More a winter base layer than compression top, this long-sleeve Castore jersey offers superb comfort and insulation.
This Castore Long Sleeve Base Layer isn’t strictly a compression top. However, it features the same fabric and technical design as Castore’s pricier Roebus compression version, so it offers similar benefits. If you ask me, it’s definitely among the best workout clothes for doing mobility work or performing stretching exercises. But let’s get into more detail, shall we? Here’s my full review.
Men’s Fitness verdict
It’s not strictly fair to compare this against outright compression tops, but there are still some small compression benefits. Ideal for winter training.- Excellent warmth
- Flexible and comfortable
- Low compression
- Slower drying
How we test compression tops
Kieran Alger is one of our top fitness gear reviewers with a wealth of experience across multiple disciplines. When testing out each of the compression tops on test, he noted features such as: fit; level of compression; extra design qualities (such as watch windows or seam locations) and anything else that’s worth knowing before buying.
The smooth, soft and shiny high-stretch jersey fabric is quite thick and more substantial than some of the other best compression tops on the market. That’s great for durability and offers good warmth. But compared to the thinner compression gear from 2XU, Under Armour and Skins, it’s a more substantial and less restrictive layer.
It still feels good against the skin and there are flatlock seams to help avoid chafing. A vented back aims to improve breathability but that thicker fabric doesn’t wick or dry as well as some other thinner tops we’ve tested.
Overall comfort and fit is excellent. The compression is milder than the more serious 2XU Core Compression and Skins Series 5 base layers. It’s tight enough to offer good support in the chest and arms and flexible enough to cope with any kind of workout. But we wouldn’t pick this over those other more compressive tops for pure recovery. It’s a better option for layering on colder training days.
We like the fact it’s well-fitted with a slightly longer body that hangs below the waistline. That cuts the risk of the top riding up and exposing your midriff to the cold when you’re doing exercises like chin-ups.
Overall it’s a good quality baselayer for the price that offers good support and insulation if not many compression benefits. It only comes in five sizes, though, which is fewer than most tops on test here.
What other compression tops are worth considering?
If base layers are what you’re after, feel free to check out our round-up of the best base layer tops on the market. If, however, you’re searching for some more specialized compression clothing, I’ve got a few tips up my sleeve for you.
The 2XU Compression Core Long Sleeve top is the first that springs to mind. Its thick-yet-lightweight PWX fabric finds the sweet spot between insulation and and ventilation, thanks to well-placed vent panels ensuring reliable temperature regulation. And as for the actual compression, that’s top-notch.
Alternatively, you could look at the Kymira Charge IR50. Its Far Infrared (FIR) technology reflects your body’s heat back into the muscles to boost recovery. Pretty sci-fi!
| Materials: | 86% polyester, 14% elastane |
| Sizes: | Small to XXL |
| Features: | Flatlock seams; vented back panels |
| Colors: | Grey, lilac, black |
