The Best Leggings for Runners, According to Editors

Published April 23, 2021 02:58PM

Our leggings have gotten lots of wear this past year, and not just from logging miles. If you’re anything like us, it’s probably the perfect time for a refresh of your running tights.

How to Choose the Best Pair

When it comes to leggings you can run in, they have to be built to last. Long or short distance, you want them to last miles and miles. Runners appreciate a thick fabric that gives you support and warmth. Tights also need to be crafted by material that has breathability to keep you dry and comfortable. Fit is important as well: Slippage and riding will only distract you from your course and pace. Lastly (and quite possibly most importantly), we need pockets to store keys, money, and of course our phone. (We admire those who can leave it behind but, some of us can’t live without it.)

The 15 Running Leggings to Shop for Right Now

KORSA by Road Runner Sports | $95

Butter soft leggings with two side pockets will keep your belongings, like your iPhone, secure and close. Internal drawstring in the waistband will give you a secure and individual fit. Flattering for all shapes.

Oiselle Pockito Knickers | $88

Elite runners love this activewear brand, and their capris won’t disappoint. The brand’s smooth, light compression fabric will be pleasing to your legs and skin. But the real highlights are the pockets (yes, plural). With a zip pocket on the waistband and a small and a big pocket on either leg, you can fit the entire contents of your purse in these leggings.

Janji Groundwork Tight | $88

If you prefer light compression on your jogs, this is an excellent option. Breathable, soft, and super lightweight, the minimal design won’t distract. A deep, secure side pocket will keep your phone safe without any bouncing. Laser-cut seams make it easy to take these on and off and won’t cause any irritation on your legs.

Nancy Rose Performance Haze Pant | $115

The brands’ PowerLux fabric molds to your body, offering optimal compression. It also provides a little more support to your legs and knees. Advanced performance fibers contain anti-microbial, UPF, and moisture-wicking features. It also lifts, tones, and tucks. All around, an excellent option that will make you feel confident and look ready to crush those miles.

Body Glove Vigor Leggings | $50

Looking for leggings for a vacation or if your morning route happens to be near a beach or another body of water, having a waterproof pair isn’t a bad idea. Flatlock seams keep these comfortable and easy to wear, and the material has UPF 50 to protect you from the sun’s rays. Slash pockets help store all you need to have on hand. Great vacation leggings since these will work for runs, SUPing, and yoga and will dry in a breeze.

Gap High Rise Print Pocket 7/8 Leggings in Sculpt Revolution | $53

Performance ready-made for high-impact workouts and fabricated with a knit that is breathable and strong four-way stretch preventing restriction and promoting superior shape retention. Waistband and side panels, with slash pockets, have maximum compression to smooth and shape your body, ensuring you will feel your best while you are out shredding some miles.

Norrøna Tights | $109

A mix of recycled poly and elastane blend to create a quick-drying, breathable, and highly functioning pair of running tights. Super stretch for a comfortable and flexible fit. The rear lining pocket can store all you need plus it has reflective details for visibility.

Malo On the Run 7/8 Tights | $99

Flower power combines with racing stripes to give you a tight that will no doubt motivate you to get out on your morning run. Higher rise for a comfortable secure fit and flattering fit, not to mention perfect for adding some squats into your stretch breaks. Cropped cut is the perfect length. Constructed with a back pocket for you to stow what you need.

Kari Traa Nora Legging | $40

Wear these easy and sleek leggings on your sprints, daily run, or any high-impact activity. You can count on zero chafing with these low-profile, flatlock seams. A strong waistband with a hidden pocket will keep these in place stride after stride.

Asics Tokyo Highwaist Tight | $75

Designed for those high-tensity workouts, these tights are form-fitting to support you with an elastic waistband for an individualized fit. Reflective detailing in all the right places to ensure you are seen during those early mornings or evening runs. Back storage pocket within the waistband for convenient easy to reach storage. asics.com

Puma Runner ID Full Length Running Leggings | $75

These can withstand all the weather elements; snow, sleet, rain, or wind. Crated from Puma’s DryCELL fabric, these leggings are form-fitting yet flexible and breathable. They also have reflective strips to boost visibility, so nothing will slow you down.

Lululemon Align Leggings | $98

These buttery soft and stretchy leggings are beloved by expectant mothers. (Our resident runner mom suggests if you size up, these can last you the entire nine months.) Use them postpartum to ease back into your routine with long walks or yoga.

Old Navy Elevate 7/8-Length Leggings | $25

Proving “affordable” doesn’t mean it can’t perform. The wide, high-rise waistband stays put while the super soft, breathable compression stays comfy for miles and miles.

Tracksmith Session Tights | $98

A new tight from one of our favorite running brands uses Italian fabrics that are soft yet supportive. Its sleek, minimal design is also functional, with snug side and back pockets that limit bouncing and distractions.

Thinx Leggings | $95

Our time of the month can slow us down in more ways than one. New from the company that created the period panty are leggings with an absorbent gusset that can hold what three regular tampons can withstand. Full length and high-waisted, there’s even a front pocket for heating pads. Read our editor’s in-depth review of what it’s like running in Thinx leggings.