An article of apparel 1 for covering at least the groin region of the human body comprises a material that provides compressive support and insulation to said region. The material is preferably a synthetic rubber such as a polymerised chloroprene or neoprene. The material in the groin region may comprise a V-shaped region 4 extending from the areas of the inguinal ligaments down and around the pubic area. Said V-shaped region may comprise parallel spaced rows of stitching in a cross-hatched configuration. An aperture 5 may be provided in the lower groin region. The article of apparel is preferably a pair of shorts, and may comprise thigh regions 6 having compression means for covering and exerting pressure on at least a part of the adductor region of each thigh. Said compression means may comprise straps 8 adapted to extend circumferentially around the thigh regions. The article of apparel may be provided with receptacle means 3 for the accommodation of means having a warming or cooling effect. The article may help to prevent the occurrence of injuries in wearers participating in sports such as football and rugby, and may also be worn to provide support after surgery.
