These Are the Best Soccer Compression Shorts for Men (2025)

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 2025 that are definitely worth a look.

Our top picks prioritize smooth performance fits that layer great under uniform shorts.

There are right and wrong picks when it comes to choosing a pair of compression shorts to wear under soccer shorts.

When you’re competing on the field, you want to stay in the zone, reacting freely and creating plays, not distracted or restricted by an uncomfortable fit.

You should look for two key features from your soccer compression shorts.

1. A smooth fit that’s geared toward performance.

What you’re looking for here is stretchy support for your muscles in a streamlined fit.

What you don’t want is any pockets, drawcords, or other superfluous features that don’t serve your soccer performance in any way.

2. A breathable and lightweight design that’s optimized for layering.

You want lightweight performance fabric that’s designed to be layered rather than thicker performance fabrics that are meant to be worn on their own.

Also look for strategic ventilation, such as mesh panels, to improve airflow and prevent overheating when layered.

A few additional factors to keep in mind:

When choosing a pair of compression shorts to wear for soccer, keep in mind the high levels of agility and speed the game requires.

The right pair of compression shorts should fit and feel like a second skin—snug but not restrictive.

They should offer your leg muscles support but still allow you to move freely and comfortably.

A good indicator that you’ve found the right pair is that you aren’t thinking about them while you play.

Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by Compression Athlete. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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 a stay-put elastic waistband and a smooth and sleek fit that layers well under shorts with a breathable design for temperature regulation.

4. DRYWORLD Compression Shorts

The DRYWORLD Compression Shorts feature a graduated compression design that improves blood flow to boost performance and recovery.

These compression shorts sport a wide 2.5-inch waistband for a stay-put fit and enhanced core support.

Shop at DRYWORLD: DRYWORLD Compression Shorts

DRYWORLD’s Compression Shorts utilize extra comfortable flatlock seams that are strategically placed to provide muscle support and 2 mesh panels to boost airflow and breathability.

5. 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 compression shorts have a stay-put elastic waistband and flat lock seams for anti-chaffing comfort.

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.

Soccer players wear compression shorts for a secure and protective fit.

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 nature of their 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.

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.