The most disruptive shifts in apparel innovation often start with a single question. We asked: what if … we redefined what compression gear meant for women? For years, performance apparel has prioritized human performance—but overlooked one of the most common physical disruptors of all: menstrual cramps. Designers at ROBRADY answered the call and delivered a first-of-its-kind technical apparel solution.
ACT* (Adjustable Compression Technology) began as a clinical hypothesis, imagined by a doctor and mother of six daughters who had her fair share of concerns for current cramp relief methods. What if cramp care could be embedded into clothing without relying on medication, electronics, or bulky add-ons? What if the base layer itself did the work?
ACT is the result. It’s not a product line. It’s not a consumer brand. It’s a new platform technology for women’s apparel, developed by an award-winning design studio with expert medical oversight.
Designed for seamless integration into uniforms, base layers, and performance gear, ACT delivers real-time, adjustable compression through mapped support zones. 360° of passive compression targets the front pelvis, lower abdomen, lower back, and hips.
The system uses a patented and patent-pending suite of layered textiles and engineered tension cords. Subtle, breathable, and nearly invisible, it responds to compression needs with quiet precision.
No recharging. No syncing. Just a dial, calibrated by the wearer in real-time, embedded on each side of the lower back.
The goal was to create a mechanical solution that felt intuitive, something that didn’t remind the user of its function until she needs it.
“It disappears under clothing. But it shows up when the cramps do.”
Nothing to See. Everything to Feel.
Cramp solutions today: medication, heat, gadgets, rest. Each one is a workaround. ACT was created to shift the experience from reactive to integrated.
The challenge wasn’t just technical. It was perceptual. Relief couldn’t feel clinical. The garment had to move, flex, and support without interrupting the user’s routine.
So we built it from the inside out.
ACT is now engaged in a wear testing program across a range of users—students, workers, and athletes—people who can’t afford to opt out every time pain shows up.
Their most common feedback?
“I forgot I had it on.”
“Where has this been all my life?”
“I love the feel – can I wear it even when I’m not on my period?” (The answer is: YES.)
Engineered for Integration
ACT is not locked into a single form factor. It’s ready for integration into any apparel worn from the waist down that is designed for women in motion. The technology adapts — quietly supporting in the background while the user moves through the day.
An estimated 1.8 billion people menstruate each month worldwide (UNICEF). In a 2012 study of 343 young women, more than one in four reported experiencing severe menstrual pain that disrupted their daily lives (Grandi et al., 2012). Most are given medications, electronics, or other bulky devices to manage symptoms temporarily. ACT is different. It is a platform that redefines how compression gear can function: mechanically, discreetly, and on the user’s terms.
We believe relief should be built in.
If you design performance gear for women, we want to connect.
If you live with cramps and want something different, join our Wear Test.
Join the Wear Test Team → Apply Here
*ACT® (Adjustable Compression Technology®) is a registered trademark.
The technology is protected by issued and pending USA and international patents.
