The cold weather is here, and so too is the annual challenge to maintain the summer’s running motivation through the dark, cold months ahead.
Having the right gear for the job makes the whole thing a little easier to manage, though, from rain-resistant jackets, to hats, gloves and warm base layers.
But what about the lower half? There are options aplenty for running die-hards and occasional park runners alike, ranging from sleek performance leggings to looser fitting joggers ideal both for training runs and warm-ups, not to mention slipping on for a cosy post-plod coffee.
And since the racing doesn’t stop, we’ve also thrown in our favourite half-tights, a warmer option than the lightweight shorts one might have employed on the summer circuit.
How we tested
The ES Best Shopping team put these tights through their paces in a variety of workout scenarios. To test their performance, we went for a chilly but refreshing outside jog. The next day we headed straight to the gym for a running treadmill session followed by a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout.
This allowed us to evaluate their suitability for both running and cross-training, ensuring they could handle the demands of multi-purpose use. From breathability and comfort to durability and support, we rigorously tested these tights to identify which ones stood out for all-around performance.
Best running tights at a glance
So, whether you’re putting in the hard graft with brighter mornings and a spring marathon in mind, turning the legs over in one of the capital’s many cross-country or trail courses, or simply out pounding the pavement after work, here are our top recommendations for men’s leggings and joggers.
Shop below
Gymshark Shadow Seamless Tights
Best for: quality and style
Gymshark consistently delivers high-quality and stylish options for all sports, and the Shadow Seamless Tights are no exception. Designed for versatility, these tights are perfect for running, cross-training and layering under shorts or outerwear. The muscle fit and physique-enhancing jacquard design ensure a streamlined look, while the elasticated drawcord waistband offers a secure, adjustable fit.
They allow for a full range of movement, making them ideal for any workout intensity. Whether you're hitting the gym, heading out for a run, or layering for cooler weather, these tights combine function, durability and premium style.
Buy now £35.00, Gymshark
New Balance Impact Run Tight
Best for: functionality
The New Balance Impact Run Tights are built for practicality and performance, making them a standout choice for runners. With thoughtful features like drop-in hip pockets for nutrition, a zippered pocket for valuables and a unique storage tunnel for carrying extra layers, these tights are designed for a truly hands-free workout.
The brand’s NB DRYx technology ensures sweat is wicked away quickly, keeping you comfortable on the move. The snug, fitted silhouette allows full freedom of motion without excess fabric, while the mid-rise waistband offers a secure, easy fit. Reflective details and a blend of recycled polyester and spandex round out these versatile tights, making them ideal for running and cross-training alike.
Buy now £55.00, New Balance
Asics Core Winter Tight
Best for: winter running
These could be the warmest of the tights that we tested for this piece. Asics’ core tights are exactly what the name suggests: a simple, reliable offering that should be a staple of any winter running wardrobe. A zip at the ankle - not a ubiquitous feature among similar products - is designed for an easy fit. They are also among the best-value purchases on the market.
Buy now £34.00, Asics
Nike Challenger Tight
Best for: stoage
A long-running favourite among casual and competitive runners alike, the Nike Challenger Tight is a versatile winter performer that does the job in temperatures ranging from nippy to freezing. Storage is a major plus, with a large internal pocket beneath the rear waistband ideal for carrying gels on those weekend long runs and a separate key pocket alongside.
Buy now £54.99, Nike
Adidas Adizero Running Long Leggings
Best for: ventilation
A lightweight option with more of a performance tilt, Adidas’s Adizero leggings solve the age-old issue of being cold at the start of a run but then overheating a couple of miles in.
Partly made from recycled materials, the lower half of the leg is made of mesh to allow ventilation, making these tights perfect for more intense workouts over longer distances. The pocket on the back of the waistband is easily accessible, though it is fairly shallow. Also features reflective branding.
Buy now £70.55, Adidas
Adidas Adizero Control Running Short Tights
Best for: speed sessions
Sometimes in wintery conditions, even the most lightweight leggings feel a little too restrictive, particularly for speed sessions or races. These Adidas half-tights, designed with race day in mind, are the ideal middle ground, with a remarkably snug fit that feels like a second skin when running.
Compression strips across both legs offer an element of moderate support, while the internal key pocket sits on the hip and is barely noticeable once you’re underway. The most comfortable half-tights I have ever worn.
Was: £109.99
Buy now £65.99, Sports Shoes
Lululemon Fast and Free Running Pant
Best for: lightweight comfort
Originally specialising in yoga attire and then lifestyle apparel, Lululemon continues to make impressive inroads into the running space. The Fast and Free Running Pant is an extremely lightweight jogger that works nicely on lower-intensity runs for those reluctant to go with skin-tight leggings.
It comes with several neat features, including a side pocket deep enough to store a phone, ventilation along the rear of the legs and a pocket to tuck waistband drawstrings into to prevent irritation, which can be an issue with some products.
Was: £138
Buy now £99.00, Lululemon
Asics Road Pant
Best for: hybrid fit
The best of both worlds are on offer with this Asics Road Pant. The top half of the trouser is made of a lightweight, tracksuit-style material for a looser fit, before the leg tapers into a snugger, legging-style fit around the shin and calf.
The elasticated waistband means the pant sits more securely around the waist than most joggers and there is plenty of storage, with a zip pocket at the rear and two popper-sealed side pockets.
Buy now £36.00, Asics
Lululemon Surge Jogger
Best for: warm-ups
Another classic Lululemon offering, the Surge Jogger comes in at a slightly cheaper price point and is available in a broader array of colours. Cuffed just above the ankle, this product again offers ample storage and reflective detailing, as well as a slightly looser fit.
Warmer, too, we found these bottoms ideal for use during warm-ups and cool-downs before and after sessions, with an ankle zipper making it easy to slip the joggers on and off.
Was: £108
Buy now £84.00, Lululemon
New Balance Tech Knit Pant
Best for: versatility
New Balance’s cosy but versatile tech knit pants are another ideal option for warm-ups, low-intensity runs in cold conditions and other workouts (and post-run coffees!).
Storage is plentiful and secure, with conventional zip pockets on both thighs, as well as a third zip slot on the right rear. The pants taper towards the ankle, with no zip meaning a close fit above the trainer line.
Buy now £80.00, New Balance
Verdict
Gymshark has a reputation for delivering top-tier activewear, and the Shadow Seamless Tights excel as the ultimate running tights for men. Designed with versatility in mind, they effortlessly transition between running, cross-training and layering, making them a staple for any workout wardrobe.
Made with a seamless structure, these tights support unrestricted movement and long-lasting comfort, so you can wear every activity. Whether you’re hitting the track or gym, or braving cooler weather, these deliver on quality, style and performance.
