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Which brand can handle injuries, fatigue, stuffiness, sunburn, and anything else?
When considering layering for the lower body when hiking, tights are often mentioned. Compression tights not only fulfill multiple important layering functions, but also provide the added benefit of compression recovery. For women hiking, they also offer injury prevention when wearing shorts or skirts, sun protection, and a fashionable look with attractive colors and patterns, making them an essential item for any season
our previous recommendation , compression tights have two main functions: "compression (pressure/gradual compression)" and "joint support (taping effect)."
Looking at this function alone, it may seem like there are only positive effects, but it's also true that the effectiveness of compression wear varies greatly from person to person. In this test, I would like to provide a thorough review of how it felt when I actually wore them and walked around. I am a woman who basically only goes on day hikes on weekends, and I hardly get any exercise during the week. Please keep this in mind when reading this article, and I hope you will find the compression tights that suit you best
Following on from my previous recommendation, in this review I will be focusing on ankle-length compression tights and looking at five different manufacturers and models in more detail
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Evaluation & Spec Comparison List
| Overall ranking | 1st place | 2nd place | 3rd place | 4th place | 5th place |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| item |  |
 |
 |
![SKINS Compression DNAMIC Long Tights (DK9906001) [Women's]](https://images-fe.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81XLb%2B82-dL._SS300_.jpg) |
![Mizuno BG 9000 Bio Gear Tights (Long) K2MJ5D02 [Women's]](https://images-fe.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/813Euz0Ox4L._SS300_.jpg) |
| Overall score (out of 100) |
83 | 81 | 80 | 78 | 74 |
| Reference price | 16,200 yen | 17,280 yen | 14,580 yen | 14,580 yen | 16,200 yen |
| Here is ◎ | Support |
Less fatigue |
Durable and breathable |
Comfort and ease of movement |
design |
| Here is △ |
Breathable and quick-drying |
Support and weight |
Comfort |
durability |
Ease of movement |
| Comfort (10 points) |
8 | 8 | 7 | 10 | 7 |
| Ease of movement (20 points) |
17 | 18 | 17 | 19 | 13 |
| Support ability (20 points) |
20 | 13 | 18 | 12 | 17 |
| Fatigue resistance (20 points) |
16 | 20 | 12 | 18 | 13 |
| Durability (10 points) |
7 | 7 | 9 | 5 | 7 |
| Breathable and quick-drying (10 points) |
7 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 |
| Design (10 points) |
8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 |
| UV Protection |
UV protection included *Details not disclosed |
UPF50+ |
UV protection rate of over 90%, UPF value of over 40 (when stretched 30%) |
UPF50+*Used in areas other than mesh |
UPF50+ |
| Specifications | |||||
| item | Wacoal CW-X STABILYX model (Revolution) | 2XU W's Elite MCS Compression Tights | C3fit Impact Air Long Tights | skins DNAMIC long tights | Mizuno Biogear BG9000 |
| Actual weight | 149g(M) | 157g(M) | 112g(M) | 143g(S) | 121g(M) |
| material | Body (cutout): 50% nylon, 50% polyurethane; Support part: 35% nylon, 35% polyester, 30% polyurethane | Main fabric: 65% nylon, 35% elastane; Partial fabric: 72% nylon, 28% elastane |
68% nylon, 32% polyurethane | Body: 76% nylon, 24% polyurethane; Mesh: 92% nylon, 8% polyurethane | 80% nylon, 20% polyurethane |
Individual Impressions
Wacoal CW-X STABILYX model (Revolution)
Recommended for those with knee or hip problems, or beginners who are not confident in their physical strength
This is my favorite place
The support from the waist to the calves, based on taping theory, is clear at a glance. The absence of seams also reduces weight
CW-X is an extremely well-known mountaineering compression tight. Its superior knee support, achieved through taping , not only prevents pain and fatigue even during long walks, but also provides a bouncy, explosive feel. While taping is often associated with injury support, it also serves to correct posture by limiting range of motion. The lines that extend from left to right, pulling up the meniscus from below, provide effective support for the knee, especially when descending , preventing it from collapsing and allowing you to brace yourself.
This posture correction is particularly effective when hiking, which involves repeating the same movements. If you see noticeable results, it might be a good opportunity to reassess your posture when walking. Of course, taping is also effective in preventing injury, rehabilitation, and preventing recurrence, so it's especially recommended for those who have knee concerns due to long periods of exercise
This is what I'm curious about
It depends on the pattern, but with tape that has lines, like the one I bought this time, the print tends to fade with repeated washing and rubbing the fabric is a bit thick , combining the best of both worlds: stretchy fabric provides compression while simultaneously supporting the joints . While it doesn't restrict foot movement during activities, it does lack breathability . I did feel a bit stuffy wearing it in the summer or rain.
Recommended for these types and scenes
This model is perfect for all-around use, from hiking to multi-day mountain climbing, regardless of the season
2XU W's Elite MCS Compression Tights
Recommended for those who want to do tough exercise such as multi-day mountain climbing
This is my favorite place
A comparison of 2XU and MIZUNO's BG9000. It can be seen that there is a difference of up to 5cm between the thighs. (The stretchability of the fabric varies depending on the product.)
2XU (Two Times You) is a well-known major brand of compression tights. Founded in Melbourne, Australia in 2005, this model's distinctive feature is its graduated compression, which reduces fatigue . When you actually wear it and move around, you can clearly feel the compression from your ankles to your calves, and from your calves to your knees, tightening from bottom to top.
Unlike pressure that is applied evenly across the entire foot, this type of graduated compression (gradual compression) is said by the manufacturer to promote blood circulation, expel lactic acid, and reduce muscle pain . This is purely my own experience, but even after doing exercises that would have definitely caused muscle pain the next day, I still felt a little tired, but no muscle pain. It was as if the flow of pressure from bottom to top washed away the fatigue. Personally, the compression I felt when wearing these socks was neither too tight nor too loose, which was the best feeling of all the ones I tried.
This is what I'm curious about
The fit around the hips and thighs was a little looser which was disappointing. When comparing the models this time, the difference in looseness around the thighs was noticeable. Although the elasticity of the actual fabric differs between models, the 2XU model was clearly loose around the thighs even before wearing it. 2XU compression wear is advertised as "wear that improves the performance of all athletes," so this may reflect the fact that it was developed with athletes who have well-developed thigh muscles in mind.
Recommended for these types and scenes
This model does not place emphasis on support for the lower back or knees, so it is not suitable for those looking for solid joint support in addition to graduated compression support. However, since the compression is not too tight and does not cause fatigue, this model is recommended for those who want to use it for tough exercise such as multi-day mountain climbing, or who want to wear it for long periods of time
C3fit Impact Air Long Tights
Recommended for those who want a good balance of lightness, ease of movement, and knee support
This is my favorite place
The 3D design creates a three-dimensional effect around the knee, providing both knee support and ease of movement
I chose this model from C3fit because it offers full support for the knees, hips, and thighs while also being lightweight. While products with seams that support the hips and knees tend to be heavy, this model offers both joint support and lightweight benefits
The 3D design allows the fabric to conform to your body even though it doesn't stretch much , so there's less of a feeling of restricting range of motion or compressing your legs, which is typical of models that prioritize joint support. While other models of compression tights restrict some range of motion to correct and support movement, bringing you closer to your ideal way of moving and achieving greater ease of movement than usual, this model corrects and doesn't feel like you're moving involuntarily , and it feels so natural and comfortable, like you're not even wearing tights, and you can experience a different kind of ease of movement compared to other models.
Compression tights achieve compression by stretching the fabric itself to cover the body, so as the stretch weakens, the effect fades, meaning they are generally considered consumables. However, this model, which still feels effective even with less stretch, has the potential to last longer, which is also a plus. Additionally, the fabric itself is made of dry mesh, so you'll stay cool and dry even when wet with sweat or rain .
This is what I'm curious about
On the other hand, one thing that concerns me is the fabric itself feels a bit stiff and crunchy . This feeling against the skin when worn may be a concern for some people. Another drawback caused by the lack of stretch is that is weak , meaning that you don't get the fatigue-reducing or spring-like explosive power that comes with it.
Recommended for these types and scenes
The dry mesh feature makes these pants ideal for summer hikes. Rather than relying solely on the comfort and joint support of compression tights for high performance, these are recommended for those who want to prevent injury while also building up their physical strength and muscle mass in preparation for the next level of fitness. Furthermore, this is the only model in this series that clearly states the warranty for rips, making it a pair you can use for a long time
skins DNAMIC Women's Long Tights
Recommended for those who want to wear them not only for mountain climbing but also for everyday use, yoga, and anytime
This is my favorite place
Stretch mesh panel. This mesh is used extensively from the ankle to the back of the knee. This area does not offer UV protection. The image shows a white cloth inside to make it easier to see
As the brand name Skins suggests, the fabric is incredibly soft and comfortable to the touch, like nothing is on your skin . No matter how you move, it follows your movements perfectly without any gaps or wrinkles. Even if you sweat, the fabric remains comfortable, so you can stay comfortable all the time .
Of the compression tights compared this time, only this model and the 2XU are described as "suitable for use while sleeping to provide recovery benefits." The other models are intended to be worn only during exercise and are clearly stated as "avoid wearing while sleeping." While these two models certainly did not feel restrictive even when worn for long periods of time, it the SKINS that I felt the least urge to take off . For this reason, we recommend using the SKINS, with its soft fabric, for a relatively relaxed day, including everyday wear, and the 2XU, with its performance-boosting, graduated compression, for those requiring toughness, such as for a full day of intense exercise.
This is what I'm curious about
This DYNAMIC series uses large stretch mesh panels from the calf to the knee, which may reduce its effectiveness in preventing sunburn and injury when hiking . I recommend wearing it under long pants, avoiding pairing it with shorts or a skirt if possible. The fabric is comfortable and soft, so it's likely to stretch more than other models and provide less compression. The elastic waistband, in particular, wears out faster due to frequent stretching. Regarding joint support, the fabric is soft, so I didn't expect much support for lifting the knees or preventing joint shaking .
Recommended for these types and scenes
The fabric is soft and comfortable to wear, making this a recommended model for those who want to wear it for everyday use and even during light exercise to prevent swelling and fatigue
Mizuno Biogear BG9000
Recommended for those who want to be mindful of their appearance and fashion even when exercising
This is my favorite place
Finishing the seam allowance at the ankle often results in a thicker garment, but this method achieves a completely flat finish, as if it were left unfinished
I chose the Mizuno Biogear trekking model, the BG9000. What I personally like about these socks is the seamless, flat cut . When wearing hiking boots over socks, even the slightest unevenness around the ankle can be a nuisance and cause rubbing and scratches, but this model's flat hem means you can wear them without worrying about unevenness.
Also, since it's hard to create variety in mountain climbing fashion, these are reversible and can be worn both ways. To make it easier to see that they're reversible, the photo shows one shoe in black and the other in blue (the colors and patterns are not different on the left and right). You can enjoy two different patterns with one model, so you don't have to worry about always wearing the same outfit.
This is what I'm curious about
The first drawback is that the transition from the crotch to the waist is extremely shallow, resulting in a lack of fit in the crotch area, which can restrict hip movement and hinder ease of movement. This poor fit in the crotch area is almost uncomfortable. Furthermore, Mizuno's unique adhesive method inhibits the fabric's elasticity, making it difficult for me to wear. I also didn't like the pressure it felt in the abdomen area, which is slightly higher than other boots due to the inclusion of pelvic support.
Recommended for these types and scenes
This is a recommended pair for those who want to look stylish even when climbing mountains. The fact that it comes in two variations, front and back, is a major benefit. Of all the models, this one offers the best support for the pelvis. The pelvis is located in the center of the body, and learning how to use it while walking is said to help correct misalignment and even promote weight loss. It supports the pelvis while covering the abdomen, so when you put it on, you'll feel your spine straighten and your posture improve
Summary of impressions (overall review)
After trying on five different models, I learned that trying them on is the most important thing. To be honest, there were some models I tried that I felt didn't fit my body well. Since the compression function is maximized when the garment covers the body snugly, care must be taken when choosing the size. If possible, it's best to visit a store and try them on to find a size that you can move around in. For each model, you should check the overall aspects such as compression, support, and comfort, based on the basic criteria of "fitting below the knee and behind the knee (doesn't slide down when you move, doesn't wrinkle too much)" and "there's no gap between the legs."
It's been several years since compression wear, said to have been developed as a way to combat economy class syndrome on airplanes, first became popular among mountaineers and runners. While the functionality of compression for root canals seems to have not seen any significant development or advancement, it seems the "purposes" people expect from compression wear have increased in various fields, including dieting, everyday use, and swelling reduction. I look forward to further analysis and advances in compression technology, which will likely change as the purposes expand. Also, as a female mountaineer who likes to wear shorts in the summer, I'm also looking forward to seeing improvements in the "appearance" of colors and patterns
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