Running tights are a must-have for every runner’s wardrobe. They provide warmth and comfort in colder conditions, and their lightweight, form-fitting design makes them more aerodynamic, potentially boosting your performance.
Choosing the best men’s running tights requires considering various factors, as not all running tights are the same. Differences in protection, coverage, features, and price can be significant.
The best-running tights or leggings will keep you snug without restricting movement. Some even offer compression to help warm up your muscles and aid in post-run recovery.
Our Top 7 Picks
Other Brands: Best Brooks Running Shoes
Size: S-XXL
Pocket: One
Material: 89% polyester/11% spandex.
Pros
- Advanced Ventilation
- Breathable Comfort
Cons
- The design might not offer enough coverage in colder conditions
Overview
Choose AeroSwift tights, designed to help you finish strong. The tight fit is snug and form-fitting, and the 1/2-length racing tights feature Nike’s Dri-FIT ADV technology for breathability and comfort and the Flyvent Waistband for ventilation.
Lightweight and sleek, they offer optimal performance with a brief liner for support, extra pockets for essentials, and non-reflective logos to protect against race-day flash photography.
Size: XS-XXL
Pocket: Three
Material: Polyester, elastane
Pros
- Sweat-wicking and breathable
- Suitable for warm and cooler days
Cons
- Not suitable for colder winter days
Overview
Hoka’s Novafly Run Tights are sweat-wicking and breathable. Made from an interlock knit recycled polyester and elastane material, they are perfect for warm and cooler days without causing overheating.
They fit true to size, stay in place with an adjustable internal drawstring, and provide unrestricted movement.
The spacious pockets, including one zippered and one drop-in, are great for carrying essentials like a phone, wallet, or snack.
Size: XS-XXL
Pocket: One
Material: Made up of 71% Polyamide and 29% Elastane
Pros
- Suitable for long runs
- Tempo efforts
- Speed sessions
Cons
- Compression might be uncomfortable for some users.
Overview
These tights resemble Lycra cycling shorts, ending just above the knee. Thanks to Soar’s’ targeted compression, ‘ they are designed to enhance performance during faster tempo runs, intervals, and races.
Lightweight and nearly unnoticeable when worn, they ensure no distractions when pushing for a personal best.
Size: XS-4XL
Pocket: One
Material: Polyester, elastane
Pros
- Moisture-wicking
- Ideal for layering
Cons
- Could potentially lead to thigh chafing
Overview
These tights provide a snug, secure fit without pinching at the waist or restricting your stride. They include a reflective logo for low-light visibility and a side drop-in pocket for convenient storage.
Made from a polyester and elastane blend, they offer excellent sweat-wicking and breathability. Strategic mesh panels provide added ventilation during hot runs.
Lightweight enough to wear alone in warm weather or as a layer in cooler temperatures, they are durable and maintain quality through multiple wears and washes, all at an affordable price.
Size: XS-XXL
Pocket: Three
Material: A water-repelling, double-layered fabric
Pros
- Ankle zippers
Cons
- Design without a drawstring
Overview
Tracksmith’s NDO Tights are perfect for running because they keep you warm and dry without feeling heavy.
Even though they’re thick, they’re great at getting rid of sweat to keep you comfortable. Thanks to the ankle zippers, you can easily layer them and take them off quickly.
Plus, they’re super visible in the dark with reflectors all around. These tights are tough enough for any weather, stay strong after lots of use, and even repel water.
With double layers to keep you extra warm and three handy pockets, they’re designed to perform well and be practical.
Pros
- Suitable for layering
- Provides warmth without causing overheating
Cons
- Less stretchy compared to other alternatives
Overview
Safety is paramount for runners who prefer early morning or late-night sessions. Brooks Men’s Run Visible Thermal Tights prioritize visibility with contrasting colors, fluorescent panels, and strategically placed reflectivity to enhance safety.
Beyond their safety features, these tights offer a comfortable, snug fit that allows freedom of movement without discomfort.
The fabric is soft and breathable, effectively wicking sweat to keep your legs warm without overheating. Its second-skin feel ensures they stay in place and function well as a layering option in colder weather.
Additionally, they include a small zippered pocket for running headphones and a large side drop-in pocket for your phone or other essentials.
Size: S-XXL
Pocket: One
Material:
100% Polyester
Pros
- Highly water-resistant
- Extremely breathable
Cons
- Tights feel stiffer
Overview
The R5 Tights are Built to endure harsh weather conditions. They have three-layer Gore-Tex Infinium Windstopper technology that shields against wind and rain while allowing moisture to escape. They are a must-have for any serious runner’s collection.
Wrapping Up
The best-running tights for men must balance flexibility, breathability, and muscle support to keep you moving efficiently.
Design elements from industry giants like Nike, Under Armour, and Adidas have consistently pushed the bar forward, touting material blends that wick away sweat, chafe minimally, and give support where needed.
With choices as diverse as the featherweight performance fit of Nike Pro Tights or the thermal, insulating properties of Under Armour ColdGear for chilly conditions, there is one to meet every possible contingency and application.
Also, when choosing tights, observe the compression grade, fabric weight, and other features like pockets or reflective details that provide practicality and visibility. A good fit will enhance circulation, lessen muscle fatigue, and enable you to push.
Investing in quality running tights elevates your run comfort and protects your muscles.
