2XU offers best compression gear for runners

By Henry Howard

Over the years, I’ve had a few 2XU items in my running wardrobe. I liked the running shorts and the compression underwear for their performance, style and more.

When 2XU (Two Times You) reached out for an opportunity to test some of their workout gear, I jumped at it. The items included compression shorts, socks, a tank top and a hat. For full disclosure, 2XU provided the samples for testing in exchange for this review.

2XU, which is based in Australia, has an impressive array of top athletes in its stable. Among the notable Americans are Gwen Jorgensen and Harvey Lewis.

But even more impressive is its compression gear.

I genuinely felt like I recovered more quickly after harder efforts when wearing the 2XU Light Speed Shorts and socks. The hat is stylish, offers great ventilation and helps wick sweat away. The tank top is a great option for when the summer heat and humidity are off the charts.

And, as someone who often like wearing black especially for runs, the 2XU gear is visually appealing too. Check out 2XU for the best compression gear for runners, cyclists, triathletes and other athletes.

Here’s a breakdown of the items I tested:

Light Speed Shorts: These shorts are designed to offer compression when worn as outer shorts, however I have found that they also function perfectly fine as a baselayer — like tights under a pair of running shorts.

Made with Muscle Containment Stamping (MCS) technology, they are developed with a focus on the impact running has on the legs to reduce muscle movement, damage and fatigue. MCS traces the quadriceps; dissipating the load transfer on the knee joint during running.

The PWX is a lightweight, comfortable and flexible compression fabric. A drawstring waistband allows for an adjustable secure fit.

Note: 2XU says one of the pockets can hold a phone. I could not cram my phone (with case) in any of the pockets. 2XU’s response: “the PWX fabric will likely stretch quite a lot for phones. Ideally you want the phone to sit snuggly against the body so it does not bounce and annoy you while in movement – hence we do try to ensure it is a snug fit.” As an endurance runner, I need bigger pockets for my longer runs and races, so I’ll use these as compression shorts with a pair of running shorts over them.

Run Hat: The lightweight six-panel run cap offers mesh ventilation panels, which allow for the head to cool during the current hot and humid summer runs I am completing. Additionally, there is a moisture-wicking sweatband with a semi-curved brim, which I am a big fan of since I don’t like trucker hats.

The hat is easily adjustable with a Velcro closure with silicon tab.

I’m a big fan of everything about this hat — the fit, the color and its ability to protect my scalp from the sun while keeping me as cool as possible.

Vectr Crew Sock: These socks come with a unique X-LOCK support system that locks the foot in place and reduces blistering. Personally, I have never had a blister while using Squirrel’s Nut Butter. But it is reassuring to know these socks offer additional protection.

The socks offer 3.25mm maximum cushioning to reduce the shock from forefoot impact, push-off and heel impact.

For those who have experienced plantar fasciitis previously, these socks are anatomically designed to provide advanced plantar fascia and arch support. Like the other gear, these socks are comfortable and appear to be durable. To that degree, 2XU offers something I rarely see in other running socks — there is a specific one engineered for the left foot, and the other specifically designed for the right.

Aero Tank: With X-VENT fabric technology, the tank top combines a double-knit sweat-wicking body and lightweight breathable mesh back to keep you dry and cool. While it is black, there is reflective logos and trims to improve runner safety when running in low-light conditions.

Personally, I am not a fan of wearing tank tops but when I face a really hot outdoor run, the comfort and cooling properties of the Aero Tank will definitely be an incentive.