Compression Skins

I use "compression" base layers - basically because I use my ski base layers for cold weather cycling. None of it is necessarily ski-specific, other than brand ... some is "football" inspired". Some pieces have more compression than others and some are just "form fitting".

Wicking properties for moisture transport are optimal when fabric is in direct contact with the skin, so I select all base layer to be "snug" . No scientific evidence,to prove it, but I feel less muscle fatigue when wearing compression. My initial objective was to optimize moisture/insulation performance, but muscle support turned out to be a nice benefit. I do find that it isn't comfortable to wear compression layers when sitting idle, so I usually remove soon after cycling/ skiing.

Thanks for the reply, I was refering to the 'form fitting' as a 'basic base layer', just didn't pick the correct wording.

I can imagine it would feel a bit like an all over elastic bandage & can understand why you say it's not comfortable when not active.

You say 'I feel less muscle fatigue when wearing compression', was it obvious the first time you wore compression or something you noticed over time? Do you use both top & leggings or just one of those (which one)?

Would be nice to hear the views of others, both for and against.

The "sensory input" is a first time thing. As you say, much like wearing an all over elastic bandage. If you're familiar with the sensation of "pumped muscles" from weight training or strenous athletic activity, it gives that type of "tight" sensation without the hard work. [IMG]/img/vbsmilies/smilies/biggrin.gif[/IMG] You'll have more sensory input from opposing muscle groups and all movements work against a slight bit of resistance. Depending on how tight the compression, it can "assist" with better posture/alignment which may play a part in the feeling of less fatigue.

I suppose the "scientific" argument is that the compression adds a little extra tissue "squeeze" during movement to help work lactate out of muscle tissue. I've never researched to see if there is accepted peer reviewed data to validate the concept.

When cool weather starts (low 50's F as a high temp) I often wear a sleevless top under my jersey As temps drop into the 40's I switch to a long sleeve top and a compression shin "sock" typically worn for football. On rides where temps will stay in the 30's I add a form-fit base layer under my riding shorts.

I had a chance to ride 45 miles or so with Chris Horner from Radio Shack in a charity 100 ride in early October. He wore a textured tight fitting base layer LS top and full leg bottom under his RS kit. Didn't recognize the material as anything I have seen at an LBS or online. Looked "technical". The day started out around 37F and ended up close to 60F. He seemed comfortable wearing the base layer the entire time. I wore a compression sleeveless under my SS jersey and standard cycling shorts and was chilly at first, but a little on the warm side as the temp approached 60F. Don't think I could have comfortably worn Chris' base layer. Did not ask his reason for wearning it.

Quoted post said:

Originally Posted by Mak'em Lad [IMG]/img/forum/go_quote.gif[/IMG]

Thanks for the reply, I was refering to the 'form fitting' as a 'basic base layer', just didn't pick the correct wording.

I can imagine it would feel a bit like an all over elastic bandage & can understand why you say it's not comfortable when not active.

You say 'I feel less muscle fatigue when wearing compression', was it obvious the first time you wore compression or something you noticed over time? Do you use both top & leggings or just one of those (which one)?

Would be nice to hear the views of others, both for and against.