Have you ever noticed that the hardest part of running is oftentimes just getting dressed for it? This is especially true if the weather is turning colder.

Discomfort, poor quality, and sub-par design is not what you need, unfortunately there are many leggings that fit this description.

That’s why we’ve done the research on the top women’s running leggings available today. We know you’re ready to get out there, so let’s get started.

Best Women’s Running Leggings

	Reebok Performance Compression	Under Armour Fly Fast	Nike Womens Women's Fast Crop
Materials:	Poly/spandex	Polyester, Elastane	Poly/spandex
Style:	Full Length	Capris	Full Length
Colors:	34	12	3
Pocket(s):	N/A	1 Zip Storage	1 Internal

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Running Leggings For Women

1. Reebok Women’s Full Length Performance Compression Pants
2. Under Armour Women’s Armour Fly Fast Capris
3. NIKE Women’s Power Training Victory Tights
4. Sugar Pocket Women’s Running Tights
5. Nike Women’s Pro Tights
6. Under Armour Women’s HeatGear Armour Capri
7. THE GYM People Thick High Waist  Running Legging

We’ve reviewed the top rated women’s running leggings, followed by a comparison table and buying guide to help you decide on a pair that will work best for you.

Women’s Running Legging Reviews

#1 Reebok Women’s Full Length Compression Pants

Easily some of the best running leggings for women, the Reebok Women’s Full Length Performance Compression Pants are extremely versatile and perfect in most weather conditions.

If you’re someone who doesn’t like feeling the wind against your ankles as you run, then you’ll appreciate that the length of these hits right at the beginning of the feet.

Whether you’re actually using these for running, yoga, or just training at the gym, they’ll suit your needs well.

Available in over an impressive 30 shades, you’ll be able to select among more unique, subdued colors and neutral colors.

Made with a polyspan material, you can feel right when you pull them on how lightweight they are. No matter how hard you’re pushing your body, you won’t feel constricted or uncomfortable.

While they do offer a compression fit, they’re never too tight. They’re made to hug your legs to help boost circulation and reduce muscle fatigue to help your performance.

As they’re also moisture-wicking, they’ll always stay nice and dry.

These are a pair we always find ourselves going back to, due to the fact that they never cause chafing or slipping. It’s almost like they were made individually for our bodies!

#2 Under Armour Women’s Armour Fly Fast Capris

Whether you prefer the extra freedom of capris or always find yourself getting too hot with full-length leggings, the Under Armour Women’s Fly Fast Capris have you covered.

Available in 12 bright and sheen colors, it’s quite difficult to lose them in a gym bag or laundry basket!

The best running capris on our list are comprised of ultra-lightweight HeatGear fabric which never weigh you down while you’re out on a sprint.

As you could probably guess by the name, the fabric also ensures you don’t overheat while working out.

The built-in mesh panels are the perfect outlets for heat to escape without having to add in itchy stitches and extra seams. They also add in a bit more complexity to the visual design.

Thanks to anti-odor technology, you don’t have to worry about scaring off running partners or other gym-goers as it eliminates the growth of odor-causing microbes.

One of the most common issues we have as runners, is the waistband either being too tight or too loose. With this model, you receive a wide, flat waistband that makes the stomach look flatter.

The interior drawcord ensures the perfect fit that will actually stay in place as well. To keep your phone nearby, you’ll also find a zippered storage pocket to keep it safe.

#3 Nike Womens Women’s Fast Crop Tights

As Nike is one, if not the top, sportswear brand in the world, it only makes sense that their Women’s Power Training Victory Tights are the best running tights for women.

They feature the high level of quality one comes to expect from the brand, while looking great.

Unfortunately, these come only in three different colorways: Black/White, Black Heather/White, and Obsidian. However, they look beautiful and go with just about any other color or design you may have in your wardrobe.

Made with 88% polyester and 12% spandex, these leggings are the perfect combination of strength and stretch. They’re made to be extra durable, while still moving just as your body does.

The NIKE Power fabric is designed to be non-restrictive while offering a great amount of support. The fit hugs the individual curves of your body, which is ideal for running and other athletic activities.

The power mesh inner waistband only adds to the high level of comfort. It rises midway to ensure that as you turn and bend, it doesn’t cut into your skin nor slide down.

On top of all of that, the fabric works to wick moisture away from the skin so you’re always comfy and dry. Finally, the internal media pocket will let you securely hold your device close to you as you’re on your runs.

#4 Sugar Pocket Women’s Running Tights

If you’re on the hunt for some of the best running leggings available but want to keep it on a tight budget, do yourself a favor and take look at the Sugar Pocket Running Tights.

They’re some of the most versatile while still providing a solid level of performance for all kinds of athletic activities. While we enjoyed them for running, they’re also excellent sportswear during yoga or rollerblading!

The full-length leggings go just past the ankles to ensure you have full coverage on those chillier days, while allowing for excellent airflow when your body temperature gets higher.

The fabric they’re made with is nice and stretchy, while also wicking away sweat from the skin.

However, we did feel these were better geared towards cooler fall or spring days, as they were just a bit too toasty for the summer months.

With an elastic waistband, they’ll stay in place well during all kinds of movements but never restrict bloodflow or cut too tight into the skin. The side pocket is convenient for carrying small valuables like cards or keys but probably isn’t ideal for smartphones.

Oh, and if you’re worried about not having enough color options to choose from, that’s not an option here.

With almost 40 different colorways, the combinations are practically endless and are sure to give you the color and style you want.

#5 Nike Women’s Pro Tights

Often toted as the best running tights by professional athletes and amateurs, alike, the Nike Women’s Pro Tights have a very fitting name.

While Nike offers many similar options, none can hold themselves quite to the standard that this model does.

Made from their signature Dri-Fit material (which is essentially just polyester and spandex), your legs will stay dry and comfortable while the compression fibers work to hold your muscles in their proper place.

With 4-way compressive stretch and support, you can run in confidence knowing that they’ll move with you. However, just be careful when doing movements like squats, as the thin fabric can potentially tear.

If it doesn’t tear keep in mind that they may be potentially see-through! Neither of these obstacles were an issue with running, though.

The soft Dri-Fit feels amazing against the skin, and as it wicks away sweat, that’s only magnified once the temperatures begin to rise.

The body-skimming fit make them ideal to use as a base layer, but if you’re someone who really enjoys minimalism when running then you can wear them on their own, no problem.

They not only perform great, but look stunning, as well. The flat elastic waistband is nice and smooth, staying in place the entire time you have them on.

You’ll also get to choose from 6 different colorways that are sure to turn heads and go well with anything you have in your wardrobe.

#6 Under Armour Women’s HeatGear Armour Capri

Under Armour is quite possibly the most respected brand by pro athletes, and is constantly found on their professional sports uniforms.

While the brand always produces quality, their Women’s HeatGear Capri still ranks among the highest. The capri style is perfect for just about any season, especially if you find full-length models too hot.

The HeatGear are made of 87% polyester and 13% elastane which gives you an excellent blend of strength and stretchiness.

In fact, its 4-way stretch construction has no limits, and will move seamlessly with your body in any direction.

The fit is meant to be compressive, making it super tight but like a second skin. The best running pants won’t slip and slide around and will allow you to perform your absolute best with no restrictions.

The material also wicks sweat away from the body and dries in record time.

Despite being so strong and resistant, it’s surprisingly lightweight and will never weigh you down. The ergonomic flatlock seams never chafe or rub against your skin so you can run for miles upon miles without worry.

While they don’t come in many colors, the 4 that are available are sleek and look good with just about anything.

#7 THE GYM People Thick High Waist Running Leggings

Finally, we have another excellent budget option for you: THE GYM PEOPLE Thick High Waist Yoga Pants.

These are just as fashionable as they are functional and will definitely turn some heads whether you’re using them on a run or in casual settings.

Coming in almost 2 dozen colors, you can select between patterns like Marble, Black and White Jacquard, and many more. Made of nylon, these are some of the most comfortable leggings we’ve worn.

They’re super soft and have a more natural feel to them than their polyester-comprised cohorts.

Not only that, but they feature an Ultra-Stretch fit which is thick enough to ensure they’ll never be see-through, but thin enough that they remain breathable.

As they’re moisture-wicking, any sweat will be moved away from the skin and evaporated quickly.

Much like the Nike Pro’s, these also feature 4-way stretch material which simultaneously compresses and offers the support your body needs on long runs.

Moreover, a gusset crotch allows for completely free movement, while interlock seams minimize any chafing or discomfort.

No matter what you’re using them for, you’ll enjoy the comfortable high waist design which not only provides tummy control but will also stay up throughout rigorous exercise.

To keep your valuables nearby, you’ll also find two large side pockets and a hidden inner back pocket in the waistband which is perfect for keeping keys, cards, and so on.

Women’s Running Tights Comparison Table

How to Choose the Best Women’s Running Tights

Now that you’ve read through each of the women’s running leggings reviews, have you decided which pair is ideal for you and your needs? If not, then that’s understandable.

It can be difficult when there are so many amazing options to choose from! That’s why we’ve decided to take it upon ourselves to write up the comprehensive buying guide, below.

This guide will lead you through each step of the selection process to ensure that by the time you’re done, there will be no doubt which is the one for you.

Size

Even if you have the most expensive leggings in the world, it’s not going to matter much if they’re the wrong size.

With leggings, they usually run true-to-size, but it’s best to check with the manufacturer as it will also depend on the fit they’re supposed to have and the fabric used.

Some compression tights may be too tight or uncomfortable for those who have never used them before. While they do take some getting used to, it really is worth it in terms of both comfort and performance.

Also remember to keep in mind your individual body type when looking at sizing charts. If you have a particularly muscular build, for example, you may want to order a size up.

Take your measurements at the smallest part of your waist, fullest part of the hips, and leg length in order to determine the correct sizing.

Durability

You need your running leggings to be durable. As these are going to be constantly stretched, even without running or working out, they need to be able to hold up against all kinds of situations.

While many are extremely thin, you should make sure they’re not so thin that they can easily tear – especially if you’re going to be jumping or doing squats in them.

If you follow the proper maintenance tips (covered more in-depth below) then you’ll also see a huge difference in lifespan with your leggings.

Breathability/Moisture-Wicking

Runners traditionally wore very short shorts in an effort to not only eliminate chafing, but to keep them cool. Leggings used to be incredibly hot due to their thickness and ability to keep moisture in which ends up feeling like a muggy mess.

The best jogging tights of today are nothing like that. They’re very thin and made to be completely breathable so air can freely come in and out. Some products even come with some conveniently-placed mesh sections that allow even more airflow.

They should also be moisture-wicking to move sweat away from the body and quick to dry so when you’re running they’re not sticking to you.

Length – Full Length or Capris?

Are you looking for capri or full-length leggings? As you can see we’ve covered a mix of both in our reviews above. You should consider the environment you’ll be running in, and your personal taste.

Capri

These come to the middle of the lower leg and are great if you’re going to be running in very hot environments. Some also prefer to have capris if they always find themselves getting too hot with full-length models.

Full-Length

These are probably the most popular of the two, just because you can use them all year without any issue. As the leggings are already quite breathable, most don’t have issues with getting too hot in them. They’re also nice if you don’t feel like exposing any part of your leg.

Pockets

Are you planning on carrying your smartphone or some valuables with you while you run? If not, then there are plenty of options out there that don’t have pockets. It’s always a good idea, however, to have a bit of cash or a card on you in case you want to stop somewhere and grab a drink or snack.

If you’re only looking to carry small items such as a house key or card, then look into those that have hidden little waistband pockets. These are very minimal and don’t add any bulkiness to the leggings.

If you want to carry a smartphone or a larger item, then perhaps a big side pocket or two will be better suited towards your needs. Just make sure that they’re zippered or have some kind of security so that it doesn’t fall out.

Price

Do you have an idea of how much you’d like to spend on a good pair of women’s jogging leggings? If not, then it’s a wise idea to do so before you really dive in.

This way, you won’t end up having buyer’s remorse because you spent more than you wanted to. When you spend a bit more, however, you can count on having faster-drying leggings that stretch more and give you a more “custom” feel.

FAQs About Running Tights

Q: What are the benefits of wearing compression leggings?

A: They can offer injury prevention, relieve pain from sore muscles, reduce swelling, reduce recovery time, stabilize joints, keep muscles warmer, and boost circulation and oxygenation.

Q: How do I know if my leggings are too tight for me?

A: First off, make sure you’re referring to the manufacturer’s sizing guide if you have any doubts as to which is the right size for your body. If you experience any tingling or cutting off of circulation then it’s definitely too small for you. They should never cause you any kind of pain or discomfort, either.

Q: Can you wear running leggings all day?

A: While you may not enjoy wearing leggings you just ran around in, if you do, there’s nothing wrong with it. In fact, many athletes find that their recovery time is notably reduced when they wear compression wear for hours after their runs. In addition, they’ve been known to reduce lactic acid build up in the muscles.

Tips To Care For Your Running Leggings

#1: Make sure to follow proper maintenance instructions if you want your leggings to last as they should.

With most running tights, you’ll have to take extra precaution in how you treat them. First, make sure that they can be machine washed. For example, with Nike Dri-Fit, you’ll need to wash them inside-out and make sure you never use them with fabric softener as they can cause build up which can block the static electricity required to keep moisture out and dry them quickly.

In addition, we highly recommend air drying your leggings to extend their lifespan. Tumble drying on low would be the next-best alternative if that’s not possible for you.

#2: If you’re having trouble with your leggings sliding down, try selecting a pair with drawstrings.

This will ensure that you have a completely custom fit for your body and can make them as tight as you want. You can also adjust the tightness depending on the activity you’re doing!

#3: If you feel like running tights are too revealing for your personal taste, try wearing them differently.

You can do this by wearing a longer t-shirt which reaches lower than the waistline or opt for a pair of running shorts to wear over the top of the leggings.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve had the opportunity to learn all about the top women’s jogging leggings, which pair are the ones for you? No matter which ones you choose, know that you’ll be receiving one of the best products currently available.

However, what’s going to ensure the maximal results is that you select the model that fits you and your needs best. We hope that our guide has helped you do exactly that. Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll see you again shortly!

How We Researched

To come up with some good running leggings for women, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as Best Buy, Walmart, Target and Sears along with our own personal experience.

The authors consulted sources such as online magazines for research and reviews unbiased information.

By using Fakespot.com we tried to eliminate fake reviews and use only genuine ones.

With so many options available, the authors narrowed down the selections by using products they felt were the best value for the money.

The staff authors have a wide and varied background as fitness trainers, yoga instructors and runners. The authors have decades of experience and are eager to share their knowledge with readers.

In order to narrow down the options, we used personal experiences plus recommendations from other trainers and instructors.

Sources