It's starts to feel a lot more difficult to put your running gear on when it's dark and chilly outside. That's why investing in a pair of thermal running leggings and ensuring you've got winter-proof running kit that keeps the elements at bay is a wise move.
Thermal running tights and leggings are designed to make cold weather running more comfortable and enjoyable. Many promise moisture wicking qualities, but the main aim is to keep you cosy so you can run in the winter without wearing too many layers.
We've made our selection of the best thermal running tights and leggings based on in-depth research and customer reviews, so you can find a pair that help enhance your cold weather running experience.
For more running gear, take a look at the best compression leggings and the best running socks.
Best thermal running tights and leggings for 2024
Under Armour Women's ColdGear Leggings
Part of Under Armour's ColdGear range, these winter running leggings claim to be soft, breathable and stretchy so you can enjoy flexible movement in the chillier seasons. The ColdGear range was created to provide athletes with light kit that keeps you warm and dry, so you shouldn't need to layer up with lots of heavy clothing!
The high-rise waist is a particularly appealing feature if you're fed up of your leggings slipping down. This also means you should have more coverage, which is ideal when you're trying to keep out the chill and cover any exposed skin. They're made of polyester and elastane, and there's a waistband key pocket so you can keep your valuables secure.
Learn more about the difference between running tights and compression tights.
Salomon Women's Agile Long Tights
If you're looking for a pair of running leggings you can wear all year round, this pick from Salomon could do the trick.
The Agile Long Tights aim to keep you cosy and wick unwanted moisture away, so they're an option for winter. Thanks to the UPF50 protection, however, they can also be worn in warmer times when you're looking for sun protection. This makes them a versatile addition to your running kit wardrobe. They also feature four-way stretch, so they should be comfortable to wear when you're running and stretching.
Find out more about the difference between running tights and leggings.
Ronhill Women's Tech Winter Running Tights
These Ronhill Tech Winter Running Tights aim to strike the desirable balance of sufficient muscle support and freedom of movement. They have a drawstring fastening and a high waistband so you can wrap up on frosty runs.
Thanks to the blue ribbon Italian Roubaix fabric, the leggings should be comfy and soft, so they could also come in handy when you're lounging around the house or working from home. You can choose between black and a heather/cocoa colour. Both designs are pretty dark in colour, which is useful when you're running and splashing through muddy puddles.
Here's our list of the best running tights for more inspiration.
Sweaty Betty Thermodynamic Running Leggings
Designed for outdoor winter training, you shouldn't have any reason to put off your evening run when you've got these thermal running leggings on hand! The stretchy, thermal fabric aims to provide temperature-regulating qualities and the reflective details should help to increase your visibility in low-light conditions.
They also feature a soft, brushed-fleece backing for added comfort. The leggings are available in slate grey or forest green, which is a nice change if you find you're normally head to toe in black.
Stay cosy while you train with a new running jacket!
New Balance Impact Heat Tights
Wrapping up with lots of layers can often result in an uncomfortable, sweaty run, so moisture wicking fabric is key to remaining comfortable when training in the cold. The Impact Heat Tights have been designed with this mind, as it's claimed they retain warmth and effectively wick away moisture thanks to the New Balance heat technology.
With a zip pocket on the back, plus extra pockets on the side, you can carry gels and other nutritional goods to help keep your energy levels up.
Buy the New Balance Impact Heat Tights now from New Balance
2XU Women's Thermal Compression Tights
- £39.99
If you're in the market for compression tights suitable for colder conditions, these thermal tights aim to provide a snug fit. They're designed to improve blood flow and support lower leg muscles, due to the graduated compression.
If you're sick of itchy, irritating waistbands ruining your running experience, this design claims to prevent friction. There are also flatlock seams for even more comfort.
Buy the 2XU Women's Thermal Compression Tights now from SportShoes
Kalenji Warm Running Leggings
- £14.99
These are the most affordable pair of winter running leggings on our list, so they could be worth considering if you're looking for a budget buy. They feature moisture management fabric to try and keep you dry while you're working up a sweat.
The seamless crotch construction aims to limit the negative effects of chafing in an attempt to ensure your running experience is be warmer and more comfortable. There's also a pocket on the back to help carry extra kit or valuables.
Buy the Kalenji Warm Running Leggings now from Decathlon
Check out the best running belts so you can carry even more when you're out on a run.
CEP Women's Cold Weather Tights
- £87.17
These CEP Cold Weather Tights aim to make wintry runs more bearable and claim to be suitable for trail runs. The wind-resistant and water-repellent material is designed to help balance warmth and moisture management for a pleasant run. The reflective elements are a welcomed addition, as often we have no choice but to run in the dark in winter when the days are so short.
For tips on how to run safely in low light conditions, check out the essential gear for running in the dark.
Buy the CEP Women's Cold Weather Tights now from Alpinetrek
Brooks Momentum Thermal Tights
- £75
The Brooks Momentum Thermal Tights are made with DriLayer fabric, with the aim of keeping you comfortable when running in cold conditions. The stretch fabric is said to provide you with a semi-compressive fit, which is handy if you're looking for more support.
These thermal running tights have two pockets on the legs and an envelope pocket on the back, so you're bound to have plenty of room for snacks and essentials. They’ve also been designed with ‘minimal bounce’ in mind, so your keys, money and phone shouldn’t interrupt your flow.
Buy the Momentum Thermal Tights now from Brooks Running
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