The 9 Best Winter Running Tights, Tested by Style and Fitness Editors

In our testing of the best winter running tights, the competition was tough, but none of them nearly tickled all the boxes like Lululemon’s pair. For starters, they’re made with a poly-elastane blend fabric, infused with a four-way stretch that increases mobility, so it’s easy to do your warm-ups and loosen those muscles before hitting the pavement. It has a very soft touch and wicks away moisture, keeping you from breaking a sweat. Thanks to the internal drawcord, the tights remained in place the whole time, no matter what distance we were running.

We were relieved to discover the drop-in pockets on the sides, which safely secured our phone and keys. Warmth wasn’t an issue either; the tights are lightweight on the skin, but offered enough coverage. Our editors have rocked them solo, but we’d be remiss to not acknowledge how easily the tights layer underneath your gym shorts. When testing winter running gear, this pair came remarkably close to perfection, making it tough to spot a single shortcoming. While it doesn’t have reflective details—a potential drawback for those running in low light—it’s hardly a dealbreaker if your routes stick to well-lit areas.

Read More: Best Running Shorts

Under Armour’s tights, built with the brand’s signature ColdGear fabric, are a total game-changer for winter runners. Found in everything from base layers to jackets and gloves, this new-and-improved performance tech is all about keeping you dry by wicking away sweat, so you don’t end up shivering in damp clothes. We put this pair to the test in temps below 40 degrees and didn’t feel a single chill, even when the wind picked up. You also get a slice of comfort from the dual-layer material, which has a super warm, brushed interior and a sleek exterior that dries in a flash.

The compression fit feels like a second-skin, making it easy to layer under your shorts. With a four-way stretch that moves in every direction, the fabric didn’t get in the way of our pre-jog routine that consists of high knees, floor sweeps, and side lunges. We also appreciate the ventilation coming from the mesh gusset and inseam panels that make sure you feel enough circulation throughout your day.

Like most of its workout clothes, Nike offers affordable tights but not at the expense of quality. For quick evaporation, this pair is engineered with Dri-FIT technology to pull moisture away from your skin, so you’re not feeling soggy during or after those cold-weather miles. During our testing, we found it’s breathable enough to help regulate your body temperature, making sure you remain warm but never too hot even when you’re pushing yourself. On top of that, the body-hugging fit feels ultra-light versus bulky, meaning nothing gets in the way of your stride.

This pair is not just functional, they’re also designed with convenience in mind. Our testers pointed out the stretchy waistband sits comfortably above the hips, providing a secure fit without digging in. Plus, the side pockets are perfect for stashing small essentials like keys, cards, or gels for your run. This eye-catching pair doesn’t just come in basic black either. Our style editors like to mix and match with other color options like white, gray and jade horizon—a soft, muted green with subtle blue undertones.

Pros

• Comes with recovery benefits, reducing fatigue and swelling
• Works for a range of warm-up stretches
• Moisture-wicking
• Back panel can hold phone during runs

Much like compression pants, Vuori’s PR Tight offers a snug fit, but doesn’t limit your range of motion. Beyond running, we’ve worn these tights while targeting different muscle groups in a variety of exercises including deadlifts, dumbbell lunges, and stair climbers. This versatility highlights the flexibility of the fabric, which adapted seamlessly to every movement.

No workout proved too intense because this pair was moisture-wicking in the deepest sense, keeping us dry even during the sweatiest sessions. In the back and on the sides, you have pockets to stash smaller items to ensure you’re distraction-free. We also loved that the compression tights offer recovery benefits. They’re designed to promote blood flow and circulation, at the same, reduce fatigue and decrease swelling after you’ve crushed it at the gym.

Reflective logos increase your visibility in low-lit areas—and Tracksmith’s NDO Tights have it in spades. Across the thigh and on the calf area in the back are sash details that shine bright for drivers on the road. After all, safety first. The brand also takes a page from wetsuit designs to create these tights, offering that same slim-fitting, comfy silhouette that looks clean and sleek. Here’s another thing: We found the tights can handle cool winds and light showers, thanks to the water-repellent, double-layer fabric that keeps you warm and dry against the elements.

While they fall on the higher end, Tracksmith didn’t skimp on quality. Compared to the others we’ve tested, this is the most stylish option on the list, and easiest to get on and off, thanks to the ankle zippers. Aside from this unique coffee color, the tights are adorned with the signature stripe on the back waistband and a neat patch with the hip. Other notable design elements include the pockets on the rear, and a zippered one for extra security.

Forget the fanny pack—these tights have pockets galore—like a built-in sidekick. If you’re into storage, this pair comes with a seven-pocket system (yes, that’s right) for all your valuables and then some. While running, our editors could slip their iPhone on either side of the leg and stuff gel packs on the back panel for easy grabs. In terms of fabrication, the ribbed knit isn’t just for looks; it helps with air circulation, reducing chafing, and boosting comfort.

Based on our experience, it’s not common that many tights come with exterior drawstrings for a secure fit, but Bandit Running’s offering is the exception. We also found these tights excel at moisture management more than other tights we’ve tested, wicking sweat away fast and drying even quicker. And to the runners who want a departure from their same ole’ black tights, this deep amber brown that gives give a minimalist yet bold energy, embracing a “run your way” mentality.

Like our favorite thermal shirts, these tights will deliver extra warmth in the colder temps. They look like leggings for men, but Brooks used a brushed material that feels like a dream on the skin and stretches in every direction to support all kinds of movements. Even though this pair doesn’t come with an external drawstring, we found it stays in place, whether we pick up the pace during an outdoor run or sprint on the treadmill in the gym.

The zippered panel on the back and the pockets on the side are roomy enough for storage. This way, you don’t have to carry your phone and expose your hands to the cold. In order to make sure these tights perform at their highest and remain in the best shape, make sure to wash them separately from other clothes before your first wear.

We’re huge fans of winter running tights that effortlessly transition from morning jogs to coffee shop grocery pickups without missing a beat. Take the Peak Mission Tights, which have a form-fitting profile that doesn’t compromise on support. This pair boasts a trifecta nylon-poly-spandex blend that delivers moisture-wicking properties, four-way stretch, and next-to-skin comfort. And the good doesn’t stop there—Patagonia also focused on odor protection. The fabric is treated with HeiQ—an antimicrobial textile treatment that controls and prevents buildup of bacteria and smells—so your gear stays fresh for longer, even after rigorous workouts and outdoor adventures.

On days that were too cold for only running shorts, we layered these tights underneath for extra warmth. To cap on comfort, the back of the fabric is made with a brushed Terry material that feels super smooth against the skin. Although it’s the most expensive option on the list, you get more wear out of these tights, rocking them in multiple settings. Plus, a reflective logo on the side maximizes your nighttime visibility if you want to go for an evening dash.

Pros

• Made with waterproof stretch membrane and dries fast
• Lightweight, but supportive
• Reflective details on thighs and calf increase visibility
• Brushed thermal fabric creates pockets of air to trap body heat
• Sizes range up to 3XL

In the event that the skies open up as you’re logging miles, a pair of waterproof running tights will be your best defense against the elements. Enter this offering from 2XU, which features a waterproof membrane that ensures you don’t get soaked while you’re out there. Since we’re on the topic of fabric, we have to mention the thermal material on the lower leg creates small pockets of air to trap body heat and flexes using 360-degree stretch to reduce muscle movement.

Unlike your old fleece pants that are heavy, we found this compression fit feels light as a feather. In regard to reflectivity, the brand’s logo will be bright as day on the thigh and calf area as you’re on the road in the evening. And for bounce-free storage, the back zip pocket can hold your phone.