How tight should compression tights be?

Triathlon Forum
1

I picked up a pair of the Skins Sport Tights on bonktown the other day for something to have for running in cool weather and the like, and was curious about the fit.

According to the box and size chart I’m squarely in the Xsmall range, but they simply aren’t that tight. They’re easy to put on, easy to pull up and grab some extra material, and don’t even feel as tight as my bib tights I use for cycling. Plus they come up past my navel.

Should I return them for the XXsmall? or just keep the comfy spring weather tights for comfy spring weather tights?

2

Activity tights aren’t as constrictive as recovery tights, but from what you’re describing they are too loose. Fortunately Bonktown has an awesome return/exchange policy.

3

They should be very snug when you first put them on, then feel very comfortable after you have had them on for just a few!

4

Fortunately Bonktown has an awesome return/exchange policy.

can’t comment on the sizing but +1 to that. they’ll send you a UPS label and do free shipping both ways for an exchange.

5

Fortunately the Backcountry hq is about a 15 minute bike ride from my front door, so it’s even easier for me. I may just keep these and buy the XXsmall as well, they’re damn comfy and seem perfect for spring/fall running.

6

How tight depends on the pathology being treated!

For “recovery” you generally want 15-20 mmHg of compression.

Treating venous stasis dermatitis/insufficiency 40-50 mmHg (trying running in that!)

For active running … you don’t need “compression”, the running tights should be on the skin for comfort, perhaps slightly tight around the quads to keep the muscle from jiggling around and hence possibly less fatigue. In reality, running “pants” are about the same :wink: