There are two types of runners in the world: the fair-weather folks who jog when it’s sunny outside and the die-hard crowd that trains whether it’s raining, snowing, or pummeling down bricks of ice from the sky. If you’re the latter, you need the best warm running leggings that can keep up with your workout.
A good pair of winter running tights needs to have a few key features. First, they should keep you warm and protected from the elements while also allowing your legs to breath a bit. That means they should be made of some kind of permeable fabric that allows air to flow through while also wicking moisture as you sweat. Additionally, they should be quick-drying so natural elements like rain or sleet won’t leave you freezing. Lastly, great running leggings should have anti-bacterial properties that allow you to work up a good, hard sweat without trapping bacteria that can accumulate in the tights over time.
If you're one of those hardcore runners who's constantly chanting mantras like: "No pain, no game," or “I run every day that ends with Y,” then check out these awesome running leggings that will help keep your winter running game strong.
1Investment-Worthy Leggings For Running In Extra Cold Climates
Arc'teryx Women's Stride Tights (XS-L), $119, Amazon
Designed specifically for running in cold, frigid climates, these thermal tights are built with synthetic fibers that are air permeable. This will allow your skin to breathe and let out moisture without letting any of the cold creep in. The result is superior warmth that is also stretchy and flexible with articulated patterning to allow you to move without feeling constricted. They also have a 7-inch ankle zipper and a zippered pocket in the back.
2Awesomely Affordable Tights That Come In 39 Different Colors
DRSKIN Compression Running Tights (S-5XL), $14-16, Amazon
Warmth isn't the only thing to consider when selecting running tights —factors like style and budget play a role too and these awesome DRSKIN leggings excel at both. For under 20 dollars you get a pair of warm, all-season poly-spandex tights suitable for winter jogging, as well as other cold-weather activities like skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor training. The smooth, non-abrasive fabric feels fantastic against your legs and is also UV-blocking, as well as moisture-sensing. Best of all, the lightweight running tights are available in a whopping 39 (!!) color and pattern options, all but guaranteeing there is a color choice you will be obsessed with.
3Anti-Microbial Merino Wool That Prevents Odors From Accumulating
Sub Sports Thermal Leggings (XS-L), $37, Amazon
Thanks to the moisture-wicking, antibacterial Merino wool, these surprisingly affordable running leggings regulate your body temperature while ensuring that any sweat is sloughed away and the fabric is swiftly dried. The four-way stretch material with A-seams delivers a comfortable fit that is slightly loose and chafe-free. The tights also feature a convenient back pocket to stash your phone in during your training session.
4High-Waisted Leggings That Come In A Range Of Sizes Including Short And Tall
Core 10 StudioTec Plus Sized Tights (1X-3X, Short-Tall), $65, Amazon
These supremely soft plus-size running leggings feature Core 10's Studiotec smoothe-brushed fabric that wicks moisture while promoting flexibility and mobility. The sleek high-waisted design is ridiculously comfortable and there is a secret storage pocket in the back waistband to keep your phone or some cash while you train. The machine-washable poly-spandex tights, which can be used for yoga as well as running, are adored by users on Amazon: "These are the best pants!!!" said one customer. "So comfortable and soft. ... You have to order these! Highly recommend!!!
5A High-Tech Compression Fit That Enhances Blood Circulation
CEP Women's Dynamic+ Run Tights 2.0 (See Size Chart), $134-150, Amazon
Blood flow is important any time you run and it's especially critical in the winter. These high-tech compression running tights stimulate circulation via specialized panels that wrap around your thighs, compressing your quads and hamstring muscles. Another set of panels envelops your calves to offer increased blood flow there too, as well as extra support during long distance runs. The blend of nylon and spandex fabric is warm while also being stretchy and comfortable, complete with flat, no-chafe seams and an easy-fit, elastic-free waistband.
6Reflective Paneling That Uses Tiny Micro-Beads To Make You Visible At Night
Pro Viz Women's Pixelite Running Tights (4-12), $87-105, Amazon
In addition to being capable of keeping you warm amid arctic-like temperatures, these running tights offer reflective paneling to make sure drivers and other pedestrians can see you when you're running at night. Using Proviz PixElite reflective performance fabric with tiny reflective beads, the tights are perfect if you tend to run early in the morning before the sun has risen or after work when it's starting to get dark. The top-grade imported leggings are also highly breathable, even with their significant degree of insulation, doing an excellent job wicking sweat and allowing air to permeate the fabric.
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