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Preparing for Ragnar Races: How Compression Gear Supports Your Performance and Recovery

What Makes Ragnar Races Unique

Ragnar Relay races aren’t anything like your typical marathon races. They’re a multi-leg relay race, where teams of 6–12 runners take turns covering 120+ miles, running day and night. Talk about a true test of endurance!

Ragnar races have their own unique rhythm which looks something like, run hard, rest, recover, then do it all over again. The stop-and-go format is a part of what tests each participant's endurance, travel and recovery abilities. That's why the right gear can make all the difference in your performance and how you feel by the end of the weekend. 

 

people running during a race wearing cw-x compression gear

The Role of Compression Gear During Ragnar

Muscle Stabilization and Reduced Fatigue

CW-X compression tights provide targeted support for your hamstrings, quads, and calves during back-to-back legs. By reducing muscle vibration and improving alignment, CW-X tights help you conserve the energy you need, so you can power through each segment of the relay without burning out.

This stabilization means less soreness, less wasted energy, and a fresher feel every time you’re about to take on your next leg.

 

Enhanced Circulation and Swelling Control

Both during and between runs, many Ragnar athletes face swelling, stiffness, and inflammation. Compression gear helps improve circulation, which works at reducing inflammation during your race, when you’re sitting in a van or while you’re resting between legs.

Improved circulation means faster recovery, so you can get right back into it when it’s your turn to take the lead.

 

Post-Leg Recovery and Next-Leg Readiness

Many participants find it most challenging to bounce back after each leg. CW-X gear helps speed muscle repair and reduces soreness, so you can start each leg like it’s your first. Wearing compression tights during cooldowns or while resting overnight can keep your legs feeling fresh and ready to go when your team needs you.

 

people hugging after a relay wearing cw-x compression gear

Training and Racing in CW-X Gear

It’s important to choose the right gear based on your race distance and needs.  For instance, the Endurance Generator Joint & Muscle Support Compression Tight is ideal for tackling long, hilly legs, whereas the Endurance Generator Insulator Joint & Muscle Support Compression Tight can be the better option for fast-paced night runs.

To get the most from your compression gear, train in it in the weeks leading up to the race weekend. Incorporating CW-X tights and bras into your Ragnar training plan will prep you for the fit and feel, while also keeping your muscles and joints secure and stable so you can enhance your performance each round.

Practicing in your gear will give you the comfort and confidence you need for the big weekend.

 

Gear Up for Ragnar with CW-X

CW-X gear is built for endurance and recovery over long durations. Some of our top recommendations include:

  • Endurance Generator Tight – Engineered for high-performance athletes, these leggings  target the quads, hamstrings, calves, and hips to maximize support and reduce fatigue.
  • High-Impact Sports Bras – Engineered for high-performance athletes, these leggings  target the quads, hamstrings, calves, and hips to maximize support and reduce fatigue.

 

people running on a trail in cw-x compression gear

Final Thoughts

From first leg to finish line, Ragnar Relay races demand mental and physical strength—and the right gear to match. CW-X compression tights and bras offer the support, comfort, and recovery boost you need to keep going strong through every handoff.

 

Ready to rise to the Ragnar challenge? Explore CW-X gear designed to go the distance.