Our Physical therapist told us about BraceLayer last year, and the sizes we needed were sold out. This year my husband and I bought the shorter ski boot version early on in the season, and we love them! We both have knee issues- meniscus and ACL- and these really help. The support is excellent and they replaced our heavier thermal layer under slightly insulated ski pants.
We both wear braces or sleeves over them- and they stay up much better- clinging to the fabric of these alpine BraceLayers quite well. The support is very noticeable, and after 5 hrs of skiing we both felt great. Note: I have tight IT bands and these really helped and I felt looser and pain- free down these lateral leg tendons. One day, I totally forgot my knee braces and I was fine! Even on my worse knee which has both meniscus torn.
We each bought another alpine pair, and I use the longer version both for skiing (it hikes up just fine as the fabric at the bottom is thinner), and for walking on cold days.
I just ordered non- thermal pairs for us, to use for hiking & working out. We’ll also try them over bike chamois liners to see how they help during cycling.
The only caveat- I find the cut of the back rise on the women’s versions are a little too shallow and low ( I’m a retired athletic apparel designer, and am well versed in fit issues). I have a flat booty, so it could be worse if you’ve got more of a butt . It’s mostly solved by really hiking the pants up starting at the knees as directed, and tying the drawstring tightly. It also helps to tuck in your base layers to keep the back waist from dragging down. However, the company should review their specs and add a little to the back rise- it will only help.
Excellent product overall, highly recommend!