Compression wearables have become increasingly popular among NBA players. This is not surprising. Basketball compression shorts help you perform better, recover faster and feel comfortable even during the toughest games. Be it a streetball 1 v 1, or a professional game, the best NBA compression pants elevate your game to the next level.
In this article I will recommend the three best compression shorts for basketball. I will give you an extra recommendation. This extra is a value choice, one that is available for a low price, but gives you the necessary support, recovery and circulatory benefits the best NBA compression pants must have.
If you want to know about other compression products for basketball, you can read more about the best basketball compression socks here. We also reviewed a few spandex shorts for running.
Champion Men's Powerflex Compression Short
It is not an accident, that the first item on the list is a pair of basketball compression shorts from Champion. The history of the brand is intertwined with the NBA.
This is a snug, tightly fitting pair of basketball shorts. It is comfortable, made with flat lock seams so they don't move while you are dunking and jumping. The elastic waistband makes sure the shorts stay in place on your legs all the time.
These pants are best for casual players. They are created for thin, but not too muscular players. The snug fit of these NBA compression pants help the blood circulate quicker through your veins. Your muscles get more oxygen, less lactic acid gets produced. The amount that gets produced is cleared from the muscles sooner.
These NBA compression pants are machine washable. They are made of a soft mix of spandex and nylon. The inside of the pants has a mix of cotton and mesh to give you better ventilation. The shorts come with the signature quick-dry Champion Vapor technology. This evaporates moisture from the skin.
Available in 11 colours total. An excellent snug, lightweight pair of compression shorts that allows you to be your best on the court.
Nike Men's Pro NBA Compression Shorts
Nike is one of the most reliable manufacturers of compression garments. This is no different when it comes to streetball shorts or NBA compression pants.
Made of a soft mixture between polyester and spandex, these basketball shorts come with DRI-FIT technology. The inside of the shorts have mesh added to it for more breathability.
These NBA compression pants have around mid strength compression. You don't need to fear any side effects, but you can definitely feel them compress your legs.
They can be worn as underwear, but not as shorts on their own. They are a little bit see-through for that purpose.
Made with a six-inch inseam. They keep the short in place while you play. The elastic waistband adapts to your body type.
Several reviewers tell that they are even more comfortable than UnderArmour shorts. They give you an excellent range of motion, while the compression aids with blood circulation.
Some reviewers say they are thinner than most compression shorts for basketball. They fit your legs like a second skin. For this reason if you are a little big boned, or you are in doubt, choose a size larger model than you normally would.
CompressionZ Men's NBA Compression Pants
The CompressionZ NBA compression pants give you protection during prolonged exercise. Then they help heal your muscles, clearing the waste materials through the blood stream. It prevents the quads and hamstrings from aching.
These basketball compression shorts have the strongest compression out of all those reviewed. The material puts 20-30 mm Hg pressure on your legs. This is the strongest compression range you can get without prescription. Say goodbye to soreness, muscle fatigue.
Made with anti-odor, anti-stretch and antibacterial material. This gives you the necessary comfort and hygiene needed during difficult basketball games. The material is great both in hot and cold weather. In hot it cools down the skin, while in winter games it keeps the heat inside.
These shorts can be used as boxer briefs. They are non see-through. Machine-washable, the anti-stretch material stands up excellently to being washed.
The anti-stretch material fits you perfectly. It will feel like a second skin on your body. The flat lock seams prevent sliding. You can jump, dribble, pass and score as much as you want, these NBA compression shorts will stay in place.
The company is so confident in the quality of these streetball compression shorts, that they offer a 100% money-back guarantee. If you are not satisfied with the product, they will return your money, no questions asked.
Neleus Men's 3 Pack NBA Compression Shorts
These NBA compression shirts made it onto the list due to their low price. They are decent shorts, and you get three pairs for the price of only one.
They are made of a comfortable spandex/nylon mix. They don't cause any skin chafing or irritation. Streamlined, soft and lightweight, their construction is really great for the price. The lightweight, but firm compression helps you give your best on the court.
If you are looking for quality compression shorts to play basketball for a cut price, these are excellent options.
Frequently Asked Questions about NBA Compression Shorts
Do they ride up on the legs while playing?
No, all the models recommended in this article have flat lock seams. They make sure the shorts stay on your thighs.
Which size compression shorts should you choose?
Always check the sizing table on the Amazon product page. If you are unsure, look at a few reviews. Most of these shorts are manufactured for thin people. If you are very muscular or a bit heavy, consider choosing a bigger model.
What is the price range of NBA compression pants?
The cheapest models start around ten dollars on Amazon. But you can go up to fifty dollars per pair if you want high-end NBA compression shorts.
What compression strength do they have?
The best NBA compression shorts can have anywhere between light (5-10 mm Hg) to very strong (20-30 mm Hg) compression. If you have a history with injuries, or you play every day, I recommend the strong compression models. If you play every once in a while, light compression is enough.
Can you use NBA compression pants for both street ball and indoor basketball?
Yes, the best NBA compression pants are made of materials that help control your temperature. (Read more about this here) They keep your skin cool during hot summer days, and hot in the winter. No matter in what weather conditions or temperature you use them, they help you give your best.