Women's running compression with pelvic support: how to choose

Plenty of running shorts and tights are tight. Far fewer are designed to support your pelvis and lower back. If you feel pelvic or lower-back discomfort when you run, are returning to running after a baby, or play a sport full of landings and changes of direction, the difference matters.

This guide explains what pelvic support in a compression garment actually means, how to choose between shorts and leggings, and which styles suit training, game day and postpartum return to run. It is general information, so please see a physio if you have pain, leaking or a pelvic floor concern.

Why do women runners look for pelvic support?

Every running stride sends load through the pelvis, the joints at the back of the pelvis and the lower back. Hormonal changes, pregnancy, previous injury and fatigue can all affect how well that area copes. Court sports like netball add jumping, landing and quick turns. Many women find that firm support around the pelvis and lower abdomen helps them feel more stable while they train.

Performance compression or medical-grade CORETECH®?

Supacore makes two kinds of garments that suit runners:

• Performance and recovery compression, such as Venus, Rose, Vixen and the body-mapped 7/8 running leggings, built for training and recovery.
• CORETECH® pelvic and core support, such as Mary, Nina and Liz, with a higher waist and more focus on the pelvis, lower abdomen and lower back.

All use the patented CORETECH® waistband, and Supacore's CORETECH® garments are registered with the TGA. Learn more about how CORETECH® works.

What does "pelvic support" mean in a garment?

1. A waistband designed to support, not just hold up

The waistband does most of the work. The CORETECH® waistband is designed to wrap the pelvis and lower back so it supports the area rather than just keeping the garment up.

2. A waist that stays put

If the waistband rolls down mid-run, the support goes with it. Higher waists, such as Nina's extra-high waist, cover more of the lower abdomen.

3. Firm, even compression

Medical-grade styles state their compression on the product page. For example, Nina delivers 25 mmHg. Performance styles are firm and supportive for training.

Shorts, 7/8 or full length for running?

• Shorts: cooler, unrestricted for sprints, intervals, netball and summer runs.
• 7/8 leggings: add calf compression and suit longer runs and recovery.
• Full length: best for cool weather and all-day recovery.

Which style suits your goal?

• Training and racing: Venus shorts or the body-mapped 7/8 running leggings.
• Sprinting and court sport: Rose half quad sprint shorts or Liz netball shorts.
• More pelvic and core support: Mary or Nina.
• Postpartum return to run: Mary or Nina shorts once your physio has cleared you. Read returning to running after pregnancy and browse our postpartum range.

See all women's compression shorts or the women's CORETECH® collection.

How should running compression fit?

Firm and snug, with no gaping at the waist and no rolling. Supacore garments are sized by height and weight, so use the women's size guide. If you are between sizes, choose the smaller size. Shipping and returns details are on our shipping and returns page. Not sure which suits your sport? Call us on +61 468 072 885.

Frequently asked questions

What compression shorts help with pelvic support while running?

Look for a high waist that stays in place and a waistband designed to support the pelvis and lower back, not just a tight fit. Supacore shorts use the patented CORETECH® waistband for this reason.

Can I train in medical-grade CORETECH® shorts, or are they only for recovery?

You can train in them. Many women run, play netball and go to the gym in CORETECH® shorts and leggings, then keep them on for recovery.

Should I run in shorts or leggings?

Shorts are cooler and suit faster sessions and warm weather. 7/8 or full-length leggings add calf compression and suit longer runs, cooler days and recovery.

Can I wear pelvic support shorts when returning to running after a baby?

Many women do, once their physio has cleared them to return to running. Compression supports the pelvis and core but does not replace a pelvic floor and strength program.

Do compression shorts help pelvic floor problems?

Compression shorts are not a treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction. If you have leaking, heaviness or pain when running, see a women's health physio. Supportive shorts can be one part of a plan they give you.

How should pelvic support shorts fit?

Firm and snug, with the waistband sitting flat and not rolling. Use the women's size guide and, if you are between sizes, choose the smaller size.