Thermal Stylin' w/2XU
"Disclaimer: I received a pair of 2XU Hyoptik Thermal Compression Tights as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"
I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to test multiple products from the performance wear brand 2XU, which makes awesome gear for both men and women. I've tested the Elite MCS Compression Tights and received two pairs of compression socks to try out.
So when the opportunity to try out a thermal compression tight from 2XU came about, I was ecstatic! Living in the Midwest (where winter can sometimes last almost 5 months of the year!) I have always had challenges with running outside because of the cold and snow.
Hyoptik Thermal Compression Tights have a brushed thermal lining that adds warmth without adding bulk or excessive thickness. I was curious to see how 2XU was going to accomplish a warm tight that wasn't overly thick - I've tried out fleece-lined tights that simply felt too bulky to be running in/working up a sweat while wearing.
While they are slightly thicker than the Elite MCS Compression Tights, it really isn't by much. They feel slightly thicker when being worn, but not excessively so.
Another addition was the Hyoptik reflective patterns on the legs of the tights. I'm all about safety when running and making sure that others (especially drivers) can clearly see you. The reflective logos make it easy to be seen when running early in the morning or later in the evening when available light is minimal but you still wanna get your run done outside.
I did several (shorter) runs in the cold weather we've had over the past few weeks. I would say that, for Wisconsin, these tights are good for weather down into the single digits as long as the wind chill doesn't put the temps in the negative. If the temps are that low, I would suggest using the Hyoptik Compression Tights as a base layer and wearing one more (light) layer over them to cut the wind. Overall I was comfortable in them and kind of love that these do not have a drawstring (the Elite MCS Compression Tights do come with a drawstring).
I usually wear leggings of some sort underneath my scrubs at work because I am ALWAYS freezing. On the super chilly days we've had, I wear these a) to keep warm and b) for additional motivation to get my workout in when I get home! (That second goal is very hit or miss.)
For those of you who are winter runners, I would say these are 100% worth the price and 2XU has been running some awesome promos lately on their website.
2XU is sponsoring #BibChat this Tuesday, January 26th at 8 pm CST on Twitter. Come join us and there might even be an awesome giveaway!
Places you can find 2XU: