As snowsports enthusiasts—skiing and snowboarding, particularly—we put our knees through hell. Mogul after mogul, landing after landing, rail after rail, no matter how much fun you’re having out there, the reality is that you’re slowly, but surely doing damage to your knees. Plus, throw in Mother Nature. We’ve all heard it—or felt it. A women’s natural anatomy, specifically our lower center of gravity, means we’re more susceptible to knee ligament damage. Of course, hamstring exercises and other knee strength-building exercises are imperative, but there some innovative knee-support products out there today that can really make a huge difference in knee health. And at the forefront is newcomer Opedix Knee-Tec, a high-performance knee support compression tight.

When I learned that the Opedix Knee-Tec Tights cost $225 I was a bit put off. What could exercise/running tights possibly do to make them worth that much—magically shave my legs for me while I ran or specifically target cold butt syndrome that so many women experience? But I was in a for a reality check.

The Overview
The Opedix Knee-Tec tights are designed to reduced destructive knee forces, quadricep fatigue and knee pain. These compression tights are scientifically designed to align the knee with tensional construction. The four-way stretch fabric essentially mimics muscle tension and works to reconnect alignment and internal forces. The patented Knee-Tec technology is particularly geared towards athletes and outdoor enthusiasts post-knee surgery or injury, but is also a great accessory for anyone doing dry-land training for ski season.

The Test
It’s important to preface that I’ve had ACL replacement surgery in my left knee. Because of this I have an extremely tight left hip and a much more flexible left hip. When I first slid these tights the first thing I noted was that they were indeed snug and the base fabric contoured comfortably around my knee. The waist was also nice and snug but not too tight or uncomfortable. As I began running I noticed some slight “pulls” on my legs—particularly around my quadriceps. I continued to run my normal pace and route (Ajax Trail to Little Cloud on Aspen Mountain). When I finally slowed down and began a brisk walk back to my house, that’s when I really noticed something. Both of my hips were extremely activated and seemed to be naturally stretching themselves with every step. I then noticed something else—I had no knee pain. Typically after any sort of prolonged running, even just a couple miles, my knees tend to swell and ache. But not this time. For me and my injuries the Opedix Knee-Tec tights work wonders. They take stress away from knees and seem to spread it out to my hips, which is an area that needs more activity and stretching. I was extremely impressed with this innovative product and I can easily say that any woman with knee problems should consider investing in the Opedix Knee-Tec.

The Rating
4.5 (out of 5)

Design: Tights that mimic natural muscle movements—and correct forces that do damage—certainly get top design points. +1
Style: Considering how geeked-out these pants are—on the tech side—they are quite cute. The pink and blue accents are a nice feminine touch. + 1
Durability: The longevity of these tights have yet to be seen, however I did note that there is some popping and pulling of the thread when putting them on. This may be normal, but it did concern me a bit. +.5
Performance: This is a given. I loved what these tights did for my knees, they, much like the Newton Running Terra Momentus Trail Shoes, made running fun and not just exercise. Of course, everybody is different, but I have to give the Opedix Knee-Tec Tights top marks. +1
Comfort: As noted, these tights comfortably hugged my body and provided incredible support of my knee. +1

Learn more about the women’s Opedix Knee-Tec Tights.