The Best Nike leggings for support and compression
Buying guide
Shop these snug and comfortable bottoms.
If you've ever heard about professional athletes raving about compression leggings, you may have wondered about the purpose of the bottoms—and if you should be wearing them, too. Anyone can benefit from compression leggings—from weekend warriors to casual walkers, or anyone who sits or stands for long stretches of time (think nurses, those with desk jobs and frequent flyers.)
Similar to how kinesiology tape helps stimulate blood flow in muscles, compression leggings work by applying light pressure to the leg and glute muscles. This increases the flow of oxygenated blood to muscles, which can help reduce water retention and swelling. In fact, compression garments have been used since the late 19th century to treat the swelling that occurs from fluid retention.
Improved circulation can have a substantial impact on athletes. Multiple studies suggest that wearing compression leggings after a workout can reduce perceived muscle soreness and feelings of fatigue. During workouts, this feature found in certain leggings can be a game-changer, too. For instance, a 2013 study found that runners wearing compression leggings had lower levels of perceived exertion than those wearing loose-fitting shorts. In other words, their runs felt more manageable, so they could push themselves harder and get more from their workouts.
Want to try out a pair? Whether you're working on your feet, training for your next road race or trying to improve your squat one-rep max, here are the best compression leggings by Nike that will help you give your all.
If you love challenging cardio workouts, try Nike Go Leggings
If you're looking for compression leggings for your next run or cardio workout, pick out a pair from the Nike Go Collection, which has bottoms made from compressive and supportive InfinaLock fabric. The leggings are sold in mid- and high-rise fits and come in various lengths—ranging from ankle-grazing full-length leggings to mid-thigh shorts.
Across the collection, other helpful features include an extra-wide waistband to help keep the bottoms in place, Dri-FIT technology, which moves sweat away from your skin, and not one, not two, but six pockets to stash all small essentials.
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If you need something for the weight room, try Nike Universa Leggings
Nike Universa shorts, capris and leggings are all made from Nike ultra-soft InfinaSmooth fabric, which wicks away sweat while providing a comfortable compression that doesn't restrict movement. The Universa Leggings also have an extra-wide waistband that won't roll, pinch or slide, so you can squat, jump and deadlift without distraction.
In addition, Nike Universa Leggings come in a host of bright colours and patterns, making them ideal for sporting in and out of the gym. Since they're available in high- and mid-rise fits and a wide variety of sizes (from XXS to 3X), you can score a close-to-custom pair that will help you move comfortably through your workout. Another perk? These bottoms are equipped with multiple side pockets.
(Related: What to wear to the gym: 5 outfit essentials)
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For all-day sitting, standing or walking, try Nike Zenvy Leggings
The ultra-versatile Zenvy high-waisted leggings are the wear-all-day option you've been looking for. The stretchy, smooth fabric feels like a second skin, while lending support in all the right places. While not as compressive as some of the other collections on this list, it still provides a body-hugging feel.
Slip into these leggings when you plan on going for a casual bike ride, gentle yoga session, walk or long-haul flight. They come in an array of colours and have a drop-in centre pocket at the back so you can stash your card, keys and phone and stay hands-free wherever the day takes you.
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For cold-weather activities, layer with Nike compression trousers and leggings
Nothing is worse than having to head inside mid-workout because you didn't dress warmly enough. Putting a base layer underneath your shorts or trousers can help wick sweat off your skin and trap air between the layers, which acts as an insulator. Made from Pro Dri-FIT material, Nike compression base-layer bottoms are ideal for keeping you warm and snug. Plus, the snug elastic waistband holds the leggings in place and the secure fit gives a "barely there" feel. You may even forget you're wearing multiple bottoms.