The long version of Skins’ Series 5 tights delivers targeted compression to every leg muscle, though performance comes at a cost. Kieran Alger assesses the value.
The multi-purpose Skins Series 5 long tights deliver targeted, high-grade, graduated compression to all the major muscles in your lower torso, including calves, glutes, quads and hamstrings. They’re ideal for wearing underneath shorts or even the best sweatpants on colder days.
Men’s Fitness verdict
Noticeable compression when in use, these are a squeeze to get into and out of – but that’s a marker of how well they work.- Graduated compression
- Fabric is smooth and comfortable
- Waistband can roll up
- Expensive
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.
Skins Series 5 Long Tights: fit and comfort
These are by far the closest-fitting tights we tested. Wriggling into them was noticeably tougher than the likes of the Canterbury ThermoReg and the Under Armour Rush tights, not least because of the highly elasticated ankle cuffs. So you’ll need to like your tights tight.
Once they’re on, the pronounced compression is noticeable. But that second-skin-like feel works well, thanks to the super smooth fabric that flexes where you need it too and feels great against the skin.
In terms of chafing risk, the flatlock gusset seams felt fine during hour-long workouts but with a few of them in the nether regions there’s definitely potential for friction on longer endurance efforts involving multilateral leg movement.
The fairly narrow elasticated waistband also had a tendency to roll up a little, even though there’s a handy drawstring for a more personalized fit.
Design features
Overall, the Skins Series 5 tights stayed put nicely, even during strenuous sessions. They offered good sweat wicking and drying performance, both important for aiding comfort during workouts. In short, they’re well worthy of a place among the best compression tights on the market.
Details include an internal stretch rear pocket that’s big enough to hold a larger smartphone, although it’s not the most secure. There’s also some reflective detailing, making you a little more visible on those darker evening runs.
| Materials | 76% Nylon, 24% Elastane |
| Features | targeted compression, flatlock seams, sweat wicking, internal pocket |
| Sizes | S-XL |
| Colors | Black, green, grey, navy blue |
