Kikay Reviews: Zonal Strength Tights

Nike Zonal Strength Tights

Nike launched their new Zonal Strength Tights two weeks ago, and a few of us from the media were given the opportunity to test them out during the weekly Nike+ Run Club Home Run event held at Bonifacio High Street.

Last year around this time Nike launched their Power Speed running tights, so I couldn’t wait to experience the difference between that innovation and this new one.Β 

Nike Zonal Strength Tights launch
the Zonal Strength Tights running crew

Different athletic activities use different muscle groups, and the Zonal Strength tights are designed with compression zones that support specific muscle groups for certain activities.The Zonal Strength tights are available in two forms: for running, and for gym training. The running-specific kind that we got to try had compression for the quads, hamstrings, and calves.

Nike Zonal Strength Tights launch
The subtle coloring of the Zonal Strength tights make my legs look longer πŸ˜‰

Unlike the predecessor Power Speed tights, the compression is built right into the fabric instead of overlaid. Many people found that the compression overlay of the Power Speed tights peeled off over time, so having the compression woven in ensures better durability. I also like how the color difference between the compression zones and the surrounding material is subtle, as this minimizes the width of the silhouette and flatters my muscular legs.

Nike Zonal Strength Tights launchNike Zonal Strength Tights launch
L-R: Zonal Strength running tights, Zonal Strength training tights.Β 

Notice the difference in the top photos between the compression zones for the running tights versus the training tights. The running tights have a lower waistband and the webbing is over the quads and calves. The training tights have a higher waistband to encourage core activation, and the webbing runs along the side of the leg to support lateral motion.

It was nice to get back out on the road with my fellow runners after a few weeks of being trapped on the treadmill. As always, the popular Nike Run Club session was packed.

Nike Zonal Strength Tights launch
my loves from Takbo.ph days

Nike Zonal Strength Tights launch
NRC pacers waiting for participants

Nike Zonal Strength Tights launch
JB is one of the hardworking pacers present twice a week every week!

Nike Zonal Strength Tights launch
warm-up and drills

After a short jog warm-up and drills to activate the proper running muscles and get blood flowing, we were on our way. The Zonal Strength running tights were a joy to run in: no seams to chafe, support in the right places, and of course they have that trademark Nike breathability.

Nike Zonal Strength Tights launch
Tights seem to be the run fashion of choice!

Nike Zonal Strength Tights launch
stretching post-run in our Zonal Strength running tights

At the end of our run I attempted some sprints and jumps to test range of motion. I found the Zonal Strength running tights easier to move around in than the Power Speed tights. The four-way stretch fabric used in the tights allowed better mobility through the hips and knees. I also didn’t have to worry about whether the compression webbing would come off if I scraped my thigh against the floor during our post-run stretches.

Nike Zonal Strength Tights launch
That was a good run πŸ™‚

I would say the Zonal Strength running tights are a big improvement over the previous iteration and I am glad that Nike keeps innovating their tights. The Zonal Strength tights for both men and women are available in a majority of Nike retail stores and nike.com. Do check them out and let me know what you think about them!

About Noelle De Guzman

Noelle De Guzman is a freelance writer and recreational athlete with over 12 years of experience in fitness and endurance sport. She believes sport and an active healthy lifestyle changes lives.

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