Best Running Leggings For Women That Go the Distance

Whether you’re new to running or have put in daily miles for decades, your running leggings can make or break your run. There’s nothing worse than leggings that won’t stay up, rub and chafe, or are just uncomfortable. But when you find a great pair of running leggings, you can focus on your run, rather than worry about your wardrobe. I interviewed experts to find out the most important qualities in choosing a great pair of running leggings for women. I also shared top picks for the best leggings to help you get started with your shopping.

Our top picks for the best running leggings

Related Article: The Best Running Shoes for Women, Recommended by Experts

What to look for when buying running leggings for women

Fit

“Fit is the most important factor by far,” explains Caroline Grainger, ISSA certified personal trainer at FitnessTrainer.com. “Leggings that are too tight constrict your movement and reduce your circulation, while those that are too loose are going to lead to rubbing that will damage the fabric—and probably your legs.”

To ensure a good fit, Grainer recommends that the leggings are snug enough that they don’t bunch up or slide around. At the same time, the leggings should be loose enough so that you can get them on and off easily and move freely.

Material

Different materials are best suited for different types of conditions. “Cotton is a good choice for hot, dry weather, but a terrible choice for humid or wet conditions,” Grainger says. “Spandex provides a good fit that will stay in place, but offers virtually no insulation in cold conditions.”

According to LacunaFit, elastane leggings, such as Spandex and Lycra, are stretchy, can have compressive qualities, and tend to wick moisture. Nylon leggings are stretchy and soft, but they can shrink if they’re not washed at the right temperature. Cotton is a soft and durable choice, and while it’s breathable while dry, it isn’t breathable when wet. Polyester is water-resistant , affordable, and stretchy, but it can get smelly over time. Wool leggings are ideal for keeping you warm, but they can be heavy and won’t have any stretch unless the wool is blended with another material.

Cut

Leggings are available in several different cuts, which affect their feel and performance. For example, high-waisted cuts offer more coverage, and some runners feel that they offer a more secure feel. Shaping leggings create a contoured look. Full length leggings offer maximum coverage for cold weather runs, while ¾ length leggings are a popular choice for running in warm weather.

Additional features

Consider additional features that will enhance the leggings’ performance. Flat seams can help to prevent chafing, while mesh inserts can maximize ventilation. Pockets often come in handy for holding small items like keys. Compression leggings have been proven to have a slight improvement on endurance, and to also help reduce muscle pain and inflammation. Many leggings now have safety features, like reflective material, for those late night and early morning miles.

How we selected the best running leggings

When selecting the best running leggings, I considered the leggings’ design and cut, including their overall fit. I included leggings to fit a variety of body types, and looked for desirable features like compression and pockets. I also evaluated the materials used in each pair of leggings and considered how those materials would affect the leggings in terms of durability, breathability, moisture wicking properties, and overall comfort.

How to keep leggings from sliding down while running

Legging manufacturer Loony Legs explains there are several ways to keep your leggings from sliding down while running. Make sure your leggings fit well, and reference the manufacturer’s size chart when buying leggings. Buying high-waisted leggings can provide extra security and may help to keep them from falling down. Look for leggings with a draw waistband feature, or choose compression leggings, which have a snugger feel that may help to keep them in place.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Are running leggings worth it?

A quality pair of running leggings is absolutely worth the investment. Leggings that fit well can keep you comfortable during runs, so you stay motivated to finish that last mile. Quality leggings with features like flat seams can also help to prevent chafing and rubbing, so you can enjoy every run more.

Are running tights the same as leggings?

According to 220 Triathlon, running leggings are breathable and form-fitting, and they can be worn with or without overshorts. While running tights are very similar, they are thinner and are designed to be used with overshorts. Running tights are often used as an extra layer for warmth.

What type of leggings are best for running?

As you shop for running leggings, you’ll find that they’re available in many different sizes, styles, and features. Ultimately, the type of leggings that are best for running are the leggings that fit you best and keep you the most comfortable. Certain materials are better for certain types of weather; cotton’s breathability makes it good for dry, warm weather, while wool leggings can offer extra warmth during winter runs. Consider your personal preferences, as well as the temperature, when choosing the best running leggings.

Do you wear anything under running leggings?

According to Well + Good, whether to wear underwear under running leggings is a personal decision. Some runners may find that their underwear bunches up during a run and may choose to go without, while others feel most comfortable wearing underwear. If you choose to go without underwear, choose leggings with built-in panties or liners to absorb the extra sweat and help prevent bacteria and yeast growth.