In the world of business, innovation often comes from identifying and addressing gaps in the market. Tighties, a new player in the activewear industry, is doing just that by bridging the gap between orthopedic bracing and everyday clothing.

Founded by entrepreneur Krystal Gillis, San Diego-based Tighties aims to provide comfortable, effective solutions for pain management, injury prevention, and strength training through its unique product line.

By focusing on functional movement and individual needs, Krystal Gillis and her team have created a product line that not only supports but actively contributes to users’ strength and recovery.

We sat down with Krystal to learn more about this exciting venture.

Chatting With the Founder: Krystal Gillis Shares Her Vision

ThereSanDiego: Hi Krystal, it’s great to connect. Could you give us a brief introduction to how Tighties started?

Krystal Gillis: Tighties was born from my varied entrepreneurial background and a keen eye for gaps in the market. In 2021, while working on a commercialization project, I noticed a significant need for better solutions in braces for everyday injuries like back, knee, and hip pain.

Most braces aren’t comfortable or tailored to individual needs. So, Tighties focuses on using functional movement and training to naturally support and strengthen the body without the bulk and discomfort of traditional braces.

ThereSanDiego: How exactly do these products work to strengthen muscles?

Krystal Gillis: Our products are designed around resistance and compression. For example, our strength product subtly shifts your body’s natural posture to engage and strengthen specific muscle groups like the glutes, which are crucial for lower back and knee health.

Our stabilizer product works like training wheels, helping you maintain proper alignment during activities, thus building muscle memory. And our endurance product uses advanced compression to enhance blood flow and muscle stability, aiding in recovery and overall performance.

ThereSanDiego: What’s your background? How did you develop such a nuanced product?

Krystal Gillis: My journey isn’t rooted in science but in entrepreneurship within various industries, including medical devices. The real magic happens with our medical advisory team, which includes orthopedic surgeons and specialists in muscle function, coupled with input from athletes and a skilled mechanical engineer.

Together, we’ve transformed the concept into products that people can wear comfortably and benefit from every day.

ThereSanDiego: What have been some major challenges?

Krystal Gillis: Like any startup, the road has been full of surprises. Initially, assembling the right team was challenging, followed by the persistence to push the project forward and, of course, securing funding. We’re now excited as our products are hitting the market, starting with our lower extremity gear.

ThereSanDiego: Who are your early adopters?

Krystal Gillis: Our testers range widely from professional to casual athletes who suffer from chronic pains or are recovering from injuries. The feedback has been promising, especially among active individuals who appreciate the dual benefits of support and strength training.

ThereSanDiego: As a non-medical product, do you see a pathway towards insurance coverage?

Krystal Gillis: Absolutely, we’re navigating the approval process for FSA and HSA reimbursements. Our products offer support and compression, which are well-recognized for their therapeutic benefits.

ThereSanDiego: Can you share your sales and marketing strategies?

Krystal Gillis: Our approach is three-pronged. We’re leveraging micro-influencers and health professionals like physical therapists and chiropractors who can validate the efficacy of our products. Additionally, an affiliate program will help us reach enthusiasts who can benefit from our offerings.

ThereSanDiego: Are there any specific places where people can find Tighties products?

Krystal Gillis: For now, we’re focusing on direct sales through our website, tighties.com, and some select distribution channels aligned with our brand values. This strategy allows us to maintain a close relationship with our customers and gather valuable feedback as we expand.

ThereSanDiego: Any final thoughts as you look to the future?

Krystal Gillis: We’re just scratching the surface. While we’re starting with leggings, Tighties plans to expand into a full-body wellness brand. The support from the San Diego community has been incredible, and we’re excited to see where this journey takes us.

What’s in the Tighties Wardrobe? A Look at the Products

Tighties offers three main products, each designed to address specific needs:

1. The Energizer Compression Leggings: These leggings use breathable compression to support both workouts and everyday activities. They’re engineered with performance compression to promote blood flow, leading to stronger endurance and recovery. Ideal for those focused on longevity and performance, these leggings are suitable for activities like running, cycling, gym workouts, hiking, racquet sports, travel, and everyday wear.
   
2. The Challenger Resistance Leggings: Crafted from a breathable yet robust compression material, these leggings feature the BOA Fit System paired with the strategically placed Tighties Strapping System. They offer built-in resistance training targeting the glutes, quads, and hamstrings. The unique design elevates workouts through resistance training and ensures comfort and ease of use. These are perfect for anyone wanting more from their movement, especially during gym sessions, weight training, barre, yoga, or Pilates.
   
3. The Stabilizer Leggings With Built-in Support: These leggings promote optimal lower body alignment by leveraging the BOA Fit System and Tighties Strapping System to actively stabilize and align critical areas like the hips, knees, and lower back. They’re designed for both everyday athletes and elite competitors, particularly beneficial for activities like pickleball, tennis, hiking, marathon running, and agility sports.

All Tighties products utilize a patent-pending technology created with the user in mind, addressing key needs such as pain management, injury prevention, strength training, and recovery.

The Future Looks Tight: Wrapping Up

Tighties represents a new frontier in activewear, combining the benefits of orthopedic support with the comfort and style of everyday clothing.

As the company continues to grow and expand its offerings, it’s poised to make a significant impact in the activewear market, offering consumers a chance to expect more from their gear. With plans to develop into a full-body wellness brand, Tighties is definitely a San Diego company to watch in the coming years.

To learn more about Tighties and what it has to offer, visit the website here. For updates, follow along on Instagram, X, and Facebook.