Winter weather has arrived on many of our running roads and trails, and while that doesn’t mean the end of running, the change in weather means it’s time for many of us to switch from shorts to tights. Running tights are a versatile layering option, with many material blends and thermal options. I’ve tested dozens of running tights, from warm-weather sweat-wicking styles to heavy-duty winter running tights made of merino and fleece. These are the best for their fit, thermal regulation and ability to stay in place while running.
How to choose running tights
Choosing running tights is pretty straightforward, but I recommend looking at the material mix, number (and location) of pockets, as well as the fit and height. Your choice also depends on where you live and the conditions you’ll be running in.
Materials
The fibers found in tights are usually polyester or nylon for durability and water resistance. Thicker, they often wove more robust tights with more elastane (spandex) for stretch and compression, which is ideal for runners who want more wraparound support during their workouts. A pair of tights with a lower percentage of spandex may be more comfortable to wear all day, but they won’t have the same structure and support as tights with a higher percentage of spandex.
I’ve included several pairs of winter-ready tights in this roundup that are made with insulating fleece or merino. For cold-weather tights to wear on busy days, consider body-friendly designs, such as windproof panels on the front for weather protection and perforations behind the knees to wick away heat.
Features (zippers, pockets, drawstrings)
Check out the number and depth of pockets, reflective tape for running in the dark and zippered leg openings. Deep side pockets are great for storing a phone or headphone case, and a zippered pocket on the belt can hold a credit card or keys. If you’re exercising on the floor, choose tights with non-zippered pockets (envelope style) for added comfort.
Most tights also have an internal drawstring to keep them in place during movement, and some have zippers on the lower legs for easy on and off.
Length and height
Running tights often come in 3/4 (Capri), 7/8 or full length. I like the full length for maximum coverage during cold runs, and I opt for the 7/8 for more versatility. You can always wear high socks to cover shin splits. Three-quarter tights are a great option for moderate temperature runs, and they stay in place nicely on the hips or waist, as there is less fabric to grab and pull. As for the waist, I opt for a high waist with a wide yoga-style waistband. The high waist helps the tights stay in place while running, and the wide waistband resists pinching, rolling and puckering.
How we chose
To find the best leggings for runners, we interviewed a variety of sources, including runners from around the country running in a variety of conditions, as well as testers and employees who logged miles in all kinds of weather to evaluate comfort and performance.
I’ve also worn most of these pants, and focused my testing on a range of products in terms of durability, weather protection, and ease of movement. These tights will protect you from the wind, allow you full range of motion, and keep you from becoming a human icicle. These are the tights we’ve worn during our runs, to yoga class, and admittedly long after our workouts are over, because they’re just plain comfortable.
1. Men’s Asics Essentials Tight
The Essentials Tight is a great option for men who want more coverage on their legs or an extra layer under their shorts or pants when the temperature drops. It has an interior drawstring to adjust the waist and is made of quick-drying materials, which allowed one tester to run mid-day in 70 degree weather without complaint. These pants have a zippered back pocket that can hold keys and a credit card, and they come in a good range of sizes that include two “tall” options for longer inseams.
Buy: Men’s Asics Essentials Tight
2. New Balance Q Speed Fuel 7/8 Tights for Women
The Q Speed Fuel meets your need for speed with a stylish fit and high coverage. One tester even said they were the most comfortable tights she’s worn, though the lower compression means it’s hard to keep them from sliding down, and the waistband can feel tight for some testers. If you’re looking for comfortable all-day wear and lightweight tights, these are a solid choice.
Buy: New Balance Q Speed Fuel 7/8 Tights for Women
3. 90 Degree By Reflex Power Flex Tights
I call these tights an “economical choice,” but there are very few compromises here. The Power Flex has always been one of my favorite tights for everything from everyday wear to running, hiking and yoga classes. The material is thick without being too restrictive, and I have yet to wear out a pair, either through stretching or pilling. They have the same high waist, wicking fabric, and deep side pockets as more expensive leggings, and they come in a wide variety of fun and trendy colors.
Buy: 90 Degree By Reflex Power Flex Tights
