Compression shorts and benefits

1. If you’re too young to remember the days when guys straggled into the gym wearing whatever they could scrounge off the floor of their apartment, consider yourself lucky. We’re talking raggedy t-shirts, faded tracksuits, and sweatpants that lost their shape in the early aughts. These old-school rags did nothing to boost performance (or appearance). Thankfully, things have changed. Athletic wear is more high-tech these days, ever since apparel makers started collaborating with fitness experts. The result is performance-enhancing gear that’s functional and stylish. Compression shorts are a classic example of how companies are merging fashion and function. Compression garments often make big claims about how they can help you work out better and recover faster. But do these claims hold up to scrutiny? Let’s find out. WHAT IS COMPRESSION WEAR? Compression shorts are garments woven with spandex and other stretchy fibers to create skin-tight clothing designed to enhance performance. But just because an item is form-fitting and stretchy doesn’t mean it offers compression. Legit compression garments will be woven tightly enough to support and contain your muscles. This improves circulation by forcing blood back to your heart instead of allowing it to pool in your legs (a common cause of leg swelling during exercise).

2. BENEFITS OF COMPRESSION SHORTS Let’s look at how compression shorts stack up against other gear in terms of performance, comfort, and other factors. GREATER PERFORMANCE Guys who devotedly wear compression gear swear it improves their performance. Evidence backs this up. One study found that compression clothing enhanced running performance and helped reduce inflammation, muscle pain, and damage—most likely because it improved muscle temperature and running economy. Another study found that compression garments improved perceived exertion (in other words, made the workout feel more effortless) in endurance runners. Wearing compression shorts can also reduce muscle soreness and fatigue during and after workouts. And anything that boosts endurance and recovery is a good thing, in our book. GROIN SUPPORT

3. The days of “dick towels” and shorts-over-leggings to cover your junk are fading fast as apparel makers have finally started making better compression gear. When it comes to crotch support, Matador Meggings has the market cornered. Our men’s compression shorts have a removable molded crotch cup that supports the goods and keeps everything tucked in to help you avoid awkward situations. And, bonus: According to a study of football players, compression shorts help reduce groin pain.