The 10 Best Running Tights For Men Of 2023

Running with tights can make all the difference when it comes to being comfortable during cold winter runs. Besides holding in heat, compression tights can even help you better understand your body’s position and movement. “My form seems to feel a bit more controlled and my perception is that I am running faster,” says Frankie Ruiz, certified running coach and founder of the Run Club Network and WE RUN MIAMI.

Men’s running tights can cost between $25 and $130. Some of the more expensive options can offer thermal protection against cold weather, better durability, and built-in storage for water bottles and other essentials. But if you’ve never worn running tights, you may want to test out a budget-friendlier option first. Then, you can stock up on your favorite, less expensive pair in different colors.

Reviewed & Approved

Nike’s Pro Warm Tights are our best overall pick because they’re made with recycled materials and have ribbed panels for extra mobility. We also recommend BALEAF’s Running Tights, which are quick-drying, breathable, and budget-friendly.

When shopping for running tights, consider the materials they’re made from, whether they’re moisture-wicking, and how many pockets they have. We researched dozens of running tights for men and assessed each pair based on fit, comfort, weather protection, price, and more. We also consulted two running coaches to get their expert opinions on the most important features to look for in running tights for men. Below, find the best 10 pairs on the market.

Nike’s Pro Warm Tights are our top overall pick because they’re durable, with thoughtful design elements that set them apart. They have a wide elastic waistband for a close fit and are made with recycled polyester that comes from plastic bottles.

Best Overall

Nike Pro Warm Tights

Wide range of sizes
Made with recycled materials
Ribbed panels provide extra mobility
Only one pocket

We like the wide range of sizes, which spans from small to 4XL (including tall sizes). Ribbed panels on the lower back, inseam, and inner ankle provide extra mobility during your runs. Plus, the mesh panels around each knee stretch easily for added comfort.

Nike’s Pro Warm Tights are also sweat-wicking and machine washable. But unlike other options on our list, they only have one pocket—although it can fit your phone. Choose from four neutral colors.

Price at time of publication: $58

If you’re looking for men’s running tights on a budget, we recommend this pair from BALEAF. We love that they’re not only great for running, but can also be worn at the gym, in yoga classes, or even while walking your dog.

Best Budget

BALEAF Men’s Compression Pants Running Tights

Quick-drying
Breathable
Two large side pockets
No reflective details

These tights are made from a quick-drying, stretchy, and breathable blend of nylon and spandex. They also have two large side pockets—one on each leg—to store all of your essentials.

Even though there are no reflective details on these running tights, there are eight colors to pick from. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can shop confidently.

Price at time of publication: $26

Looking for the best compression running tights? We recommend New Balance’s Comp Tight. Designed for athletic performance, we love that these tights feel like a second layer of skin. This helps prevent chafing as you push yourself on longer runs.

Best Compression

New Balance Comp Tight

Close fit prevents chafing
Moisture-wicking
Mid-rise waistband
No reflective details
No pockets

They’re also quick-drying and moisture-wicking, so you’ll feel cool and comfortable from the start of your workout to the end. And a mid-rise waistband offers a close fit that’s supportive, without feeling suffocating.

But these do not have pockets or reflective details, so they are best for daytime outdoor runs.

Price at time of publication: $45

When the temperatures drop, we recommend Brooks’ Momentum Thermal Tight. The thick thermal fabric is made with recycled materials to create tights that are insulating, but also quick-drying and moisture-wicking. If you’re someone who tends to overheat while running (even in the winter), these can help regulate heat and airflow to keep you feeling comfortable.

Best for Cold Weather

Brooks Men’s Momentum Thermal Running Tights

Thick thermal fabric
Made with recycled materials
Reflective details
Expensive
Only come in one color

Unlike our top overall pick, Nike’s Pro Warm Tights, these running tights are fitted and not compression-fit. This means they’re looser but still will gently hug your body. We also like that there are reflective details on each of the two side pockets and the logo.

Even though they’re on the expensive side, we think these tights are worth the investment because they’re thicker and better insulated than other options on our list. However, they’re only available in black—so if you’re looking for color with your running tights, this may not be the right pair for you.

Price at time of publication: $95

For running in hot weather, Adidas’ Techfit Training Short Tights are our top pick. While they’re only available in one design, we love how unique it is.

Best for Hot Weather

Adidas Techfit Allover Print Training Short Tights

Wear alone or as a base layer
Unique design
Anti-odor

These short tights can be worn alone or as a base layer, giving you the option to add or remove layers during your warm-ups and runs. And the anti-odor, moisture-wicking fabric won’t hold onto unpleasant smells when you sweat. We also like that these short tights are made from recycled materials.

Unfortunately, they don’t have any pockets or reflective details, but they are machine washable. They’re available in a range of sizes too—from small to 3XL.

Price at time of publication: $19

Runners who need extra storage will appreciate all of the pockets in Ultimate Direction’s Hydro Tight. Although they’re the most expensive pair on our list and only come in black, they’re packed with useful features.

Best With Pockets

Ultimate Direction Men’s Hydro Running Tights

Removable water bottle storage
Hidden waist adjuster
Won’t ride up

These tights come with two 300-milliliter water bottles that slip securely into bounce-free pockets, so you can easily fill up before you head out on your run. You can also remove the water bottle storage system if you’d rather travel lightly.

We also like that there are two additional side pockets, a front pocket, and a back center pocket to store essentials. Plus, a hidden rigid waist adjuster offers a customizable fit, so you can find the right level of stability and comfort (and feel confident that your tights won’t ride up).

Similar to New Balance’s Comp Tight, these men’s running tights are compression-fit, so they’ll feel supportive from the first wear.

Price at time of publication: $130

With breathable mesh panels to keep you cool, Nike’s Pro Dri-Fit Tights are our pick for the best 3/4-length pair. The lightweight material allows you to move freely, even during long-distance runs. And we like that they’re made with recycled materials, like Brooks’ Momentum Thermal Tight.

Best 3/4 Length

Nike Pro Dri-Fit Men’s 3/4 Tights

Budget-friendly
Breathable mesh
Made with recycled materials

These running tights are also sweat-wicking and machine washable. Available in sizes ranging from small to 4XL, plus tall sizes, there are inseam lengths for every runner.

However, they don’t have any pockets or reflective details. Choose from six colors, including bright red and royal blue.

Price at time of publication: $30

Saucony’s Bell Lap Tight is our pick for the most comfortable men’s running tights. Made with recycled materials, they have an adjustable drawcord that makes it easy to adjust the fit.

Most Comfortable

Saucony Bell Lap Tights

Internal drawcord
Reflective logo and details
Made with recycled materials
Only come in one color

There are multiple reflective details for added visibility during low-light conditions, which is ideal if you run outdoors at night or in the early hours of the morning. The downside is that they’re only available in black. (If you’re looking for a wide range of colors, we suggest Nike’s Pro Dri-Fit 3/4 Tights.)

But these tights are machine washable and have two pockets—one with a zipper and one drop-in—so you can easily store your valuables. A shorts version is also available.

Price at time of publication: $80

We recommend Asics’ Lite-Show Tight for runners who need reflective tights for their outdoor routes. Instead of just one reflective logo, these tights have details all around the thigh and calf to offer better visibility in low-light conditions.

Best Reflective

ASICS Men’s LITE-Show Tight

Sweat-resistant phone pocket
Adjustable drawcord
Breathable mesh
Only comes in one color
May not be warm enough for cold weather

Mesh vents add ventilation for improved breathability. And we like that there’s an adjustable waist drawcord—similar to Saucony’s Bell Lap Tight—so you can find the right fit.

Like some of our other top picks, these tights are only available in black and have just one pocket—however, it’s sweat-resistant and deep enough to hold your phone. It’s also worth noting that the lightweight fabric may not be warm enough for running in cold weather.

Price at time of publication: $70

While plenty of tights on our list are made with quick-drying material, Under Armour’s ColdGear Leggings are our recommendation for the pair that wicks away moisture the best. The dual-layer fabric is brushed on the inside to keep you warm, and silky on the outside to help sweat evaporate.

Best Moisture-Wicking

Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Leggings

Wide range of colors and sizes
Dual-layer fabric
Four-way stretch
No reflective details
Only one pocket

We also like that, unlike other tights on our list, these come in a wide range of sizes (including tall sizes) and bright colors. And the material has four-way stretch, so it will move with you as you run or sprint. An anti-odor treatment prevents unpleasant smells from building up.

Just note that these ColdGear Leggings only have one drop-in pocket, and no reflective details.

Price at time of publication: $55

How We Selected the Best Running Tights for Men

To choose the top running tights for men, we first consulted Ruiz and Alan Ladd, a running and nutrition coach, for their expert advice on which features to look for in the best pairs. We also spoke with them about how running tights should fit and what to wear underneath running tights.

Then, we researched dozens of men’s running tights from the most popular and trusted brands. To select our top picks, we paid special attention to the materials, reflective details, number of pockets, fit, comfort, cost, and more.

What to Look for in Running Tights for Men

Material

Men’s running tights are usually made from a combination of materials, including polyester, spandex, elastane, nylon, and cotton. Synthetic fabrics, like polyester and nylon, are commonly used because they’re durable, lightweight, and breathable. Adding spandex or elastane makes running tights flexible, so they’ll move with you.

Moisture-Wicking

“Definitely look for moisture-wicking, especially if you tend to sweat a lot and plan to wear [your tights] in more temperate conditions,” Ruiz says. Most runners prefer tights that are moisture-wicking because they push sweat to the outer layer of material so it can evaporate, which helps the tights dry quickly. The result is a chafe-free, comfortable run. Under Armour’s ColdGear Leggings are our pick for the best moisture-wicking pair on the market.

Weather Protection

In colder temperatures, consider wearing thicker running tights that will insulate and retain warmth, like Brooks’ Momentum Thermal Tight. Shorter or lightweight options, like Adidas’ Techfit Training Short Tights, are better for warmer weather. Also, if you often run in the rain, look for a quick-drying pair that can stand up to the elements.

Fit

To get a more comfortable fit, look for features like an elastic waistband and an internal drawcord, which will help you adjust your tights. It’s also important to look at the inseam length to ensure your tights are the right length—taller runners need longer inseams.

Make sure your tights are actually tight: “It’s best to get a good tight fit all the way up the leg because any loose fitting area will flap around, reducing efficiency and generally being annoying,” Ladd says.

Pockets

If you like to keep your essentials on you while you run, you’ll need tights with plenty of pockets. Each pair varies—some of our top picks don’t have any, while Ultimate Direction’s Hydro Tight has six.

A pocket that’s large enough for your phone is also a plus. “Depending on your phone size, you may either be able to squeeze your phone into one of these pockets. Or, some tights have a larger pocket on the quad area or offset to the outside of the quad,” Ruiz explains.

Compression

All of the tights on our list are either fitted or compression fit. Both will fit you closely, but there’s a slight difference. Fitted running tights gently hug your body, while compression tights will be snugger. It all comes down to individual preference, and which fit feels most comfortable to you.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a certified personal trainer and health and fitness writer, Ravi Davda understands how important quality product recommendations can be. He recommends products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should men wear tights for running?
Ultimately, it’s up to you. Some runners like having an extra layer, while others prefer to wear pants or shorts instead. In cold weather, running tights can keep you warm without adding extra bulk. And when it’s hot out, short tights can feel thinner and more breathable than traditional running shorts. If you’ve never worn running tights before but want to give them a try, consider investing in a budget-friendly option to see if they’re for you, like BALEAF’s Running Tights.
How should running tights fit?
Running tights should fit closely, from your waist all the way down to your ankles. If they’re loose, they may move around and distract you while you’re running. Our top picks are either fitted or compression-fit—neither is better for running, so it’s a matter of personal preference. Our best overall pick, Nike’s Pro Warm Tights, is our recommendation if you’re looking for a compressive fit, while we like Saucony’s Bell Lap Tight for a fitted option.Running tights should never be so tight that they feel uncomfortable. If this is the case, try ordering one size up from your usual. “You never want to restrict blood flow or have such a tight fit that comfort is sacrificed,” Ruiz says.
What do men wear under running tights?
Some runners wear nothing underneath their tights. “I generally think this is inadvisable because there is no support inside running tights, unlike the mesh you can get inside running shorts,” Ladd says. This may also lead to chafing, he adds. We recommend wearing your normal underwear under running tights, or a thin pair of half-tight compression shorts.
How much do quality men’s running tights cost?
High-quality running tights for men can cost anywhere between $26 and $130. It’s worth noting that more expensive options can have additional features like thermal protection, reflective details, built-in water bottle storage, and extra pockets. Cheaper tights are easier to stock up on, but may not be as durable over time. Our best overall pick, Nike’s Pro Warm Tights, cost $50 when we published this list. For a more budget-friendly option, we recommend BALEAF’s Running Tights, which are often available for under $30.

Ultimately, it’s up to you. Some runners like having an extra layer, while others prefer to wear pants or shorts instead. In cold weather, running tights can keep you warm without adding extra bulk. And when it’s hot out, short tights can feel thinner and more breathable than traditional running shorts. If you’ve never worn running tights before but want to give them a try, consider investing in a budget-friendly option to see if they’re for you, like BALEAF’s Running Tights.

Running tights should fit closely, from your waist all the way down to your ankles. If they’re loose, they may move around and distract you while you’re running. Our top picks are either fitted or compression-fit—neither is better for running, so it’s a matter of personal preference. Our best overall pick, Nike’s Pro Warm Tights, is our recommendation if you’re looking for a compressive fit, while we like Saucony’s Bell Lap Tight for a fitted option.Running tights should never be so tight that they feel uncomfortable. If this is the case, try ordering one size up from your usual. “You never want to restrict blood flow or have such a tight fit that comfort is sacrificed,” Ruiz says.

Some runners wear nothing underneath their tights. “I generally think this is inadvisable because there is no support inside running tights, unlike the mesh you can get inside running shorts,” Ladd says. This may also lead to chafing, he adds. We recommend wearing your normal underwear under running tights, or a thin pair of half-tight compression shorts.

High-quality running tights for men can cost anywhere between $26 and $130. It’s worth noting that more expensive options can have additional features like thermal protection, reflective details, built-in water bottle storage, and extra pockets. Cheaper tights are easier to stock up on, but may not be as durable over time. Our best overall pick, Nike’s Pro Warm Tights, cost $50 when we published this list. For a more budget-friendly option, we recommend BALEAF’s Running Tights, which are often available for under $30.

How We Selected the Best Running Tights for Men#

What to Look for in Running Tights for Men#

Material#

Moisture-Wicking #

Weather Protection#

Fit#

Pockets#

Compression #

Why Trust Verywell Fit#