We caught up with the team at 2XU to chat about compression and running in the rain, heat and cold.

The Australian brand 2XU has been creating performance-enhancing gear for athletes from the get-go. Founded with a focus on compression and performance fabrics for triathletes, 2XU applies the same approach to its running, training and endurance sports products. The brand's perfect marriage of technology and performance results in gear designed to take you further–no matter what your sport of choice. We caught up with 2XU's Chief Marketing Officer Luke O'Shea to discuss what makes 2XU stand apart from the competition.

Q: What makes 2XU different from other fitness brands on the market?

Luke O'Shea: “ The difference with 2XU is our heritage. We were created by athletes and born from a passion to create products that allow people to perform above and beyond what they normally would. And with our compression gear specifically, we use a lot of testing and research that you don't see from other brands. We work with institutes and athletes to generate feedback that goes directly into our product development. "

Q: How do you guys test the products?

LO: "We test the strength and resistance of the garment at key pressure points to make sure the compression profile is strong. Our products are unique in that they feature graduated compression that is firmer at the extremities to encourage blood flow. This is when you start to see benefits from compression."

Q: Can compression tights be worn year-round?

LO: “We have compression shorts that give you the benefit of compression around your glutes and quads without the heat from the tights. Our PWX compression fabric is breathable and moisture-wicking, so it allows runners to stay comfortable during warmer months. Our Ignition range features wind-blocking panels and a brushed thermal fabric to keep you warm in the colder months."

Whether you are running in the dead of winter in the northeast or training during Australia's hottest months, 2XU makes gear that will help you work out harder and recover quicker. Check out our top picks below.

These tights are a must for the cold weather runner. Made with Ignition shield, thesetights combine a waterproof stretch membrane with flexible PWX Thermal fabric to protect against wind chill and rain. Plus, with 2XU's signature compression technology you will recover faster.

This lightweight and waterproof jacket is perfect for getting those miles in during mother nature's worst. The advanced 20k/50k waterproof stretch membrane with an adjustable hood and fully taped seams offers serious protection from rain while remaining breathable.

These shorts are perfect for hot weather running when you still want the benefits of compression without the added layers. Made with Muscle Containment Stamping (MCS) technology, these shorts help reduce muscle movement, damage and fatigue so you can smash your goals at every workout.