FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Think “compression” is just tight-fitting apparel? Think again. True compression garments have a significant impact on performance, and an even greater impact on recovery. But not all compression is “true” compression. In fact, a lot of compression on the market isn’t really compression at all. It’s just tight-fitting clothing cleverly marketed as compression.

The science of compression started a few decades ago in the medical arena. Compression is used extensively in hospitals to help patients post-surgery, and it was adopted into the sporting world about 25 years ago. Since then there have been approximately 180 studies into compression in sport and the overwhelming majority have found that compression helps athletes both during and after exercise.

Compression works by improving blood and lymphatic flow, which increases delivery of oxygen to the muscles for improved performance and faster recovery. A true compression garment needs to be firm enough to wrap muscles and hold them in place during exercise. This helps prevent muscle movement and micro-tears, which cause soreness and fatigue. For recovery, a graduated fit helps stimulate blood circulation for faster muscle repair.

Think "compression" is just tight-fitting apparel? Think again. True compression garments have a significant impact on performance, and an even greater impact on recovery. But not all compression is "true" compression. In fact, a lot of compression on the market isn't really compression at all. It's just tight-fitting clothing cleverly marketed as compression.

You might not be training for the next Olympics, but compression is still a powerful ally. Just ask Shona Halson, senior recovery physiologist at the AIS.

“Compression is not just for elite performers, it’s for everyday athletes of all abilities,” Halson says.

“The benefits of wearing compression apply whether you’re doing high or low-intensity training. Even if you only exercise one or two times a week, the benefits will still be felt.”

In fact, compression may be even more beneficial to everyday athletes, who are less highly-trained and have more room for performance and recovery gains.

“It’s important to know that compression is not regulated and not all compression garments are created equal,” Halson says.

“2XU is the leader in compression technology, with a unique fabric combination that is powerful, lightweight, flexible and durable.”

When buying compression, look for garments offering a graduated fit – where the pressure is greatest at the extremity of the limb – to maximise the benefits of increased blood flow.

With all the marketing hype surrounding the category, it’s also wise to look for compression garments supported by credible research. 2XU is the only compression brand on the market backed by years of independent, scientific research and endorsed by the Australian Institute of Sport.

Compression provides a raft of physiological benefits, from improved performance to reducing the risk of injury and speeding up recovery. The major benefit of compression is an increase in blood flow in and around the muscles, which improves performance during exercising and speeds up recovery when you’re done. Compression also reduces muscle movement, reducing damage and soreness.

But don’t take our word for it. Studies of 2XU compression by the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) have shown gains of up to 10.6 seconds over a 5km run, peak power gains of up to 5% and a 4.8% increase in blood lactate removal in a 60-minute recovery period.

Wearing compression is also beneficial in everyday situations such as long-haul travel or working in a job that requires you to stand for extended periods of time. For air travel, compression can help reduce swelling in the ankles and feet and lower the risk of DVT (deep vein thrombosis).

Core Compression Tight (70 Denier) – our lighter fabric designed to maximise flexibility and breathability to ensure comfort during active use. This tight will also provide recovery benefits.

Elite Compression Tight (70/105 Denier) – powerful 105 denier fabric in rear panels provides extra support to abductors, glutes, hamstrings and calves to maximise muscular endurance and reduce fatigue.

MCS Elite Compression Tight (70/105 Denier) – the next-generation MCS (Muscle Containment Stamping) is a revolutionary fabric support system traced over key muscle, tendon and fascia groups to focus greater compression power to wrap precise areas (calves/quads) and reduce muscle oscillation and damage

Recovery Compression Tight (105 Denier) – to aid the athlete’s return to form with the greatest possible efficiency. The optimal recovery tool after rigorous training and competition, and exceptional muscle support for non-aerobic activities.

The official choice of the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) since 2009, 2XU has long been recognized as the market leading engineer of high performance compression garments.

2XU was the only brand selected to become the Official Compression Partner of the AIS for its athletes and associated Research + Development program moving into the future.

Using the latest fabric innovations and construction techniques from across the globe, 2XU leads the market in compression product development. Our engineers work alongside independent experts and institutes like the AIS, to achieve a winning compression formula – garments which are more powerful, durable, comfortable and significant in their user benefits.

2XU Compression has proven benefits in a wide range of activities.

DURING EXERCISE
• Reduced muscle damage and injury via better muscle containment + stability
• Heightened agility via increased proprioception + awarenessImproved Performance
• Improved Performance
• Reduced muscle oscillation via reduced muscle fatigue in order to improve muscle endurance, strength and power
• Better moisture management through high quality LYRCA® which wicks moisture from the skin
• Temperature control via breathable fabric to keep you comfortable in both hot and cold conditions
• UPF 50+ sun protection rating to guard you from harmful UV rays
• Odour management via antibacterial, odour resistance fabric to keep you comfortable and confident when working out.

POST EXERCISE
• Faster recovery from fatigue
• Reduced swellingand muscle soreness
• Improved ability to maintain performance levelsafter wearing Compression garments for recovery between bouts of exercise
• Improved circulation and more efficient flushing of lactate from the bloodstream.

OTHER
Less risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and jetlag when travelling due to heightened circulation.

Our 2XU Compression garments have been extensively researched, designed and tested by world class athletes and several of the world’s foremost sporting bodies including the AIS, VIS and RMIT University.

2XU Compression garments are independently tested by leading physiologists at the AIS, who have now released scientifically proven results to indicate that wearing 2XU Compression garments improves athletic performance and recovery.

The benefits 2XU Compression has already been identified across a vast number of sports and activities including running, cycling, rowing, football, soccer, tennis, golf, cricket, skiing and snowboarding to name a few.

Beyond sport however, 2XU Compression can also offer benefits in everyday activities – particularly for those who spend extended period of time standing or sitting. Perhaps you’re a chef, office worker, driver, bank teller or frequent flyer?

When travelling, wearing 2XU Compression Tights or Socks can reduce the effects of jetlag and lessen the risks of DVT.

2XU Compression garments are separated into four easy to distinguish categories:

FITNESS – Compression technology for every day use, moderate muscle support and performance. Best for Low Impact Activity

PERFORM – 2XU’s core compression technology for superior muscle support, performance and recovery. Best for Medium Impact Activity

ELITE – The world’s most advanced compression technology for ultimate support, performance and recovery. Best for High Impact Activity

RECOVERY – The world’s most advanced recovery specific technology. Best for Recovery.

Simply choose your relevant category followed by your appropriate product and 2XU has engineered a garment in the most appropriate PWX fabric to ensure you enjoy the optimal compression benefits.

PWX is a collection of premium compression fabrics engineered to offer optimal POWER, WEIGHT + FLEXIBILITY in perfect equilibrium depending on your needs. Each feature high gauge elastomeric yarns and medical grade circular knit structure to allow 360 degree stretch, greater flexibility, unsurpassed power and durability.
The 2XU PWX Collection promises a solution for every user; from weekend warriors to elite athletes.

Knit structure is but one contributing factor to the quality of a compression garment. Other elements such as the type of yarn and the yarn density affect the quality of one fabric against another.

2XU PWX garments are constructed using a circular high gauge knit structure. This delivers an evenly distributed 360 degree stretch compression and superior fabric return, unachievable in garments with tricot knit.
2XU Compression delivers long life performance through the use of the highest grade elastomeric yarns with Invista LYCRA® which is vital to achieving a high level of elasticity and compressive properties over the life of the garment.

All 2XU products use powerful performance fabrics with high gauge denier ratings.

Independent testing by experts at RMIT University has found 2XU PWX Compression fabrics produce a lighter but more powerful and enduring result than competing compression brands.

For plane travel we have a range of Compression garments with a graduated fit to reduce risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) through heightened circulation. Our 24/7 Compression Socks feature 2XU PWX yarns for the benefits of compression, combined with a cotton blend for greater comfort and softness. The 2XU Recovery Compression Socks are engineered of a higher powered PWX fabrication to further enhance circulation through powerful gradient pressure.

Compression garments are suitable all-year round. Traditionally worn during the colder months because of its thermo-regulating properties, 2XU Compression garments breathe exceptionally well and thus continue to offer benefits despite climatic conditions.

2XU Compression fabrics also offer the highest clothing sun protection factor of UPF50+ to protect your skin from the sun when training outdoors.

For those seeking even greater warmth and insulation in particularly cool conditions, we are pleased to offer a range of Thermal Compression garments.

Our high performance products carry a 12 month warranty against fabric or manufacturing faults. Taking heed of the following tips will ensure you get maximum life from your Compression garment. 

Caring for your 2XU Compression garments:

2XU Compression garments require careful washing to protect the fabric and enhance its performance life.  All 2XU Compression garments are engineered from powerful, technical and durable fabrics featuring world-class INVISTA LYCRA® fibre. 
 
That said, even world-leading fabrics have product lives. To ensure your 2XU Compression garments deliver optimal performance and durability, we recommend you take the following steps:

• Rinse in clean, cold water after a workout or swimming - sweat and chlorine will accelerate the degeneration of elastane
• Hand wash in cold water is recommended.  If using a machine, select a cold water setting for delicates.
• Use a mild detergent - strong detergents can accelerate the degeneration of elastane
• Do not bleach
• Do not iron
• Do not tumble dry
• Do not dry in direct sunlight.

Other care tips:
Please refer to the additional care instructions attached to your 2XU Compression apparel to ensure its life is maximized and warranty is not void.

Yes, you can wear your compression garments during swimming and other water activities, however keep in mind that chlorinated water will break down the elastane in the garments. After wear in chlorinated water, immediately rinse the garment in fresh, clean water to lessen this process. It is also recommended that you do this after wearing your garments in salt water.