Compression tights and shorts

Shorts or long leggings: which length to choose

The length is chosen according to the weather and use. The short stops mid-thigh or just above the knee and is worn under the match shorts, supporting the hamstrings and adductors without sticking out. The long leggings, like the Craft Pro Control or Under Armour models, cover the leg down to the ankle and keep warmth during training in January. Between the two, the three-quarter length stops below the knee: the McDavid Hex leggings add knee pads made of small padded cells, spaced to allow the leg to bend, useful for players who often go to the ground or train on a hard surface.

Other accessories

Accessories also come in a variety:

• Gloves.
• Socks.
• Compression tops.
• Windbreakers.
• Beanies.

All accessories are gathered on the accessories page.

What a thermal short offers under a short

Under the shorts, the short limits friction between the thighs and keeps the muscles warm between plays. The Gilbert Atomic X, designed for rugby, uses a double-sided polyester and elastane fabric that isolates from the cold, with flat seams that do not mark the skin during repeated runs. The Errea Kyran, Macron OAK and Givova shorts follow the same snug fitting principle. Finer Under Armour HeatGear compression shorts are suitable for matches in September and late spring, when warmth makes thick fabric uncomfortable. In matches, it’s preferable to choose a shade close to that of the shorts for a uniform look.

Fit, women's and children's cuts, care

A compression garment is chosen based on the waist size and thigh circumference from the brand's guide, not based on the usual short size. It should fit snugly against the skin without wrinkles, without compressing to the point of marking the skin or hindering hip flexion. Between two sizes, the smaller one enhances support for a match, while the larger is more comfortable for a long day. The women's cuts, like the short Craft Squad or Hummel models, are designed for the female body shape, and the children's shorts and leggings Erima cater to young players. Wash at thirty degrees without fabric softener, air dry: the heat from the dryer relaxes the elastane.

Good deals

Good deals can be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped within 24 hours are prepared and dispatched in 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable sequence: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the end-of-year celebrations, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, then the summer sales and back-to-school season.

Frequently asked questions

Compression or support tights: what's the difference?

Support is a medical device, classified in France from class one to class four according to the pressure exerted at the ankle, and often prescribed for venous disorders. Sports compression tights do not fall into these classes: they aim for muscle support and comfort during exertion.

How to put on compression tights without damaging them?

Turn them inside out to the heel, slide your foot in, then gradually pull the fabric up along your leg while smoothing out wrinkles, without pulling on the waistband. Nails and rings are the enemy of fine knits.

Can you run in compression tights?

Yes, that's even their primary use: the tight fabric limits muscle vibrations with each stride and prevents friction between the thighs. For a running session in cold weather, long leggings also keep the muscles warm.

Should you keep your tights on after the match to recover?

Many players keep them on during the journey back for the light legs sensation they provide. They are then removed to let the skin breathe, and it’s best to avoid sleeping in a very tight model.

Are sports compression tights suitable for lipedema?

No, they do not replace a medical device: lipedema requires compression prescribed and adjusted by a doctor. A sports tight can be worn for exercise, but only after medical advice.