Performance clothing such as the best women's running tights are all about allowing you to run comfortably, at pace without any chafing, movement or bits flapping in the wind. Ease of movement, looks and performance are all watchwords when it comes to selecting the right gym clothes.
Dashing off on a run? The best women's running tights, at a glance
• Best overall women's running tights: Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings - View now on Gymshark
• Best women's running tights for shorter girls: ColorfulKoala Dreamlux HR Legging - View now on ColorfulKoala
• Best women's running tights for breathability: Under Armour Women's UA Fly-Fast Ankle Tights - View now on Under Armour
Whether you choose to wear them over or under shorts is your call, but think about them as a massively important piece of kit when it comes to allowing your muscles to work at their most effective temperatures. Warm muscles are important when it comes to performance, but not hot. Overheat and you’ll run slower - it’s a surprisingly complex sporting balance that the perfect pair of tights can create. You’ll never think of them as just a piece of clothing. Truly, they're made with running efficiency in mind.
Today’s performance clothing is a far cry from the heavy sweatpants of yesteryear. The best kit no longer hangs heavy because it has soaked up sweat or the rain and of course, it has to have the ability to carry your phone or at very least keys.
For something like a pair of women's running tights, compression also plays an important role and can help with your running. The way they hold your muscles in place as you move means you can recover more quickly, and therefore feel better when you next run; simple! So, you've got your wireless headphones, phone holder and waterproof jacket, all that's left to buy is your running tights.
SHOP: The best running tights, updated for 2024
Please note: All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.
Best overall women's running tights
Gymsharkuk.gymshark.com
Whether you're gearing up for a 5K run or half a marathon, these leggings are a great pick. With sweat-wicking technology that's there to keep you dry, and breathable mesh dots to keep you cool, these leggings ensure you enjoy your run - sweat free. Plus, not only are the Gymshark Vital Seamless leggings available in a multitude of shades, they're also seamless, so no need to worry about suffering with the dreaded camel toe.
Pros
- Great selection of colours available
- Supportive ribbed waistband
- Sweat-wicking technology helps keep you dry during intense workouts
Cons
- These running tights do come up quite long on individuals shorter than 5 foot 4 inches
| Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL |
| Colours | Various colours available, including: Blue, Brown, Green, Fuchsia, Purple |
| Material | Nylon, Elastane |
- Customer review: The Vital Seamless 2.0 leggings have an average of 4.1/5 stars on Gymshark.
Best women's running tights for shorter girls
ColorfulKoalacolorfulkoala.com
If you haven't heard of this brand yet, you've been missing out. ColorfulKoala have produced some of the best leggings in the market right now, and rival those of Lululemon and Nike. The Dreamlux fabric is so soft, and still has a good amount of stretch (thanks to the Lycra), so you can comfortably run without having to adjust your tights every two seconds. Also, these leggings sit fitted next to your skin, with a high-rise seamless waistband and a thick material that won't show your pant line - even if you have granny pants on.
Pros
- Dreamlux fabric promises to be 'so soft like butter'
- High-rise seamless waistband
- Made of a sweat-wicking fabric (and Lycra) that dries quickly
Cons
- Better for light runs or training, rather than super long distance running
| Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL |
| Colours | Various colours available, including: Black, Plum, Blue, Pine |
| Material | Nylon, Lycra |
- Our review: "I've recommended these leggings to every person that's ever come to me asking for legging advice. The material these leggings are made of are absolutely perfect and are SO flattering. It doesn't even feel like you're wearing leggings. I find them super comfy, but not only that, really practical and fast-drying. Saying that, the best part of ColorfulKoala leggings is that they're available in 28 inch inseam options, as well as 25 inch inseam. So for all the shorter girls out there, these remove that annoying issue of having to pull up the bottoms of the leggings." Tried and tested by Health & Fitness Writer Gemma Lavers.
Best women's running tights for breathability
Under Armourwww.underarmour.co.uk
If you're looking for a pair of running tights that are as breathable as they are comfortable, you might want to think about investing in the Under Armour Fly-Fast tights. Made from super-light HeatGear fabric, these leggings offer a snug fit (but not overly tight), without weighing you down - so you can fly, fast. The 4-way stretch helps you move freely in every direction, while the high-rise waistband with interior drawcord means you never have to worry about loose leggings.
In addition, the Fly-Fast ankle tights also boast a water-resistant centre-back pocket, there to keep your phone safe during your adventures.
Pros
- Super-light and smooth HeatGear fabric doesn't weigh you down
- 4-Way stretch material gives you freedom of movement
- Strategic laser perforations for added breathability where you need it most
Cons
- Some reviewers found they come up small
| Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL |
| Colours | Black, Blue |
| Material | Polyester, Elastane |
- Customer review: "I bought these Under Armour Fly-Fast tights a while ago and have been wearing it to my workout sessions and I absolutely love them, especially when it has three pockets for me to store my phone and my locker key properly!"
Best women's running tights made sustainably
Adidaswww.adidas.co.uk
The Adidas FastImpact Running leggings are a great choice for the more environmentally-conscious running enthusiast. These leggings prioritise a snug fit, with a high-rise waistband and drawcord on the elastic waist to make sure they don't go anywhere - even if you're on the most intense run. Another final great feature is the two side pockets and zip sweat-guard pockets to keep all your essentials safe while out.
Pros
- Made with yarn that contains 50% Parley Ocean Plastic
- Zip sweat-guard pocket
- Reflective zigzag which is helpful if you frequently run at night
Cons
- Great fit for petite people, under 5 foot 4, but for any taller they might not be the ideal length
| Sizes | 2XS, XS, S, M, L, XL |
| Colours | Black |
| Material | Recycled polyester, Elastane interlock |
- Customer review: "Love these Adidas leggings for running. Fit is perfect and they don’t move, even for long distances."
Best ultra-stretchy women's running tights
HOKAwww.hoka.com
Designed for the modern women who refuses to compromise on performance or fashion, these tights make for a great mixture of both. While the 27 inch length provides ample coverage, the fold-over waistband accentuates your silhouette. Making them perfect for any activity, whether that be a morning run or casual outing. With thoughtful details like a micro vanity gusset and discreet pockets, these HOKA leggings ensure you look and feel your best wherever you adventure.
Pros
- Fold-over high waistband
- Multiple pockets, including drop-in pockets at the side
- Micro vanity gusset
Cons
- Only available in three colours
| Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL |
| Colours | Olive, Black, Rust |
| Material | Recycled polyester, Elastane, BioWick |
- Customer review: "An excellent pair of HOKA running tights."
Best women's running tights for night running
Sweaty Bettywww.sweatybetty.com
Voted as the 'best leggings' by the Women's Running Awards, it wouldn't feel right to not put these on our list. And there really is so much going on with these leggings. Featuring an adjustable waist, back zip pocket and two side slip pockets, Sweaty Betty really do prioritise functionality with their designs. The warp-knitted Italian fabric also offers compression technology, UV40+ protection and is quick-drying when needed during those extra sweaty runs.
Pros
- Voted 'best leggings' by the Women's Running Awards
- Ultra-lightweight Italian fabric is quick-drying for intense runs
- Reflective detailing mimics kinesiology tape for added compression, and great for night/evening running
Cons
- Not squat-proof
| Sizes | XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL |
| Colours | Black, Teal blue |
| Material | Polyamide, Elastane |
- Customer review: "These Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity leggings feel great on, wash really well - not cheap but feel like they are going to last for a long time. Definitely help getting me out the door to go running!"
Best women's running tights for body contouring
Gymsharkuk.gymshark.com
The Gymshark running leggings do exactly what they say on the tin. They're a good quality pair of running tights that are there to sweat-wick and compress. A couple of other nice features include an internal drawcord for a maximum skin-tight fit and a zipped pocket to carry all yours bits and bobs in. The real reason these leggings rank on our list is because of their body-contouring seams that will accentuate your hips and body, and will make you feel empowered and ready to run.
Pros
- Internal drawcord to waist for a flattering fit
- Body-contouring seams for a sleek look
- Zipped pocket for essentials
Cons
- Some reviewers found they're a little long
| Sizes | XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL |
| Colours | Various colours available, including: Black, Grey, Blue, Purple |
| Material | Nylon, Elastane |
- Customer review: The Running Leggings have an average of 4/5 stars on Gymshark.
Best black women's running tights
Decathlonwww.decathlon.co.uk
The KALENJI running leggings are perfect for running, regardless of the weather. In fact, one of the reviews even stated they stayed relatively waterproof. If that wasn't enough to cinvince you, these leggings boast a back zip pocket, no seams between the legs and a sweat-wicking fabric. Plus, coming in at just under £15, these are a great price too. So, although it can be fun to buy your leggings in a pop of colour, you'll always find yourself returning to a trusty pair of black leggings.
Pros
- Great value
- Back zip pocket for carrying keys or small personal belongings
- The fabric wicks away sweat to keep you dry
Cons
- Only available in black
| Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL |
| Colour | Black |
| Material | Recycled polyester, Elastane |
- Customer review: "Bought these KALENJI leggings to do a Tough Mudder (and I do a lot of them!) For the price, I didn't expect them to come out unscathed, but after a wash, they look good as new! Really comfy to wear, and warm too, which was a pleasant bonus! Definitely good quality for the money."
Best Nike women's running tights
Nikewww.nike.com
These Nike leggings are arguably the best running leggings Nike offer. If you're someone who can't leave the house without their phone, keys, lip-gloss or purse, these leggings are definitely the ones for you. With six pockets (yes, you read that right, six pockets), the Nike Go leggings have two angled pockets, one on each side, three drop-in pockets and a zip pocket. Plus, Nike have even included flattering features like an extra-wide waistband and InfinaLock compressive fabric. So you look, and feel, your best.
Pros
- Features a whopping six pockets; two angled, two side pockets, three drop-in pockets and a zip pocket
- Dri-FIT technology moves sweat away from your skin for quicker evaporation
- Extra wide waistband to reduce rolling, pinching and sliding
Cons
- The firm-support and compression might be too much for some runners
| Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL |
| Colours | Brown, Black, Burgundy, Blue, Indigo |
| Material | Nylon, Elastane |
- Customer review: "You have to add a pair of these Nike Go leggings to your cart ASAP! They are very flattering and perfect for a high intensity workout. These leggings are thick, not see-through, and the quality is amazing. Because of the compression, they are pretty tight and hard to get on, but once you're wearing them, they are super comfortable. I love the pockets and adjustable waistband. I will probably be buying another pair of these in a different colour."
Best value women's running tights
AmazonThese Sundried leggings are the best value running tights on the market right now. With their laser-cut detailing or 'mini holes' on the legs to provide ventilation, the leggings provide optimal breathability for those sweaty runs. Sundried's designs are all about enhancing your figure, so the thick, high-waistband is there to cinch, but also not slip. Also, the pockets come in really handy for fitness enthusiasts who want to carry their phone, headphones, keys and energy gels on them.
Pros
- Laser-cut detailing to the legs for ventiliation and breathability
- Thick, high-waistband so it won't slip down while running
- Features a drop-in pocket and zip pocket
Cons
- Some reviewers found they come up slightly small
| Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL |
| Colours | Blue, Black |
| Material | Sundried EcoTech (unknown) |
- Customer review: "These Sundried leggings are great, they have tiny holes all over lower legs for ventilation, but don't feel draughty. They feel so comfortable very supportive and stay in place whilst running. Have a pocket on each leg too for your phone or gels and a back zip pocket for keys. I am a size 12 and bought medium. Would recommend and would definitely buy again. Great value too."
A guide to buying the best running tights
What is the best material for running tights?
When it comes to finding the best material for those leg-huggers, it has to be a blend that's breathable enough to keep you cool when you're breaking a sweat. But, they also have to be cosy enough to fend off that chill in the air. They need to move and stretch with you, so to never hold you back from your stride. Plus, they need to be tight enough to not fall down when running. Let's face it, nobody wants to be doing the annoying pull-up mid run.
In answer to the question, the best material for running tights is a magical concoction of moisture-wicking polyester and ultra-stretchy Lycra or elastane.
What's the difference between running tights and running leggings?
To break it down, running tights are snug, streamlined and are all about performance. They are made to hug your legs, offering compression and support during long runs. Think of them as your running buddy, there alongside you to improve your speed and even endurance. Alternatively, running or gym leggings are more like your laid-back weekend vibes. They're versatile, comfortable and effortlessly cool. What also separates the two is the balance of comfort and functionality. Running leggings provide a bit more room to breathe, while still empowering you to jog on.
When should I start wearing running tights
When you decide to don your running tights is completely up to you, well, it might be up to the weather too. Think about changing to running tights when you're tired of your old jogging bottoms flapping in the wind. Or when you want a pair of leggings with a little more compression. So, whether you decide to make the change on the first frost of autumn, or the heat of the summer, listen to your body (and maybe your weather app). When you feel like mixing up your gym wear, it might be time to strut your stuff in a new pair of running tights.
Gemma Lavers is a Health & Fitness Writer for What's The Best. From understanding nutrition to practising yoga and Pilates to delving into the psychology of motivation. She enjoys demystifying the latest fitness trends and staying on top of the dynamic health landscape, whether that's the best gym leggings, fitness trackers or the benefits of yoga.
When Gemma’s not writing, she can be found attending Pilates, yoga and Zumba classes. She’s also a bit of a home workout aficionado, constantly trying out new ways to keep her moving at home. Between writing, exercising and shopping, there’s nothing she loves more than hopping on a plane and exploring new cultures.
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