I recently reviewed 2XU compression tights and I was impressed by what I found. It is now my goal to try as many compression products as possible to try and determine which if any may offer some training or race benefit. This is not a scientific study by any means, just one guy’s opinion based on my current training demands and years of experience trying the “latest and greatest”; if I thought it might improve my performance legally.

I have been hesitant to run in calf-guards in public for fear that the fashion police would immediately swarm “swat team style” for my blatant disregard of one of my favorite phrases; “you’ve got to look good, to feel good”. So suffice it to say the majority of my non-scientific study of the merits of the 2XU calf-guard has been limited to my treadmill, or worn underneath tights as I brave the winter elements (and try and avoid the fashion police) here in Bend. This weekend however, I brazenly debuted this compression-chic at the Footzone winter race series #3 and they once again showed me their worth.

Perhaps even more than the tights I tried, the compression effect of the 2XU calf-guards are immediately noticeable. I believe the flexibility of this product, both literally and figuratively, makes this a must have for any hard training triathlete, cyclist or runner. I have come to “need” these calf-guards for all of my intense workouts. I have found that whether I am doing hard intervals on the bike or a 5km run like the one noted above, I am definitely less sore in the days and workouts following those that I have worn the calf-guards. I have experimented with a few compression socks (which I will review in the future), but absolutely would only consider the calf-guard for actual triathlon race implementation. The socks I have used are quite difficult to put on and I can’t imagine trying to put them on with sky high heart rate and wet feet that would normally be found in T2. These calf-guards on the other hand, can easily be worn during the swim or be put on quickly in transition.

The 2XU Compression Calf Guards are made of exceptional quality like all of the other products that I have seen from this manufacturer. The 50 denier lycra is not overwhelmingly tight but certainly offers a high level of support to hard working muscles. The stitching is durable and the style and graphics are the best I’ve seen in available compression gear.

Although I was skeptical early on, I am definitely becoming a believer in the compression movement. And who knows, if I can keep training at such a high level thanks to these calf-guards, I may even be able to out run the fashion police!

Who should buy them?
A. Anyone training with repeated high intensity or high volume workouts. In training, I can’t see how they can hurt and I know from experience that they can help.

How much do they cost?
A. 2XU Calf Guards suggested retail is $54.95

Where can I buy them?
A. 2XU Compression Gear, Apparel and Wetsuits are available at www.worldtri.com and other top multi- sport retailers.