How to Wear Compression Shorts | Fit, Layer, Avoid Bunching

For the full breakdown, see our best Compression Underwear For Men guide.

The right way to wear compression shorts is simpler than most guys think: skip the underwear, pull them up slowly, and smooth the fabric flat before you move. The initial tight feel is normal, and a proper fit means the shorts work the way they’re meant to—supporting your muscles during training instead of bunching up or cutting off circulation.

The Correct Way To Put On Compression Shorts

Nike’s official guide for compression shorts lays out a straightforward process, and the key is patience rather than speed.

The one mistake that causes most fit problems is pulling the shorts on too quickly. When you rush it, the fabric can crease and bunch in the leg and crotch areas. Instead, follow this order:

1. Step into the leg openings one leg at a time.
2. Pull the shorts up to your waist, adjusting the rise so the crotch seam sits comfortably in place.
3. Smooth the fabric flat against your thighs and around the waistband to remove any bunching.
4. Move around for a few seconds—squat, bend, walk—to let the fabric settle into place.

After a few minutes of wear, the compression should feel secure rather than binding. The snug sensation at first wear subsides as the fabric adapts to your body shape.

Should You Wear Anything Under Compression Shorts?

No underwear. Compression shorts are designed to be worn alone against the skin—they are the base layer, and putting anything beneath them defeats the purpose.

Wearing underwear underneath creates extra bulk, traps moisture against your skin, and can cause the compression layer to bunch up during movement. If you want more coverage, the right approach is to add a layer on top: loose shorts or pants over the compression shorts, not more layers underneath.

Sizing And Fit: What “Right” Feels Like

The right size is your regular size, chosen for a firm, full-body fit. Under Armour’s men’s compression line—which includes the HeatGear® Compression Shorts and the 6″ Compression Shorts—sells in standard letter sizing, and both Nike and Under Armour steer buyers to their usual size rather than sizing up or down.

Here’s what a proper fit feels like:

• Firm but not painful: the shorts should press evenly against the skin.
• No roll-over at the waistband: the band should lie flat and stay put.
• No digging in: overly tight compression at the leg openings can restrict circulation.
• No bunching in the crouch area: the fabric should lie smooth when you stand and when you move.

If the shorts feel excessively tight or you notice deep red marks after a short period of wear, that’s the sign of a size too small or a design that doesn’t fit your body type—either way, it’s worth trying the next size up. The goal is “optimum muscle compression,” as Under Armour describes it, which means enough support without pressure that cuts off blood flow.

When And Why To Choose Compression Shorts

Compression shorts serve a distinct purpose in your workout gear rotation. They reduce muscle vibration during exercise, keep you dry by wicking sweat rather than holding it against your skin, and prevent chafing during long runs or heavy leg days.

If you’re weighing compression shorts against other support options or want to compare a few proven pairs side by side, our tested roundup of the best compression underwear for men breaks down the top contenders by fit, fabric, and durability.

One honest note on choices: compression shorts and compression underwear are close cousins. For a guy who only needs light support during a workout, the short works. If you want something that stays put through a full day or under work pants, a dedicated compression undergarment is the more practical buy.