Winter running tights are a game changer for the cold, frigid months in the Northeast. I’ll never forget the first pair of tights I got. I had a gift card to the JackRabbit running store about 12 years ago and it was burning a hole in my pocket. It was January, and I already had plenty of running gear. I had shoes, shirts, jackets, shorts, pants, gloves, hats, head warmers – pretty much everything. What I didn’t have was a pair of the best cold weather running tights.
As I was perusing the JackRabbit shop, a pair of black tights from the brand Sugoi stuck out to me. They looked nice, and had a warm thermal lining. Back then, it was becoming trendy for men to wear tights underneath their running shorts, so I thought I’d give them a shot. They ended up changing my life.
Since that day, I’ve acquired at least 10 more pairs of running tights. I use them pretty much 9-10 months out of the year underneath my shorts for running. And, they come in quite handy on the coldest days when I know I’m going to be outside for an extended period of time and need an extra layer. Think long underwear – but extra versatile.
There are some key characteristics or special features of cold weather running tights that you should be aware of. For example, is there an interior lining for extra warmth like that first pair from Sugoi? Also, what is the pocket situation? Is there a side panel pocket for easy access to your iPhone? A back middle pocket for your keys? And finally, what length are they? Quarter length? All the way down your lower legs to your ankle?
It can admittedly feel a bit strange putting on a pair of super-tight leggings for the first time if you’re not used to them. They may feel super tight against your hairy legs, or the elastic drawstring may dig into your stomach. The great thing about tights though, is that you can make adjustments if you’re feeling uncomfortable.
For example, I’ve rolled down the waist band once or twice if the elastic drawstring was digging into my stomach. I’ve also rolled up the tights at the bottom if they went all the way down to my ankles and I didn’t want them to cover my legs completely. Plus, I usually use the tights for the iPhone pocket holder since most shorts are terrible for holding stuff like smaller items. So I just put some shorts on over the tights as an outer layer most of the year.
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Best Cold Weather Running Tights For Men
With these things in mind, let’s take a look at the best cold weather running tights for men and see which ones are the best for your specific needs. They range from about $80 all the way up to $200. Of course, the more you pay, the better quality you’re going to get. For winter weather tights, this typically means more details, better materials, better pockets, and more reflective detailing.
Winter Tights Under $100
UnderArmour UA Rush ColdGear Leggings – $70
UA RUSH ColdGear Leggings power your toughest workouts, your biggest games, and your most intense training. These tights give you back energy, they fit great, keep you dry, and make you feel like you can crush every PR.
UA RUSH is infrared technology that reflects your body’s energy to help you work harder and recover smarter. Super-soft ColdGear fabric is breathable and stretches for superior mobility but is still incredibly warm on those cold days. The ColdGear mesh panels provide breathability where you need it without sacrificing warmth. The seams are placed strategically to eliminate pressure points and chafing. And the updated gusset design provides ultimate support and comfort. There is an exposed elastic waistband and drop-in Strength Pocket on the right side for easy storage.
Material-wise, the body is 84% Polyester/16% Elastane, and the mesh is 82% Polyester/18% Elastane. The US Rush ColdGear Leggings give you a skin-tight fit. They recommend machine washing inside out cold with like colors.
ASICS Thermopolis Winter Tight – $70
The Thermopolis Winter Tight is designed for running in cooler weather conditions. This mid-weight layer features an advanced knit fabric that helps you retain heat during your training. It also has a zippered pocket on the back waistband for storing smaller essentials. The reflective ASICS Spiral and taping are designed to improve visibility in low-light settings. There is also an adjustable drawcord waist tie.
Craft Sportswear ADV Essence Warm Tights – $80
The Craft Men’s ADV Essence Warm Tights are the best option for athletes who want to combine high-intensity training with fashion for a powerful mix that gets you results during your workouts — and gets you noticed while on the go. These active tights feature an elastic waistband with an adjustable drawcord plus brushed inside fabric to keep your legs toasty on cold runs. The soft jersey fabric quickly wicks moisture away from the skin, so you can count on staying dry and comfortable during intense workouts, every time.
Designed to be highly functional, these essential fall and winter tights come with a back zipper pocket to safely store your keys and reflective details for enhanced visibility, so you can perform your best day and night, on foot and on bike. Made of 88% recycled polyester and 12% elastane, the proportion of sustainable materials is one of the best things about their performance sportswear.
Adidas Ultimate Running Conquer The Elements Aeroready Warming Leggings – $80
No need to compromise on distance or pace just because of colder temperatures outside. These adidas running tights keep you warm and comfy, while moisture-wicking Aeroready helps you stay dry from warmup to cool-down. Ankle zips let you adjust the ventilation, and all-around reflectivity shines when the light fades. Keep essentials in the back zip pocket, and go a little farther in spite of the chill. A minimum of 70% of this product is a blend of recycled and renewable materials. With an elastic waist with drawcord, the Aeroready Warming Leggings are a great fit at a great price.
Vuori Limitless Compression Tight – $89
Designed for runners on a budget, the Vuori Limitless Compression Tight is excellent for cold weather runs. When compression meets comfort, you get Vuori’s performance stretch knit fabric in a 30″ inseam tights with a brushed waistband, a hidden pocket feature and flatlock seams to prevent chafing. The Limitless Compression Tight is great for running, training and hiking. They are machine washable and feature an elastic waistband, a back zip stash pocket, and a reflective logo. If you are looking for true compression tights, go with these.
Mizuno Breath Thermo Tight – $90
Take comfort in a warm run with heat-generating Breath Thermo fabric where you need it, 360 reflectivity and a side zipper pocket for all your needs in the Mizuno Men’s Breath Thermo Running Tights. 360 Reflectivity and 4-Way stretch material moves with your body for a tailored fit. It comes with flatlock seaming and moisture wicking plus Breath Thermo: Mizuno’s exclusive thermal fabric technology that uses escaping body vapor to generate heat.
The North Face Winter Warm Tight – $98
The fitted North Face Winter Warm Tight is water-repellent and features moisture wicking FlashDry throughout. These sleek trail running tights also have zoned-in WindWall technology on the front-of-leg and calf, where you need it most. These highly wind resistant leggings for men are made to take on the land or water. FlashDry moisture-wicking fabric with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Finish dries quickly and keeps you cool for total comfort.
Part tight, part pant, these fitted tights great for trails. An internal drawcord at the waistband lets you adjust the fit for maximum comfort. A great option for running and working out, these athletic pants feature a side pocket and secure-zip back pocket to hold essentials while you’re on the go. Reflective details on the left thigh, back-right leg and outer ankles create enhanced visibility in the dark.
Janji Trail Tight – $98
Built for the long run, Janji’s ultra-durable Trail Tight enhances endurance pursuits with moisture-wicking comfort and seven pockets of no-bounce storage. Breathable, moisture-wicking fabric with 4-way stretch provides light compression with an unnoticeable feel in stride. The front panel is dual-layered for coverage, comfort and modesty.
Two small interior pockets keep your valuables secure. A back pocket ideal for nutrition storage can be accessed from either side, or can be used as a pass-thru to secure a top or lightweight layer. Reflective logos on front and back increase visibility in low light. The soft elastic waistband with external facing drawcord allows for a secure, comfortable fit. Deep double-tiered side pockets can easily accommodate the largest phone sizes (plus case), nutrition plus 500ml soft-flasks to provide ample carrying capacity for longer daily runs. An in-pocket Janji blue S-biner key clip keeps keys secure on the move. Laser cut hems provide a smooth, comfortable finish.
The material is 68% nylon and 32% spandex. Janji’s Groundwork Knit material is made using a premium grade nylon that has a significantly tighter woven filament than standard synthetics. Tighter filaments mean less microfiber shedding in the wash-cycle, plus greater durability of the garment (longer lifespan, more wearing). Groundwork Knit fabric is also bluesign certified meaning it is free from harmful chemicals and is fabricated in a way that meets a high environmental standard.
Winter Tights $100 – $150
Salomon SENSE AERO Tight – $110
The men’s Sense Aero tights combine ultra-lightweight fabric with 4-way stretch, moisture management and strategic pocket. So, you feel fast, almost if you aren’t wearing anything. Ideal on their own or with layers for all your favorite winter endurance sports. The men’s Sense Aero tights combine ultra-lightweight fabric with 4-way stretch, moisture management and strategic pocket. So, you feel fast, almost if you aren’t wearing anything.
Ideal on their own or with layers for all your favorite winter endurance sports. AdvancedSkin technical fabrics improve body comfort by keeping you dry, warm and protected when you need it and where you need it. Always a perfect fit with Salomon’s infinitely adjustable waist adjustment. The Sense Aero can be adjusted individually to your waist size for pure freedom of movement. Classic side-pocket construction to store your contents. On tops and bottoms, Active fit is close fitting and lets you move. Not too tight, not too loose. Ventilation zone, usually placed on the back of the knees and thighs, offers breathability while you work out. The Sense Aero has also been designed with reflective inserts.
Patagonia Peak Mission Tights – $129
These cool-to-cold-weather running tights will keep you warm while also wicking away moisture when you start to heat up. Made in a Fair Trade Certified factory with recycled nylon, polyester and spandex blend to provide a soft, next-to-skin comfort and increased wicking during high output; with HeiQ Pure odor control. Unique brushed-terry back of fabric offers warmth and comfort. Internal, flat elastic in the waistband for comfort and lasting durability; the drawcord provides an adjustable fit. Semi-secure pocket at the center back fits a key, card or other small items, while two side drop-in pockets are great for stashing a phone and larger items on the go. Gusseted construction for comfort and range of motion.
Brooks Visible Tight – $130
Touted by Brooks as the tights that provide coverage that shines after dark. Fluorescence, high contrast, and 3M Scotchlite Carbon Black Stretch reflectivity in critical motion zones helps drivers recognize a runner in motion. They are great for city runners when the sun sets.
The stretch fabric balances warmth with breathability. Compression and minimal seaming ensure comfort. There are two drop in pockets – one on each leg to store the essentials. The fit is true to size and the tights are comfortable in all conditions – not too hot during unexpectedly mild winter days and they hold up well in cold and sleet/snow.
Nike Lunar Ray – $145
Whether you’re going out in the middle of January for a cool morning run or chilly evening workout, the Lunar Ray Tights are perfect. Their stretchy fabric combines warmth and breathability to help keep you comfortable in a wide range of cold conditions.
Multiple pockets are handy for bringing your essentials like a cell phone, house keys or energy gel. When your run is done, zippered cuffs make changing a breeze. The upper legs are made with soft knit fabric and a water-repellent finish to help you stay dry. The lower leg and back body is made with stretchy knit fabric that’s lightweight and breathable. A zippered back pocket has a waterproof pouch and is big enough to hold most phones. Side pockets provide safe and secure storage for essentials.
The Lunar Ray tight also features a brief liner with an elastic waistband and drawcord. These tights are machine washable and also feature reflective elements.
Lululemon Fast and Free Cold Weather Tight – $148
Bring the warmth to cold-weather runs with the Lululemon Fast and Free Cold Weather Tights. These tights combine brushed fabric with water-repellent panels for high comfort in low temperatures. Sweat-wicking brushed texture on the inside provides added warmth. With four-way stretch, quick-drying fabric and added Lycra fibre for stretch and shape retention. The softshell fabric at the front hips and thighs is water-repellent.
The Fast and Free tights have side drop-in pockets plus three drop-in gel pockets on the back waistband, plus a small zippered pocket on the back waistband. An internal waistband pouch keeps drawcord strings out of the way. The reflective details are ideal for running in the dark.
You can also machine wash on the cold cycle. The Fast and Free tights will keep you warm but are still breathable, with a thicker material above the knee. Just make sure to go a size up if you order them.
Winter Tights $150+
ON Performance Winter Tights Lumos – $150
ON has been making some really cool gear recently. Their Lumos Winterized performance tights feather an all-over reflective cloud print for visibility. Technical sweat-wicking fabric and integrated pockets for essentials. Reflective logo and tape details and brushed fabric for warmth in winter conditions.
The Lumos Winter Tight is engineered around the movement of the body. Made to light up your run, they feature an all-over reflective cloud print that pops in the day and shines bright in the dark. Finished with a reflective logo and tape on the back – turning heads for style and safety alike. Insulating brushed material will trap heat during freezing runs. Then super soft, moisture-wicking premium materials keep sweat at bay. Because even in cold weather, your body heats up.
Dial up your pace easily, thanks to a high-performance in-motion design with an adjustable waistband. To move with you in any direction. No need to worry about valuables – they tuck easily into the streamlined pockets, meaning no distractions to hold you back.
Norda x Reigning Champ Stretch Running Tight – $150
Performance and craft run hand in hand between Norda and Reigning Champ, to serve the trail running community from city to summit. This reflective running tight is crafted from Polartec Power Stretch Pro with heat transfer graphics on the thigh and rear ankle. Designed with breathable mesh Dot Air panels, concealed front zip pockets, and a form fit below the knee.
Polartec Power Stretch Pro dual knit fabric is perfect for frigid temperatures. The Dot Air back yoke and side panels provide breathability. 4-way stretch fabric retains shape, wicks away moisture and is fast drying. Superior abrasion resistance and flatlock seams ensure zero chafing. Breathable mesh waistband zippered seam pockets with a tubular drawcord provide functional style. Handcrafted in Canada, the stretch running tights are 60% Nylon / 24% Polyester / 16% Elastane. Be sure to machine wash delicate cold and line dry.
Arcteryx Norvan Hybrid Tight – $180
The Norvan Hybrid Tight from Arcteryx is a serious tight that keeps you running all year. The hybrid design starts with a durable, breathable nylon with a warm brushed backer and outstanding stretch, then places highly breathable four-way stretch Gore-Tex Infinium at the thighs to block wind and repel water and snow. The articulated patterning and ergonomic features are fine-tuned for mountain running, and the design layers easily with the Norvan shorts. Flatlock seam construction improves next-to-skin comfort for easy layering under shorts.
Tracksmith NDO Tights – $198
Tracksmith is having a moment right now, and their NDO Tight is the perfect legging for those blustery winter mornings. The NDO is a double-layered and wind-blocking winter running tight with reflective details. Drawing inspiration from the snug comfort of wetsuits, the NDO Tights feature a water-repelling, double-layered fabric for warmth with a wind-blocking overlay for protection. Envelope pockets on the rear make it easy to store things without removing your gloves, while a zippered pocket securely stores your phone. Three-hundred-sixty-degree reflectivity developed by 3M offers visibility in low light.
The NDO Tights are thoughtfully designed down to the last detail to help you perform at your very best when Mother Nature is at her very worst. Tracksmith started with a custom-developed two-tone bodywear fabric that is warm and wicking, thanks to a double-sided construction that provides loft to trap body heat. Tracksmith utilized an Italian-made bonded stretch wind block lining at the front thighs. The result is a running tight that feels more substantial and offers more protection, but with plenty of mobility to move freely.
The tights feature a soft elastic waistband that allows you to easily tuck in a base layer for added warmth. On the back waistband, two large envelope pockets store gloves, gels or extra gear. Back ankle zippers help make it easy to pull the tights on and off quickly. Winter running means heading out when the light is low. Tracksmith worked with 3M to select a reflective fabric for our sash, which sits on the right thigh and back left calf for 360-degree visibility. Overlapping pockets on the back waist provide storage for fuel, mittens or a hat, while the side zippered pocket allows you to safely stash a phone, keys or credit card.
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