CW-X Stabilyx Tight - Men's

There is no way for me to scenically proof it, but I’m convinced when I wear CW-X Stabilyx Tights skiing, biking and running, I just feel much better. I will not run without them, I wear them skiing when I’m skiing consecutive days and I occasionally wear them biking. I’ve been running without them and my lower back and knees remind me never to do it again. I highly recommend them.

Hi Everyone-
Please note, this new 2011 reflective version of the CW-X Stabilyx Tight is almost exactly the same as the existing version. You can read reviews here. http://www.backcountry.com/cw-x-stabilyx-tight-mens-cwx0039
The main new feature is what CW-X calls 360 degree reflective. There are 4 strategically placed reflective flash strips on the tights that show up at night and in the early AM during those early morning or night runs. Check these new Reflective Stabilyx Tights out and if you already own a pair of the old ones, maybe think about getting an additional pair for running at dusk and dawn. Cheers.

Ok, so the 4 star rating is for the increased knee stability and perceivably increased endurance (5 stars if the compression was a little higher -- I fit squarely in the 'large' and would prefer a little more leg squeeze). I originally got these for snowboarding and there is something that is entirely outside of the design of the tight but something potential buyers should know (if you ski and snowboard). The slick nature of tights cause socks to bunch down over time. I used these my first time out with some smartwool ski socks. Got blisters on my heels. Switched out to Icebreaker socks and at the same time had switched to the 3/4 insulator -- no blisters entire season. Got warmer, went back to the full tight and, once again, sock bunching and blisters. My assumption is that the 3/4 gives you enough leg to hold the socks up and keep from bunching. This has happened with snow board boots and will probably happen with ski boots as well. Temp is going down this week so I'll be back in the 3/4 insulator, so I'll update if there is this doesn't hold up (same pair of socks). But if you're looking at the full for snow sports...go with the 3/4.

I'm 5'8, 175 with short legs and ended up going with a Small. This was primarily due to the local ski shop selling these 50% off because they didn't want to carry them anymore, and the store being out of Mediums (my buddy bought the last 3 they had). That said, the small seems to fit well, just quite snug. I have an athletic build, but strong legs for my small size. The Small makes the knee supports land dead on my kneecaps, and even though they're snug, I think Small was the best choice for me.

For this much reasonable price, compared to ZXU for instance, you get tights of great quality. Not sure if the compression really has an impact, although they look and feel good, even after been washed a couple of times, which isn´t bad. Highly recommendable.