There are so many pairs of the 'best leggings' out there, so you would think a decent pair of running leggings wouldn't be so hard to find. But it is. Some pairs slide down as soon as you set off. Some bunch up around the ankles, and some absolutely do NOT pass the see-through bum test. These running clothes ailments aren't ideal if you're trying to smash your Couch to 5K app - you need to be focusing on upping that pace, not whether your fellow runners can see your pants.
Therefore, we welcome you to the ultimate running leggings guide, where we've researched and rated the best of the best to find you a pair that works for you. Some of the big-name brands have fantastic fan favourites that have stood the test of time, whereas some new leggings on the market will surprise you.
The best running leggings at a glance:
• Best affordable running leggings: Puma Training Evoknit Seamless Leggings - View now on Sports Direct
• Best compression running leggings: Adidas Techfit Long Leggings - View now on Adidas
• Best winter running leggings: Kalenji Women's Running Leggings Warm - View now on Decathlon
This is all very well and good, but how can you achieve this without spending over 50 quid? Luckily, there are heaps of affordable brands, including some well-known favourites, that make brilliant cheap running leggings that'll last. We're talking recycled fabrics, super supportive waists, concealed pockets and quick dry technology, all for under £50. Check out our top eight picks for the best below.
SHOP: The best running leggings for your next adventure outdoors
Best affordable running leggings
sports directwww.sportsdirect.com
If you're just starting out on your running journey, then these Puma Training Evoknit Seamless Leggings could be a great pair for you. Simple, no fuss, and you don't have to spend a whole heap of cash.
Customer review: "I'm a UK10 and bought these in both a S and M. I kept the small and returned the medium, as although the S was smaller I think the M would have fallen down too much and been too baggy around the crotch area… Fantastic breathable material and is really comfy, as well as super flattering. They can be a little see-through though, so perhaps not the best leggings for squats! I use mine for cycling/walking/running and they do me well."
Pros
- Super sweat-wicking fabric.
- Comfy high-waisted fit.
Cons
- There are no pockets.
Best compression running leggings
adidaswww.adidas.co.uk
If you love a funky detail on your leggings, then you'll love these Techfit Long Leggings from Adidas. There are mesh panels and cutouts galore. They have great compression on the legs and are super soft on the skin.
Customer review: "Wears well and doesn't shrink in the wash. No bobbling, and doesn't make you overheat. Highly recommended."
Pros
- Made from 73% recycled polyester.
- Low to medium compressing, which is great if you struggle with shin splints.
Cons
- They're long leggings, so not suited to petite women.
Best winter running leggings
www.decathlon.co.uk
Under £20 for running leggings/tights, you say? Impossible. Not so - these Kalenji Women's Running Leggings are both super warm and super affordable. Winter runs are easier than ever.
Customer review: "Fab tights! They kept me warm without overheating. Very comfortable and thanks to the tie at the waist they didn't fall down. Great pocket at the back for my phone and a side pocket for my key. Overall these are fantastic running tights for the price, I will definitely be buying more pairs."
Pros
- Perfect for late-night or early-morning runners because of their super warm lining.
- Rear zipped pockets.
- Second-skin feel.
Cons
- Some reviews say the material bobbles more quickly than other leggings.
Best summer running leggings
amazonUnder Armour has a whole wealth of great leggings, and these Fly Fast Tight Women's Leggings are the perfect all-rounder for fair-weather runners. The breathable fabric makes them particularly good for hot-weather jogs.
Customer review: "I bought these for summer-time running - unfortunately the trails I run have lots of poison ivy, so long pants are a must! These are comfy, lightweight and breathable. Probably the lightest and best pants I've come across for summer running so far!"
Pros
- Compression leggings help improve circulation and support your muscles on long runs.
- Have a pocket.
- Have reflective strips too.
Cons
- The colours advertised are not entirely accurate to the shade in person.
Best colourful running leggings
amazonThese 90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Squat Proof Capris come highly reviewed and recommended as well as being super affordable, which is everything you need tbh. We especially love the terracotta shade.
Customer review: "This is a great product. I'm short (5'1") and these come to right above ankle length. They are more elastic than cotton and while they give with bending, they do not sag like cotton can. The seams are flat and reversed so there is no chafing. The waist is high with a pocket that's not really useful if you use them for yoga since it hits right at the waistline. There is no see-through with bending."
Pros
- Great pockets.
- Funky colour options.
- Super high waist.
Cons
- Some reviews say they slide down on particularly vigorous runs.
Best tummy control running leggings
Indulge in ultimate comfort with these ColorfulKoala leggings, meticulously crafted from customer-favourite, four-way stretch, and slightly brushed buttery soft fabric—perfect for both intense workouts and daily wear. The seamless waistband offers adequate tummy control, providing just the right amount of stretch to hold your stomach in without the need for a sewn-in elastic band. Stay on the move with convenience as side pockets effortlessly accommodate your essentials, while the V-contour seam on the back and form-fitting design ensure a perfectly sculpted silhouette, flattering your figure with every stride.
Pros
- Four-way stretch for ultimate comfort.
- Side pockets so you can store essentials.
- V-contour seam on the back and a form-fitting design to flatter your figure.
Cons
- Some colours have different fabrics.
Running leggings FAQs: everything you need to know
What are running leggings?
Running leggings are usually long, lycra-based, opaque items of clothing that you wear for warmth while you're out on your jog. Basically, they're an essential part of your running clothes wardrobe.
What's the difference between running leggings and tights?
They're both very similar. Both are stretchy, and both cover the legs, but they do have slight differences.
Running leggings are typically made from thick, opaque material that can be worn without shorts on the top. They're breathable and worn for compression and warmth. They are of a similar design to gym leggings.
Running tights are very similar to leggings, only they're more translucent, and you need to wear shorts or another layer on top. They're usually worn for thermal properties or, for modesty reasons, under shorter items of clothing.
You can also run in shorts if you can brave the cold, we recommend a pair of fitted cycling shorts for minimal flapping about.
How tight should they be?
Running tights should be snug with no baggy areas, but not so tight that they stop circulation or become uncomfortable.
Compression tights are worn like a second skin, but they should still allow full freedom of movement.
What are the benefits of running leggings?
Running leggings are super beneficial for your overall comfort, but they also give you an extra edge as the compression (tight fit) enhances circulation to the legs and gives you more energy, so can improve your performance long term!
As well as looking chic, running leggings can cool you down, warm you up, protect you from outdoor elements and even provide resistance on those rainy, windy jogs.
They also make your peach look amazing, just like these scrunch bum leggings that are loved by celebs such as Zara McDermott and Chloe Ferry.
Heat's top tips for choosing the best running leggings for you
Consider the fit: you've got to try before you buy. If the fabric is itchy or the waist doesn't quite sit right, you'll only come to dread your Monday morning run even more. They shouldn't feel tight, so make sure you're not cutting off your circulation. You can also get bum-sculpting leggings that pop that booty whilst you jog.
Go for comfort over style: your honeycomb leggings might have all the jazzy patterns in the world, but if you don't feel comfortable, you're not getting out on that run, simple as that. Plus, you can't beat a classic, simple pair of black leggings.
Breathable fabrics are key: whatever the weather, you need your leggings to be breathable. No one likes to feel like they're overheating while exercising. Therefore, make sure your leggings are made from quality materials before you buy.
High prices don't always mean great quality: as you can see from our list, high prices don't always guarantee good quality. You can pick up a great pair of leggings for as little as £15, or you can spend over £100, and the quality might not differ that much.
Louella Berryman is the audience development executive at Bauer Media, where she works in all things digital for Grazia, heat, Closer, Yours & Mother&Baby.