The Best Soccer Compression Shorts for Men 2024
High-performing, worry-free picks for the pitch.
The most common base layer choice among soccer players is compression shorts, occasionally referred to as “sliders” in the soccer world.
Compression shorts are a favorite among soccer players for the same reasons they’ve become so popular among athletes of nearly every sport: they eliminate undergarment chaffing, wick sweat from your body, and improve overall athletic performance.
Just to name a few!
So, whether you’re looking to try compression shorts for the first time, or simply looking for an upgrade or replacement pair, there are few key things you’ll want to look for in your new sliders.
For starters, you’ll want an option that fits both snug and smooth under your shorts.
This means nothing that can bunch up or shift around as you move, and nothing that creates a bulky feel when combined with your uniform.
You’re also looking for lightweight, breathable, and sweat-wicking material.
This will keep you distraction-free and moving fast on the field—no damp garments bogging you down and rubbing the wrong way.
With these characteristics in mind, we put together a list of the Best Soccer Compression Shorts for 2024 that are definitely worth a look.
Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by Compression Athlete. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.
1. Nike Pro Dri-FIT Fitness Shorts
The Nike Pro Dri-FIT Fitness Shorts feature a comfortable stretchy knit fabric with a snug body-hugging feel that moves naturally with your body. These compression shorts utilize sweat-wicking Dri-FIT technology to keep you dry and focused.
Shop at Nike: Nike Pro Dri-FIT Fitness Shorts
Shop at Nike: Nike Pro Dri-FIT Fitness Shorts (Long)
Nike Pro Dri-FIT Fitness Shorts sport a soft and stretchy waistband that stays put through all activity and side pockets for secure small item storage. These compression shorts are also available in a long version with a 9-inch inseam.
2. Under Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts
The Under Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts feature stretchy performance HeatGear fabric that’s sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and extra lightweight. These compression shorts utilize strategic mesh panels for added ventilation and a wide stay-put waistband.
Shop at Under Armour: UA HeatGear Compression Shorts
Shop at Under Armour: UA HeatGear Compression Shorts (Long)
The Under Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts sport an ergonomic design that keeps seams off high abrasion areas and a drop-in pocket for secure storage. These compression shorts have a 6-inch inseam and are also available in a long 9-inch inseam version.
3. 2XU Base Layer Compression Shorts
The 2XU Base Layer Compression Shorts feature a smooth and lightweight design that’s perfect for layering under shorts with a flat elastic waistband and an inner leg mesh gusset for enhanced breathability.
Shop at 2XU: 2XU Base Layer Compression Shorts
2XU’s Base Layer Compression Shorts utilize flatlock seams to reduce chafing and moisture-wicking technology to keep you cool and dry. These compression shorts have a mild compression fit that’s supportive while providing a barely there feel.
4. Adidas TechFit Training Short Tights
Adidas Techfit Training Short Tights feature a sleek and compressive fit with moisture absorbing AEROREADY to keep you dry and moving freely. The Techfit design supports your muscles and focuses energy to boost explosiveness, agility, and endurance.
Shop at Adidas: Adidas Techfit Training Short Tights
Adidas’s Techfit Training Short Tights feature a performance stretch fabric, comfortable elastic waistband, and a 3D sculpted pouch. These compression shorts have a lightweight feel and fit great under shorts.
5. Sleefs Compression Shorts
The Sleefs Compression Shorts feature a comfortable and durable performance fabric with non-woven stretch fabrication for advanced movement.
Shop at Sleefs: Sleefs Compression Shorts (Black)
Shop at Sleefs: Sleefs Compression Shorts (White)
Sleefs’ Compression Shorts have a smooth and sleek fit that layers well under shorts with a breathable design for temperature regulation. These compression shorts utilize a stay-put elastic waistband and are available in multiple colors and prints.
6. Storelli BodyShield Turf Burn Sliders
The Storelli BodyShield Turf Burn Sliders feature a proprietary anti turf burn material for confidence when sliding and tackling. These compression shorts utilize extra thin yet durable reinforced paneling on the thighs that won’t restrict your movement.
Available on Amazon: Storelli BodyShield Turf Burn Sliders
Storelli’s BodyShield Turf Burn Sliders sport a lightweight second-skin fit with moisture-wicking material that’s enhanced with anti-bacterial treatment to reduce germs and odor.
7. Storelli BodyShield Impact Sliders
The Storelli BodyShield Impact Sliders feature the usual lightweight mobility of compression shorts mixed with padded protection for your thighs. The 3mm XRD Impact Protection shields you from turf burns, cuts, bruises, and abrasions during slides and tackles.
Available on Amazon: Storelli BodyShield Impact Sliders
Storelli’s BodyShield Impact Sliders utilize sweat-wicking material and armor padding to absorb up to 90% of impact. Padded sliders are also a popular option among goalkeepers, as they tend to see a lot diving and high-impact movement.
8. NELEUS Performance Compression Shorts
The NELEUS Performance Compression Shorts feature a high-performance design with 4-way stretch for superior comfort and freedom of movement.
Available on Amazon: NELEUS Performance Compression Shorts
NELEUS’ Performance Compression Shorts are ergonomically designed to shape to your body and fit like a second skin. These tights have a stay-put elastic waistband and flat lock seams for anti-chaffing comfort.
9. Reebok Compression Briefs
The Reebok Compression Briefs feature angled side seams for superior freedom of movement and signature Speedwick fabric to keep you cool and dry. These compression shorts have a classic compression fit for muscle support and stability
Shop at Reebok: Reebok Compression Briefs
Reebok’s Compression Briefs feature comfortable and stretchy performance fabric, an inner leg gusset, and a stay-put elastic waistband.
Should You Wear Compression Shorts for Soccer?
Opting for a pair of compression shorts to wear under your uniform is the popular choice of athletes across the world of sports.
Not only are they the most secure and worry-free option out there, but they also provide a soft and comfortable fit that wicks sweat and eliminates chaffing.
Additionally, compression shorts are the only base layer option that support your leg muscles and improve circulation.
This improved circulation can help boost endurance, as well as keep your leg muscles warm in cooler weather conditions.
Note that in soccer, you may also hear compression shorts go by the name “sliders.”
The term sliders, or sliding shorts, highlight the protection these shorts can offer against turf burn.
Certain sliding short designs offer padded protection to further protect your leg muscles.
This design is also popular among goalies due to the high impact moves required of the position.
Compression shorts worn under soccer shorts can vary in length but are typically sized smaller in length than the top layer shorts worn over them.
However, with compression shorts you don’t have to worry about the leg of the shorts showing from underneath your uniform shorts.
So, unless you have certain team uniform rules to follow, you can pick a compression short length based on personal preference.
Most importantly, though, when wearing compression shorts under your soccer shorts, you’ll want to be sure to have a pair that layers well, rather than a pair designed to be worn as outerwear (pockets, thicker fabric, etc.).
In other words, you want a smooth and snug fit that’s lightweight and doesn’t require adjustment.
A great pair of compression shorts aren’t the only soccer essential that you’ll need.
Be sure to check out our top picks for the best men’s soccer cleats.
