Article by Ben David, Alexandra Zvezdin,Courtney Kelly, Jennifer Schmidt, Mike Postaki, and Sam Winebaum
In the article, the RTR team tests and reviews Swiss brand Compressport’s Racing Socks 4.0, Ski Mountaineering Socks, Winter Trail Under Control Tights, Trail HZ LS Tshirt, and Trail Race 2-1 Shorts .
If you are not familiar with Compressport they were pretty much the original endurance sports compression brand starting with calf sleeves and high socks for tri and now have branched out to apparel and other run accessories, all featuring their unique variable knitting capabilities and high performance fabrics.
Also please read our reviews of Compressport’s Hurricane Windproof (RTR Review) and Waterproof 10/10 (RTR Review) running jackets.
Pro Racing Socks 4.0 ($23 many colors now on sale $18)
Ben: I had the pleasure of testing a pair of Compressports’s premier trail running socks. The Pro Racing Socks v4.0 Trail retail for $23 per pair and come in eight different colorways.
The Pro Racing Socks v4.0 Trail offer “different dot thickness for targeted protection in key areas.” The Compressport website also notes that these socks include “tough terry cloth padding (which) covers all the toes to dampen impacts on fast, jarring descents.” It is indeed a highly protective, very comfortable sock and can be worn I imagine for hours on end with no problems or concern.
I can confirm that I had no concerns about blisters on any of the runs when I wore these. The claim is also that the sock’s DNA includes increased “venous return” thus delaying fatigue on the run. It’s hard to say for sure whether that was evident for me, though I felt really good running in them. The dots are certainly noticeable and could be too noticeable for some, though not for me.
In the end, I found the socks to be extremely comfortable and supportive. They have a snug fit to be sure, both protecting and securing the foot through the stride. This is a sock that is highly conscious of the entire foot and lower leg, from the padding beneath the foot, to the protection at the heel, up through the ankle and Achilles, where there are “3D.Dots” for added protection and support. The same dot technology is found underfoot. The overall result is a highly advanced sock that cradles and comforts the foot, almost to the extreme. Compressport is clearly a company very mindful of the needs of runners in the real world.
These socks rise just above the Achilles and - for me - will work best in colder temperatures and on moderate trails. As the Compressport site notes: “Higher than the Run Sock, the trail version offers increased protection to the lower leg and ankles, with more durable fabrics to resist the tests of nature.” I found them to be perfect for running through the woods here in the Philadelphia area in the frigid month of January. They hold in place beautifully, no movement either within the shoe, or any sliding down at the top of the sock. That said, even if these are somewhat thicker, I imagine they work in various climates, even warmer temps. They are, according to the website, “as tough and durable as you are.” I really enjoyed them and highly recommend.
Comparisons:
Incyclence Ultralight Crew Socks:
Ben: Incyclence makes bold, flashy, fun socks that are also very much performance-based. They do not have nearly as many “bells and whistles” as the Compressport models. They err on the side of simplicity, which I generally prefer. I found the Incyclence to be highly streamlined, easy and comfortable, and maybe a touch less complex (and intrusive) than the Compressport.
Feetures Elite Light Cushion Mini Crew:
Ben: Feetures is of course a powerhouse in the sock and gear department. While their crew socks feel great, there is nothing overly compelling about them. They are simple, relatively affordable, and highly popular. For the runner looking for added protection and simply something more, Compressport is the winner.
Sam: I have long used Compressport compression sleeves and high socks as, after all, they were in the OG in the sport compression game starting first in tri.
In recent years they branched out into apparel as also covered in this review and lower socks using their expertise in elaborate knitting to create zones of breathability, support and cushion..
I tested the road Pro Racing 4.0 socks and they are among my favorites for all the reasons Ben enumerates above. They stay in place, breathe very well, absorbing very little moisture. While they are mildly compressive they are not over snug or uncomfortableI have never had any blister issues wearing them.
And as always with Compressport they are available in many, many fun colors.
Compressport Ski Mountaineering Full Socks - Black/Red ($50USD, 73.00 CAD)
Alex: I received a pair of skimo socks, which I’m super stoked with. Not to be superstitious but I’ve been racing in the same pair for the past two years…trying something new is long overdue!
Features:
The Compressport Ski Mountaineering Socks are a “full sock” landing about two inches (5cm) below the knee. They are designed for enhanced performance and optimal thermoregulation during skimo races. The malleolus are reinforced to protect from the boot pressure points. The arch has increased support for better venous return.
Fit:
Sizing is just right (I have a 25.5 mondo/39.5-40 EU/ 9US size foot and opted for a size T2), but I will say that given the mild compression these seem to be a bit looser around the heel for me. I don’t think sizing down would solve this and I did not experience any blistering due to this, so nothing to worry about so far.
Performance:
The thermoregulation part is well achieved. The composition is 88% polyamide and 12% elastance. This is a thin sock and no wool is present in the composition, but they kept my feet warm. I tested these in -17C and +3C and in both instances my feet were not too warm or cold. The back side of the sock is thinner around the calf and offers more coverage on the shin, a part often exposed to wind during descents and subject to boot pressure. Thermoregulation is definitely achieved by some interesting “body mapping” here. Well done!
The compression aspect is mild compared to what I am used to and the fit is not as tight around the arch of the foot and heel as some. I was worried about the 3D dot “bubbles” underfoot creating blisters as I tend to avoid any creases or extra fabric in my performance socks, especially for skimo race boots which are unforgiving fit-wise, but I have not experienced any discomfort.
Durability wise, the elastane on the back of the calf started to break off after the first wash (cold water), so let’s see how these fare for a full season of training and racing in my rotation.
The socks have a thinner almost mesh-like fabric on the calf and a thicker fabric on the shin and feet.
The Skimo socks are perfect for a performance fit and race boots.
Comparisons:
Dissent Pro Fit - Nano Tour: Another performance oriented skimo sock with significantly more compression but less breathability and thermoregulation. Expect your toes to get a bit moist with Dissent and stay dryer in Compressport. That said the more compressed fit around the heel and high calf compression is very much appreciated in the Dissent.
Smartwool Zero Cushion Ski Socks: A more casual and less expensive offering from Smartwool. Not specifically performance oriented and not a compression sock. Fit gets looser with time and might cause blistering in areas that move more in your liners (e.g. heels). Warmer and less smelly in the long run than both Dissent and Compressport. Yay wool! Plus super fun designs with Smartwool.
Winter Trail Under Control Full Tights ($180, $125 on sale now 01/11/25)
Features:
The Under Control Full Tights promise a women’s-specific fit, targeted compression, and a warm but moisture-wicking fabric for winter trail running.
Courtney: The Compressport Winter Trail Tight provides gender specific compression to help with fatigue resistance. The material composition of 49% Polyamide 45% Wool 6% Elastane makes these winter running tights warm and dry.
A cord style drawstring at the waist with 12 inches of extra on either side allows you to adjust the tightness. The rear pocket in the back inside of the tight provides perfect, secure storage for your phone.
The gusset of the tights is a thin elastic material. The fabric through the legs features a larger woven design through the thigh and gets smaller through the calf. The weave is somewhat transparent when stretched, so if you like complete coverage this is something to note.
The specialized compression areas on the quads are arched in an oval shape and are made of an almost sticky, shiny material that is said to provide support, reduce vibrations, and to activate blood circulation.
The tight also features well placed medium size reflective dots along the calf that provide great 360 degree visibility.
Fit:
Jen: I’m glad I was warned that Compressport runs small - usually I am in between an XS and S, I went with the S and could have easily gone to a M. The tighter fit probably took the “medium compression” up a notch, but the waist wasn’t uncomfortably restrictive. In fact, I thought the high waistband was one of the highlights of these tights, hitting just below the navel for a flattering fit and sporting adjustable drawstrings if the snug fit isn’t enough.
The construction of the Under Control Full Tights is almost like a thick pair of nylons, and is designed to minimize chafing. Small panels of a stickier fabric on the quads are part of Compressport’s signature compression.
Trail runners may fall into one of two camps with compression wear: true believers who will buy into the claims of enhanced fatigue resistance and accelerated recovery, and naysayers who can’t stand something constrictive around working muscles. The latter group probably won’t be won over by these tights: the compression is noticeable, especially when trying to move through a full range of motion. But they may not be the target audience anyway.
Courtney: Similar to Jen, I found these tights run small. The fit of these tights is quite snug through the leg area but fit fine on the thicker waist band. I would recommend going up a size as my range of motion felt inhibited by the compression. The tights feature a drawstring that can be tightened for a more secure fit. The inside of the tight is very soft, warm and comfortable in colder temperatures. The length of the tight sits right at my ankle (I am 5’4” for reference).
Performance:
Jen: The fabric is warm enough for winter running and comfortably soft. It does tend to snag on branches if you find yourself on overgrown singletrack, raising questions of durability, but the fabric has retained its stretch well through washings. The reflective spots are well-placed for highlighting a moving runner in the dark, and kind of a cute pattern to my eye. An interior rear pocket is large enough for a key and possibly also a gel, though it doesn’t have a zipper and isn’t designed to carry all that much.
My minor quibbles would be to make the sizing more consistent with other brands, add a zipper to the rear pocket and move it to the exterior, and possibly add some side pockets for a trail-specific tight, but I enjoyed running and skate-skiing in these and will continue to reach for them throughout the winter. Overall, the Under Control Full Tights are a nicely constructed cold-weather choice that will appeal to fans of compression wear.
Courtney: After a bit of tugging to get them on, these compression tights are a good winter run companion. I did 12 miles in them at an easy pace, but my range of motion felt pretty limited due to the compression especially given my naturally longer stride. When I’m doing a workout with speed I prefer a thinner, stretchier tight or even shorts with more layers on top in cold weather.
The tights are very warm yet breathable. They kept me dry and comfortable with a softer almost plush interior of Prolen Yarn. They also did not retain odors. I appreciate the drawstring for a just right fit, but with the loose ends I worry it could get lost in the waistband. A stretchier continuous drawstring might be a better option. Like Jen, I really appreciate the reflective features on the calves for safety.
Overall, I would choose these tights for a colder, easier run, but they would not be my first pick for speed days.
Comparisons:
CEP Cold-Weather Tights
CW-X Endurance Generator tights
Compressport Trail HZ LS Tshirt ($150)
Sam: Very form fitting in my usual medium and high performing on the run, the HZ is made in Turkey of an unusual blend of 73% Polyamide 27% Merino Wool. It absorbed very little moisture and while thin due to its excellent temperature regulation, was very comfortable and especially later in runs. It dried very quickly.
I went with my usual medium and found it to be short up front and to a lesser extent at the rear, riding up more than I liked (Note: my top was a women's Medium so no surprise!
A super high tech form fitting base layer the HZ is one of the highest performing cool to cold weather base layers I have ever tested.
It paired perfectly for runs below freezing with Compressport’s Hurricane Waterproof 10/10 Jacket.. This super light stretchy jacket (RTR Review) is very windproof, moderately water resistant and incredibly breathable.
Mike P (small): I guess Sam and I have different builds haha, but for me, the Trail HZ in size small fits much looser than the other pieces I received also in size small. The torso is quite boxy and loose fitting for me, while the arms are a touch short. For me, it’s too loose in the torso to be an effective baselayer, so I’ve been using it as a midlayer. This is fine, as the merino blend material adds some warmth to my typical thinner base layers. The quarter zip is also a good feature for a midlayer.
When I did test the HZ LS as a baselayer, it didn’t wick as much moisture as I expected. I had it underneath a light jacket (not the Hurricane windproof as that one is too tight on me), and it was noticeably damp and felt heavy towards the end of the run. This could be due to the ineffective loose fit on me - hindering wicking.
Of the three Compressport pieces I received, this is the only one that I would not recommend, especially given the price (I would highly recommend and endorse the Hurricane Windproof and the Trail Race 2-in-1 shorts). The sizing is just off in relation to the other items, especially since they do advertise it as a baselayer. How am I supposed to use it as such, when the Hurricane windproof in the same size small is so much tighter? Anyways, it will be an effective mid-layer for me.
Courtney: You know those winter runs where you step out the door and you are absolutely freezing so you put on your long sleeve, your down coat, gloves and headband? About two miles into the run you become hot, restricted and desperately wishing you had gone out in less layers. You stuff the accessories in the pockets, tie the coat around your waist and pray nothing falls out (there goes those splits you were hoping to hit).
This shirt is definitely not that. I definitely will reach for this shirt time and time again to ensure a great winter run.
Features:
This women’s long sleeve winter running trail shirt is designed to keep you warm and dry, and works with the runner from start to finish. The shirt features 73% Polyamide and 27% Merino Wool. Both materials are designed to be lightweight and naturally thermoregulated. The body mapped mesh areas of the shirt which are featured between the shoulder blades on the back of the shirt and through the back side of the arm down to the wrist allow extra ventilation.
The half zip feature is a great option as you can unzip as you warm up throughout the run. I did tend to pull the sleeve of the shirt down over my hand to keep my hands a bit warmer when I was without gloves. I wonder if a thumb hole feature would be a nice addition. I like the purple-heathered color of this shirt as it is visible against snow or on the roads, but I would love to see other color options as well.
Fit:
I found this shirt to be fitted, but not overly tight. It has a bit more stretch than a purely wool top. The HZ hits a bit shorter at just above my hips (I am 5’4”, 110lbs for reference and my sample was XS), but it pairs nicely with higher rise leggings. I like a shorter fit on the torso, so it works quite well for me.
The design of the mesh is not only an effective ventilation panel, but it is also flattering on the figure.
Performance:
I love how this top performed out on the roads and trails. It’s seamless knit and felt very comfortable. With just a vest over it, I was able to run very comfortably in cold weather. The shirt is very soft with no areas of chafing. It is lightweight and allows the body to move naturally. The half zipper is strong enough so there is no sliding wherever it sits. I was surprised to find the “smell test” held strong with this shirt and it does not retain odors.
Trail Race 2-in-1 Shorts ($85.00 $125.00 as of 01/11/25)
Mike P (small): I was pretty shocked when I pulled a pair of white shorts out of the package - I was assuming it was probably a jacket, and seeing the shorts, I had to do a double take. I’m a huge fan of all things light colored (including shoes) because the summers are blazing hot here in Idaho and I’m running in pretty much fully exposed conditions. Anything to reflect heat is good, but shorts is kind of where I drew the line.
After running in the Trail Race 2-in-1 shorts, I’ve definitely reconsidered my position - well, at least for this model.
It features a subtle “Sugar Ice” color/pattern which is subtly off white, i.e. not bright or straight fluorescent. The inner liner (mid-boxer length) is bright yellow, adding a subtle background color behind the overshort. I’m not sure if the pictures truly do it justice, but it’s really a great looking short. Probably my favorite right now.
Check out the shorts in some testing footage HERE
Sizing-wise, I do have a size small and I’d say it’s just on the very edge of being snug for me. I am 5'10" / 178 cm , 138lbs / 62.6 kg. The inner liner is soft and compressive, but perhaps a bit too much for my preference. I’d say, as with the Hurricane windproof, it leans towards a small, Euro fit. I think ideally I’d have a better fit in size Medium - a bit less compression in the inner short, and a bit looser fit in the outer. But it looks so good I’m still gonna wear it.
Functionally, it’s kind of in between a regular pocketed running short and one of the newer integrated waist belt styles. It has the waist-belt style wrap around pockets (including the front), but they’re positioned below the waistband like a more regular running short setup. This makes them a bit less stable if you need to put heavier items in there. I think a few gels, and lighter extras like buff, gloves, chapstick, etc. and that’s about the functional limit. The rear zip pocket will hold a phone. The styles where the pocket area is extended higher up tend to have a more secure fit.
Overall this is an excellent all-around short from Compressport. Of course the color has totally converted me, and if you like a more streamlined running short setup (not the high waist pocket setup type), these are a great pick.
Shop for Compressport HERE
Samples were provided at no charge for review purposes. RoadTrail Run has affiliate partnerships and may earn commission on products purchased via shopping links in this article. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content. The opinions herein are entirely the authors'.
Tester Profiles
Alexandra Zvezdin is a ski mountaineering racer on Canada’s National team. She splits her time between Montréal and wherever skiing ISMF World Cups takes her. During the off season you can find her road running around the city or doing track intervals, although her preferred choice are the (be)east coast trails of the Adirondacks, the Whites and QC hills. She loves steep ascents (~26%) and technical ascents and dreams of chasing a short distance steep FKT one day if she can avoid to face plant in the process ;). On occasion she will pin on a bib for a road or trail race. Her favorite shoes are lean, light and fast shoes close to the ground. She was born in Moldova and grew up in Canada so you will find French and English reviews by her. You can find her on IG @whatforwho and on strava.
Ben is the Senior Rabbi of Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel of Elkins Park, PA. A cancer survivor, he has run 21 marathons. He holds PRs of 3:15 for the marathon and 1:30 for the half. At 46, he still enjoys pushing himself and combining his running with supporting a variety of causes. Follow him on Instagram: @RabbiBPD or Twitter: @BDinPA
Mike Postaski currently focuses on long mountainous ultras - anywhere from 50K up to his favorite - 100M. 5'10", 138 lbs, midfoot/forefoot striker - he typically averages 70 mpw (mostly on trails), ramping up to 100+ mpw during race buildups. A recent 2:39 road marathoner, his easy running pace ranges from 7:30 - 9:00/mi. From 2022-23 Mike has won the Standhope 100M, IMTUF 100M, and Scout Mountain 100M trail ultras, winning the Scout 50M in 2024. He also set a CR of 123.74M at the Pulse Endurance Runs 24H and completed the Boise Trails Challenge on foot in 3 days 13 hours, besting the previous record by 7 hours. Mike's shoe preferences lean towards firmer, dense cushioning, and shoes with narrower profiles. He prefers extra forefoot space, especially for long ultras, and he strongly dislikes pointy toe boxes.
Courtney Kelly, age 37 is a college lacrosse player turned avid runner. She lives in Manchester, MA with her husband and two daughters ages 4 and 8. Courtney signed up for her first 1/2 marathon the morning of the race in 2022, winning second place in a time of 1:26. She decided to take running a bit more seriously, joining Wicked Running Club and trying some training plans. She ran her first marathon this fall in 3:04:27. In addition, she holds a half marathon PR of 1:25, a 5 mile PR 30:17, and a 5k PR of 18:20. She looks forward to getting some more strength and speed under her belt this next season, before taking a crack at the marathon again. She is 5’4”, 110 lbs.
Jennifer Schmidt found trail running in her mid-20's and began dabbling on the roads a few years later. Trail 50k's and road marathons are nearest and dearest to her heart, but she loves chasing competitive and personal goals on any surface and over any distance. These days, you can find her primarily on the sweet California singletrack around Auburn and Truckee, usually averaging 70-95 mpw. Depending on the season, she also competes in the USATF road and XC circuits for Sacramento Running Association's racing team. She has a marathon PR of 2:41 and was recently selected as an alternate for the USA team for 50k world championships.
Sam is the Editor and Founder of Road Trail Run. He is in his 60’s with 2024 Sam’s 52th year of running roads and trails. He has a decades old 2:28 marathon PR. These days he runs halves in the just sub 1:40 range if he gets very, very lucky. Sam trains 30-40 miles per week mostly at moderate paces on the roads and trails of New Hampshire and Utah be it on the run, hiking or on nordic skis. He is 5’9” tall and weighs about 163 lbs, if he is not enjoying too many fine New England IPA’s.
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