CompressionZ Shorts and Tights for Hiking and Trail Running

CompressionZ shorts and tights are compression wear products that are relatively inexpensive and great for hiking and trail running.

I’ve been wearing their compression shorts and tights for both hiking and trail running. I wear them alone for both occasions and use them as extra layers. They’re some of my favorite spandex shorts to wear for hiking and trail running.

In this review, I’ll share my experience and thoughts (as well as the facts) about the CompressionZ shorts and tights for hiking and trail running.

What Are CompressionZ Shorts and Tights?

CompressionZ shorts and tights are compression clothing by the company CompressionZ.

These compression shorts and tights are made with high compression fabrics. This helps further with warming your muscles up for better performance. Compression is also said to help with recovery after intense workouts like rugged hiking and trail running.

The material of the CompressionZ shorts and tights is a mix of nylon, polyester, and spandex, making this great for wicking sweat from your skin during performance.

There are a few color and style options available. You can get black, navy, gray, and white shorts and tights. Some of the shorts and tights come with deep side pockets, while some don’t have any pockets at all.

Why They Work Well for Hiking

The CompressionZ shorts and tights are a really good selection for hiking and backpacking.

In the summer, I enjoy wearing the compression shorts. In the colder months, the tights are also really nice. I have several pairs of each because I like wearing them so much.

I usually wear the shorts alone without anything on under them or over them. They’re not transparent, and nothing is too revealing. However, the tights are a little transparent, so I usually wear them over a pair of the CompressionZ shorts, or I’ll use them as a layer under my hiking pants if it’s really cold.

The fabric is designed to be high compression, and because of that, it’s tight enough that it works like a second skin and doesn’t get caught on snags of trees and plants.

The material is nylon, polyester, and spandex. This makes it breath really well and wick moisture from your skin as you sweat. Keeping your skin dry during the winter helps to prevent frostbite and hypothermia, as well.

The CompressionZ shorts and tights are very stylish; they look good when worn alone, and they have pockets to hold your phone, keys, and anything else you take with you on your hike.

Why They Work for Trail Running

The CompressionZ shorts and tights are even better for trail running during the warm and cooler seasons.

The high compression helps with recovery during and after your run. The compression will also warm your muscles, and that will help reduce injuries. The compression is tight but not so tight that it’s uncomfortable.

The material breaths really well and wicks sweat from your skin as you’re performing harder during your runs.

These shorts and tights don’t come with a drawcord. However, they stay on your waist and do not sag. I’m pretty confident that they will stay on correctly the entire time that I am running.

You can wear them alone and without any underwear, and you will not have to worry about chaffing or discomfort.

Performance in Real Conditions (My Experience)

I’ve been using CompressionZ shorts and tights for a few years for hiking and trail running.

I have trail run in them for up to a 5K and a 10K without any issues. It’s usually really hot and humid when I put on my CompressionZ shorts, too. I like them because they wick sweat off so well and keep me dry, which prevents chaffing for me personally.

I also wear shorts and tights for hiking. I usually wear the shorts alone because they keep me from chaffing and are really comfortable. I wear the tights as a thin base layer on cold days that are not too cold, but really some extra layers for warmth.

I would easily compare the shorts to Baleaf and even BOA half tights, but the tights are more like the Swiftland ones you’d get from REI or Under Armour Tights.

Fit, Sizing, and Comfort

The CompressionZ shorts and tights fit well. I usually wear an XL in spandex shorts, and they were true-to-size. They’re also very comfortable, and while very tight, they’re not so tight that they feel restrictive or uncomfortable.

The shorts and tights are made with high compression in mind, which makes them a lot better for performance recovery and muscle stimulation.

The length of the shorts sits at around 8 inches, which is right above my knee. The tights are standard size. I’m kind of tall at 6’5”, and both the shorts and tights fit me really well without any length issues on my long legs.

The waistband doesn’t come with a drawcord, but it stays up, and it is very software and comfortable when I’m wearing them.

The seams are designed in a way that makes them unnoticeable and comfortable during wear. I’ve worn and washed these several times, and the seams and material hold up very well. I suggest washing in cold water and letting them air dry for the best durability.

I wear the shorts alone, and they are fine, but the tights are a little transparent, and you will need to wear them under a layer or with something under them.

Pockets

There are models of the CompressionZ shorts and tights with and without pockets.

I chose to get the ones with pockets. There is a pocket on each side of the leg that is deep and can hold phones, keys, gels, and more. The pockets are durable, but they are not vented, so moisture may form inside them during intense sweating episodes.

Pros and Cons of the CompressionZ Shorts and Tights

Here are the pros and cons of the CompressionZ shorts and tights based on my own experience in using them for hiking and trail running.

Pros

• The shorts and tights are very lightweight and comfortable.
• The shorts and tights breath well and wick moisture from the skin.
• These have high compression but still offer great mobility.
• There are options with different colors and with or without pockets.

Cons

• Due to the polyester, the shorts could stink due to sweat.
• The tights are a little transparent and will need shorts under them.
• There is no mesh on the pockets to help them dry out faster.
• There are no drawcords on the waist for extra security and fit.

Who Are the CompressionZ Shorts and Tights For?

• Day hikers
• Trail runners
• Backpackers
• Ultralight hikers
• Fast-packers
• Fitness and gym
• Walking
• Casual wear

Pricing and Value

The CompressionZ shorts and tights are valued at around $35 or $40 per pair.

These are available in both men’s and women’s. There are pocket and non-pocket models, which will impact the price. There are different colors to choose from, as well.

You can buy these shorts and tights from Amazon. Do note that my link is an affiliate link. I will earn a commission, but it will not impact your price in any way.

Final Thoughts About the CompressionZ Shorts and Tights?

I really enjoy the CompressionZ shorts and tights for both hiking and trail running adventures.

I wear them often. They’re comfortable, they wick moisture well, and the high compression helps me perform and recover a lot faster. I definitely recommend giving these shorts and tights a try if you’re looking for this kind of product.

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And until next time, I’ll see you on the trail!