Compression shorts improve muscle performance and help prevent injury. Wearing a pair as part of your soccer kit should be a no brainer for even semi-serious players. If you play a high-impact position, like goalkeeper, compression shorts with integrated padding, called sliding shorts, are the most comfortable way to wear some light padding to protect you when you dive and slide.
Read on for our top picks for the best compression shorts and soccer sliding shorts, plus our complete guide to what to look for in good compression shorts. You can find high-performance soccer gear on Storelli.com with a great range of soccer gear for men and women.
Our Favorites
- Best Overall for Impact & Flexibility – Storelli BodyShield Impact Sliders
- Best Compression Shorts for Goalkeepers – Storelli BodyShield GK Sliders
- Best Sweat-Wicking Base Layer – Nike Pro Long Dri-FIT Shorts
- Best Lightweight Compression for Hot Weather – Under Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts
- Best Compression Shorts with Cup Protection – Shock Doctor Compression Shorts w/ BioFlex Cup
Product Reviews
Best Overall for Impact & Flexibility – Storelli BodyShield Impact Sliders
BodyShield Impact Sliders are designed for players involved in the most aggressive parts of the game, whether they be goalies diving for a save or field players known for dramatic steals. They offer both compression to enhance performance and padding on the hips and thighs to absorb impact when hitting the ground. The shorts themselves are made from abrasion-resistant material that protects against turf burn and won't tear easily. These soccer sliding shorts are ideal for field players who need both mobility and impact resistance.
Pros:
- Hip and thigh padding for dives and slides
- Abrasion-resistant outer fabric that won't wear out too quickly
- Comfortable compression that keeps everything in place
Cons:
- Can be hot in warm weather
- Not designed for a cup
Ideal For: Defenders, aggressive midfielders, and sliding players
Where to Buy: Available at specialty gear retailers such as Storelli.com
Best Compression Shorts for Goalkeepers – Storelli BodyShield GK Sliders
BodyShield GK Sliders are designed specifically for goalkeepers, who need extra protection as they dive to make that save. Padding around the thighs and tailbone absorbs impact without adding bulk, and there is a cup pocket for optional protection. These shorts can be coupled with a range of youth goalie gear to protect younger players, and the breathable material is ideal for comfort.
Pros:
- Advanced padding on the hips and tailbone
- Durable fabric that protects against turf burn
- A good level of elastic compression
Cons:
- Extra protection means extra bulk
- Come movement restriction
Ideal For: Goalkeepers at any level seeking reliable protection
Where to Buy: Shop directly at Storelli.com for the best selection
Best Sweat-Wicking Base Layer – Nike Pro Long Dri-FIT Shorts
Unsurprisingly, Nike delivers high-performance compression shorts that are both stylish and effective, boosting your confidence on the pitch. These long 9-inch shorts have a smooth and stretchy feel that's made to perform for all your favorite sports and activities. They are made from Dri-FIT technology for moisture management and all-day comfort. Ideal as a base layer for training or matches when you want compression and sweat control without the weight and bulk of padding.
Pros:
- Dri-FIT technology pulls away sweat
- Comfortable lightweight material
- Limited seems to rub against the skin
Cons:
- No padding or impact protection
- Can wear out quickly
Ideal For: All-position players needing sweat control and layering
Where to Buy: Widely available at Nike and sports retailers
Best Lightweight Compression for Hot Weather – Under Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts
Designed for warm-weather play, these compression shorts from Under Armour offer excellent breathability and stretch, without sacrificing support. The innovative fabric wicks away sweat and dries quickly; there are strategic ventilation panels where you need them, and anti-odor technology keeps you fresh during intense workouts. Ergonomic design keeps seams off high-abrasion areas and increases durability. Plus, there is a useful drop-in pocket for easy storage.
Pros:
- Designed to keep you cool and ventilated
- 4-way stretch for maximum flexibility
- Anti-odor to avoid smelly kit
Cons:
- Not designed for impact or abrasion protection
- Thin material that will wear out
Ideal For: Players training in hot climates or using as a base layer
Where to Buy: Found at Under Armour outlets and general sportswear retailers
Best Compression Shorts with Cup Protection – Shock Doctor Compression Shorts w/ BioFlex Cup
These shorts combine compression with groin protection using a removable BioFlex cup, ideal for youth players or high-contact positions. Core flex pocket design and integrated cup lock keep a cup in a natural position. These soccer compression pants are breathable with dual mesh fabric for maximum ventilation. They are constructed with supportive four-way stretch and chafe-free flatlock seams.
Pros:
- Comes with a special BioFlex cup
- 4-way stretch for full mobility
- High breathable design
Cons:
- Not everyone enjoys the cup fitting
- No padding in impact zones
Ideal For: Goalkeepers, youth players, and defenders in aggressive play.
Where to Buy: Available online and through sporting goods stores.
How to Wear Compression Shorts for Soccer
While a lot of people understand the theoretical benefits of compression shorts for sports performance, too many people don't use their gear correctly, and so miss out on them. Here is what you need to know about actually using your compression layers.
1. Wear as a Base Layer
Compression shorts should be worn as a base layer, directly against your skin. This is the only way that they can provide direct compression to your muscles. If you wear them over anything else, you are creating discomfort and reducing performance. The compression should improve muscle oxygenation and reduce muscle vibration, which reduces muscle fatigue, and you'll produce less lactic acid.
2. Match the Type to the Activity
Not all soccer compression shorts are the same, and there are specialist options designed for different types of players and situations, such as training wear. While standard compression is what most players need, goalies and high-impact players can benefit from padded soccer shorts, also called "impact sliders" or "soccer sliding shorts." These offer padding as well as compression to give extra protection when diving to make a save or a spectacular shot at goal. Padded soccer shorts should be considered essential goalkeeper protective gear.
3. Choose the Right Fit and Length
For your soccer compression gear to have any impact at all, it has to fit right. As mentioned, if they’re too tight, they can be uncomfortable and cut off blood flow. If too loose, you won’t get the compression benefits, such as reduced muscle oscillation and muscle swelling. A correct fit should feel like a second skin that applies even pressure across the muscles of the thighs and glutes. Follow sizing guides closely when buying soccer compression gear online.
4. Care and Washing Instructions
Proper care is essential to maintain the elasticity of your compression shorts and the protective padding of sliding shorts. Always follow the manufacturer's specific washing guidelines. But in general: use cold water and a mild detergent, avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, and air-dry instead of using a machine dryer.
5. Combine with the Right Gear
For a complete and comfortable performance base layer, combine your compression shorts or soccer compression pants with other high-quality soccer gear. A full base layer, no matter if it's men's soccer gear or women's soccer gear, could also include soccer compression shirts and moisture-wicking compression socks.
6. Replace When Needed
Your soccer compression shorts won't last forever. The elastic will wear out over time, and padding will lose its shape. How often you need to replace your compression clothing depends on use, but as a weekly player, you can expect to buy a new pair of compression shorts every 6-12 months. You'll know when because they'll feel less snug and there may be signs of fabric wear.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Compression Shorts
Compression shorts should be standard kit as they give you a performance boost and help protect against injury. Sliding shorts with additional padding are also essential for some players, especially goalkeepers who spend a lot of time diving. There is no reason not to take advantage of these simple, performance enhancing options.
The right style of compression shorts for your depends on your position and how you like to play the game. Whatever you choose, they should be good quality and fit well. If you are looking for top-of-the-range options, explore the collection available from Storelli.com.
FAQs
Are compression shorts good for soccer players?
Yes, compression shorts are great for soccer players and should be included in any modern kit bag. Compression shorts can boost performance and help prevent muscle injuries through supporting blood flow. Plus, they are also moisture-wicking and can also pull sweat away from your body.
Who makes the best compression shorts?
There are many excellent compression shorts out there, many made by the biggest brands such as Nike and Under Armour. They use advanced technology to offer a comfortable fit and ideal levels of compression. If you want padding for impact protection, upgrade to Storelli's BodyShield range.
What do pro soccer players wear under their shorts?
Most pro soccer players wear compression shorts under their uniform shorts, or padded soccer shorts if they are playing a high-impact position, including in goal. These reduce sweat for more comfortable gameplay and boost muscle recovery to help them prepare for their next game.
