As a runner over 50, I’ve learned that the right gear makes all the difference in comfort and performance. Compression underwear for running is often overlooked but solves many common running problems like chafing, support issues, and moisture management.
Finding the right running underwear can make a huge difference in your comfort level. The best compression underwear for running will prevent chafing, provide proper support, and keep you dry during your runs.
After testing dozens of options and researching the latest 2025 recommendations, I’ve narrowed down the 7 best compression shorts for runners that actually deliver on their promises. All products featured are easily available online through popular retailers.
Quick Comparison: Top Compression Underwear for Running
| Brand & Model | Price | Best For | Key Feature | Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under Armour HeatGear | $25-35 | Overall Performance | 4-way stretch fabric | 87% Polyester, 13% Elastane |
| Nike Pro Dri-FIT | $30-40 | Hot Weather | Enhanced ventilation | 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex |
| 2XU Compression | $60-80 | Muscle Recovery | Graduated compression | 72% Nylon, 28% Elastane |
| Runderwear Anti-Chafe | $28-35 | Chafing Prevention | 360° seamless design | 92% Polyamide, 8% Elastane |
| Real Essentials 5-Pack | $25-30 (5 pairs) | Budget Value | Multi-pack savings | 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex |
What Makes Good Compression Underwear for Running?
Before diving into specific products, let’s clarify what you should look for:
- Moisture-wicking fabric that pulls sweat away from your skin
- Seamless construction to prevent rubbing and chafing
- Proper compression level for support without restriction
- Breathable materials to keep you cool
- Quick-drying performance for comfort throughout your run
- Durable construction that withstands frequent washing
When choosing running underwear, avoid cotton, which absorbs moisture, holds onto sweat, and can lead to chafing. Instead, look for options featuring polyester or nylon, fabrics that stretch, wick away sweat, dry quickly, and work to keep you dry and chafe-free.
According to Dr. Tom Brownlee, sports scientist and running expert: “The technical fabrics used in quality compression gear for runners can help regulate temperature and improve blood circulation, which may contribute to reduced muscle fatigue during longer runs.”
Many runners wonder which type of underwear is best for running. The answer depends on your specific needs, but compression underwear addresses most common issues runners face.
Be sure to check out my recent post, 11 Best Compression Shirts for Hot Weather!
How to Choose Based on Your Budget
Your budget will naturally influence your compression underwear options, but the good news is that effective products exist at every price point:
Premium Options ($30-80)
Brands like 2XU, Under Armour, and Nike offer top-tier compression shorts for long distance running with advanced features like graduated compression, specialized fabrics, and anatomical designs. These are ideal for serious runners, those training for marathons, or runners with specific support needs.
Mid-Range Options ($20-30)
Brands like Adidas Techfit and Runderwear offer excellent quality at a more accessible price point. These provide most of the benefits of premium options with perhaps fewer specialized features or slightly less durable construction.
Budget-Friendly Options ($5-20)
Brands like Real Essentials, Tesla, and Baleaf provide surprisingly good performance at budget prices. They’re perfect for beginners, occasional runners, or those who need multiple pairs of compression shorts without breaking the bank.
7 Best Compression Underwear Options for Runners
1. Under Armour Men’s HeatGear Compression Shorts
Price: $25-35
Under Armour’s compression shorts top my list for good reason. The 4-way stretch fabric moves with you while providing light compression that supports without restricting. These athletic boxerjocks are ideally suited to every body type and don’t restrict your range of motion. They’re available in over a dozen colors and effectively eliminate sweat and prevent itching.
Key benefits:
- HeatGear fabric stays cool even during summer runs
- Strategic mesh panels increase ventilation
- 6-inch inseam prevents riding up
- Anti-odor technology extends wear between washes
These shorts are ideal for runners who experience inner thigh chafing when running. The flat seams prevent any rubbing, even on longer distances.
User testimonial: “I’ve tried many brands but always come back to UA HeatGear. I run 40+ miles per week and they’re the only shorts that don’t chafe on my long runs. Worth every penny.” – Mark T., marathon runner
2. Nike Pro Dri-FIT Compression Shorts
Price: $30-40
Nike’s Pro compression shorts offer excellent moisture management with their Dri-FIT technology. These shorts effectively wick sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable during high intensity running workouts.
What stands out:
- Ergonomic seams follow the contours of your muscles
- Wide, soft waistband stays put without digging in
- Available in multiple lengths to suit your preference
- Mesh gusset improves airflow in critical areas
These compression shorts are particularly good for runners who prioritize cooling and breathability during hot weather runs.
User testimonial: “The ventilation on these is incredible. Even in Florida summer heat, they keep me relatively dry. I own five pairs now.” – Jen R., trail runner
3. 2XU Men’s Compression Shorts
Price: $60-80
If you’re looking for serious compression benefits, 2XU delivers professional-grade compression that can help reduce muscle fatigue and improve recovery. These Australian-brand compression shorts stand out for their graduated compression technology that improves blood flow to muscles.
Why they work:
- Graduated compression improves blood circulation
- PWX fabric provides exceptional durability
- Flatlock seams eliminate chafing
- Higher level of compression supports muscles during long runs
These are perfect for marathon training or ultra-distance running where muscle support becomes increasingly important.
User testimonial: “I noticed less soreness in my quads after switching to 2XU for my long runs. They’re pricier but last forever and the recovery benefits are worth it.” – Carlos M., ultrarunner
4. Runderwear Men’s Anti-Chafe Running Boxer Briefs
Price: $28-35
Runderwear specializes in running-specific underwear, and their boxer briefs are designed from the ground up to prevent chafing. The brand even offers a chafe-free guarantee, which is a huge selling point for runners who struggle with this common problem. As Running World confirms, “The brand pledges that you will be guaranteed to enjoy chafe-free running, thanks to 360° seamless technology.”
Special features:
- 360° seamless technology eliminates all potential chafing points
- Medium compression provides support without constriction
- Microfiber fabric feels soft against skin
- Longer leg design prevents riding up
These are my go-to recommendation for runners who have struggled with serious chafing issues when running that other brands haven’t solved.
User testimonial: “After suffering through bloody thighs on multiple marathon attempts, Runderwear changed everything. Never had chafing since. Their guarantee isn’t just marketing—they really work.” – Alicia K., distance runner
5. Adidas Techfit Compression Shorts
Price: $20-30
Adidas brings their technical expertise to these compression shorts with a focus on comfort during high-intensity exercise.
What I like:
- Climacool ventilation system keeps air flowing
- Targeted compression zones support key muscle groups
- Moisture-wicking Climalite fabric
- Durable construction that maintains compression after multiple washes
These shorts are particularly good for runners who also cross-train, as they provide excellent versatility.
User testimonial: “I wear these for everything—running, gym, basketball. The compression is just right—supportive without feeling restricted. Great value for the price.” – Devon J., multi-sport athlete
6. Souke Sports Men’s 3D Padded Compression Running Shorts
Price: $50-60
For runners who need extra padding or support, Souke Sports offers a unique compression short with strategic padding.
Notable features:
- 3D padded design provides additional support
- Anti-slip silicone grippers keep shorts in place
- High-density compression supports muscles
- Quick-drying fabric performs well in all conditions
These shorts are excellent for runners recovering from injuries or those who need extra support in specific areas.
User testimonial: “The extra padding helped me get back to running after a hip injury. They give just enough extra cushioning without feeling bulky.” – Ryan T., comeback runner
7. Niksa 2/4 Pack Compression Shorts Men with Pocket
Price: $35-45
For runners looking to trim down their race weight as much as possible, Niksa shorts are an excellent choice. At under 40 grams, they’re supposedly the lightest full-leg running underwear around. They’re breathable, moisture-wicking, anti-chafing, supportive, and all-around comfortable.
Why they excel:
- Ultra-lightweight design reduces race weight
- No inner-thigh seams for maximum comfort in high-friction areas
- Exceptional breathability for hot-weather running
- Quick-drying fabric performs well in all conditions
- Maintains support despite minimal weight
These compression shorts are ideal for performance-focused runners, especially marathoners and sprinters looking for every possible edge in their race-day gear.
User testimonial: “I PR’d my marathon wearing these—they’re so light you barely know they’re there, yet somehow they still prevent chafing. My go-to race day underwear now.” – Tomoki S., competitive runner
What Kind of Underwear is Best for Running?
Many runners ask what kind of underwear is best for running. According to recent research and expert reviews, the answer depends on your specific needs:
- For chafing issues: Seamless compression underwear with longer inseams
- For support concerns: Compression underwear with graduated compression
- For hot weather: Lightweight compression shorts with mesh ventilation
- For recovery benefits: Medical-grade compression underwear
- For versatility: Medium compression shorts that work for multiple activities
The key is finding breathable, moisture-wicking options made from technical fabrics that keep sensitive areas dry and comfortable.
Amanda Brooks, certified running coach with over a decade of experience, explains: “From my experience coaching thousands of runners, underwear choice is highly personal, but most runners benefit from compression for long distance running. The support and anti-chafing benefits become critical once you’re running for over an hour.”
Are Compression Shorts Good for Running?
Many newer runners wonder if compression shorts are really necessary. The answer is a resounding yes – compression shorts for running are excellent for several reasons:
- They prevent thigh chafing by eliminating skin-to-skin contact
- The compression element can reduce muscle vibration and fatigue
- They wick moisture better than traditional underwear
- Many options include anti-odor technologies
- They provide support without restricting movement
As WERD magazine confirms, “A good pair of compression shorts can be the difference between hitting your PR and walking away from the set in failure. They can keep you from feeling insanely sore the day after an intense run.”
Scientific research suggests compression gear benefits for runners are real. According to a study published in Sports Medicine, compression garments may “improve variables related to endurance performance (i.e., time to exhaustion) slightly, due to improvements in running economy, biomechanical variables, perception, and muscle temperature.”
How to Choose the Best Compression Underwear for Running
When selecting compression underwear for running, consider these key factors:
- Compression level: Light to medium for most runners, higher for recovery
- Length: Longer inseams prevent ride-up and provide more coverage
- Material: Look for at least 15% elastane or spandex content
- Seams: Flatlock or seamless construction prevents chafing
- Specific features: Consider your particular needs (ventilation, extra support, etc.)
Remember that tighter isn’t always better. As experts note, compression shorts “should fit you comfortably and be just tight enough to provide compression without squeezing your legs or cutting off circulation. It’s not recommended to buy a size smaller to increase compression.”
Henry Howard, ultrarunner and running coach at iRunFar, advises: “The distance you tend to run may influence your choice of underlayer. For shorter distances, trail running, or cross-training, you might appreciate the extra support of a more substantial set of briefs. But long distance runners and marathoners often wear lighter, minimalist underwear.”
Expert Opinions on Compression Underwear for Running
I reached out to several running experts to get their take on compression underwear:
Dr. Sarah Chen, Sports Medicine Physician: “Compression garments can potentially improve circulation and reduce muscle oscillation during running, which may translate to reduced fatigue. While not a magic bullet, they do offer real benefits for many runners.”
Michael Torres, Physical Therapist: “I often recommend compression shorts for runners with a history of hamstring or groin issues. The light support can help maintain proper alignment and reduce strain on vulnerable muscle groups.”
Coach Emily Rodriguez: “In my experience working with both elite and recreational runners, compression underwear is particularly beneficial for heavier runners or those with thicker thighs. The anti-chafing benefits alone can make the difference between finishing a race and dropping out.”
Final Thoughts on Finding Your Perfect Running Underwear
The best compression underwear for running should feel like a second skin—you barely notice it’s there. It should solve problems (like chafing) without creating new ones (like overheating).
For runners new to compression underwear, I recommend starting with the Under Armour or Nike options. For more serious runners focused on performance, the 2XU or T8 Commandos provide benefits that justify their higher price points.
The distance you run may influence your choice as well. For shorter distances or cross-training, you might appreciate the extra support of more substantial briefs. But long distance runners and marathoners often prefer lightweight, minimalist underwear to reduce weight and maximize comfort over extended periods.
Remember that even the best compression underwear typically needs replacing every 6-12 months as the elastic fibers break down and lose their compression properties.
What’s your experience with compression underwear for running? Have you found a brand that works particularly well for your needs? Let me know in the comments!
FAQ: Common Questions About Compression Underwear for Running
Should I wear underwear under compression shorts?
No, compression shorts are designed to be worn as your underwear. Wearing additional underwear underneath can create bunching, reduce the moisture-wicking benefits, and potentially cause chafing.
How tight should compression underwear be?
Compression underwear should feel snug but not uncomfortable. You should be able to move freely without the underwear riding up or sliding down. If the underwear is leaving deep marks or causing discomfort, it’s too tight.
How do I care for compression underwear?
Most compression underwear should be machine washed in cold water on a gentle cycle and air-dried to maintain elasticity. Avoid fabric softeners as they can reduce the moisture-wicking properties of technical fabrics.
Can women wear men’s compression underwear for running?
While possible, it’s not ideal. Men’s and women’s compression underwear are designed with different anatomical needs in mind. Women’s options provide better support and comfort for female runners.
Are more expensive compression shorts worth it?
Higher-end compression shorts often offer better durability, more consistent compression, and enhanced features like graduated compression or seamless construction. For occasional runners, mid-range options provide good value, while serious runners may benefit from premium brands.
Rick Huey is a fitness writer who has dedicated his life to living an active lifestyle. With more than 30 years of experience in the fitness industry, Rick is a respected contributor for FitFab50.com, where he shares his wealth of knowledge with a wide audience. His dedication to promoting the benefits of living an active lifestyle has inspired many people to pursue their own fitness journeys with enthusiasm and dedication.