Compression Sportswear Textiles

Compression sportswear applies graduated or uniform mechanical pressure (10–40 mmHg) to muscle groups through knitted elastane-polyamide or elastane-polyester fabrics, modulating venous return, proprioceptive feedback, and muscle oscillation to influence exercise performance and recovery. Circular-knitted compression fabrics (18–22% elastane, 78–82% PA or PET, basis weight 180–280 g/m²) deliver interface pressure calibrated by garment geometry, yarn tension, and knit structure — graduated compression socks apply highest pressure at ankle (15–20 mmHg) reducing progressively to calf (10–15 mmHg) following Laplace's Law (P = T/R). Electromyographic (EMG) studies show 15–25% reduction in muscle oscillation amplitude in calf muscles at impact, correlating with reduced delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) by 10–20% at 24–48 hours post-exercise (meta-analysis evidence level II). Performance benefits in endurance running: meta-analysis of 23 RCTs shows no significant VO₂max improvement but consistent lactate threshold delay of 3–8%, suggesting primary mechanism is metabolic waste clearance enhancement. Warp-knit stretch panels (PA/elastane jacquard, anatomically shaped, compressive zones 15–25 mmHg over targeted muscles) in cycling shorts and triathlon suits provide biomechanical support with aerodynamic surface integration. Seamless circular knitting (Santoni SM8-TOP2S) eliminates seam pressure points in compression shorts achieving pressure uniformity CV < 5% across targeted muscle zone. Warm-knit neoprene compression supports (2–5 mm, thermal conductivity 0.05 W/m·K) combine compression with joint thermal stabilisation for injury rehabilitation. Global compression sportswear market exceeds $5.2 billion.