Compression specialist 2XU has engineered its Light Speed tights to minimize muscle fatigue and maximize recovery. Kieran Alger puts the tech to the test.
This brand specializes in compression gear and it shows. The full-length 2XU Light Speed tights feature proper medical-grade, graduated compression that’s designed to boost blood flow to your quads and calves, and reduce muscle movement, damage and fatigue during runs. They’re ideal for wearing underneath shorts or even the best sweatpants on colder days.
Men’s Fitness verdict
These feel professional straight out the gate, and you really feel the difference when you start putting the work in. They’ve even got pockets too!- Excellent compression
- Lots of pockets
- Occasional crotch drop
- Difficult to get on and off
How we tested these compression tights
Kieran Alger is one of our top fitness product reviewers where running is concerned, so he was the obvious choice to put these compression tights through their paces. When conducting these reviews, Kieran paid attention to factors like fit, comfort, level of compression, and any other extra features that might be present.
2XU Compression Tight fit and comfort
As soon as you put the Light Speed tights on you can immediately feel the difference. They have a much tighter fit than most compression tights we’ve tested, and need more tugging on and off. To make sure they stay put during runs, you have to pay more attention to positioning them correctly when you first pull them on.
When we didn’t, we noticed a bit of crotch drop that needed mid-run readjustment. But once they’re in place, the 360-degree flex fabric feels like a suit of armor that offers support, warmth and a feeling of protection.
A narrow, soft-fabric waistband sits comfortably against the skin and the adjustable drawstring means you can tweak the fit. Flatlock seams in the gusset cut the chafe risk while taped elasticated ankle cuffs keep the legs securely fitted and free of potential drafts.
Design features
There are three rear waistband pockets to beef up your storage options. One small zippered pocket is just about big enough for keys and a bank card. Another larger stretch pocket will swallow a larger smartphone and keep it secure without any annoying bounce.
There’s also a handy hole to run a headphone cable, if you’re still using wired. That phone pocket can double as a stash for gels and bars, while a final stretch pocket is also big enough to squeeze in two carb gels.
Finally, there’s some reflective detailing on the upper thigh for added night running safety, but because of its positioning you’ll only benefit if you’re a tights-without-shorts kinda guy.
| Materials | 72% Polyamide, 28% Elastane |
| Features | 360-degree flex fabric, adjustable drawstring waistband, multiple pockets (some zippered) |
| Sizes | S-XXL |
| Colors | Black, with a choice of accent colors |
