Dramatically Improve Your Summer Running Performance! The Secret Behind the Graduated Compression of 2XU Tights

Summer in Japan grows harsher every year. Continuing to run in the scorching heat is no easy feat, making "how to run as coolly and comfortably as possible" a major theme for runners.

One brand in particular that has earned strong support from many elite runners is the high-performance sportswear brand from Australia, 2XU, with its summer-specific running tights.

Their latest model, Aero Mesh Compression Shorts, is already making waves as a piece that balances "coolness" and "performance enhancement" even in hot and humid conditions. We sat down with Sho Nishizaki from 2XU Japan to learn more about the secrets and functions behind this technology.

A "Second Skin" Created by One-of-a-Kind Knitting Machines

2XU was founded in 2005 in Melbourne, Australia, a powerhouse in sports.

"The brand name means X=Multiply, U=YOU—that is, 'double your potential' is our mission."

Founder Jamie Hunt, an accomplished triathlete competing in World Cups and other major events, was also a passionate "fabric nerd" involved in textile research.

After about 18 years of development, he created what can be considered the heart of 2XU—its proprietary knitting machine.

"This unique machine enables us to produce a special fabric that stretches in every direction—just like human skin. Even today, there are only a handful of these machines in existence, and only a few within the company know the secret behind the technology.

"Of course, this is something that could be patented, but patenting requires disclosure of information, so we have deliberately avoided applying for patents."

Thanks to this specialized material, 2XU tights achieve a perfect fit, like a "second skin," along with compression features that enhance athletic performance.

Powerful Compression for Faster, Easier, & Less Fatiguing Runs

The standout feature of 2XU running tights is their powerful compression capability. The tights' strong compression—so intense that some people say their legs almost cramp when putting them on—has a real purpose.

"The compression reduces muscle vibration, lessening wasted energy, and also helps prevent damage to the muscle fibers, lowering the risk of muscle soreness or injury.

"Additionally, our graduated compression design, which varies pressure across different areas, improves blood flow and helps reduce fatigue."

The "recovery force" of the material itself also boosts runners.

"The stretch-and-recover of the fabric translates into forward momentum. That's why we often get feedback like, 'I find it easier to take the next step naturally.' I personally run faster and breathe easier when wearing them. They also aid in recovery when worn after training."

Strong compression often makes gear feel restrictive or uncomfortable, but 2XU achieves outstanding comfort and freedom of movement thanks to fabric that stretches in all directions.

2XU's Superiority Endorsed by Third-Party Institutions

2XU’s effectiveness isn't just based on how it feels—the brand's functionality has been scientifically validated by independent organizations.

Experimental studies by the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) have proven that 2XU outperform other products in compression, flexibility, durability, and graduated compression capability.

"The studies also show that wearing 2XU can improve exercise endurance by 9% and reduce heart rate during 15 minutes of exercise.

"There are also reports that if worn for 60 minutes after exercise, the thighs slim down by 1.1 cm and calves by 0.6 cm. These tights are now used not only by runners but also by professional athletes in baseball, soccer, rugby, and many other sports."

To maximize these effects, choosing the right size is critical.

"It's vital to avoid sizes that are too big or too small. We provide a size chart, but since 2XU uses US sizing, we recommend opting for one size smaller than your usual Japanese size."

The Latest Model: Designed for Comfort in Extreme Heat

The newest release, Aero Mesh Compression Shorts, upgrades all of 2XU’s cutting-edge technology to be perfectly suited for the hottest summer conditions.

"These tights were developed based on the needs of runners who want something that keeps its functionality while allowing them to run cooler and more comfortably during summer training sessions. This season’s model, in particular, boasts advancements in four main functions.

"First is sweat absorption and quick-drying. Even if you sweat, it dries rapidly, so you always remain in a dry state.

"Second is contact cooling. Just by putting it on, you’ll feel a cool touch—and if you sweat or splash water on it, the fabric gets even cooler to the touch, making you feel even more refreshed. With ordinary fabric, pouring water on it makes it heavier, but this material dries so quickly you barely notice any extra weight.

"The next feature is its lightweight quality. Summer fabrics can easily feel heavy, but by using thinner materials, these tights achieve a lighter, airier wear.

"Last is the UV-cut function. With UPF50+, they’re also an excellent choice for women concerned about sunburn."

Although at first glance they might look hot, Nishizaki says that, in fact, running tights can actually feel cooler.

"2XU’s tights promote blood flow and warm up the body, while at the same time helping suppress rises in core temperature during summer workouts. If you’re exposed directly to harsh summer sunlight, your body temperature climbs rapidly, but tights help cut out ultraviolet rays and, with the contact cooling effect, you actually feel cooler.

"What’s more, since they also help reduce fatigue caused by sunburn, I actually recommend wearing them on hot days!"

This model, of course, also utilizes the loom developed by Jamie. Even when the fibers are changed, functional performance can be maintained—a testament to the impressive technology behind these tights.

Japanese Opinions Are Evolving Global Products

2XU is sold in 70 countries and beloved by athletes around the world, but feedback from the Japanese market is also shaping its products.

"The Japanese running market is regarded as extremely important, even by our headquarters. In fact, there are many products like the grip socks and slim-fit arm covers that were developed in response to requests from Japan.

"Next spring and summer, we’re planning to offer more support-type tights as well. Moving forward, we want to continue listening to the voices of both athletes and citizen runners, delivering ever-better products."

This year’s extreme summer heat is on its way once again. If you’re looking to run more comfortably, more enjoyably, and even faster — why not take that first step with 2XU’s midsummer tights?