscle oxygenation can lead to faster muscle recovery.
How to Keep Your Phone and Keys Secure When Running
Here’s a dilemma that every runner is faced with at least one time or another. What to do with your valuable items—phone, keys, credit card, etc.— while you’re out running.
Holding items in your hand is risky. Tucking them in your waistband or shoelaces isn’t a great or all-too-comfortable fix.
And nobody likes the feel of things bouncing around in their pockets while trying to focus on the task at hand.
Even just out for a walk you might find the feel of your phone or keys sliding back and forth kind of irritating.
And kick up the intensity on your workout and those items will start banging all around like crazy.
Thankfully, there are a few different solutions that have popped up over the years to combat this problem.
For example, some people prefer to use a running arm band as a way to secure their phone to their body while running.
Another option is the running belt or fanny pack that can be worn around the waist or shoulder.
And for those that are going for distance and require storage and hydration along for the ride, a running vest is a popular choice.
However, it’s worthwhile to note that each of these options adds an additional garment to your body.
And while they’re designed to minimize bulk and not interfere with your movements, many runners prefer the less is more approach.
So, if you’re looking for an option that doesn’t require any extra garments, superfluous fabric, or additional items to wear on your body, then a pair of compression shorts or tights with side drop-in pockets and waistband pockets is the best choice.
The side drop-in pockets on compression shorts and compression tights, like those in the picks listed above, are a great way to securely store your phone.
The stretchy and snug compression fabric secures the pocketed item tightly and comfortably against your leg or waistband.
This way the item wont shift or bounce around, throwing off your concentration or causing you discomfort.
Keys also store well in drop-in pockets; though, many compression shorts and tights also provide a zippered or fold-in waistband pocket that’s perfect for storing smaller objects.
And the best part about a compression pocket is that you’re still able to move freely with the pocketed item.
The compression fabric snuggly fits the item against your body while its stretchy properties allow your body a full range of motion.
So, if you’re looking for comfortable, secure, and performance-driven storage, check out our list of the Best Compression Shorts with Pockets.
And for additional help on picking out a great pair of compression shorts, check out our Comprehensive Guide to Compression Shorts.
