True Compression with the 2XU Light Speed React Hi-Rise Compression Tights

Anything that gives me an edge up while I’m running is something I wanna try. Compression tights are a thing, just like compression socks and sleeves. And why? Because they really do help increase blood flow, especially when you’re working hard, and I’m all for that.

Enter 2XU with the Light Speed Reaction Hi-Rise Compression Tights. These have everything you need to get up and go and to feel good while you’re doing it and after.

Looks

The 2XU tights look tiny when you pull them out of the box. You may or may not be old enough to remember when nylons were a thing, but  there was always a chart on the back of the box that helped you determine your size based on height and weight. There was a similar chart on the back of the 2XU box, and pulling these on for the first time felt very similar to pulling on nylons back in the day. These ARE called “tights” rather than “leggings” and there is definitely a difference.

Luckily, the 2XU Compression Tights are a lot more robust than a pair of nylons, and these have good coverage. Meaning you can squat in them without showing everyone your underwear. Or at least that was my experience in the color I got, which was black and gunmetal gray. The lettering on the logo along the thigh and calf is reflective white and some of the design on the inside of the tights is red.

Function

A true “compression tight” boosts blood flow to muscles, and many swear that will lower your risk for injury and help speed up your recovery later. The 2XU Compression Tights fit the bill. They were designed with the runner in mind, and more specifically, they address the impact that the long run has on the body.

They contain MCS (which stands for “Muscle Containment Stamping”) in the quads and calves which means that the material traces the quads to dissipate the load on the knee and calf to help aid muscle strain. The tights are also equipped with HeiQ Smart Temp technology which senses when your body temperature rises and will help contain perspiration to keep you cooler.

Construction

Since these tights are a compression tight, the material is very stretchy but also very firm. The compression level is rated to be 23-25 mmhg which is significant.

The hi-rise waistband on these tights is very lightweight and won’t dig into your hips despite being a compression tight. There are also two side pockets along the thighs big enough to fit a key or some gels and a generous mesh pocket in the back lumbar area that should fit a phone nicely.

What’s great about the material is that it’s all quick to dry. The fabric feels very durable and stretchy, and I feel like this product will last the test of time.

Fit

These tights are heavy-duty when it comes to quality, but they are surprisingly lightweight, made with recycled PWX fabric with 360-degreee stretch. These tights will hug your muscles and support them, but they won’t cut off your circulation or feel uncomfortable once you get them into place. There are flatlock seams to reduce chafe as well.

Overall/For Consideration

If compression is what you’re after for your long run, the 2XU Compression Tights are exactly what you need. While lots of tights claim to be “compression tights,” many don’t put as much thought and effort into the design as 2XU does. You will feel the difference with these tights as soon as you take them on your first run, (though you should give yourself a few extra minutes to get them on since they are TIGHT.) These will keep you cool when you get hot, and dry quickly when you stop.