Compression Shirts: What You Need to Know Before Wearing Them

Within the wide range of men’s shapewear, compression shirts stand out as one of the most popular garments. Thanks to their multiple benefits, they are used both in sports and daily life. Designed to fit tightly to the body, these shirts provide support, enhance performance, and improve posture. If you’re thinking about getting one, here’s everything you need to know to decide if it’s the right choice for you.

Why choose a compression shirt?

If you’re debating between a vest-style shapewear or a compression shirt, here are the main benefits of choosing the latter:

Boosts athletic performance

Compression shirts promote better blood circulation and improved muscle oxygenation, allowing your muscles to work more efficiently. They also help reduce muscle spasms during exercise, delay fatigue, and increase endurance.

Reduces muscle soreness

The applied pressure enhances circulation, which helps flush out lactic acid and toxins from the muscles. This leads to faster recovery and less post-workout pain or stiffness.

Muscle support

By keeping muscles firm and stable, compression shirts provide essential support to muscles and joints, reducing the risk of sprains and common sports injuries.

Thermoregulation

High-quality fabrics used in compression shirts help maintain an optimal body temperature. They are especially useful in warm climates, as they wick away sweat and allow the skin to breathe—often performing better than traditional shapewear in this regard.

Posture improvement

A snug fit also promotes better posture, supporting the shoulders and back. Good posture not only enhances athletic performance but also prevents daily aches and discomfort caused by slouching.

Common materials used in compression shirts

Men’s compression shirts are made from materials that provide elasticity, durability, and comfort. The most common include:

• Powernet
  One of the most advanced fabrics, and the same used by Galess in compression shirts and Colombian shapewear. Powernet is a blend of nylon (polyamide) and elastane (spandex/lycra), offering excellent stretch, strength, and long-lasting compression. It adapts to different body shapes while wicking away sweat, keeping skin dry during intense workouts.

• Spandex
  Also known as elastane, it is highly elastic and durable. While its use has decreased compared to Powernet, it is still combined with polyester or nylon to improve resistance and provide a comfortable fit.

Tips for using compression shirts

To get the most out of this garment within the men’s shapewear category, follow these recommendations:

• Choose the right size: it should fit snugly without restricting movement or causing discomfort. Avoid buying a smaller size, as it may lead to musculoskeletal injuries.

• Proper care: follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Generally, wash by hand with cold water or use a gentle machine cycle, and avoid fabric softeners that damage elastic fibers.

• Combine with other compression wear: such as shorts or leggings, to provide uniform support during sports activities.

• Start gradually: if it’s your first time wearing one, begin with short periods and gradually increase the duration so your body can adapt.

• Stay hydrated: compression influences circulation and body temperature, so drinking plenty of water is essential to prevent dehydration.