We Found the Best Running Pants, After Over 1,500 Miles of Cold Weather Runs

Whether the temps are cool or downright freezing, a good pair of running pants will help keep you cozy, comfortable, and chafe-free on your run or walk in cold weather. From joggers to leggings to track pants, the best running pants are made with soft, stretchy materials that are breathable and moisture-wicking. And many come with convenient features, like pockets for stashing your phone or reflective details for running in low-light conditions.

To find the best running pants on the market, we started by asking four experts—including three running coaches and one personal trainer—for their advice on what key features to look for when shopping. Then, we tested 24 running pants from top, trusted activewear brands in our regular running routines. We wore each pant while running in various cool to cold weather conditions. Our top picks earned high scores for fit, comfort, performance, warmth, durability, and value.

Top Picks

Best Women's Overall:
lululemon Swift Speed High-Rise Tight 28" at Lululemon
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Best Men's Overall:
On Running Men's Running Pants at On-running.com
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Best Tights:
Athleta Rainier Tight at Athleta
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Best Plus-Size:
Nike Women’s Therma-FIT High-Waisted ⅞ Leggings at Amazon $96
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Most Comfortable:
On Running Women's Tights Long at Dicks Sporting Goods
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Best Budget:
Baleaf Laureate Multi-Colored Thermal Leggings at Amazon $31
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Best Fleece-Lined:
SALE
Under Armour ColdGear Compression Leggings at Amazon $55 $44
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Best Reflective:
Tracksmith Turnover Tights at Tracksmith.com
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Best With Pockets:
Baleaf Water-Resistant Leggings at Amazon $40
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Best Hold:
Hoka Women's 28" ColdSnap Run Tight at Hoka.com
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Best Women's Overall

lululemon Swift Speed High-Rise Tight 28"

Lululemon Swift Speed High-Rise Tight 28 Inch
Credit: lululemon
View on Lululemon
Pros

  • Excellent coverage

  • Plenty of pockets

  • Compressive fit

Cons

  • Drawcord may need to be adjusted

Key Specs

Type: Tights Sizes: Women’s XS to XXL Materials: Nylon, elastane Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners who value comfort, durability, and ample storage in their leggings.

Why We Love Them 

The lululemon Swift Speed High-Rise Tights offer the perfect blend of comfort, stretch, and support, easily earning them a spot as our top choice for women’s running pants. When we first tried them on, we immediately noticed their compressive fit, which still allows for effortless, unrestricted strides. The material feels soft and cozy against the skin and is completely opaque, ensuring total squat-proof confidence. Despite their full coverage, we still found the leggings to be breathable and moisture-wicking.

Featuring a flat, high-rise waistband with an internal, continuous drawcord, these tights offer a secure hold and customizable fit. We also love the reflective details for enhanced visibility, as well as the two side drop-in pockets and a rear zippered pocket for convenient storage. If you’re looking for high-quality leggings that can be worn alone or layered, these are hard to beat. 

Potential Flaws

  • We appreciate the drawcord in the waistband for its ability to keep these leggings from sagging, but we found it necessary to occasionally adjust it before our runs to ensure the perfect fit and optimal hold.

Most Valuable Insight

"These have a drawstring! Genius. Whenever I felt that these might slide down, I tightened it and it worked like magic." —Donna Freydkin, Verywell Fit product tester

  • lululemon Swift Speed High-Rise Tight being worn while on a stationary bike
    Lululemon's Swift Speed High-Rise Tight is made of a breathable nylon and Lycra elastane blend. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Hand in pocket of the Lululemon Swift Speed High-Rise Tight
    Lululemon's Swift Speed High-Rise Tight has pockets on each side that are deep enough for a phone. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • lululemon Swift Speed High-Rise Tight being worn while on a stationary bike
  • Hand in pocket of the Lululemon Swift Speed High-Rise Tight

Best Men's Overall

On Running Men's Running Pants

On Running Men's Running Pants
Credit: On Running
View on On-running.com
Pros

  • Durable construction and materials

  • Comfortable and secure fit

  • Breathable and moisture-wicking

Cons

  • Not warm enough for extremely cold weather

Key Specs

Type: Pants Sizes: Men’s S to XXL Materials: Polyester, elastane Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best if you prefer full-length coverage but want a cooler, lightweight feel, particularly for running in moderate weather.

Why We Love Them 

When your body starts to heat up mid-run, you’ll appreciate breathable and moisture-wicking pants like On’s Running Pants. During our runs, we found that the blend of performance materials—polyester and elastane—kept us cool and quickly wicked away sweat. Ventilation panels at the knee further enhance airflow, ensuring our comfort and focus on the road. 

With two front zippered pockets, there’s room to securely stash your essentials. We also like the mid-rise adjustable waistband for a customized fit and secure hold, along with ankle zippers for easy on-and-off wear. The soft, stretchy material promotes comfort and unrestricted movements. And we appreciate the high-quality, durable construction that endured many wears and washes throughout testing. 

Potential Flaws

  • Although we appreciate the breathable, lightweight material for cooler runs, these pants fall short in providing adequate protection for cold weather.

Most Valuable Insight

“The materials used are top-notch, and the design and construction are well thought out. These are great for moderate climates where cold air and a little rain wouldn't be much of an issue." —Henry Yung, Verywell Fit product tester

  • Person outside wearing an On Running Men's Running Pants
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • On Running Men's Running Pants
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Close up of the draw string on an On Running Men's Running Pants
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person outside wearing an On Running Men's Running Pants
  • On Running Men's Running Pants
  • Close up of the draw string on an On Running Men's Running Pants

Best Tights

Athleta Rainier Tight

Athleta Women’s Rainier Tight
Credit: Athleta
View on Athleta View on Shoppremiumoutlets.com
Pros

  • Comfortable and supportive

  • Plenty of pockets

  • Wide range of sizes

Cons

  • Some may prefer a higher waistband

Key Specs

Type: Tights Sizes: Women’s XXS to 3XL Materials: Polyester, lycra Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for running or other outdoor winter activities, as well as casual wear.

Why We Love Them 

If you want a premium pair of tights that blends comfort, support, and breathability for cold weather wear, we recommend Athleta’s Rainier Tights. The soft, stretchy blend of polyester and Lycra moves effortlessly with your body, making these versatile for both short and long-distance runs, as well as gym sessions and casual wear. During test runs, the fabric quickly wicked away sweat and dried fast. These tights kept our legs warm, even when running in frigid, windy weather, ensuring lasting comfort. 

We like that you can easily layer on top of the Rainier Tights for added protection in rain or snow. The light compression strategically supports, while the mid-rise, no-slip waistband offers a secure fit. Plus, the side and back zippered pockets prove convenient spots for carrying your phone, energy gels, and more on the run. We also appreciate that these come in regular and plus sizes, as well as three different lengths, ensuring a perfect fit for every wearer.

Potential Flaws

  • While we like the mid-rise waistband, some runners may prefer a higher rise for more coverage and support.

Most Valuable Insight

“I LOVE the way these leggings fit. They're body-hugging and just a little compressive, and they look super flattering.” —Kristen Geil, Verywell Fit product tester

  • Person kneeling wearing Athleta Women’s Rainier Tight outdoors
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person running in Athleta Women’s Rainier Tight outdoors
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Closeup person wearing Athleta Women’s Rainier Tight outdoors
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person kneeling wearing Athleta Women’s Rainier Tight outdoors
  • Person running in Athleta Women’s Rainier Tight outdoors
  • Closeup person wearing Athleta Women’s Rainier Tight outdoors

Best Plus-Size

Nike Women’s Therma-FIT High-Waisted ⅞ Leggings

Nike Women’s Therma-FIT High-Waisted ⅞ Leggings
Credit: Nike
$96 at Amazon View on Dicks Sporting Goods View on Nike.com
Pros

  • Soft, stretchy fabric

  • Flattering, secure fit

  • Breathable and moisture-wicking

Cons

  • Not windproof

Key Specs

Type: Leggings Sizes: Women’s 0XL to 4XL Materials: Polyester, spandex Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners seeking plus-size leggings that are comfortable, supportive, and flattering. 

Why We Love Them 

For leggings that offer flattering coverage, Nike’s Therma-FIT High-Waisted 7/8 Plus-Size Leggings are our top pick. During test runs, both short and long distances, these leggings maintained a secure yet comfy fit without slipping or rolling down. The soft, stretchy blend of polyester and spandex provides light compression while allowing for a full, free range of motion.  

The high-rise, contoured waistband features a subtle V-shape on the back, delivering a smooth and flattering silhouette. The waistband also includes two hidden pockets for storing your essentials—one large enough to accommodate your phone. Additionally, we discovered that these leggings not only kept us warm in cold conditions but also wicked away sweat and kept us cool as we heated up on our runs.

Potential Flaws

While these leggings offered warmth during cold weather, we found that they lacked sufficient protection for running in windy conditions.

Most Valuable Insight

“These are more comfortable than more expensive brands and feel as soft as lululemon's Align line. I will definitely be purchasing these again and would recommend them.” —Tatiana Kennedy, Verywell Fit product tester

  • Person running outside wearing Nike Therma-FIT One Women’s High-Waisted ⅞ Leggings
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Close up of the logo on Nike Therma-FIT One Women’s High-Waisted ⅞ Leggings
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person stretching outside while wearing Nike Therma-FIT One Women’s High-Waisted ⅞ Leggings
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person running outside wearing Nike Therma-FIT One Women’s High-Waisted ⅞ Leggings
  • Close up of the logo on Nike Therma-FIT One Women’s High-Waisted ⅞ Leggings
  • Person stretching outside while wearing Nike Therma-FIT One Women’s High-Waisted ⅞ Leggings

Most Comfortable

On Running Women's Tights Long

On Running Women's Tights Long
Credit: On Running
View on Dicks Sporting Goods View on On-running.com
Pros

  • Comfortable and secure fit

  • Very durable

  • Breathable and moisture-wicking

Cons

  • Not warm enough for extremely cold weather

Key Specs

Type: Tights Sizes: Women’s XS to XL Materials: Polyamide, elastane Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Who They’re For

Best if you want running tights that feel like second skin. 

Why We Love Them 

For tights with a sleek look and second-skin feel, On’s Performance Tights are a surefire choice. During our wear tests, we were immediately impressed by the soft, smooth, and stretchy material—a blend of polyester and elastane— which delivers a secure yet exceptionally comfortable fit. Moving freely in these tights, we felt confident that they wouldn’t slip down during our runs. 

The fabric is breathable, ultra sweat-wicking, and quick-drying, ensuring ongoing comfort and effective temperature regulation. Despite their minimalist design, this pair offers practical features like a covered rear pocket for simple storage and ankle zippers for effortless on and off. Even after numerous wears and washes, these durable and high-quality tights showed no signs of wear or fading.

Potential Flaws

  • While we appreciate the lightweight, breathable material for cooler weather, these tights don’t offer adequate protection or warmth for very cold or windy conditions.

Most Valuable Insight

“I actually felt that this was one of the most comfortable pair of tights that I've worn. The material is so soft, smooth, and stretchy enough to fit my body without feeling too tight or too loose when running.” —Janice Desenberg, Verywell Fit product tester 

  • Person outside wearing On Running Women's Tights Long
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • On Running Women's Tights Long
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Close up of the material on an On Running Women's Tights Long
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person outside wearing On Running Women's Tights Long
  • On Running Women's Tights Long
  • Close up of the material on an On Running Women's Tights Long

Best Budget

Baleaf Laureate Multi-Colored Thermal Leggings

Baleaf Women's Fleece Lined High Waisted Winter Leggings
Credit: Amazon
$31 at Amazon View on Walmart View on Baleaf.com
Pros

  • Comfortable and secure fit

  • Suitable for cool to cold weather

  • Fleece lining for added warmth

Cons

  • No phone-sized pockets

Key Specs

Type: Leggings Sizes: Women’s XS to 3XL Materials: Polyester, spandex Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Who They’re For

Best if you brave frigid temperatures and don’t want to spend much on fleece-lined leggings.

Why We Love Them 

If you’re looking to gear up for winter running, Baleaf’s High-Waisted-Fleece Lined Leggings are a low-budget yet high-quality option. During our test runs, they felt like a second skin, providing comfort without restricting our strides. The high-rise waistband also helps keep the leggings in place and provides a streamlined silhouette. Plus, a fleece lining kept us warm, even in the most frigid conditions.

Despite their affordable price tag, this pair proved remarkably durable. Even after multiple washes, the leggings maintained their shape, color, and warmth. We also appreciate the buttery-soft, smooth material—a polyester and spandex blend—that rivals more expensive options, making them an exceptional value for the price.

Potential Flaws

  • We love that these leggings have a back pocket for small essentials, but wish there was a large pocket to fit your phone or larger items.

Most Valuable Insight

“They are SO worth it—they feel like lululemon fleece-lined dupes. I would 100% buy these again in different colors.” —Mollie Pendexter, Verywell Fit product tester

  • Person standing outside wearing Baleaf Women's Thermal Fleece Lined Leggings
    These Baleaf Fleece Lined leggings are thick with a secure fit that gives plenty of confidence. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Baleaf Women's Thermal Fleece Lined Leggings laid out on the floor
    With superior coverage and a soft fleece lining, these Baleaf leggings are ideal for cold weather. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person standing outside wearing Baleaf Women's Thermal Fleece Lined Leggings
  • Baleaf Women's Thermal Fleece Lined Leggings laid out on the floor

Best Fleece-Lined

Under Armour ColdGear Compression Leggings

Armour Women's ColdGear Authentics Leggings
Credit: Amazon
$55
$44 at Amazon View on Zappos $55 at Dicks Sporting Goods
Pros

  • Suitable for cool to cold weather

  • Very durable

  • Moisture-wicking and quick-drying

Cons

  • No pockets

  • Some may prefer a higher waistband

Key Specs

Type: Leggings Sizes: Women’s XS to XXL Materials: Polyester, elastane Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Who They’re For

Best if you want a top-quality pair of fleece-lined leggings for warmth and protection on runs, outdoor activities, and daily wear. 

Why We Love Them 

Under Armour’s ColdGear Authentics Leggings stand out as a go-to cold-weather option thanks to their fleece lining, which provides warmth and thermoregulation. Throughout our testing, this pair consistently kept our legs comfortable and dry, even when we started to sweat. This was thanks to the soft, moisture-wicking material. They fit, feel, and move like a second skin, which is exactly what you should look for in a pair of running leggings.

Designed to provide ample warmth and protection, these leggings are suitable for temperatures ranging from 10 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit—but they never feel heavy or bulky. And in even colder temperatures or for snowy activities like skiing, they can be worn as a base layer. We also appreciate that they come in three different lengths, ensuring the right fit for tall and short wearers. 

Potential Flaws

  • We would appreciate it if these leggings had at least one pocket, but you can always strap on a running belt for on-the-go storage. 
  • While these leggings are labeled as mid-rise, we found the waistband to be slightly low, and the crotch area felt short. Depending on body type, some individuals may prefer a higher waistband for enhanced coverage.

Most Valuable Insight

“I like how these aren’t overly bulky or heavy even though they are fleece-lined.” —Shannon Bauer, Verywell Fit product tester

  • Person running outside wearing Under Armour Women's ColdGear Compression Leggings
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person showing the waistband of an Under Armour Women's ColdGear Compression Leggings
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person running outside wearing Under Armour Women's ColdGear Compression Leggings
  • Person showing the waistband of an Under Armour Women's ColdGear Compression Leggings

Best Reflective

Tracksmith Turnover Tights

Tracksmith Women's Turnover Tights
Credit: Tracksmith
View on Tracksmith.com
Pros

  • Soft, stretchy fabric

  • Rear bounce-free pocket

  • Very breathable

Cons

  • Some seams cause minor discomfort

Key Specs

Type: Tights Sizes: Women’s XS to XL Materials: Nylon, elastane Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Who They’re For

Best if you run outside in the early morning or late at night. 

Why We Love Them 

If you often run in low-light conditions, choosing reflective running gear, like Tracksmith’s Turnover Tights, is essential to ensure safety on the road. Designed with runners in mind, these tights proved easy to stride and sprint in during our test runs. The comfortable high rise keeps them in place, preventing any distracting riding up or sagging at the back. 

Constructed from a blend of nylon and elastane, we found the fabric breathable, preventing overheating and sweat buildup. These tights provide enough protection for moderate temperatures and can easily double as a base layer in harsher conditions. We also love the rear zippered pocket, which allows for secure, bounce-free transport of your running essentials. 

Potential Flaws

  • Although we appreciate the comfy and secure fit of these tights, we noticed some minor irritation from the inner thigh seam during our runs.

Most Valuable Insight

“The inside of the tights were really soft and buttery but stretchy. And the reflective parts of the leggings are great if it’s early morning or after the sun goes down.” —Rachel Marek, Verywell Fit product tester

  • Person standing outside wearing a Tracksmith Women's Turnover Tights
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Tracksmith Women's Turnover Tights
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person showing the inside material on a Tracksmith Women's Turnover Tights
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person standing outside wearing a Tracksmith Women's Turnover Tights
  • Tracksmith Women's Turnover Tights
  • Person showing the inside material on a Tracksmith Women's Turnover Tights

Best With Pockets

Baleaf Water-Resistant Leggings

Baleaf Women's Laureate Thermal Water-resistant Leggings
Credit: Amazon
$40 at Amazon View on Baleaf.com
Pros

  • Fleece lining for added warmth

  • Budget-friendly

  • Water-resistant

Cons

  • Waistband may be too high

  • May not be as durable as other options

Key Specs

Type: Leggings Sizes: Women’s XS to 3XL Materials: Polyester, spandex Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Who They’re For

Best if you prefer to carry your phone, wallet, protein bar, and other essentials on your runs. 

Why We Love Them 

If pockets are a priority for you, consider Baleaf’s Laureate Thermal Water-Resistant Leggings, which have ample room for all your running essentials. During test runs, we found the four side pockets to be well-suited for securely holding a phone and other items, without any bouncing. Meanwhile, a zippered back pocket proved ideal for stashing credit cards, cash, and keys.

The polyester and spandex fabric blend delivers a soft, stretchy, second-skin feel. And an added fleece lining offers protection during cold runs. Plus, these leggings are water-resistant, making them an excellent choice for snowy or rainy conditions. This budget-friendly pair feels so incredibly comfy that we even found ourselves wearing them for lounging around the house. 

Potential Flaws

  • While some runners may prefer high-waisted leggings, we found that the waist on this pair felt higher than most. 
  • We notice some minor fraying around the seams after several wears and washes, likely attributable to the budget-friendly price point.

Most Valuable Insight

“Super warm! These leggings would be best in really cold temps, like sub-30 degrees Fahrenheit. The lining is warm but not too thick, and they are waterproof, so I would trust them in the snow.” —Sara Michael, Verywell Fit product tester

  • Person standing outside showing the front of Baleaf Women's Laureate Thermal Water-Resistant Leggings
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person standing outside showing the back of Baleaf Women's Laureate Thermal Water-Resistant Leggings
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person pulling up the waist to a Baleaf Women's Laureate Thermal Water-Resistant Leggings
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person standing outside showing the front of Baleaf Women's Laureate Thermal Water-Resistant Leggings
  • Person standing outside showing the back of Baleaf Women's Laureate Thermal Water-Resistant Leggings
  • Person pulling up the waist to a Baleaf Women's Laureate Thermal Water-Resistant Leggings

Best Hold

Hoka Women's 28" ColdSnap Run Tight

Hoka Women's 28" ColdSnap Run Tight
Credit: Hoka
View on Hoka.com View on Dardanos.com
Pros

  • Comfortable and secure fit

  • Adjustable waistband

  • Plenty of pockets

Cons

  • May feel too tight for some

Key Specs

Type: Tights Sizes: Women’s XS to XL Materials: Polyester, elastane Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Who They’re For

Best if you need a high-rise, adjustable waistband to enhance support and security.

Why We Love Them 

Do you often find yourself struggling to keep your pants in place or constantly needing to make adjustments? Hoka’s ColdSnap Run Tights offer a superb solution to this issue. Throughout our testing, the lightweight, compressive fabric provided a secure, snug fit, complemented by a flattering high-rise waistband complete with an inner adjustable drawcord for even more hold.

The polyester and elastane fabrication effectively wicks away sweat and offers ample ventilation, keeping us dry and preventing overheating. Plus, the water-repellent properties make these pants suitable for rainy or snowy runs. We found that they offer warmth and protection in cool to cold temperatures and can be easily layered for harsher conditions. We also appreciate the two pockets for storing small essentials—one can even fit a phone. 

Potential Flaws

  • While we appreciate the secure fit that minimizes the need for adjustments during our runs, we found that these leggings felt quite tight during extended wear.

Most Valuable Insight

“These tights are snug and secure. And they are not bulky, so they are perfect for layering.” —Tatiana Kennedy, Verywell Fit product tester

  • Person stretching outside while wearing Hoka Women's 28 Inch ColdSnap Run Tight
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person outside wearing Hoka Women's 28 Inch ColdSnap Run Tight
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Close up of the waistband on a Hoka Women's 28 Inch ColdSnap Run Tight
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person stretching outside while wearing Hoka Women's 28 Inch ColdSnap Run Tight
  • Person outside wearing Hoka Women's 28 Inch ColdSnap Run Tight
  • Close up of the waistband on a Hoka Women's 28 Inch ColdSnap Run Tight

Running Pants We Also Tested

In total, we tested 24 pairs of running pants but only included 10 in our final list of recommendations. While these products performed well in some areas, they didn't stand out enough for us to include them as a top pick. 

  • Outdoor Voice’s Women's FrostKnit 7/8 Leggings are soft, warm, and moisture-wicking. They provide a snug and secure fit. However, we discovered that the fabric snags easily and lacks durability compared to other options. Additionally, the reflective detailing left uncomfortable imprints on our skin.
  • We appreciate Hoka’s Novafly Run Tights for their soft, moisture-wicking material and excellent storage options. However, we found the fit to be awkwardly loose at the ankle. Ultimately, we believe the price does not reflect the product's features and overall value.
  • Featuring a cozy fleece lining, Brooks' Momentum Thermal Tights offer warmth and protection from the elements. However, we found the fit to be less secure than desired, with a slouchy waistband that requires frequent adjustment. We also wish the pocket was large enough to accommodate a phone.
  • Adidas’ Ultimate Running Winter Long Leggings provide comfort and durability, and we appreciate how well they stay in place during long runs. However, we found the zippers at the ankles to be uncomfortable and distracting.

Where We Stand

After testing 24 pairs of running pants, lululemon’s Swift Speed High-Rise Tights and On Running's Men's Running Pants are our clear winners for women and men. As we continue to test running pants at home, we will update this list of recommendations if we find anything significant that we haven't already mentioned here.

A person outside stretching wearing Athleta Rainer Tight

Verywell Fit

What to Look for When Shopping for Running Pants

  • Type: Popular types of running pants include leggings, tights, joggers, track pants, or semi-fitted ones. Leggings and tights are form-fitting, usually offering at least some compression. Joggers, track pants, and semi-fitted running pants aren’t body-hugging but have a tailored, tapered cut so the material doesn’t bunch or get in the way of your stride.
  • Function: While shopping, consider the conditions you’ll be running in. If you tend to run in mild-to-cool weather, you’ll want pants that are made of lightweight, moisture-wicking materials. For colder, more blustery conditions, you need reliable protection with thicker pants that are water- and wind-resistant. 
  • Materials: Choose from performance fabrics—like polyester, nylon, elastane, and spandex—that are sweat-wicking, breathable, stretchy, and built to last. Lululemon leggings, for example, are prized for having these qualities which make them extremely wearable. Polyester and nylon are great for keeping sweat at bay, while elastane and spandex give the four-way stretch you need for unrestricted movements. Most running pants are made from a blend of performance fabrics. 
  • Fit: You’ll want to try your running pants on to ensure a snug and secure fit that doesn’t feel too tight or restrict your movements. Whether you opt for a form-fitting or semi-fitted style, your pants shouldn’t feel too constricting or too baggy. To find a customizable fit, look for drawstrings or straps for adjustability. 
  • Features: Many running pants come with additional features, like zippered or drop-in pockets to hold your phone and other essentials. If you run in low-light conditions, you may want pants with reflective elements to improve visibility. Adjustable drawcords or zippers at the ankles make it easier to customize the fit and get the pants on and off.
  • Weather Protection: If you don’t let inclement weather interfere with your outdoor running, look for pants that are wind- and water-resistant to keep out the cold and moisture. Just be sure that they also have some ventilation or breathability so you don’t overheat.
Person pulling up the waist to a Baleaf Women's Laureate Thermal Water-Resistant Leggings

Verywell Fit

How We Tested the Running Pants

To find the best running pants, we tested 24 options from top, trusted activewear brands. During testing, we evaluate each pair of pants based on the following critical criteria: 

  • Fit: When we first try the pants on, we pay attention to how they fit. We are checking to make sure they're comfortable, providing a snug and secure fit that’s not too tight or restrictive. Then, during our run tests, we assess whether the pants stay in place or require constant adjustments. We also take note of any adjustable features (like drawstrings or straps) that help us find a customized fit. 
  • Comfort: While running in the pants, we evaluate how comfortable they feel. Does the fabric feel soft against our skin? Are there any seams, tags, or closures that cause discomfort or chafing? Did the pants effectively wick moisture away and provide adequate ventilation to prevent overheating? 
  • Warmth: Running pants offer different levels of warmth, depending on the conditions they’re crafted for. We wear each pair of pants in various conditions—cool, cold, rainy, and even snowy—to evaluate their level of insulation. We also pay attention to whether the pants provide consistent warmth or if there are cold or warm sports. Finally, we consider if they’re best for very cold or more moderate temperatures. 
  • Performance: Throughout the testing period, we pay attention to how the pants enhance our running performance. Are they breathable and moisture-wicking? Do they allow for a full range of motion or restrict movements in any way? Is it easy to layer them with other clothing? Do they have any added performance benefits, such as water- or wind-resistance properties or reflective detailing?
  • Durability: After multiple wears and washes (per manufacturer care instructions), we examine each pair of pants for any signs of wear and tear, such as fraying, fading, or pilling. Do they maintain their shape, color, and warmth over time? 
  • Value: To give each pair of pants a fair value score, we wait to look at its price until the end of the testing period. Then, based on performance in each of the above categories, we determine whether we think the pants are priced fairly. We give high scores to pants that cost less than or the same amount as what we would consider paying for them.
Person stretching outside while wearing Nike Therma-FIT One Women’s High-Waisted ⅞ Leggings

Verywell Fit

Our Experts

Throughout our research and testing process, we consulted running coaches and other fitness experts. Some helped us understand what key features to look for and avoid when selecting running pants, while others helped inform our wear tests. We choose products independently, although expert input influences our decisions.

  • Stacey Miller, certified running coach and owner of Sonic Endurance
  • John Gardner, certified personal trainer at Kickoff
  • Nadia Ruiz, ultrarunner and coach at The McCourt Foundation
  • Marnie Kunz, certified running coach at Runstreet

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pants are best for running?

The best running pants are comfortable, move with you, fit well, and are made from moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and breathable fabrics. While there are many different types of running pants—from tights and leggings to joggers and track pants—the best ones for you will suit your preferences and needs.

What is the best material for running pants?

The best materials for running pants are lightweight, breathable, stretchy, and moisture-wicking. Many running pants are designed with nylon, polyester, spandex, or a blend of these fabrics, making them ideal for providing moisture control and a good range of motion.

How much do good running pants cost?

In general, high-quality running pants cost between $35 and $170, depending on added features and brand names. The most budget-friendly opinion we tested is often available for about $33, while our most expensive pair costs about $168.

Is it better to wear tight or loose clothes when running?

Making sure your running pants fit well and let you move freely is important, but choosing between a snug or relaxed fit ultimately boils down to personal preference. For added support, compression leggings or tights are a solid choice, whereas others may gravitate towards the more casual feel of joggers or semi-fitted pants.

Are joggers good for running?

Joggers, also known as jogger pants, generally feature a relaxed fit and an elastic band at the ankles, lending them a tapered look. Designed with ample flexibility in mind, they offer excellent range of motion, making them ideal for running. Just make sure they’re made from lightweight, sweat-wicking fabrics.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, is a writer for Verywell Fit with more than 20 years of experience with health and fitness content and product recommendations. As a certified personal trainer, running coach, and avid runner, she’s always researching and using the latest running gear and has a keen eye for the most comfortable, best-performing running clothes. For this article, Christine looked over the test results to help compile our top picks.

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