We had finished our review of compression socks a few weeks back. Zensah missed the test window and we decided to pick it up here as it turned out they’re highly recommended by some of our readers. And I’m glad I listened!
Zensah sent me a seamless compression shirt and a pair of compression leg sleeves to wear test.
Zensah Seamless Compression Shirt
Even the slightest seam can create irritation during a long run. The Zensah seamless compression shirt is created with seamless construction and patented ergonomic tailoring that provides the second skin fit. It is made in Italy for superior quality.
This high-performance compression shirt also blocks odor and protects from UV rays. It will keep you cool and dry with its moisture-wicking fabric.
What is like best about this shirt is that sweat (and I do sweat a lot) is not concentrated on one spot – it gets distributed and actually cools faster. Notice the breathable panels in the middle (where my sweat usually collect) of the back and arm pits – perfectly vented IMHO 🙂
Zensah’s seamless compression shirt is made of 85% Polyamid (Nylon) and 15% Polyester.
MSRP: $40 (product provided by manufacturer)
Zensah Compression Leg Sleeves
Zensah compression leg sleeves are made with Zensah Fabric which has silver ions helping to regulate skin temperature and fight bacteria. The compression leg sleeves can be worn during training or for recovery to increase oxygen blood flow to the muscles of the lower leg. The more oxygen the muscles receive the faster they recover, allowing athletes to push the envelope in their training. The Zensah compression leg sleeves are unique in that they provide Pin-Point Compression to the front and back of the leg.
A first from all the compression socks we have tested – Zensah’s compression leg sleeves sizing is based on your calf size AND height. This is really interesting because they may appear out of place when they are too short or too long on your legs. I probably should have requested a longer one rather than one that matches my height – I would have preferred about an inch longer. With options, you nit-pick more 🙂
Additionally, Zensah has more color choices (Technicolor) than even CEP Compression for their compression leg sleeves!
MSRP: $40 (product provided by manufacturer)
Our Conclusions
Zensah has proven to be a worthy provider of compression apparel and I would rank it just behind (really close) CEP Compression for compression leg and calf sleeves strictly because the fabric felt looser after two weeks of wear and tear. Otherwise it is a tie.
Zensah’s seamless compression shirt also top all the other compression shirts that I currently wear from Under Armour and Starter because sweat does not pool in one spot as did all the others – period.
Caution: Compression Leg Sleeves
As I had mentioned in our compression socks review, compression leg sleeves are not meant to be worn for long periods of time – 2 to 3 hours maximum time is recommended. They are designed for short runs and field sports.
If you notice that your feet is swelling because the blood is pooling there, take them off. Do not wear them for long car rides or airplane rides – wear full compression socks instead.
Update 2/23/10:
I’ve confirmed with Zensah that their compression leg sleeves can be worn for long periods of time without concern. Certain levels of compression require a prescription for use but not Zensah.
http://www.zensah.com
If you have a product you’d like reviewed, contact me at info@weartested.org
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