Compression shorts
Compression shorts are undergarments usually worn by athletes. They are form-fitting and when worn cover the athlete's waist to mid or lower thigh. These garments are often made from a spandex-type material, similar to cycling shorts.
The main benefits of compression shorts are that they keep the muscles warm to prevent muscle strain, chafing and rashes, fatigue, and to wick sweat away from the body. In addition, there is some evidence that compression shorts may enhance athletic performance. [1] They may also be used as a way to keep the male genitalia in place in the same way briefs do.
There are also other types of compression garments that serve a similar function, such as compression t-shirts, socks, sleeves & tights. Common brands are Nike, Under Armour, Skins, McDavid, and Adidas.
More recently, jockstraps have fallen out of favor with young athletes, and garments such as compression shorts have seen an increase in popularity, arguably because of their comparable function and less embarrassing looks.[2]
Compression shorts are also popular among female athletes, especially among those who wear skirts or kilts during games. In those situations, athletes wear compression shorts under the skirt so if they fall over, the skirt does not ride up, potentially exposing the underwear. This is seen particularly in Women's lacrosse, a no contact sport where player often wear skirts. In this situation, compression shorts are also known as spandex.
References
- ^ Doan BK, Kwon YH, Newton RU; et al. (2003). "Evaluation of a lower-body compression garment". J Sports Sci. 21 (8): 601–10. PMID 12875311.
{{cite journal}}: Explicit use of et al. in:|author=(help); Unknown parameter|month=ignored (help)CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link) - ^ ""Where have all the jockstraps gone?". Slate Magazine (2005-07-22).
See also
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