The Best 15 Under Armour Compression Pants For Active Kids in 2023

The Best 15 Under Armour Compression Pants For Active Kids in 2023

Focus on Fabric Technology Like HeatGear and ColdGear for Comfort and Performance

When shopping for Under Armour compression pants, pay close attention to the fabric technology. Under Armour uses innovative textiles designed for athletic performance, with key options like HeatGear, ColdGear, and Armour fabrics. The material your child’s pants are made from affects the comfort, stretch, breathability, sweat-wicking, and warmth they provide.

HeatGear is an ultra-light, breathable fabric that wicks sweat and dries incredibly fast. It’s perfect for hot weather activities or sports where your kid builds up a sweat. The four-way stretch allows for full mobility while the moisture transport system pulls perspiration away from the skin. Antimicrobial technology helps prevent odor causing microbes from growing.

For cold weather, Under Armour’s ColdGear fabric uses a thermo-conductive inner coating to absorb and retain body heat while circulating air to manage moisture. Smooth flatlock seams prevent chafing while the material’s four-way stretch maintains a full range of motion. ColdGear compression pants keep muscles warmer, allowing for better endurance and recovery.

Armour fabrics offer a blend of compression, sweat wicking performance and anti-odor technologies. The material contains anti-odor technology to prevent bacterial growth. Silicone waistbands grip the body while streamlined panels reduce abrasion and irritation. Armour compression pants promote accelerated recovery time between training, practices or games.

Consider the environment and weather conditions where your child will wear their Under Armour compression pants. Choosing the fabric technology best suited for hot or cold temperatures will maximize comfort and prevent overheating or chilling. Prioritize breathability and sweat-wicking performance for active kids.

Opt for Compression Pants with 4-Way Stretch for Full Mobility

When shopping for youth compression pants, be sure to look for options made with 4-way stretch fabric. This allows the material to stretch horizontally, vertically and diagonally for a full range of motion. Compression pants with 4-way stretch will flex and move with your kid’s body, unlike standard 2-way stretch fabrics.

The unrestricted mobility offered by 4-way stretch is ideal for active kids playing sports. As they run, jump, squat, lunge and pivot, 4-way stretch compression pants will keep up with their movements. The fabric’s bidirectional stretching prevents resistance or restriction during dynamic activities.

Compression pants made of material lacking 4-way stretch can cling, gap, pinch or limit your child’s movements. This becomes even more apparent when fabrics get wet from sweat or weather. But 4-way stretch compression pants continue providing a stay-put fit with zero distractions or adjustments needed.

Four-way stretch compression pants also aid muscle recovery after exercise thanks to the steady, gentle pressure of the fabric. This helps stimulate blood flow to the muscles, delivering oxygen and nutrients while flushing out lactic acid buildup. Supporting muscles this way helps them recover faster.

Look for descriptions like “4-way stretch” or “mechanical stretch” when shopping Under Armour’s selection of youth compression pants. This feature optimizes the pants for athletic activities compared to standard 2-way stretch leggings or pants. Prioritizing 4-way stretch offers better comfort, performance and mobility.

Under Armour’s high-quality fabrics like HeatGear, ColdGear and Armour stretch in four directions to better mimic and flex with the body. Compression pants made with these advanced textiles move better, breathe better and offer better recovery than typical activewear.

While some youth compression pants cut costs by using basic fabrics lacking 4-way stretch, performance-focused brands like Under Armour incorporate this mobility-boosting feature. Pay close attention to product descriptions when shopping and look for confirmation that the pants offer 4-way stretch.

Choosing compression pants specifically engineered with 4-way stretch ensures your young athlete stays comfortable and experiences zero restriction when playing their sport. The dynamic fit and feel creates a distraction-free experience so they can focus on performance.

Look for Antimicrobial Protection to Prevent Odors and Bacterial Growth

When buying compression pants for your active child, prioritize options that offer antimicrobial protection. This innovative technology prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria on the fabric. It provides a fresher, cleaner compression pant that controls odors.

Antimicrobial protection is added during the manufacturing process at the fiber level. This causes the fabric itself to resist microbes, rather than simply masking odors with fragrances. Silver ions or other antimicrobial agents bind to the fabric fibers to inhibit bacteria growth.

This technology prevents the odor-causing bacteria from building up over time with repeated use and washings. By controlling bacteria growth, antimicrobial compression pants stay fresher for longer versus standard activewear.

Kids build up a sweat when playing sports or exercising. Damp fabrics provide the ideal environment for microbes to multiply rapidly. This causes unpleasant odors that attach to the fabric. Antimicrobial technology stops this bacteria proliferation in its tracks.

Beyond controlling odors, inhibiting bacteria growth also promotes better hygiene. Reducing microbes on your child’s compression pants helps minimize any skin irritation or infections caused by bacteria. This is especially important for kids due to their developing immune systems.

Brands like Under Armour use anti-odor technologies like PureTech to treat fabrics. Their loose-fitting compression pants inhibit unfavorable bacterial growth and the resulting odors it causes. Ditching distractions like unpleasant smells allows kids to better focus on their game or activity.

Consider how frequently your child wears their compression pants between washes. Odor protection becomes increasingly important the more often the pants are worn between launderings. Even after washing, antimicrobial options resist building up odors again.

Shopping for junior compression pants with antimicrobial properties ensures they stay fresher longer. This helps kids feel more confident and comfortable out on the field or court. Keeping odors at bay also makes the pants more pleasant to wear and wash repeatedly.

Along with considering the fit, fabric technology and stretch capabilities, be sure to check that your child’s new compression pants also offer odor fighting antimicrobial protection. This innovative technology inhibits the growth of smelly bacteria.

Evaluate Moisture Wicking Capabilities to Keep Kids Dry

When buying youth compression pants for sports, check that the fabric offers effective moisture wicking capabilities. This performance feature pulls sweat away from the skin to keep your child dry and comfortable.

Moisture wicking is crucial when active kids work up a sweat. As compression pants absorb perspiration, the moisture wicking technology transports it from the skin’s surface to the fabric’s outer layer. Here it can evaporate for faster drying.

Fabrics lacking adequate moisture wicking will simply absorb sweat, remaining damp against your kid’s skin. This leads to discomfort, chaffing issues and slowed evaporation. It also promotes bacterial and fungal growth in damp fabrics.

However, compression pants with moisture wicking technology actively pull perspiration through the fabric while dispersing it across a larger surface area. This allows sweat to evaporate significantly faster than just absorbing it.

Moisture wicking also prevents sweat from pooling in certain areas. It spreads sweat evenly across the fabric so it dries uniformly. This prevents wet, clammy spots from forming on your young athlete’s pants.

Brands like Under Armour enhance moisture wicking performance even further in fabrics like HeatGear. It whisks sweat away from the body while proprietary Thermo-Dynamics technology circulates air to accelerate drying. This amplifies moisture wicking abilities.

Consider the fit of the compression pants as well when assessing moisture wicking performance. A too-tight fit restricts airflow while a too-loose fit inhibits the wicking fabric from absorbing sweat from the skin.

Look for descriptions like “moisture wicking”, “sweat-wicking”, or “rapid dry” when shopping for youth compression pants. Prioritizing this feature helps maintain comfort, prevent overheating, minimize odors and speed up drying time.

Allowing sweat to linger on your kid’s skin negatively affects their performance, comfort and focus. But compression pants with sweat-wicking technology actively pull moisture away for a dryer athletic experience.

Moisture wicking compression pants are crucial for young athletes who build up a sweat. Check for sweat-wicking descriptions to keep your child dry, odor free and comfortable on the field or court.

Find Styles Made Specifically for Your Kid’s Sport

When shopping for youth compression pants, look for styles designed specifically for your child’s sport. Major brands offer compression pants tailored for baseball, football, soccer, lacrosse, hockey, basketball and more.

Sport-specific compression pants incorporate design elements ideal for that activity. This includes strategically placed pads, optimized ventilation zones, and fabrics selected for the demands of that sport.

For example, baseball compression pants feature added padding on the knee for sliding protection. Football pants incorporate thigh and hip pads to shield against impact. Basketball compression pants utilize lightweight, breathable fabrics for indoor play.

Sport-specific compression pants also utilize colors and styles matching that activity’s uniforms. This allows young athletes to coordinate their look for games and practices. Brands like Under Armour make coordinating compression pants for most major team sports.

Consider the climate and environment where each sport takes place as well. Cold weather sports may prioritize insulating warmth while hot weather sports focus on breathability.

Think about the types of movements and impacts involved too. Sports with lots of sliding and diving need abrasion-resistant fabrics. Sports with potential bodily contact need padded zones for protection.

Exposing growing kids to harsh elements or impact without the right gear raises injury risks. Well-designed, sport-appropriate compression pants help minimize these hazards.

Before buying any old compression pant, think about your child’s primary sport or activity. Then look for pants engineered for those specific needs. Major athletic brands design their pants for peak performance and protection across different sports.

Don’t settle for basic one-size-fits-all compression pants. Seek out pants tailored with features, fabrics and designs boosting both performance and safety for your young athlete’s sport.

Protecting your child starts with compression pants created for their sport’s unique demands. Sport-specific pants let kids play hard while minimizing risks specific to that activity.

Wear a Moisture-Wicking Base Layer Under Compression Pants

For optimal performance and comfort, have your child wear a moisture-wicking base layer underneath their compression pants. Combining compression with a sweat-wicking foundation maximizes activewear benefits.

Baselayer tops and bottoms absorb sweat and pull moisture away from the skin. This keeps your young athlete drier while preventing chafing from wet compression pants. It also eliminates friction between skin and compression pants.

Moisture-wicking base layers also provide an extra layer of insulation. This helps regulate body temperature – cooling when hot and retaining warmth when cold. Managing temperature better prevents overheating or chilling during activities.

Select a form-fitting baselayer to maximize these benefits. A loose base layer won’t effectively wick away sweat from the skin. It could also bunch up and cause discomfort under compression pants.

Match the base layer’s sleeve length to weather conditions. Choose short sleeves for hot environments and long sleeves for colder conditions. For especially cold temperatures, consider adding a second long-sleeve base layer.

When shopping for a moisture-wicking base layer, look for light, breathable fabrics like polyester, nylon or spandex blends. These effectively pull sweat from the skin while minimizing heat retention.

Antimicrobial properties in base layers also help control odors, even with compression pants on top. This prevents bacterial growth when sweat gets trapped against skin.

A base layer protects your kid’s skin from repeated washing and wear of compression pants. It also makes compression pants more comfortable against bare skin for all-day wear.

Using a moisture-wicking base layer improves compression’s functional benefits. The base layer manages sweat and friction so outer compression pants work optimally.

With a base layer on, compression pants can better stabilize muscles, increase blood flow, and reduce fatigue. A base layer is the ultimate compression pants companion.

Choose Vibrant Colors and Fun Prints to Appeal to Young Athletes

When shopping for youth compression pants, opt for vibrant colors, patterns and prints that appeal to young athletes. Fun designs make kids excited to wear their compression gear.

Major brands like Under Armour offer compression pants in lively colors like bright blues, neon greens, vibrant oranges and bold purples. These energizing shades motivate kids to be active and have fun.

Compression pants also come in colorful patterns like camouflage, tie-dye, and geometric or nature-inspired prints. These unique looks make young athletes feel like they’re suiting up for adventure.

Let your child have input on color and design choices to boost excitement. Provide a selection of different options to find their personal preferences.

Younger kids tend to favor bright primary colors and bold graphics. Preteens and teens often like understated designs and darker shades. Give them options to find what reflects their personal style.

Vibrant compression pants also increase kids’ visibility for certain sports. Bright colors make them more noticeable to teammates, coaches and officials on the field or court.

For team sports, look for compression pants in team colors like school hues. Matching team colors helps build a sense of unity and gets kids hyped up for game days.

Even neutral-colored compression pants tend to use colorful accents and logos. These energetic pops of color look fun without overpowering the entire garment.

Steer clear of boring black, brown or grey youth compression pants. Seek out shades and designs that bring energy and enthusiasm to your kid’s athletic activities.

Fun compression gear makes kids excited to train, perform and compete. Vibrant colors and cool designs help young athletes look and feel their best.

Prioritize Wide, Comfortable Waistbands That Stay Put

When buying compression pants for young athletes, look for options with wide, comfortable waistbands that stay put without digging in. Waistband comfort is key for all-day wear.

A thick waistband spreads compression across a wider surface area. This prevents the pinching or binding discomfort thinner waistbands can create, especially when active. Wide waistbands offer gentle compression.

Stretchy waistband fabrics also add comfort. Waistbands made from the same 4-way stretch performance fabric as the pants themselves flex naturally with the body. This reduces constriction.

Features like internal drawstrings or elastic further enhance adjustability for just the right fit. These allow kids to customize waist tension to their comfort level.

Consider the height of the waistband as well. Compression pants with a mid or high-rise waist sit above the navel and hips for better coverage and stability while moving.

Make sure the waistband grip is strong enough to stay in place but not so tight it digs in or bunches. Longer waistbands around 7-9 inches minimize rolling or sliding.

Avoid low-rise waistbands which can expose the midriff and require constant readjusting. Look for coverage that stays put through active play.

For all-day wear, waistband comfort ensures compression pants don’t become a distraction. A wide waistband made from flexible, stretchy fabrics provides just the right compression without discomfort.

Test waistband tightness and adjust sizing accordingly. The waistband should fit snugly without pinching or constricting breathing. Your child should be able to wear their pants comfortably all day long.

A comfortable, stay-put waistband is crucial for youth compression pants. Seek wide waistbands made from flexible fabrics that provide just the right compression and coverage.

Focus on Durability for Active Kids

When selecting youth compression pants, prioritize durability. Kids’ activewear needs to stand up to rigorous play, competition, and frequent laundering.

Look for abrasion-resistant fabrics that won’t pill or fray with repeated wear. Reinforced flatlock seams add structural integrity to high-stress areas prone to tearing.

Synthetic fiber blends like polyester/spandex provide durability and shape retention over many washes. Natural fibers can stretch out and degrade faster.

Quality compression fabrics are engineered for resilience and longevity. Premium brands test materials extensively for sustained performance over time.

Consider thicker fabrics with a tighter knit for greater durability. Though lightweight fabrics boost comfort, they sacrifice some ruggedness.

Compression pants designed for sport-specific demands better withstand impacts and stresses associated with that activity. They hold up to game-level performance.

Kids are constantly on the move and in the thick of the action. Their compression pants need to allow free movement without premature breakdown.

Reinforced knees, hems and seams add durability to high-abrasion areas. Strategically placed pads and protective panels also strengthen pants.

Washing and drying procedures impact longevity as well. Follow care instructions to prevent damage. Avoid bleach, high heat drying and fabric softeners.

Investing in performance-grade compression pants made with durable fabrics will maximize the product lifespan. Quality youth activewear withstands rugged play and laundering.

Prioritizing durability ensures compression pants last your active kid multiple seasons. Sturdy construction prevents tearing, pilling and breakdown from youth sports wear and tear.

Select Weather-Resistant Pants to Block Wind, Cold and Rain

When shopping for youth compression pants, consider weather-resistant options to protect kids from the elements. Features like waterproofing, insulation and wind resistance optimize pants for harsh conditions.

Water-resistant compression pants incorporate durable water repellent (DWR) finishes that cause moisture to bead up and run off the fabric. This keeps kids dry in damp, rainy weather.

Insulated pants feature soft, brushed interior linings that trap heat and retain body warmth. These thermo-conductive materials block wind and chill to prevent hypothermia.

Wind-resistant fabrics utilize tighter weaves and synthetic materials to minimize air penetration. This cuts the windchill effect that draws heat away from the body.

Cuffs at the ankle opening also seal out drafts and moisture leakage into the pants. Adjustable waistbands and ankle zippers customize fit for maximum protection.

Reflective accents and high-visibility colorways on weather-resistant pants improve safety in low-light winter conditions. This makes kids more visible to traffic and teammates.

Consider the level of aerobic activity as increased ventilation needs may override weatherproofing benefits. Balance warmth with breathability.

Exposure to cold, wind and wetness rapidly steals body heat and leads to hypothermia. The right weather-resistant pants protect young athletes from these dangerous elements.

Check weather forecasts before games, practices and outdoor activities. If cold, wet or windy conditions are expected, select compression pants offering necessary protection.

Gear up your active kid with weather-resistant compression pants when playing in harsh conditions. These innovative fabrics block the wind, rain and chill for safer outdoor play.

Consider the Right Length Based on Activity and Position

When buying compression pants for youth athletes, consider proper length based on their sport, position and personal preference. Knee-length, capri and ankle-length options are available.

Knee-length compression pants offer coverage and support for major leg muscles like the quads and hamstrings. The length allows freedom of motion for hip and knee joints.

Capri-length hitting mid-calf provides additional muscle coverage plus some protection from abrasion. A cropped fit prevents overheating.

Full-length compression pants deliver maximum muscle stabilization from hips to ankles. They also protect against cuts, scrapes and bruising.

Evaluate needs based on sport position too. Goalies and catchers may prefer full leg coverage while runners and midfielders often like knee-length flexibility.

Weather conditions factor into ideal length as well. Shorter capris allow ventilation for hot environments while full-length pants retain warmth in the cold.

Consider your child’s height when selecting length. Regular sizes often fit shorter kids as cropped pants. Tall sizes ensure full coverage.

Trying on different lengths allows kids to choose what feels best for their sport and personal preference. Provide some options to find their perfect fit.

Avoid baggy pants that could impede movement and cause tripping hazards. Form-fitting compression maintains flexibility.

Choosing the optimal compression pant length boosts both performance and protection. Evaluate length based on your young athlete’s sport and needs.

Selecting the right length compression pant allows kids to play their best game safely. Knee, capri and ankle length all have benefits depending on the activity.

Match Team Jersey Colors for a Coordinated Look

When buying youth compression pants for team sports, match colors to team jerseys for a unified, professional look. Major brands make coordinating pants for this purpose.

Matching compression pants to team jersey colors demonstrates unity among players. It looks sharp for games and pumps up team spirit.

Brands like Under Armour design compression pants in colors of major sports team franchises. These allow fans to coordinate team pride across their activewear.

For local community teams, choose compression pants matching team jersey colors. Common youth sports jersey colors include red, blue, green and yellow.

If official team compression pants are unavailable, select neutral pants that complement jersey shades. Black, white and gray complement most colors.

Team compression pants also utilize the same hue but vary shade between jerseys and pants. Lighter jerseys over darker pants or vice versa works well.

Don’t overlook other garments like socks, sleeves and headbands too. Completing the uniform look from head to ankle amps up team spirit.

Matching compression pants is optional for practices but encouraged for game days. A cohesive look fosters team bonding and professionalism.

If your child’s team lacks an official compression pant, suggest a team buy to boost unity. Volume pricing makes this affordable.

Coordinating compression pants with team jersey colors looks great and inspires team spirit. Support your young athlete and their team with matching activewear.

Compression pants in team colors complete a uniform look for practices and game days. A coordinated appearance unites players as one.

Consider Hand-Me-Downs to Save Money as Kids Grow

When shopping for youth compression pants, consider hand-me-downs from older siblings or teammates as younger kids grow. Quality brands size their pants to accommodate growth spurts.

High-end compression pants utilize stretchy fabrics with enough give to fit a range of sizes. Tight-fitting pants often stretch to accommodate growing kids.

Adjustable features like drawstrings, ankle zips and waistbands allow fine tuning of the fit. Letting out hems provides length as kids grow taller.

COMPRESSION gear engineered for sport-specific demands retains performance through extended wear. Durable construction withstands normal use over time.

Gently worn, well-cared for compression pants often have plenty of life left as hand-me-downs. Skip purchasing new until absolutely necessary.

Consider how often and intensively the previous owner used the pants to gauge remaining lifespan. Light use compression pants likely have longevity left.

Set aside outgrown compression pants in good condition for younger siblings. They appreciate high-performance gear as hand-me-downs.

Teammates can also utilize hand-me-down compression pants if cared for properly. Coordinate as a team to save families money.

Before wearing previously used pants, always launder to sanitize them. Check for signs of excessive wear and damage.

Take advantage of the inherent adjustability and durability of quality youth compression pants. Reduce expenses by maximizing hand-me-downs as kids grow.

Well-cared for compression pants often fit successive young athletes thanks to adjustable features and stretchy fabrics. Hand them down to save.

Know When It’s Time for New Compression Pants

While hand-me-downs can save money as kids grow, also recognize when it’s truly time for new compression pants. Replace old pairs that are worn out, ill-fitting or detrimental to performance.

Inspect used pants carefully before putting them into rotation. Look for thinning fabric, holes, loose stitching and breakdown in critical areas like knees or rear.

Excessive pilling, fraying and discoloration signal fabrics past their prime. These indicate fibers are breaking down and can no longer deliver compression.

Compression pants that lose substantial elasticity and fail to snap back into shape can’t properly stabilize muscles. Lack of rebound indicates exhausted fabrics.

Ill-fitting pants with gaps, sagging, or digging can hinder movement and circulation. Ensure used pants adequately contour the body.

Upgrade to new pants when hand-me-downs bunch, slide and need constant adjustment. Proper fit is crucial for compression benefits.

Advances in fabric technology, fit and performance also make new compression pants worth the investment over worn-out used pairs.

Budget accordingly to phase out old compression pants every year or two. Quality is essential for safety and results.

Let your young athlete test used pants to determine if replacement is needed for comfort and results. Prioritize quality.

While used compression pants can save money temporarily, replace pairs that are threadbare, ill-fitting or lack compression. Invest in new pants periodically to protect your child.

Care for Compression Pants Properly to Maximize Durability

To get the most out of your youth compression pants investment, properly care for them by following these best practices:

• Wash in cold water to avoid damage from hot temperatures.
• Air dry or tumble dry on low to prevent heat degradation.
• Use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent to minimize fading.
• Don’t use fabric softener which can inhibit moisture wicking.
• Turn pants inside-out when washing to protect the outer fabric.
• Avoid overloading the washer and dryer to reduce pilling.
• Pre-treat any stains to prevent setting in wash.
• Remove pants promptly from the dryer to avoid shrinking.
• Mend small holes immediately to stop enlargement.
• Hand-wash delicates like printed compression pants.

Following care instructions prevents premature breakdown of compression’s effective fabrics and features. Take steps to maximize lifespan.

Inspect pants after washing for any issues needing attention. Make minor repairs as needed.

Storing compression pants properly is also important. Fold pants smoothly instead of rolling and place in breathable fabric bins. This maintains elasticity.

With proper laundry and storage habits, youth compression pants deliver many seasons of high performance and protection for young athletes.