Best Men’s Basketball Compression Shorts of 2023
Game-ready options that boost performance and fit great under shorts.
Between all the sweat you pour out and the endurance required of your leg muscles, basketball players of any skill level can benefit from wearing compression shorts while they play.
The snug and stretchy fabric of compression shorts fits like a second skin and wears perfectly under the looser fitting design of basketball shorts.
Since basketball requires a lot of quick cutting, sprinting, jumping, and defensive shuffling, players need baselayer garments designed to handle high-intensity activity and movement.
It’s also common for players to end up knocked down on the court, whether taking a charge or taking contact at the rim.
Compression shorts provide a secure baselayer, so no matter how much your basketball shorts shift, slide down, or ride up as you play, you can count on your compression shorts staying in place no matter what.
When you’re battling on the court, you want to stay in the zone, reacting freely and creating plays, not distracted or restricted by an uncomfortable fit.
So, we’ve put together a list of the best men’s basketball compression shorts. Grab a couple pairs and take your game to the next level this season.
How To Choose the Right Basketball Compression Shorts
When choosing a pair of compression shorts to wear for basketball, always keep in mind the high levels of agility and speed the game requires.
In other words, you don’t want anything holding you back, constricting your muscles, or limiting your mobility.
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.
The snug and secure fit of compression shorts should provide you with worry-free security and their smooth fabric should fit and feel great under your basketball shorts while eliminating any bunching or chafing.
Remember, as you’re choosing compression shorts, comfort is key. Your compression shorts should have a very pleasant and comfortable fit that feels great even for extended periods of time.
A great way to maintain comfort and optimal performance is to have a few pairs of compression shorts available, especially if you have a long season ahead with many practices and games.
Even with their sweat-wicking capabilities, you always want to opt for a clean and dry pair each time you gear up. And be sure to wash your compression shorts after every use.
Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by Compression Athlete. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.
1. Under Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts
The Under Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts are the latest version of their original performance baselayer and are constructed with an ergonomic design for extra comfort, durability, and superior coverage.
Shop at Under Armour: Under Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts
Under Armour’s HeatGear Compression Shorts fabric is lightweight and features mesh paneling for extra ventilation. These compression shorts are sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and feature an ergonomic design with 4-way stretch material.
2. Under Armour RUSH HeatGear 2.0 Compression Shorts
The Under Armour RUSH HeatGear Compression Shorts feature a patented infrared technology that reflects your body’s energy to increase muscle endurance. These compression shorts utilize an ergonomic design for superior comfort and increased durability.
Shop at Under Armour: UA RUSH HeatGear Compression Shorts
Under Armour’s RUSH HeatGear Compression Shorts have strategic mesh panels for increased breathability that’s great for wearing under shorts and a jacquard elastic waistband that securely stays in place.
3. Nike Pro Dri-FIT Compression Shorts
The Nike Pro Dri-FIT Compression Shorts utilize supportive and lightweight fabric in a stretchy design that offers a full range of motion. Nike’s Dri-FIT technology moves sweat away from your body to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable.
Shop at Nike: Nike Pro Dri-FIT Compression Shorts
Shop at Nike: Nike Pro Dri-FIT Compression Shorts (Long)
The Nike Pro Dri-FIT Compression Shorts have a snug elastic waistband and flat seams throughout for a smooth feel on your skin. These compression shorts also feature mesh fabric in the front pouch and upper back for improved airflow.
4. Jordan Dri-FIT Compression Shorts
The Jordan Dri-FIT Compression Shorts feature a performance stretch-knit fabric for a snug and supportive fit that provides a full range of movement. These compression shorts utilize sweat-wicking Dri-FIT technology to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable.
Shop at Nike: Jordan Dri-FIT Compression Shorts
Jordan Brand’s Dri-FIT Compression Shorts have mesh panels on the side for improved breathability, a woven elastic waistband, and a side slip pocket for storage.
5. 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
Shop at Adidas: Adidas Techfit Training Short Tights (Print)
Adidas’s Techfit Training Short Tights feature a performance stretch fabric, comfortable elastic waistband, and a 3D sculpted pouch. These compression shorts fit great under shorts and are also available in a cool print design.
6. New Balance Baselayer Compression Shorts
The New Balance Baselayer Compression Shorts feature a performance poly knit and spandex material for compression support with moisture-wicking NB Dry technology to keep you dry and comfortable.
Shop at New Balance: New Balance Baselayer Compression Shorts
New Balance’s Baselayer Compression Shorts have a secure elastic waistband, a fitted silhouette that’s great for layering under shorts, and provide a full range of motion.
7. Reebok Compression Briefs
The Reebok Compression Briefs feature angled side seams for superior freedom of movement and signature Speedwick fabric to keep you cool and dry. These compression shorts have a classic compression fit for muscle support and stability
Shop at Reebok: Reebok Compression Briefs
Reebok’s Compression Briefs feature comfortable and stretchy performance fabric, an inner leg gusset, and a stay-put elastic waistband.
8. 2XU Force Compression Shorts
The 2XU Force Compression Shorts utilize signature Muscle Containment Stamping technology for superior muscle support and endurance. These compression shorts are designed to be layered under shorts with a smooth feel and flat elastic waistband.
Shop at 2XU: 2XU Force Compression Shorts
2XU’s Force Compression Shorts utilize lightweight performance PWX fabric with circular knit for 360-degree stretch. These compression shorts have flatlock seams to reduce chafing and are moisture-wicking and quick-drying to keep you cool and dry.
9. 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 smooth and sleek fit that layers well under shorts with a breathable design for temperature regulation. These compression shorts utilize a stay-put elastic waistband and are available in multiple colors.
10. 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 tights have a stay-put elastic waistband and flat lock seams for anti-chaffing comfort.
11. McDavid Hex 3-Pad Basketball Compression Shorts
The McDavid Hex 3-Pad Basketball Compression Shorts feature integrated HEX padding protection that’s lightweight, flexible, and breathable. These compression shorts utilize a basketball-specific 3-pad design for thigh and tailbone protection.
Shop at McDavid: McDavid Hex 3-Pad Basketball Compression Shorts
Available on Amazon: McDavid Hex 3-Pad Basketball Compression Shorts
McDavid’s Hex 3-Pad Basketball Compression Shorts have sweat-wicking Moisture Management Tech, a comfortable compression fit, and are conveniently machine washable.
How to Wear Compression Shorts for Basketball
When it comes to basketball, players very commonly wear compression shorts as a baselayer under their uniform shorts.
In other words, the snug and stretchy compression shorts are put on first and worn right against the skin with the basketball shorts then worn over the top.
The vast majority of basketball players wear compression shorts with a leg length that is shorter than the leg length of their uniform shorts.
So, not only are the compression shorts worn underneath the basketball shorts but also shorter in length, further reducing their visibility.
When playing basketball your compression shorts will only make minimal appearances while you’re active (running, jumping, shuffling, getting up from court, etc.).
The freer fit of your basketball shorts may reveal the snug fit of your compression shorts. But this is typically just the bottom few inches of the compression short legs that are visible.
And note that it’s really no problem when they do. Compression shorts showing during play isn’t given any thought or worry by players in the way that an athlete might be concerned about their underwear showing.
Additionally, note that another style of wearing compression shorts for basketball is where the compression shorts extend an inch or two past the length of the basketball shorts.
This style tends to be less common and is simply a personal preference choice. There’s no physical or competitive advantage gained by wearing compression shorts this way when playing basketball.
For more about the fit, style, and wear of compression shorts, be sure to check out our Comprehensive Guide to Compression Shorts.
And if you’re looking for additional compression options to wear under your basketball shorts, check out our top picks for ¾ basketball tights and full-length basketball tights.
