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Running tights are an increasingly popular activewear item right now, and a smart purchase for all seasons for intense or daily exercise. Whether you're a tall guy who never knows what design is best for them, or simply a novice when it comes to sports apparel, this nifty buying guide will give you all of the information you need in order to buy the most suitable pair.
From anti-odour shorts to compression tights that support your muscles and keep you warm in the cold winter weather, we've found the best running tights for men on Amazon and John Lewis – and yes, most of them have phone pockets! Designed by top brands like Nike, Under Armour, and Puma, we predict they'll become your new favourite workout wear.
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Table of Contents
Though many of us picture full-length styles when we think of running tights, shorter pairs are also an option nowadays. The length you go for depends on your own preferences, such as when and where you run.
Classic long tights offer protection whilst trail running or running outdoors due to their full coverage. Not to mention, they're the obvious choice for running in the winter to prevent frostbite!
Shorter tights, on the other hand, can be 3/4 length or sit just above the knee, and make for great summer activewear. This is because they are lighter and allow more freedom of movement, yet still provide the extra support that tights give in comparison to baggier running shorts.
Next, you'll need to decide whether you'd prefer standard running tights or compression tights. Compression tights are running tight's even tighter alternative (believe it or not), and are used as a performance enhancer as they help to increase blood circulation and limit soreness by healing any micro-tears.
Compression tights can be worn both during and after exercises for the best outcome, and they can also help to control body temperature so you don't overheat while sprinting. If you're an avid sprinter or a long-distance runner, we'd recommend a pair of our favourite compression tights.
However, if you're simply looking for some gym-appropriate running gear for treadmill sprints or casual jogs, you should take a look at the standard running tights on our list. Though not as tight, they'll still hold everything in and keep you warm.
Running tights, like most activewear, usually consist of two materials; sweat-wicking, breathable polyester, and the flexible material of elastane (which is also known as spandex or lycra). The percentage of elastane in your running tights determines the tightness of the clothing and the durability of the fabric.
We'd recommend that you buy a pair of running tights with at least 15% elastane for good, stretchy support and protection. For compression tights, try to aim for anything over 20%, or over 25% for the strongest pressure.
Running tights are essentially like a second skin, which is ideal for those who prefer to stay sleek and unhindered when on a run or at the gym. To avoid carrying around a bulky bag with you, pockets are a no brainer.
They usually fit closely on the side of the thigh as it's the largest, flattest part of your leg, or just above your tailbone. They offer many benefits, whether you like to use your phone's pedometer, you want to stash your keys or card, or you use Bluetooth headphones and need a place to keep your phone close.
If you plan to wear shorts over your tights that already have a pocket or two (which the vast majority do), this may not be so much of a priority to you, however if not, this feature is certainly worth checking for!
There's nothing better than going for a run in the outdoors when you come home from work. However, since the sun goes down earlier in winter, and it can be too hot to run in the summer sun, you need to make sure that you're prepared to run at night.
The solution? Look out for leggings that have an element of visibility, like a reflective strip or panel. If you just want tights for the gym or your own treadmill, it may not be a necessary factor, but we think it's better to be safe.
To help improve your overall athletic performance, these tights From Under Armour have it all. Featuring a 4-way stretch system, a water-resistant pocket, fast-drying material, reflective taping and logo details, it's obvious these compression tights are exactly what you need for your daily running sessions!
And to top off their credentials, the strong yet lightweight material acts like a second skin to help with speed and agility, so you can have full protective coverage without being weighed down. Top marks!
Puma has designed these sweat-absorbent running tights with a strong elastane compression of 23%. With a curved hemline at the ankle and flat-lock stitching, you can enjoy the restrictive flexibility of these on-trend, sculpting leggings whether on the streets or in the gym.
The mesh inserts are purposefully placed to improve heat circulation and to draw the sweat away from the skin too, so you can run for as long, hard, and as fast as you like!
Smash your personal best with these sleek running tights from sportswear giants Adidas. Design-wise, there's a high-rise waistband to add extra support, and a sweat-guard pocket to keep your essentials safe and dry.
Plus, they're made from breathable, recycled polyester and feature ankle zips to help you stay cool and refreshed while you train that summer body. They have 17% of elastane too, which is great for general muscle support and comfort.
With 28% of ultimate compression support, these shorts will hug and squeeze your adductors, glutes, quads and hamstrings to reduce muscle pain. The flat lock seams reduce chafing and the waistband features a drawstring for secure fitting.
The large logo on the side of the leg is reflective to keep you visible at night. Clearly, these short compression tights have everything that you need if you're serious about sprinting!
Enhance your running agility with these ultra-tight, tough, lightweight running tights. They also feature a secure zip pocket at the back to keep your belongings safe and out of the way so you can concentrate on your PB.
The reflective strip makes these leggings good for runners who are usually busy throughout the lighter hours of the day. We also really love how the material of these tights drains sweat quickly and keeps you dry.
Using anti-odour technology, these running tights by Under Armour keep you feeling and smelling fresh, even after completing a 10K run. Plus, as they are quick drying you will be able to dry them off if you are ever stuck in the rain, though we also advise washing them!
Seeing as they are short tights, sitting above the knee, they make for great summertime wear, whether under running shorts or simply on their own. The breathable stretched mesh fabric offers a combination of freedom and support for your muscles, too.
We'd say they're another pair best worn under shorts or for those who don't need to carry anything, as they do lack features like pockets and reflective strips. On the bright side, we think that for such an affordable price, they're a brilliant option to consider!
These simple, non-flashy black training tights are designed to keep you cool and dry, with mesh panels for extra breathability. The angled side seams make for irritation-free comfort, so you won't even realise they're there.
Though there's a reflective logo, it's a shame that this pair doesn't have any pockets to keep your valuables safe while you're out on a run, but if you're in the gym with your phone nearby they'd be a great choice!
Coming in either Iron Grey or Black, this pair of running tights by Nike is made with their signature Dri-FIT fabric to keep you dry and comfortable, no matter how sweaty your workout gets. With a branded waistband and a logo accent on the side, these will make you look and feel confident
Just a few points to bear in mind, though, they don't have pockets or reflective strips, and they only have 12% elastane, which is below the recommended minimum. For casual runners or gym-goers though, they could be sufficient.
This pair of running tights is designed for optimal performance to provide day-long comfort. Featuring a four way stretch design and an ergonomic seam design, these leggings will support your muscles and keep you warm on winter runs.
Even though they don't have any pockets, these are the cheapest, most affordable running tights on our list of products, so they're a great starter pair for anyone flirting with the idea of getting into running!
Written and researched by Annie Speight
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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