LULULEMON – TIGHT STUFF TIGHTS
Lululemon continues to impress with their run collection. Quality fabrics, and design focused on both function and style, their products feature purposeful subtle branding, ie: small logo placement on the back of the leg with reflective properties to keep you visible at night.
These tights are great for both running and training, designed to allow your body to move freely, yet always feel supported with compression in key areas delivered through Lycra panels and careful design.
The Good:
Lycra compression for optimal fit and comfort
Great woodland/camo style print
Subtle branding
Excellent reflective element placement
The Bad:
Printed graphic can be a challenge to match with the rest of your outfit
The Verdict:
The Tight Stuff Tights are your daily training performance leggings that will carry you through the winter. I’m originally from Alberta, so maybe I am predisposed to liking things that look like hunting gear, but if you’re looking for something less flashy, you can get these leggings in solid colors as well.
Rating: 5/5
ADIDAS – SEQUENCIALS CLIMAHEAT TIGHTS
These adidas Sequencials Climaheat Tights have seen a fair share of run time since I first slipped them on. From quick sprints down the street to 10km climbs on Montreal’s Mont Royal, they’ve been there every leg of the way.
The first thing I noticed when I put them on was how thick the fabric was. I’m used to running with thinner leggings, so I was worried that it would cause issues. While they did feel heavy on my first couple of runs, I quickly got used to the extra fabric and had come to like it – it feels warmer, but without being restrictive. Would I wear them on every winter run? Probably not. But I feel like this will be my go-to pair when the temperature drops below -20C.
The Good:
Breathable Climaheat™ technology regulates temperature and keeps you warm
Padded fabric for a snug fit
Reflective strips on the back keep you visible at night
The Bad:
Leggings take a few runs to break in
Fabric bunches up a bit on the leg
Pocket is pretty useless
The Verdict:
A good entry-level legging for winter running. They’ll keep you warm in colder weather, but anything above 0ºC and your legs might get sweaty. The main drawback for some could be the thickness, but others might prefer it.
Rating: 3.5/5
LULULEMON – SURGE TIGHTS DWR
The first thing you’ll notice when you first put on these tights is that they hug you in a way that makes your legs feel ready to perform. There are so many things to like about these tights, from the pockets to the water resistance coating, these leggings are made for winter.
The Good:
The keep you warm and dry, thanks to the WRD coating
Great pockets placed on the thighs and big enough for any smartphone.
There is an extra pocket with a zipper at the back, big enough for a credit card, or keys.
Medium rise waist provides extra comfort
The Bad:
They bunch up at the ankles
Minimal reflective details
The Verdict:
These tights are super comfortable, they keep you dry, they have incredible pockets and the best part is that they help your legs when you’re on the last few miles. Whether you’re just starting out or a veteran of winter running, you’ll appreciate what these leggings have to offer.
Rating: 4/5
SMARTWOOL – PHD® WIND TIGHT
I’ve had a love/hate relationship with Smartwool this winter. The first time put on the PhD® Wind Tight, I felt unstoppable; they had the right fit, feel, and comfort. The big downside, however, has been their washability. After one cycle in the dryer, they started to feel like a cheaply made sweater and had begun pilling. Despite their lost comfort, they maintain their performance and fit. The padded thighs made them wind resistant, and the stretchy crotch and calf area made them quite versatile.
The tights also had applications beyond running. I wore them as an underlayer when snowboarding and playing outdoor hockey.
The Good:
Comfort
Well fitted waist
Zipper on the calves
Pocket for a phone
Zipped pocket for keys
The Bad:
Don’t stand up to washing
The Verdict:
I liked the PhD® Wind Tight. Clearly designed for running, but not seem to be made for repeated use. From a value standpoint, I would have a much easier time paying for a product that I know will withstand prolonged usage and multiple washes.
Rating: 3/5
OAKLEY – CORE WARM M-IGHT
Tights are one of the most underappreciated pieces winter running gear, but as the weather starts to drop, they become increasingly important for warmth and performance.
The Core Warm M-ight is a great tight when used as an underlayer paired with other bottoms. It is sweat-wicking and well ventilated. The tights keep you warm, yet breathable at the same time.
The Good:
Ventilated crotch & calves
Perfect for milder days
Form fitted around ankles
The Bad:
The waist was a little loose. The drawstring needed to be tightened quite a bit to keep the pants from feeling like they were falling.
Lack of pockets for keys and phone.
The Verdict:
The Oakley Core Warm M-ight running tights are a solid -5°c to 0°c underlayer, but they need to be coupled with a pair of shorts to help shield the wind. The biggest drawback was the waist. A choice to either cut a little circulation or spend the run checking to make sure the tights are in place. However, the overall comfort of the garment was great. From a value perspective, these leggings are perfect for intermediate runners.
Rating: 3.5/5
TRACKSMITH – TURNOVER TIGHTS
The Tracksmith Turnover Tight is technical cold weather inspired bottom made from an Italian-spun nylon/elastane fabric with contoured legs with back zips (to avoid rubbing of the Achilles tendons).
The good:
Amazing fit for anyone (male/female) who is tall
Silicon on inside waistband to keep them in place and a higher rise, so they don’t have to be pulled up during the run
Beautiful zipper detail on the back of the leg so you can pull them over shoes
Dry super fast
Back pocket accommodates phone comfortably (doesn’t move around while running)
Brushed inside fabric for a cozy feel
Bonded seams = no rubbing/chafing
Warmer than the average tight/legging
The bad:
Not ideal for anyone short, the legs are very long
Back pocket is a little awkward when trying to get out phone during run
Not particularly water repellent
A few loose threads on inside waistband after a few wears
No safety features for night visibility
The Verdict:
As simple as the tights first seemed, after testing them I grew to appreciate all the technical details. The material was very comfortable, warmer than an average tight and had great stretch. The waistband never had to be adjusted while running and sat comfortably at the waist due to the silicone on the inside. I also really liked the length; while, for people on the shorter side may find the fit to too long, I was pleasantly surprised of how accommodating these were for my frame. Despite the fact they were originally designed for men, I would strongly suggest any tall girl or guy give them a try.
Rating: 4.5/5
NIKE – EPIC LUX TIGHTS
Not all tights are created equal. As a woman, especially one with a “bubble butt,” it is imperative to find a pair of leggings that allow you to move freely while most importantly, giving you full coverage. There is nothing more frustrating than constantly having to tug at your waistband to keep it from slipping to an uncomfortable sag or revealing skin during sub-freezing temperatures.
The high waisted band on the Nike Epic Lux tights does not fail you. It fits perfectly on your waist and has a flat drawstring that helps the leggings stay right where you want them through all your KMs clocked.
The Good:
High waisted with a wide paneled waistband and the discreet flat draw cord around the waist make for no slippage all run long.
The fabric has a high spandex count, allowing for a free range of motion.
Unparalleled levels of comfort
The Bad:
No specific warmth or insulation tech properties
No weatherproofing
The Verdict:
Tights that stay put throughout your run and have good stretch are winners in my books. These leggings will stay as a go-to in my winter rotation, as long as it’s not raining or wet-snowing.
Rating: 4/5
LOLË – GLORIOUS LEGGINGS
The Lole Glorious leggings, made of breathable and four-way stretch fabric deliver the comfortable support you want during your winter runs. When running longer distances, other than excellent stretch and breathability it’s great to have leggings that incorporate tech properties for comfort such as seamless or flat seams that avoid chafing.
The Good:
Incredibly flexible and stretchy (FPU 50+)
Comfortable rise and didn’t need to be adjusted throughout the runs
Cut long (able to cover ankles)
Fabric minimizes bacteria
Secret interior pocket for a key
The Bad:
Not sufficiently warm enough to wear on its own during winter months
Noticed slight fading in the material after a few wears (knee area and butt)
No exterior pocket for devices
The Verdict:
While I liked the look of these leggings, I did find them too lightweight to wear on their own once the temperature started to drop. The Glorious leggings are thin enough to layer under a mid layer bottom for your colder runs. The material was soft and stayed in place due to the mid-rise cut, which allowed me to focus on running and not pulling them up.
Rating: 3/5
OAKLEY – ACTIVE TIGHT
The Active Tight have an eye-catching, half-and-half print. They are a mid-rise cut with a thick waistband that creates a secure fit. The best discovery, in my opinion, is finding the secret slit pocket built into the band, which is big enough to hold a few keys and some cash. The sweat-wicking fabric keeps you dry but unfortunately it’s quite thin and therefore won’t keep you warm for days colder than -10C.
The Good:
Fun print and design
Comfortable
Small pocket for keys and cards
Bold print
The Bad:
Not warm enough to be worn on their own
The Verdict:
While the Active Tights by Oakley are fun and eye-catching, on their own, they won’t keep you warm in the winter months. Try adding a second layer over top, which is easily done due to how lightweight the fabric is.
Rating: 3/5
LULULEMON – FIRST MILE TECH TIGHT
These thermal leggings are specifically designed for winter running, so I was very excited to try these for my very first run in the snow. My first impression was that they were a little snug but lightweight with a nice thickness. They stretched out after a couple of wears to fit perfectly but still proved a slight struggle to get on every time. The look and feel are fantastic, especially loved the high waisted rise of the leggings. The fabric is super soft and comfortable with a slight reflective detailing down the leg. I also liked that the two pockets that were big enough to fit a phone and keys.
The Good:
The high waisted fit is a great look and keeps air from touching your skin if you are wearing a shorter sweater. The fabric is super soft so very comfortable once they are on.
The Bad:
Not as warm as they should be for winter running in Montreal, my butt and knee caps were cold. They also aren’t as stretchy as you would think, so it’s a bit of a struggle getting them on.
The Verdict:
Ideal for warmer winter days. I would recommend sizing up since they are made snug, but I loved the look, high rise, and zipper pockets. I went out with them for several 10k runs and found that my butt and knees were cold pretty much the whole time. I would require a longer sweater or even layer shorts over them to be sufficiently warm.
Rating: 3.5/5
Tights are one of the most underappreciated pieces winter running gear, but as the weather starts to drop, they become increasingly important for warmth and performance.
The Core Warm M-ight is a great tight when used as an underlayer paired with other bottoms. It is sweat-wicking and well ventilated. The tights keep you warm, yet breathable at the same time.
The Good:
Ventilated crotch & calves
Perfect for milder days
Form fitted around ankles
The Bad:
The waist was a little loose. The drawstring needed to be tightened quite a bit to keep the pants from feeling like they were falling.
Lack of pockets for keys and phone.
The Verdict:
The Oakley Core Warm M-ight running tights are a solid -5°c to 0°c underlayer, but they need to be coupled with a pair of shorts to help shield the wind. The biggest drawback was the waist. A choice to either cut a little circulation or spend the run checking to make sure the tights are in place. However, the overall comfort of the garment was great. From a value perspective, these leggings are perfect for intermediate runners.
Rating: 3.5/5
TRACKSMITH – TURNOVER TIGHTS
The Tracksmith Turnover Tight is technical cold weather inspired bottom made from an Italian-spun nylon/elastane fabric with contoured legs with back zips (to avoid rubbing of the Achilles tendons).
The good:
Amazing fit for anyone (male/female) who is tall
Silicon on inside waistband to keep them in place and a higher rise, so they don’t have to be pulled up during the run
Beautiful zipper detail on the back of the leg so you can pull them over shoes
Dry super fast
Back pocket accommodates phone comfortably (doesn’t move around while running)
Brushed inside fabric for a cozy feel
Bonded seams = no rubbing/chafing
Warmer than the average tight/legging
The bad:
Not ideal for anyone short, the legs are very long
Back pocket is a little awkward when trying to get out phone during run
Not particularly water repellent
A few loose threads on inside waistband after a few wears
No safety features for night visibility
The Verdict:
As simple as the tights first seemed, after testing them I grew to appreciate all the technical details. The material was very comfortable, warmer than an average tight and had great stretch. The waistband never had to be adjusted while running and sat comfortably at the waist due to the silicone on the inside. I also really liked the length; while, for people on the shorter side may find the fit to too long, I was pleasantly surprised of how accommodating these were for my frame. Despite the fact they were originally designed for men, I would strongly suggest any tall girl or guy give them a try.
Rating: 4.5/5
NIKE – EPIC LUX TIGHTS
Not all tights are created equal. As a woman, especially one with a “bubble butt,” it is imperative to find a pair of leggings that allow you to move freely while most importantly, giving you full coverage. There is nothing more frustrating than constantly having to tug at your waistband to keep it from slipping to an uncomfortable sag or revealing skin during sub-freezing temperatures.
The high waisted band on the Nike Epic Lux tights does not fail you. It fits perfectly on your waist and has a flat drawstring that helps the leggings stay right where you want them through all your KMs clocked.
The Good:
High waisted with a wide paneled waistband and the discreet flat draw cord around the waist make for no slippage all run long.
The fabric has a high spandex count, allowing for a free range of motion.
Unparalleled levels of comfort
The Bad:
No specific warmth or insulation tech properties
No weatherproofing
The Verdict:
Tights that stay put throughout your run and have good stretch are winners in my books. These leggings will stay as a go-to in my winter rotation, as long as it’s not raining or wet-snowing.
Rating: 4/5
LOLË – GLORIOUS LEGGINGS
The Lole Glorious leggings, made of breathable and four-way stretch fabric deliver the comfortable support you want during your winter runs. When running longer distances, other than excellent stretch and breathability it’s great to have leggings that incorporate tech properties for comfort such as seamless or flat seams that avoid chafing.
The Good:
Incredibly flexible and stretchy (FPU 50+)
Comfortable rise and didn’t need to be adjusted throughout the runs
Cut long (able to cover ankles)
Fabric minimizes bacteria
Secret interior pocket for a key
The Bad:
Not sufficiently warm enough to wear on its own during winter months
Noticed slight fading in the material after a few wears (knee area and butt)
No exterior pocket for devices
The Verdict:
While I liked the look of these leggings, I did find them too lightweight to wear on their own once the temperature started to drop. The Glorious leggings are thin enough to layer under a mid layer bottom for your colder runs. The material was soft and stayed in place due to the mid-rise cut, which allowed me to focus on running and not pulling them up.
Rating: 3/5
OAKLEY – ACTIVE TIGHT
The Active Tight have an eye-catching, half-and-half print. They are a mid-rise cut with a thick waistband that creates a secure fit. The best discovery, in my opinion, is finding the secret slit pocket built into the band, which is big enough to hold a few keys and some cash. The sweat-wicking fabric keeps you dry but unfortunately it’s quite thin and therefore won’t keep you warm for days colder than -10C.
The Good:
Fun print and design
Comfortable
Small pocket for keys and cards
Bold print
The Bad:
Not warm enough to be worn on their own
The Verdict:
While the Active Tights by Oakley are fun and eye-catching, on their own, they won’t keep you warm in the winter months. Try adding a second layer over top, which is easily done due to how lightweight the fabric is.
Rating: 3/5
LULULEMON – FIRST MILE TECH TIGHT
These thermal leggings are specifically designed for winter running, so I was very excited to try these for my very first run in the snow. My first impression was that they were a little snug but lightweight with a nice thickness. They stretched out after a couple of wears to fit perfectly but still proved a slight struggle to get on every time. The look and feel are fantastic, especially loved the high waisted rise of the leggings. The fabric is super soft and comfortable with a slight reflective detailing down the leg. I also liked that the two pockets that were big enough to fit a phone and keys.
The Good:
The high waisted fit is a great look and keeps air from touching your skin if you are wearing a shorter sweater. The fabric is super soft so very comfortable once they are on.
The Bad:
Not as warm as they should be for winter running in Montreal, my butt and knee caps were cold. They also aren’t as stretchy as you would think, so it’s a bit of a struggle getting them on.
The Verdict:
Ideal for warmer winter days. I would recommend sizing up since they are made snug, but I loved the look, high rise, and zipper pockets. I went out with them for several 10k runs and found that my butt and knees were cold pretty much the whole time. I would require a longer sweater or even layer shorts over them to be sufficiently warm.
Rating: 3.5/5
LULULEMON - TIGHT STUFF TIGHTS
Lululemon continues to impress with their run collection. Quality fabrics, and design focused on both function and style, their products feature purposeful subtle branding, ie: small logo placement on the back of the leg with reflective properties to keep you visible at night.
These tights are great for both running and training, designed to allow your body to move freely, yet always feel supported with compression in key areas delivered through Lycra panels and careful design.
The Good:
Lycra compression for optimal fit and comfort
Great woodland/camo style print
Subtle branding
Excellent reflective element placement
The Bad:
Printed graphic can be a challenge to match with the rest of your outfit
The Verdict:
The Tight Stuff Tights are your daily training performance leggings that will carry you through the winter. I’m originally from Alberta, so maybe I am predisposed to liking things that look like hunting gear, but if you’re looking for something less flashy, you can get these leggings in solid colors as well.
Rating: 5/5
ADIDAS - SEQUENCIALS CLIMAHEAT TIGHTS
These adidas Sequencials Climaheat Tights have seen a fair share of run time since I first slipped them on. From quick sprints down the street to 10km climbs on Montreal’s Mont Royal, they’ve been there every leg of the way.
The first thing I noticed when I put them on was how thick the fabric was. I’m used to running with thinner leggings, so I was worried that it would cause issues. While they did feel heavy on my first couple of runs, I quickly got used to the extra fabric and had come to like it – it feels warmer, but without being restrictive. Would I wear them on every winter run? Probably not. But I feel like this will be my go-to pair when the temperature drops below -20C.
The Good:
Breathable Climaheat™ technology regulates temperature and keeps you warm
Padded fabric for a snug fit
Reflective strips on the back keep you visible at night
The Bad:
Leggings take a few runs to break in
Fabric bunches up a bit on the leg
Pocket is pretty useless
The Verdict:
A good entry-level legging for winter running. They’ll keep you warm in colder weather, but anything above 0ºC and your legs might get sweaty. The main drawback for some could be the thickness, but others might prefer it.
Rating: 3.5/5
LULULEMON - SURGE TIGHTS DWR
The first thing you’ll notice when you first put on these tights is that they hug you in a way that makes your legs feel ready to perform. There are so many things to like about these tights, from the pockets to the water resistance coating, these leggings are made for winter.
The Good:
The keep you warm and dry, thanks to the WRD coating
Great pockets placed on the thighs and big enough for any smartphone.
There is an extra pocket with a zipper at the back, big enough for a credit card, or keys.
Medium rise waist provides extra comfort
The Bad:
They bunch up at the ankles
Minimal reflective details
The Verdict:
These tights are super comfortable, they keep you dry, they have incredible pockets and the best part is that they help your legs when you’re on the last few miles. Whether you’re just starting out or a veteran of winter running, you’ll appreciate what these leggings have to offer.
Rating: 4/5
SMARTWOOL - PHD® WIND TIGHT
I've had a love/hate relationship with Smartwool this winter. The first time put on the PhD® Wind Tight, I felt unstoppable; they had the right fit, feel, and comfort. The big downside, however, has been their washability. After one cycle in the dryer, they started to feel like a cheaply made sweater and had begun pilling. Despite their lost comfort, they maintain their performance and fit. The padded thighs made them wind resistant, and the stretchy crotch and calf area made them quite versatile.
The tights also had applications beyond running. I wore them as an underlayer when snowboarding and playing outdoor hockey.
The Good:
Comfort
Well fitted waist
Zipper on the calves
Pocket for a phone
Zipped pocket for keys
The Bad:
Don’t stand up to washing
The Verdict:
I liked the PhD® Wind Tight. Clearly designed for running, but not seem to be made for repeated use. From a value standpoint, I would have a much easier time paying for a product that I know will withstand prolonged usage and multiple washes.
Rating: 3/5
OAKLEY - CORE WARM M-IGHT
Tights are one of the most underappreciated pieces winter running gear, but as the weather starts to drop, they become increasingly important for warmth and performance.
The Core Warm M-ight is a great tight when used as an underlayer paired with other bottoms. It is sweat-wicking and well ventilated. The tights keep you warm, yet breathable at the same time.
The Good:
Ventilated crotch & calves
Perfect for milder days
Form fitted around ankles
The Bad:
The waist was a little loose. The drawstring needed to be tightened quite a bit to keep the pants from feeling like they were falling.
Lack of pockets for keys and phone.
The Verdict:
The Oakley Core Warm M-ight running tights are a solid -5°c to 0°c underlayer, but they need to be coupled with a pair of shorts to help shield the wind. The biggest drawback was the waist. A choice to either cut a little circulation or spend the run checking to make sure the tights are in place. However, the overall comfort of the garment was great. From a value perspective, these leggings are perfect for intermediate runners.
Rating: 3.5/5
TRACKSMITH - TURNOVER TIGHTS
The Tracksmith Turnover Tight is technical cold weather inspired bottom made from an Italian-spun nylon/elastane fabric with contoured legs with back zips (to avoid rubbing of the Achilles tendons).
The good:
Amazing fit for anyone (male/female) who is tall
Silicon on inside waistband to keep them in place and a higher rise, so they don’t have to be pulled up during the run
Beautiful zipper detail on the back of the leg so you can pull them over shoes
Dry super fast
Back pocket accommodates phone comfortably (doesn’t move around while running)
Brushed inside fabric for a cozy feel
Bonded seams = no rubbing/chafing
Warmer than the average tight/legging
The bad:
Not ideal for anyone short, the legs are very long
Back pocket is a little awkward when trying to get out phone during run
Not particularly water repellent
A few loose threads on inside waistband after a few wears
No safety features for night visibility
The Verdict:
As simple as the tights first seemed, after testing them I grew to appreciate all the technical details. The material was very comfortable, warmer than an average tight and had great stretch. The waistband never had to be adjusted while running and sat comfortably at the waist due to the silicone on the inside. I also really liked the length; while, for people on the shorter side may find the fit to too long, I was pleasantly surprised of how accommodating these were for my frame. Despite the fact they were originally designed for men, I would strongly suggest any tall girl or guy give them a try.
Rating: 4.5/5
NIKE - EPIC LUX TIGHTS
Not all tights are created equal. As a woman, especially one with a “bubble butt,” it is imperative to find a pair of leggings that allow you to move freely while most importantly, giving you full coverage. There is nothing more frustrating than constantly having to tug at your waistband to keep it from slipping to an uncomfortable sag or revealing skin during sub-freezing temperatures.
The high waisted band on the Nike Epic Lux tights does not fail you. It fits perfectly on your waist and has a flat drawstring that helps the leggings stay right where you want them through all your KMs clocked.
The Good:
High waisted with a wide paneled waistband and the discreet flat draw cord around the waist make for no slippage all run long.
The fabric has a high spandex count, allowing for a free range of motion.
Unparalleled levels of comfort
The Bad:
No specific warmth or insulation tech properties
No weatherproofing
The Verdict:
Tights that stay put throughout your run and have good stretch are winners in my books. These leggings will stay as a go-to in my winter rotation, as long as it’s not raining or wet-snowing.
Rating: 4/5
LOLË - GLORIOUS LEGGINGS
The Lole Glorious leggings, made of breathable and four-way stretch fabric deliver the comfortable support you want during your winter runs. When running longer distances, other than excellent stretch and breathability it’s great to have leggings that incorporate tech properties for comfort such as seamless or flat seams that avoid chafing.
The Good:
Incredibly flexible and stretchy (FPU 50+)
Comfortable rise and didn’t need to be adjusted throughout the runs
Cut long (able to cover ankles)
Fabric minimizes bacteria
Secret interior pocket for a key
The Bad:
Not sufficiently warm enough to wear on its own during winter months
Noticed slight fading in the material after a few wears (knee area and butt)
No exterior pocket for devices
The Verdict:
While I liked the look of these leggings, I did find them too lightweight to wear on their own once the temperature started to drop. The Glorious leggings are thin enough to layer under a mid layer bottom for your colder runs. The material was soft and stayed in place due to the mid-rise cut, which allowed me to focus on running and not pulling them up.
Rating: 3/5
OAKLEY - ACTIVE TIGHT
The Active Tight have an eye-catching, half-and-half print. They are a mid-rise cut with a thick waistband that creates a secure fit. The best discovery, in my opinion, is finding the secret slit pocket built into the band, which is big enough to hold a few keys and some cash. The sweat-wicking fabric keeps you dry but unfortunately it’s quite thin and therefore won’t keep you warm for days colder than -10C.
The Good:
Fun print and design
Comfortable
Small pocket for keys and cards
Bold print
The Bad:
Not warm enough to be worn on their own
The Verdict:
While the Active Tights by Oakley are fun and eye-catching, on their own, they won’t keep you warm in the winter months. Try adding a second layer over top, which is easily done due to how lightweight the fabric is.
Rating: 3/5
LULULEMON - FIRST MILE TECH TIGHT
These thermal leggings are specifically designed for winter running, so I was very excited to try these for my very first run in the snow. My first impression was that they were a little snug but lightweight with a nice thickness. They stretched out after a couple of wears to fit perfectly but still proved a slight struggle to get on every time. The look and feel are fantastic, especially loved the high waisted rise of the leggings. The fabric is super soft and comfortable with a slight reflective detailing down the leg. I also liked that the two pockets that were big enough to fit a phone and keys.
The Good:
The high waisted fit is a great look and keeps air from touching your skin if you are wearing a shorter sweater. The fabric is super soft so very comfortable once they are on.
The Bad:
Not as warm as they should be for winter running in Montreal, my butt and knee caps were cold. They also aren’t as stretchy as you would think, so it’s a bit of a struggle getting them on.
The Verdict:
Ideal for warmer winter days. I would recommend sizing up since they are made snug, but I loved the look, high rise, and zipper pockets. I went out with them for several 10k runs and found that my butt and knees were cold pretty much the whole time. I would require a longer sweater or even layer shorts over them to be sufficiently warm.
Rating: 3.5/5
Tights are one of the most underappreciated pieces winter running gear, but as the weather starts to drop, they become increasingly important for warmth and performance.
The Core Warm M-ight is a great tight when used as an underlayer paired with other bottoms. It is sweat-wicking and well ventilated. The tights keep you warm, yet breathable at the same time.
The Good:
Ventilated crotch & calves
Perfect for milder days
Form fitted around ankles
The Bad:
The waist was a little loose. The drawstring needed to be tightened quite a bit to keep the pants from feeling like they were falling.
Lack of pockets for keys and phone.
The Verdict:
The Oakley Core Warm M-ight running tights are a solid -5°c to 0°c underlayer, but they need to be coupled with a pair of shorts to help shield the wind. The biggest drawback was the waist. A choice to either cut a little circulation or spend the run checking to make sure the tights are in place. However, the overall comfort of the garment was great. From a value perspective, these leggings are perfect for intermediate runners.
Rating: 3.5/5
TRACKSMITH - TURNOVER TIGHTS
The Tracksmith Turnover Tight is technical cold weather inspired bottom made from an Italian-spun nylon/elastane fabric with contoured legs with back zips (to avoid rubbing of the Achilles tendons).
The good:
Amazing fit for anyone (male/female) who is tall
Silicon on inside waistband to keep them in place and a higher rise, so they don’t have to be pulled up during the run
Beautiful zipper detail on the back of the leg so you can pull them over shoes
Dry super fast
Back pocket accommodates phone comfortably (doesn’t move around while running)
Brushed inside fabric for a cozy feel
Bonded seams = no rubbing/chafing
Warmer than the average tight/legging
The bad:
Not ideal for anyone short, the legs are very long
Back pocket is a little awkward when trying to get out phone during run
Not particularly water repellent
A few loose threads on inside waistband after a few wears
No safety features for night visibility
The Verdict:
As simple as the tights first seemed, after testing them I grew to appreciate all the technical details. The material was very comfortable, warmer than an average tight and had great stretch. The waistband never had to be adjusted while running and sat comfortably at the waist due to the silicone on the inside. I also really liked the length; while, for people on the shorter side may find the fit to too long, I was pleasantly surprised of how accommodating these were for my frame. Despite the fact they were originally designed for men, I would strongly suggest any tall girl or guy give them a try.
Rating: 4.5/5
NIKE - EPIC LUX TIGHTS
Not all tights are created equal. As a woman, especially one with a “bubble butt,” it is imperative to find a pair of leggings that allow you to move freely while most importantly, giving you full coverage. There is nothing more frustrating than constantly having to tug at your waistband to keep it from slipping to an uncomfortable sag or revealing skin during sub-freezing temperatures.
The high waisted band on the Nike Epic Lux tights does not fail you. It fits perfectly on your waist and has a flat drawstring that helps the leggings stay right where you want them through all your KMs clocked.
The Good:
High waisted with a wide paneled waistband and the discreet flat draw cord around the waist make for no slippage all run long.
The fabric has a high spandex count, allowing for a free range of motion.
Unparalleled levels of comfort
The Bad:
No specific warmth or insulation tech properties
No weatherproofing
The Verdict:
Tights that stay put throughout your run and have good stretch are winners in my books. These leggings will stay as a go-to in my winter rotation, as long as it’s not raining or wet-snowing.
Rating: 4/5
LOLË - GLORIOUS LEGGINGS
The Lole Glorious leggings, made of breathable and four-way stretch fabric deliver the comfortable support you want during your winter runs. When running longer distances, other than excellent stretch and breathability it’s great to have leggings that incorporate tech properties for comfort such as seamless or flat seams that avoid chafing.
The Good:
Incredibly flexible and stretchy (FPU 50+)
Comfortable rise and didn’t need to be adjusted throughout the runs
Cut long (able to cover ankles)
Fabric minimizes bacteria
Secret interior pocket for a key
The Bad:
Not sufficiently warm enough to wear on its own during winter months
Noticed slight fading in the material after a few wears (knee area and butt)
No exterior pocket for devices
The Verdict:
While I liked the look of these leggings, I did find them too lightweight to wear on their own once the temperature started to drop. The Glorious leggings are thin enough to layer under a mid layer bottom for your colder runs. The material was soft and stayed in place due to the mid-rise cut, which allowed me to focus on running and not pulling them up.
Rating: 3/5
OAKLEY - ACTIVE TIGHT
The Active Tight have an eye-catching, half-and-half print. They are a mid-rise cut with a thick waistband that creates a secure fit. The best discovery, in my opinion, is finding the secret slit pocket built into the band, which is big enough to hold a few keys and some cash. The sweat-wicking fabric keeps you dry but unfortunately it’s quite thin and therefore won’t keep you warm for days colder than -10C.
The Good:
Fun print and design
Comfortable
Small pocket for keys and cards
Bold print
The Bad:
Not warm enough to be worn on their own
The Verdict:
While the Active Tights by Oakley are fun and eye-catching, on their own, they won’t keep you warm in the winter months. Try adding a second layer over top, which is easily done due to how lightweight the fabric is.
Rating: 3/5
LULULEMON - FIRST MILE TECH TIGHT
These thermal leggings are specifically designed for winter running, so I was very excited to try these for my very first run in the snow. My first impression was that they were a little snug but lightweight with a nice thickness. They stretched out after a couple of wears to fit perfectly but still proved a slight struggle to get on every time. The look and feel are fantastic, especially loved the high waisted rise of the leggings. The fabric is super soft and comfortable with a slight reflective detailing down the leg. I also liked that the two pockets that were big enough to fit a phone and keys.
The Good:
The high waisted fit is a great look and keeps air from touching your skin if you are wearing a shorter sweater. The fabric is super soft so very comfortable once they are on.
The Bad:
Not as warm as they should be for winter running in Montreal, my butt and knee caps were cold. They also aren’t as stretchy as you would think, so it’s a bit of a struggle getting them on.
The Verdict:
Ideal for warmer winter days. I would recommend sizing up since they are made snug, but I loved the look, high rise, and zipper pockets. I went out with them for several 10k runs and found that my butt and knees were cold pretty much the whole time. I would require a longer sweater or even layer shorts over them to be sufficiently warm.
Rating: 3.5/5