CW-X Women's Expert Tight

Impressed...in spite of myself
This is the first pair of compression tights that I have tried, so I can't really compare them across the board. However, I injured my knee during training for a trail half marathon about 8 months ago. After investing in special running shoes and insoles in a [futile] attempt to return to my previous activities, I finally decided to try these. I have joined a collegiate rowing team since distance running is no longer an option, and needed proper cold-season training gear. For tights, these are offered at a stiff price, even on sale, but I was persuaded by the rave reviews touting increased mobility and stamina that the upgrade to a support tight was worthwhile. After my first session with these, I would have to concur. I don't feel spectacular or energized when wearing them, but the fact is, I didn't notice much of anything. That is, no swelling, stiffness or pain, no joint torque during sprints, no pulling or snapping during erg workouts. And THAT is impressive. I have also used them on a strenuous backpacking trip with similar results...the only caviot being that the fabric is not made for the backcountry, and must be treated with care or it will show. As noted by many reviewers, they are flattering, but in grey and black, they harken back to superhero costumes of old. Make sure that you refer to the attached size chart rather than ordering the size you "always wear." I am consistently an XS (size 0 J. Crew, size 2 North Face, for reference), but as I stand 5'7" and weigh in between 120 and 130, I ordered the small. The pants are long enough for me (31" inseam) and fit snugly, but are not so tight as to be distracting. If anything, I felt more confident during training, not just because my knee wasn't hurting but because they firm and shape any, well... less than entirely firm or shapely lower body segments. They were also pretty warm when layered with looser pants over the top, and dried amazingly fast when I soaked my calves during bucket drills. My two cents for improvements would be to ditch the drawcord and utilize a wide, resilient elastic or "conditioning web" band at the waist, more like a yoga pant. The waist could be a little lower too. The interior pocket is worthless, as it is open on top. I don't think I'd put a key in there anyway; it would be an uncomfortable location if you were flexing at the hips at all, as with rowing. And a word of caution; be very careful not to snag the satin stitching that anchors the support webbing to the body of the tights, as it will pull. All told, I love my superpants :)

Snug Fit
I had read a previous review about these tights, which said they seemed small. Well, when I opened the package the tights looked tiny. I wasn't even going to try them on. Before sending them back, I thought atleast I'll try them. They fit! Amazingly, the tights do stretch and provide compression/ support as reviewed. I'm very pleased with them. I'm approximately 5'8" 135lbs. and ordered a S.

Great product
I am a distance runner and these tights fit and feel great while pounding out the miles.Does seem to aid in reducing muscle fatigue.