Baselayers for basketball

Compression in Basketball

Basketball players often wear compression garments under their jersey and shorts: short or long sleeve undershirts, three-quarter or long tights, arm sleeves. These fitted base layers support the muscles during jumps and sprints, limit muscle vibrations, keep the muscles warm and wick away sweat. Many NBA players have popularised them on the court.

The rest of the textile

Basketball textiles are also available in:

• Jerseys.
• Shorts.
• Bras.
• Socks.
• T-shirts and Polos.
• Tracksuits.
• Accessories.

All the textile is gathered on the textile page.

The Peak P-Cool Jersey

The Peak P-Cool compression jersey, from the Chinese basketball specialist brand, is made from a cooling technical fabric that wicks away heat and sweat during effort. Close-fitting, it hugs the muscles without restricting shooting and dribbling movements. Worn under the match jersey, it keeps the upper body dry, even during the most intense games, and limits the friction of the jersey against the skin.

Choosing the right ones

You choose your compression according to your measurements: tight enough to support the muscles, without restricting breathing or circulation. The three-quarter tights, worn under the shorts, support the thighs and protect the knees from friction on the floor. The arm sleeves keep the shooting arm warm. You wash compression garments at thirty degrees, without fabric softener, and dry them in the open air, away from a source of heat that loosens the fibres.

Good deals

Good bargains can also be found in good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and dispatched within 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: Black Friday at the end of autumn, the end-of-year holidays, winter sales, spring French Days, followed by summer sales and back to school.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are arm sleeves for in basketball?

They keep the arm warm, protect the skin from friction during contact and falls, and provide slight compression. Many shooters also find a reassuring feeling of support when shooting.

Long tights or three-quarter tights under basketball shorts?

The three-quarter covers the knees, protects them from burns when falling on the court and leaves the calves free. The long tights keep the legs warmer in cold gyms.

Does a compression garment improve performance?

It limits muscle vibrations during jumps and sprints and offers good support, which can reduce fatigue. It does not replace training but improves comfort and helps with recovery.

How do you choose the size of a compression jersey?

It should fit snugly against the skin without wrinkles, and not restrict breathing or shoulder movements. Between two sizes, go for the smaller size for true compression, the larger if you mainly want a comfortable undershirt.

Can you wear a compression undershirt in an official match?

Yes, undershirts, tights and sleeves are allowed, but regulations generally require them to be the dominant colour of the kit and identical for the whole team. Check your league's regulations.