Compression shorts are tight-fitting, stretchy shorts that apply firm, even pressure to the hips, glutes and thighs. That is the difference between them and ordinary gym shorts or loose running shorts: instead of hanging off the body, compression shorts hold the muscles and skin close, which reduces muscle vibration, prevents thigh chafing and keeps everything in place during running, lifting and sport.
There are four main types. Performance compression shorts use engineered fabrics and graduated pressure aimed at running and endurance sport. Support compression shorts add panels or taping that target the hips, lower back and pelvis for joint stability. Baselayer shorts are lighter, everyday compression layers worn under gym shorts or team kit. Multi-pack compression shorts are budget training shorts, often with phone pockets, sold in sets of two or three.
The most useful number when buying compression shorts is inseam length. Most sit somewhere between about 15cm and 23cm (6 to 9 inches): shorter for sprinting and general gym work, longer if you want to cover the full thigh and stop chafing on long runs. Beyond that, the decision comes down to how firm the compression is, the fabric’s breathability, whether you need pockets, and fit, which should feel snug and supportive without digging in at the waist or leaving marks on the legs.
This guide compares ten compression shorts available in New Zealand across performance, support, baselayer and multi-pack styles, including picks for women.
Compression shorts comparison
| Product | Best for | Type | Fit | Key feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2XU Light Speed Compression Shorts | Best Overall for Running | Performance | Men’s | PWX fabric, Muscle Containment Stamping | 4.5/5 |
| 2XU Core Compression Shorts | Best Everyday Performance Pair | Performance | Men’s | Graduated PWX compression, UPF 50+ | 4.4/5 |
| CW-X Stabilyx Ventilator | Best for Joint Support | Support | Men’s | EXO-WEB hip and lower back support | 4.5/5 |
| CW-X Endurance Generator | Best for Long-Distance Endurance | Support | Men’s | EXO-WEB support for hips, quads and hamstrings | 4.2/5 |
| Under Armour HeatGear Armour | Best for the Gym | Baselayer | Men’s | HeatGear wicking, anti-odour | 4.6/5 |
| PUMA Liga Baselayer Short Tights | Best for Football and Team Sport | Baselayer | Men’s | dryCELL moisture control | 4.5/5 |
| Skins Series-1 Men’s Shorts | Best Light Compression for Warm-Ups | Baselayer | Men’s | Polyester and elastane, teamsport cut | 4.5/5 |
| TSLA Compression Shorts 3-Pack | Best Value Multi-Pack | Multi-pack | Men’s | Phone pocket, UPF 50+ | 4.3/5 |
| adidas Techfit 3″ Short Tights | Best for Women | Performance | Women’s | Techfit, Climalite, UPF 50+ | 4.4/5 |
| Skins Series-1 Women’s Hotpants | Best Women’s Shorts with a Phone Pocket | Baselayer | Women’s | Medium compression, 7cm waistband | 5.0/5 |
1. 2XU Light Speed Compression Shorts – Best Overall for Running
2XU is one of the best-known compression brands in Australasia, and the Light Speed is its dedicated running short. Its Muscle Containment Stamping (MCS) traces the quadriceps to help dissipate load on the knee joint, and supports the muscles through the toe-off phase of each stride.
The PWX fabric has a circular-knit, 360-degree stretch that reduces muscle movement while keeping you flexible, and the yarns are chosen to stay cool, dry and durable. A drawstring waistband keeps the fit secure, and three back pockets hold a phone, cards, keys and gels, which makes it practical for long runs and races without a belt.
A reflective X logo on the thigh adds some visibility in low light. It is rated 4.5 stars from 500 reviews.
Pros
- Muscle Containment Stamping supports the quads and reduces knee load
- Lightweight PWX fabric with 360-degree stretch
- Three back pockets for a phone, keys and gels
- Drawstring waist for a secure fit
- Free delivery to New Zealand
Cons
- Sits at the premium end of this guide
- Firm compression takes some getting used to
- Running-focused design is more than most gym users need
Key specs: Men’s running compression shorts. PWX fabric, circular-knit 360-degree stretch. Muscle Containment Stamping on quads. Drawstring waistband. 3 back pockets. Reflective logo.
2. 2XU Core Compression Shorts – Best Everyday Performance Pair
The Core is 2XU’s everyday compression short, and the one to choose if you want the brand’s graduated compression without the running-specific extras of the Light Speed. It uses 2XU’s signature PWX (power, weight, flex) fabric, which combines firm compression with a lightweight feel and plenty of flexibility.
Moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry, flatlock seams help prevent chafing, and a drawstring elastic waistband keeps them secure for running, gym sessions, cycling or recovery days. They also offer UPF 50+ sun protection, useful for summer training outdoors.
It is rated 4.4 stars from 143 reviews.
Pros
- Graduated PWX compression from a specialist brand
- Flatlock seams reduce chafing
- Moisture wicking with UPF 50+ sun protection
- Versatile across running, gym and recovery
Cons
- No pockets
- Stock is thin in some sizes
- Firmer and pricier than a basic baselayer
Key specs: Men’s compression shorts. PWX fabric with graduated compression. Moisture wicking. Flatlock seams. Drawstring elastic waist. UPF 50+.
3. CW-X Stabilyx Ventilator Compression Shorts – Best for Joint Support
CW-X takes a different approach from most compression brands, building a support web into the fabric rather than relying on compression alone. On the Stabilyx Ventilator, a two-way stretch EXO-WEB panel gives targeted support to the hips, lower back and pelvis, which is useful if those areas tend to ache after running or impact-heavy training.
Graduated compression helps increase blood flow, and strategically placed mesh panels improve airflow, so they stay comfortable through medium to high-intensity workouts. CW-X positions them for both training and post-workout recovery.
It is rated 4.5 stars from 220 reviews.
Pros
- EXO-WEB panel supports the hips, lower back and pelvis
- Mesh ventilation panels keep them cool
- Graduated compression for training and recovery
- Good choice for impact-heavy sport
Cons
- One of the most expensive picks in this guide
- Ships internationally, so allow longer for delivery
- Structured support feels firmer than a standard compression short
Key specs: Men’s joint support compression shorts. 2-way stretch EXO-WEB support panel for hips, lower back and pelvis. Graduated compression. Mesh ventilation panels.
4. CW-X Endurance Generator Compression Shorts – Best for Long-Distance Endurance
The Endurance Generator is the CW-X short for long efforts such as marathon training, long rides and big hill days. Its EXO-WEB panel extends further than the Stabilyx, giving targeted support to the hips, quads and hamstrings as well as the lower back and pelvis.
Graduated compression boosts circulation to help reduce muscle fatigue, and moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry over long sessions. CW-X describes it as suited to both high-intensity workouts and post-exercise recovery.
It is rated 4.2 stars from 72 reviews and ships free to New Zealand.
Pros
- Support web covers the hips, quads, hamstrings and lower back
- Graduated compression for endurance sessions
- Moisture wicking for long efforts
- Free delivery to New Zealand
Cons
- Premium price
- Smaller review base than the 2XU picks
- Stock is thin in some sizes
Key specs: Men’s muscle and joint support compression shorts. 2-way stretch EXO-WEB panel for hips, quads, hamstrings, lower back and pelvis. Graduated compression. Moisture-wicking fabric.
5. Under Armour HeatGear Armour Compression Shorts – Best for the Gym
Under Armour’s HeatGear compression shorts are the gym staple, and with 4.6 stars from more than 13,000 reviews they are the best-rated pick here by volume. The smooth, lightweight fabric wicks sweat and dries quickly, and anti-odour technology stops the growth of odour-causing microbes, which matters when your kit sits in a gym bag.
A wide elastic waistband and an updated gusset design add support and comfort for squats, lunges and deadlifts. The fabric is 84% polyester and 16% elastane, with 92% polyester and 8% elastane mesh panels.
This listing is the red colourway, which clears the free-delivery threshold on its own. Some cheaper colours only ship free to New Zealand as part of a larger order.
Pros
- Huge review base with a 4.6-star rating
- Quick-drying, sweat-wicking HeatGear fabric
- Anti-odour technology
- Wide waistband and gusset for squats and lifts
Cons
- Delivery terms differ between colours, so check the delivery line before ordering
- Baselayer-level compression rather than graduated performance compression
- No pockets
Key specs: Men’s compression shorts. HeatGear fabric, 84% polyester, 16% elastane. Mesh panels 92% polyester, 8% elastane. Anti-odour technology. Wide elastic waistband, updated gusset.
6. PUMA Liga Baselayer Short Tights – Best for Football and Team Sport
The Liga is PUMA’s football baselayer, designed to sit under match shorts, and it suits rugby, football, netball training and touch just as well. It is made from elastic, compression-style fabric that lies directly on the skin, giving lasting stretch and freedom of movement.
PUMA’s dryCELL technology wicks away sweat so you stay dry and comfortable through a full match or training session, and the damp-proof material helps too on a wet winter ground.
It is rated 4.5 stars from nearly 1,000 reviews.
Pros
- Designed to sit under team-sport shorts
- dryCELL moisture-wicking fabric
- Good stretch and freedom of movement
- Strong rating across a large review base
Cons
- Lighter compression than the 2XU and CW-X picks
- Ships internationally
- No pockets or reflective details
Key specs: Men’s baselayer short tights. Elastic compression fabric. dryCELL moisture-wicking technology. PUMA cat logo on back left leg.
7. Skins Series-1 Men’s Shorts – Best Light Compression for Warm-Ups
Skins is another Australian compression specialist, and the Series-1 is its entry-level range. The brand engineers these shorts for team sport, efficient warm-ups and lower-intensity workouts, so they are a comfortable choice for people who want support without the firm squeeze of a performance short.
The fabric is 77% polyester and 23% elastane, a high elastane content that gives plenty of stretch. It is rated 4.5 stars, but from only 13 reviews so far.
Pros
- Comfortable, lighter compression
- High elastane content for good stretch
- From a well-known compression brand
- Free delivery to New Zealand
Cons
- Very few reviews
- Not built for high-intensity or long-distance use
- Listing gives limited technical detail
Key specs: Men’s compression shorts. 77% polyester, 23% elastane. Designed for teamsport, warm-ups and lower-intensity workouts. US sizing.
8. TSLA Compression Shorts 3-Pack – Best Value Multi-Pack
If you train most days and want a pair for every session between washes, a multi-pack makes more sense than one premium short. TSLA’s three-pack is ranked number one in Men’s Compression Shorts on the listing and gives you three pairs for less than most single premium shorts in this guide.
The polyester and spandex blend has excellent stretch and range of motion, and the fabric is abrasion resistant and durable. It is designed to release heat and wick moisture, dries quickly and offers UPF 50+ sun protection, which the brand says blocks more than 99% of UV rays. Each pair has a phone pocket on the thigh.
It is rated 4.3 stars from more than 400 reviews.
Pros
- Three pairs in one pack, the best value in this guide
- Phone pocket on each pair
- Quick-drying, stretchy fabric with UPF 50+
- Top-ranked in its category on the listing
- Free delivery to New Zealand
Cons
- Lighter, less engineered compression than 2XU or CW-X
- Less-known brand
- Durability will not match premium shorts
Key specs: Men’s compression shorts, 3-pack. Polyester and spandex blend. Quick dry, two-way air circulation. UPF 50+. Phone pocket.
9. adidas Techfit 3″ Short Tights – Best for Women
The adidas Techfit short tights are a proven women’s compression short for running, gym and team sport. Techfit is adidas’s compression technology, designed to focus the muscles’ energy for explosive power and long-term endurance.
Climalite fabric sweeps sweat away from the skin, the soft elastic waist is comfortable for long sessions, and UPF 50+ protects against the sun when training outdoors. The 3-inch inseam is short and unrestrictive, which suits sprinting, netball and court sports.
It is rated 4.4 stars from nearly 200 reviews.
Pros
- Techfit compression from a major sports brand
- Climalite sweat-wicking fabric
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Short 3-inch inseam for unrestricted movement
Cons
- Short inseam will not prevent thigh chafing on long runs
- Ships internationally
- Some colours and sizes show very low stock
Key specs: Women’s compression short tights. 3-inch inseam. Techfit compression. Climalite fabric. Soft elastic waist. UPF 50+.
10. Skins Series-1 Women’s Hotpants – Best Women’s Shorts with a Phone Pocket
The women’s Series-1 shorts give a medium compression profile for everyday comfort and support, and a longer leg than the adidas Techfit, which helps prevent thigh rub. A wide 7cm waistband adds comfort and holds them in place.
A side mesh panel pocket holds a smartphone, and silver reflective logos add some visibility on early-morning and evening runs. The fabric is 76% nylon and 24% elastane for a soft, stretchy feel.
It is rated 5 stars, but from only three reviews so far.
Pros
- Medium compression for everyday training
- Side mesh pocket for a phone
- Wide 7cm waistband stays in place
- Reflective logos
- Free delivery to New Zealand
Cons
- Very few reviews so far
- Sold by a third-party seller
- Stock is thin in some sizes
Key specs: Women’s compression shorts. Medium compression. 76% nylon, 24% elastane. 7cm waistband. Side mesh phone pocket. Silver reflective logos. US sizing.
How to choose compression shorts in NZ
Start with what you will use them for. For running and endurance sport, a performance short with engineered compression like the 2XU Light Speed or Core is worth the extra spend. If your hips, lower back or pelvis ache after impact training, the CW-X shorts add a support web on top of compression. For gym sessions and team sport, a baselayer like the Under Armour HeatGear, PUMA Liga or Skins Series-1 is lighter and cheaper, and a multi-pack like the TSLA covers daily training on a budget.
Then think about length and features. Longer inseams cover more of the thigh and are better at preventing chafing on long runs and rides, while shorter cuts suit sprinting, court sports and lifting. Pockets are worth having if you run without a belt: the 2XU Light Speed carries a phone and gels in back pockets, and the TSLA and Skins women’s shorts have phone pockets on the leg.
Fit is the part people most often get wrong. Compression shorts should feel snug and supportive, but they should not dig in at the waist, pinch at the leg openings or leave deep marks after you take them off, and you should be able to squat fully without restriction. Most listings here use US sizing, so check the brand’s own size chart against your waist and thigh measurements, and if you are between sizes, the larger size is usually more comfortable for all-day wear. Delivery terms can also differ between colours and sizes, so check the delivery line after choosing yours.
Compression shorts are one part of a training setup. If you are building out a space to train, our guides to home gyms, adjustable weight benches and treadmills cover the equipment, and hot and cold therapy products help with recovery afterwards.
Verdict
The 2XU Light Speed Compression Shorts are the best compression shorts for most runners in New Zealand, combining firm, engineered compression with genuinely useful back pockets. The 2XU Core is the simpler everyday alternative, and the CW-X Stabilyx Ventilator and Endurance Generator are the picks if you want extra support for the hips, lower back and legs.
For the gym, Under Armour HeatGear Armour is the proven choice, while the PUMA Liga and Skins Series-1 suit team sport and lighter workouts. The TSLA three-pack is the best value for daily training. For women, the adidas Techfit 3″ Short Tights are the most proven option, and the Skins Series-1 Women’s Hotpants add a phone pocket and a longer leg. Whichever you choose, check the size chart and confirm current stock and pricing before buying, since both change regularly.
FAQs
What are the best compression shorts in NZ?
The 2XU Light Speed Compression Shorts are the best all-round choice for runners, thanks to their PWX fabric, Muscle Containment Stamping and three back pockets. For gym training, Under Armour HeatGear Armour shorts are the most proven option, and for joint support the CW-X Stabilyx Ventilator adds a support web for the hips and lower back.
Do compression shorts actually work?
Compression shorts reliably reduce muscle vibration and chafing and keep everything in place during exercise. Research on performance and recovery is more mixed: many people report less muscle soreness after hard sessions, but any performance gain is modest. Most of the benefit people notice is comfort, support and fewer chafing problems on long runs.
Should you wear underwear under compression shorts?
Generally no. Compression shorts are designed to be worn next to the skin as a baselayer, and adding underwear underneath can cause bunching, extra seams and chafing, which defeats the point. Wash them after every session, and consider a multi-pack if you train most days.
How tight should compression shorts be?
They should feel snug and supportive, noticeably firmer than normal shorts, but they should not dig in at the waist, pinch at the leg openings, cause numbness or leave deep marks. You should be able to squat and lunge fully. If you are between sizes, the larger size is usually better for all-day comfort.
Can you wear compression shorts on their own?
Many people wear them on their own for running, cycling and gym sessions, particularly the performance styles with a longer leg. Others prefer to wear loose shorts over the top for modesty or team uniform rules. Baselayer shorts such as the PUMA Liga are specifically designed to sit under match shorts.
How long do compression shorts last?
With regular use, a good pair usually keeps its compression for a year or more before the fabric starts to lose its stretch. Washing in cold water, avoiding fabric softener and air drying rather than using a hot dryer all help. Once they feel loose or the waistband stops holding, they have lost most of their benefit.
