Capris for Yo’ Knees! Opedix Knee-Tec 3/4 Tights Review

Last year, I had a chance to check out Opedix’s CORE-Tec shorts, and since then, they’ve been in regular rotation, especially for my longer training runs, but also for strength training since they offer additional core support. (Side note: Even with a lot of wear, they’re still in great shape. I’m sure inquiring minds want to know, right?)

These days, my lower back and hips are not my biggest problem. Despite my knee issues (and the fact that I find running in the knee brace my doctor suggested I try absolutely intolerable), I’ve been logging some good miles. The longer efforts have been made a bit easier by another pair of workout bottoms Opedix was kind enough to send me for review: the Knee-Tec 3/4 Tights ($225).

The fit on these workout tights is, well, tight. As you can sort of see in the image, the material used around the knee caps and going along the IT bands is different, and it offers far less stretch and give than your typical stretchy workout pants, which, in turn, provides a bit of support for your knees and helps keep them properly aligned, even when your muscles become fatigued. What I’m saying is, they might take a tiny bit more work to put on, but there’s a reason for it. A good reason.

Does it work? I’m going to go with a big ol’ yes, no hesitation here. Any time I’ve had a bit of knee pain or fatigue the day of a scheduled run, I’ve pulled these on and I haven’t had to quit yet. And I noticed that even more on a recent trail run — my ankles were doing all kinds of rolling by the end due to fatigue, but my knees were holding strong.

They are a bit warmer than most of my other 3/4-length tights and capris, but not so hot that I couldn’t wear them in the summer. And, the one thing that I know people are going to balk at is the price — $225 for a pair is steep, I will grant. However, if you’ve been running or doing other high-impact activities with wonky knees and hate wearing a brace (holla!), you might agree that it’s a small price to pay for a little additional comfort.

And if my word is not enough for you, let me share their guarantee, directly from their website: “At Opedix, we stand behind the functionality and performance of our technology and our gear. If, after trying our product, you are not completely satisfied, you may return it to us for replacement or refund within 30 days. No questions asked. It’s part of our commitment to improving the way you move through life. And we stand by it 100 percent.”

Does the fact that they offer such a strong guarantee make you more likely to shell out for a pair of Knee-Tec tights of your own? What would you wear them for? Running, skiing, CrossFit? —Kristen