what are compression shorts for?

Answer 1

The theory behind compression shorts was that by compressing the muscle tissue you get better performance, since the muscle tissue was held more in place and therfore less prone to stress injuries. There was also some speculation that they help prevent the build up of waste products that results from muscular contraction. None of it's ever been really proven, except in studies that the manufacturers paid for.

Here's a link:

www.mamashealth.com/apparel/comshorts.asp

Since this forum truncates web addresses, the last half of that link is

apparel/comshorts.asp

Don't waste your time on them.

Answer 2

Compression shorts are shorts designed for athletes that "squeeze" muslces during activity. The theory is that they separate the muscles and provide warmth so you are less prone to injury and fatigue. Some say that they help reduce chaffing and irritation. None of this has ever been proven.

Cycling shorts do look like compression shorts, but they are designed more for comfort. Having loose fitting shorts on the bike can be awkward when mounting, dismounting or riding agressively. Additionally, they do provide the same portection against chaffing as do compression shorts.