Performance apparel brand Compressport has unveiled its new Aero range, featuring technical textiles that are claimed to help reduce drag by up to 12W. The company notes that its newest collection, which includes trisuits, socks, and calf sleeves, was developed through extensive wind tunnel testing and validated in racing conditions.
According to Compressport, the range uses technical textiles developed with Payen yarn. This high-performance yarn is known for its elasticity and durability, allowing for a second-skin fit that aims to balance aerodynamics with thermoregulation and athlete comfort.
The R2 Aero 2.0 calf sleeves have been updated to combine lightness with muscle support. They feature Aero.Stripes and 3D Aero.Dots on the front and sides of the calf. These are designed to create micro-turbulence to reduce drag, potentially saving up to 12W or approximately 1 second per km when travelling at 40km/h.
Targeted compression in the sleeves is intended to stimulate microcirculation and stabilise muscles. The R2 Aero 2.0 is available in black or white for £70.
Sam Laidlow, 2023 IRONMAN World Champion, said “The impact of the new R2 AERO is far from negligible when it comes to triathlon performance. For me, they provide a real aerodynamic advantage while maintaining excellent comfort compared to racing without calf sleeves.”
The Aero Socks 2.0 integrate similar aerodynamic features, including Aero.Stripes and Aero.Dots. These are designed to save up to 7W of power. The socks include 360° arch support to promote circulation and prevent blisters, alongside mesh zones for moisture management. They are priced at £26.
For long-distance performance and transitions, the Full Socks Aero combine the features of both the sleeve and the sock. These are designed for use in both cycling and running, offering the same 12W saving as the standalone calf sleeves. They are available for £80.
The Aero Seamless SS Trisuit is the flagship item in the range. It features a seamless construction using Payen yarn for fast drying and breathability. The suit includes mesh panels on the back for ventilation and strategically placed aerodynamic stripes to improve air penetration.
Practical features of the trisuit include a multi-density pad enriched with graphene for cooling, two internal pockets for nutrition, and an ice pocket under the collar for thermoregulation. The men’s and women’s versions are priced at £390.
Arnaud Ménétrier, Head of Body Science & Scientific Validation at Compressport, said “We spent dozens of hours in wind tunnels and velodromes evaluating and adjusting aerodynamic properties. Comfort and thermoregulation were tested in thermo rooms and in extreme field conditions.”
Wind tunnel testing was conducted by engineers to ensure stable conditions that cannot be replicated on the road. This process allowed the brand to iterate on prototypes to find the best compromise between speed and comfort. The new range will be available online and in stores from this month.
