Why do the calf grippers on my knickers feel so tight?

The calf has less muscle mass than the thigh, making it more susceptible to pressure from grippers. This is a common issue with knickers. Solutions include: sizing up if the rest of the fit allows, looking for knickers with wide silicone band grippers (which distribute pressure better than narrow ones), or choosing models with compression hems that rely on fabric tension rather than grippers. Some riders prefer knickers that end just below the knee crease rather than at mid-calf to avoid the tightest part of the calf.