These Are the Best Compression Tights to Wear Under Shorts (2025)

Tights that fit and feel great under athletic shorts.

While you likely first saw them being worn by professional athletes, nowadays, you’re just as likely to see your average gym-goer rocking a pair of compression tights.

It’s no surprise that the popularity and use of compression tights continues to grow across the world of sports, as their benefits are immediately noticeable.

So, while some outside observers tried to write compression tights off as a mere fashion trend, the reality is that more and more athletes of every stripe are starting to utilize tights for both performance and recovery purposes.

Gearing up in a pair of compression tights is a great idea before any workout or physical activity, as the compressive pressure applied to your muscles helps you warm up faster, improve overall endurance, and recover at a quicker rate.

When it comes to wearing compression tights, whether full-length tights or ¾ length tights, many men opt for a pair of athletic shorts over the top.

And it’s worth noting that certain compression tight styles work better than others when worn under shorts as a baselayer.

Here, we’ve compiled a list of the best compression tights to wear under shorts for 2025.

Opt for streamlined performance when layering compression tights under athletic shorts.

If you’re looking for a pair of compression tights that will fit great under athletic shorts, there are a few key characteristics that you’ll want those tights to have.

It may be helpful to think about how basketball players utilize compression tights under their uniforms.

Their compression tights have a smooth fit that lie nicely under their uniform shorts, which is key if you want to avoid any bunching or tangling with the top layer athletic shorts.

A smooth performance design allows a full range of motion with a secure fit.

They have a snug fit that stays put but do not limit the athlete’s mobility in any way.

Finally, the compression tights utilize a performance fabric and design that boosts comfort, support, and endurance.

If you’re having trouble determining whether a certain pair of compression tights would fit well under shorts, a good rule of thumb is to look at its product page.

Are there images of the tights being worn under shorts?

If yes, then you're good to go.

If no, then it’s possible that the tights are better suited as an outerwear option (without shorts on top).

Here's the criteria we use for our top compression tights to wear under shorts.

1. Provides Mobility: We're looking for tights that support and boost your movement while providing a full range of motion (nothing that will restrict or hold you back).

2. Secure Fit: Compression tights serve as your base layer, so you need a pair that will stay in place without causing any irritation or distraction.

3. Optimized Design: We opt for leading activewear brands with a focus on using the best fabric, design, and technology specifically aimed at layering great and boosting performance.

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 Leggings

The Under Armour HeatGear Leggings are the latest version of their original performance base layer (a UA best seller) and are constructed with an ergonomic design for extra comfort, durability, and superior coverage.

Shop at Under Armour: Under Armour HeatGear Leggings

Under Armour’s HeatGear fabric is lightweight and features mesh paneling for extra ventilation.

These leggings have a wider waistband for added support, a drop-in pocket for storage, and are also available in a ¾ length.

2. Lululemon License to Train  ¾ Tights

The Lululemon License to Train Tights feature a locked-in and distraction-free fit with slick low-friction support.

These tights are breathable, sweat-wicking, and feel cool to the touch.

Shop at Lululemon: Lululemon License to Train ¾ Tights

Lululemon’s License to Train Tights utilize 4-way stretch and a bonded construction for flat and smooth seams.

These tights keep in place with silicone grippers on the inner waistband and have an interior pocket.

3. Nike Pro Dri-FIT Fitness Tights

The Nike Pro Dri-FIT Fitness Tights feature a comfortable stretchy knit fabric with a snug body-hugging feel that moves naturally with your body.

These tights utilize sweat-wicking Dri-FIT technology to keep you dry and focused.

Shop at Nike: Nike Pro Dri-FIT Fitness Tights

Nike’s Pro Dri-FIT Fitness Tights sport a soft and stretchy waistband that stays put through all activity, as well as side pockets for secure small item storage.

These tights are available in several color options and also come in a ¾ length.

4. WOLACO Fulton Compression Tights

The WOLACO Fulton Compression Tights feature a versatile performance design in a comfortable moderate compression fit.

These tights have two sweat-proof compression pockets with breathable mesh backing and a secure elastic security band.

Shop at WOLACO: WOLACO Fulton Compression Tights 

WOLACO’s Fulton Compression Tights sport a stay-put ergonomic fit with premium moisture-wicking, anti-pilling fabric, a comfortable elastic waistband, and layer great under shorts.

5. Greatness Wins Baselayer ¾ Compression Tights

The Greatness Wins Baselayer ¾ Compression Tights feature a super lightweight and stretchy performance fabric that offers a perfect blend of coverage and mobility with a ¾ length and a full range of motion.

These compression tights utilize mesh ventilation where it’s needed most to boost breathability and keep you cool, dry, and comfortable at all times.

Shop at Greatness Wins: Greatness Wins Baselayer ¾ Compression Tights

Greatness Wins’ Baselayer ¾ Compression Tights sport quick-drying, moisture-wicking, and anti-odor fabric properties for a fresh feel.

These compression tights have a thick elastic waistband that stays put and durable flatlock seams for an anti-chafe fit.

6. Adidas TechFit AEROREADY Training Tights

The Adidas TechFit AEROREADY Training Tights feature Techfit technology for a sleek and compressive feel that supports and focuses your muscle energy.

These tights feature mesh details and sweat-wicking AEROREADY to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable.

Shop at Adidas: Adidas TechFit AEROREADY Training Tights

Adidas’ TechFit AEROREADY Training Tights consistently receive high marks for comfort thanks to their soft, lightweight, and breathable fabric.

These tights also sport a 3D sculpted mesh-lined pouch and are available in a ¾ length.

7. Sleefs Compression Tights

The Sleefs Compression Tights feature a comfortable and durable performance fabric with non-woven stretch fabrication for advanced movement and are available in an incredible 17 different color options.

Shop at Sleefs: Sleefs Compression Tights

Sleefs’ Compression Tights have a smooth and sleek fit that layers well under shorts and can also be worn on their own.

These compression tights utilize a stay-put elastic waistband and are also available in a ¾ length.

Here's why some men prefer wearing shorts over their compression tights.

You’ve no doubt seen the shorts over compression tights style by now.

But if you’ve never worn the style yourself, you may wonder what purpose the shorts serve and if they add any additional benefit to what the compression tights already provide.

The simple answer is that there aren’t any athletic benefits to wearing shorts over compression tights.

While adding a pair of shorts on top of your tights can offer a little extra warmth during cooler months, that’s about as far as the benefits extend.

Adding a pair of shorts over your compression tights can add a layer of comfort and modesty.

So, if there aren’t really any benefits offered by wearing shorts over compression tights when working out, why add the extra layer?

In general, the choice to wear shorts over tights has to do with modesty.

Due to the skin-tight nature of the compression tights, some men prefer the extra layer of fabric to serve as a sort of buffer.

In other words, they just feel more comfortable adding the shorts than to wear the compression tights on their own.

Even though wearing shorts over your compression tights won’t add anything to your workout, they won’t take anything away either.

Remember, comfort is always an important factor in performing your best, whether in competition or just training on your own.

Another great option to keep you supported while active, check out our top picks for compression boxer briefs.