9 of the best winter running leggings to shop as the temperature drops (2024)

Whether you’re someone who insists on wearing shorts until there's snow on the ground or you prefer to wear leggings all year round, when the temperature drops, finding a good pair of winter running leggings is essential.

Luckily, we've been clocking up the miles in a number of pairs to bring you our tried and tested pick of the ones that will keep you comfortable and moving freely until spring. So grab your favourite set of gloves, throw on that gilet, and get ready to conquer the winter running.

What are the best winter running leggings?

The following pairs of leggings have been thoroughly tested by the RW editors and our wider team of wear testers, using our expert knowledge of performance running apparel, and our experience of testing thousands of pieces of kit.

What to look for in a pair of winter running leggings

Not only is running in the winter less appealing, but cold muscles perform worse and fatigue quicker.

Winter running leggings are designed to insulate against prolonged exposure to cooler temperatures, allow your skin to breathe to prevent overheating, wick sweat from the inside, whilst blocking it from the outside and allow a full range of movement.

Pockets: All of the leggings on our list below include pockets for your phone, gels, keys and other running essentials, allowing you to leave that running belt or phone holder at home.

Material: As with all running gear, the material that winter kit is made from is more important than how it looks. With winter leggings, the goal is to regulate two different variables: air circulation and moisture held against the skin. Most winter running leggings will be a mix of fabrics, to keep you warm and dry.

Reflective panels: When running in the dark, it’s important to stay seen. Look for leggings with reflective details that will help cars see you, especially if you opt to run in darker shades.

The best winter running leggings 2024

Here are the best winter running tights and leggings that will make running in cold weather a little bit easier.

Sweaty Betty Therma Boost 2.0 Running Leggings

These are the ultimate winter (and eco) running leggings for those looking to invest. The thermal lining is super-warm and toasty on the coldest winter runs, with the soft brushed fleece backing feeling warm and comfy against the skin. There are reflective details to keep you seen in low light and a side leg pocket big enough for your iPhone.

Decathlon Women's Running Leggings Warm

They make it onto this list year after year as a warm, affordable layer for the winter. They might not last forever, but these Decathlon running tights have all you need for when the weather really drops. There's a zipped pocket on the back for your keys, lipbalm and gels, however, most bigger smartphones probably won't fit.

The technical fabric is designed to keep you warm in temperatures between 0 and -5°C and the flatlock seams help minimise chafing. The downside here, they might not last forever, but if you're new to running or don't want to spend a fortune on winter kit, they're a good buy.

Lululemon Fast and Free HR Tights 25"

Sure, these might be a lot more than you'd usually spend on a pair of running leggings, but they'll last for years to come, without going bobbly. Other stand-out features include side pockets for your iPhone, plenty of pockets in the waistband for your keys, lip balm and snacks. We've worn these for speed sessions on the track and long 20-milers and have been really impressed by the fit and comfort.

Tracksmith NDO Tights

First tested on a sub-zero degree run through dark city streets, these leggings felt like a cosy, comforting hug for the legs and waist. There’s little worse than the sensation of sore, weather-beaten skin after running in the cold, but you needn’t worry about that with these full-length leggings. Specifically engineered for winter training, they’re made from warm, double-sided fabric and additional wind-blocking lining at the front of the thighs. Although tight and highly insulative, they still feel light, stay comfortably in place and in no way inhibit your movements while running. They also offer substantial pocket space on the waistband for your keys, phone, gels and more, and the wraparound reflective panel helps you feel safe and seen.

Under Armour Women's UA RUSH™ Leggings

With a wide waistband and leg pockets for your phone and gels, these leggings are a handy addition to your winter running wardrobe. There's strategically placed seams and panels to prevent chafing and the soft, brushed fabric does a great job of keeping you warm whilst not feeling restrictive.

On Performance Winter Tights

With brushed fabric to lock in warmth and covered pockets to protect your valuables, these On running leggings are perfect for running throughout the winter. Extra touches like an adjustable waistband mean you can achieve a snug and comfortable fit. There's a pocket in the waistband big enough for most smartphones. They might be on the more expensive side, but they are built to last.

Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity Running Leggings

Sweaty Betty has been perfecting their Zero Gravity running leggings for the past few years, and it shows. Designed to keep you going without any distractions, these are super comfortable, made from buttery-soft fabric, with a high waistband to keep everything tucked in as you clock up the miles. There's a pocket on the leg big enough for most smartphones, and a zipped pocket on the back for your essentials.

Available in 7/8 and full length, these suit both petite and taller runners. The only downside we could find here was that they can be a little see-through if you're wearing them for yoga, but if you're just running, these are a great choice.

Brooks Method 7/8 Tight

Brooks running tights have a soft, stretchy feel, use a sweat-resistant material to help control temperature, have no bounce pocket in the waistband for a phone and smaller pockets on the thigh for gels etc. The smooth seams help reduce chafing. An all-around good buy, that will keep you safe all winter and (hopefully) make getting out the door a little easier.

New Balance Reflective NB Heat Tight

Brushed fabrics and reflective detailing make this a great winter tight and with side pockets for your phone and gels, plus a zipped pocket on the waistband, you can safely leave your running belt at home. There's also a 7/8 leg length which is perfect for shorter runners. They're high-waisted and comfortable on the move and have a flattering fit.