What to Look for When Shopping for Running Tights for Men

• Materials: Men’s running tights are usually made from a combination of synthetic fabrics. Polyester and nylon are commonly used because they’re durable, lightweight, and breathable. Adding spandex or elastane makes running tights flexible, so they’ll move with you. Merino wool is a great choice for its warmth and odor-resistant qualities. 
• Moisture-Wicking: Since running tights sit so close to your skin, it’s important to choose a pair that effectively wicks away sweat to ensure optimal comfort and prevent chafing. Performance fabrics like polyester are usually known for their moisture-wicking capabilities. Former professional runner Barbara Parker recommends avoiding tights made with cotton, which absorbs moisture.
• Weather Protection: When investing in a pair of running rights, consider the type of weather you’ll be running in. For colder temperatures, we recommend choosing thicker running tights made from wool blends for insulation and warmth. In rainy conditions, opt for a water-resistant, quick-drying pair that can withstand the elements.
• Pockets: If you like to carry essentials (like keys, phone, or mid-run snacks) while you run, you’ll need tights with pockets. Consider what items you need to store and ensure they fit comfortably without hindering your performance. 
• Compression: All of the tights on our list are either fitted or compression fit. Fitted running tights gently hug your body, while compression tights will be snugger. Compression tights may also aid in recovery and performance. It all comes down to individual preference and which fit feels most comfortable to you.
• Additional Features: If you run at night, you may want tights with ample reflective detailing for safety in low-lit conditions. Ankle zippers, another helpful feature, can make your tights easier to put on and take off.

How We Tested the Men’s Running Tights

To find the best running tights for men, we tested nine options from top, trusted activewear brands, wearing them in warm, windy, rainy, and cold conditions. When testing men’s running tights, we evaluate each option based on the following key criteria.

• Fit: First, we try on each pair of tights, noting whether they feel too tight, loose, or just right. We also consider whether they’re suitable for layering without feeling too bulky. While running in each pair, we pay attention to how well they stay in place and identify any features (like an adjustable waistband) that provide a more secure, customized fit. We prioritize tights that fit close to the skin (which Parker recommends), fit true to size, and are comfortable during runs.  
• Comfort: How does the fabric feel against our skin? Is it breathable and moisture-wicking? Are there any tags, seams, or anything else that irritates our skin? During short and long runs, we pay attention to any hot spots, restrictive fabric, or pressure points. We prioritize running tights that provide long-lasting comfort. 
• Warmth: We wear the tights in different conditions to determine their suitability for warm, cool, and cold weather. We observe the consistency of warmth and identify any potential cold or hot spots. We also focus on each pair’s breathability, ensuring they provide enough warmth (for the specific conditions) without causing excessive sweating.
• Performance: The best running tights are comfortable, well-fitting, moisture-wicking, and allow for a full range of motion. We consider these standards as we wear-test each pair. We also evaluate any additional features, like waterproofing or reflective detailing. We give high scores to tights that enhance our overall running experience and performance.
• Durability: After multiple weeks of wearing and washing (according to manufacturer instructions), we assess how the tights are holding up. Did the colors fade? How does the material look and feel? Are there any fraying seams? For tights claiming waterproof or resistant properties, we evaluate their performance in wet conditions. We prioritize durable, reliable tights that are built to last.
• Value: After evaluating the tights in all other key categories, we check the price of each pair. Considering their scores in our testing categories, we determine whether the tights are worth their listed price (or even more). We give high value scores to tights we feel are priced fairly and that we’d recommend to a friend. 

Our Experts

We consulted experts at each stage of our research, testing, and reporting process. The following running experts helped us learn more about what key features to look for when shopping and informed our testing process. Although we select products independently, expert input influences our decisions. 

• Barbara Parker, former professional runner, accessories and apparel merchant at Fleet Feet
  
• Marnie Kunz, USATF- and RRCA-certified running coach and NASM-certified fitness trainer in Brooklyn, NY
  
• Victor Ornelas, senior director, vendor management at Fleet Feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Should men wear tights for running?

It’s really a matter of personal preference. In cold weather, running tights can keep you warm without adding extra bulk. And in warmer conditions, some may prefer the compression and comfort of tights over traditional running shorts. 

How should running tights fit?

Running tights should fit snugly to the skin to maintain warmth yet not be too restrictive that they impact your range of motion, says Ornelas. A fit that is either too tight or too loose can be distracting, uncomfortable, and irritating.

What do men wear under running tights?

Some runners opt for tights with a built-in liner, so they don’t need to wear anything underneath them. For tights without liners, it’s best to wear a base layer brief under them for extra support, especially for long distances, says Ornelas.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, is a writer for Verywell Fit with more than 20 years of experience writing and editing health and fitness content. As a certified personal trainer, running coach, and avid runner, she’s always researching and testing running clothes, gear, and shoes. She only recommends high-quality products that she stands behind. For this article, Luff reviewed insights from our experts and the Verywell Fit testing team to evaluate each pair based on key criteria like fit, comfort, warmth, performance, durability, and overall value. The tights in this guide were tested and reviewed with additional considerations for breathability, moisture-wicking ability, and how well they hold up after multiple weeks of use and laundering.