Some of the best women’s running leggings for the colder months

When the temperatures start to drop, it’s time to rethink your run kit. While you’ll still see the odd hardy soul running around in shorts and a vest, for keeping your legs warm and ensuring your running is still comfortable, you can’t beat a pair of the best running tights for women.

Here, we compiled a list of the best running leggings for women we’ve reviewed this winter. We have another list of the best winter runnings tights for men.

After reading the reviews, continue scrolling to see our advice on how to pick a set of women’s running leggings.

Best women’s running tights for 2026

1. Montane Slipstream Thermal 

Price	£90 / $120
Sizes	UK6-16 / 2XS-XL
Pockets	Side gel pouch, rear zip pocket
Features	Brushed inner, granite loft wind protection, anti-odour, ankle zips, waist drawstring

Heading up to Kendal for the annual Mountain Festival in November I was met with freezing weather. Snow on the first day, heavy rain for the next two. The point of this? These Thermal Slipstream tights from Montane really came into their own.

The four-way stretch fabric with brushed lining was toasty warm, while there are panels on the thighs made from a more substantial ‘Granite Loft’ fabric which did a great job of keeping me protected from wind and rain.

There’s a large zippy pocket which I used for keys as well as smaller open pockets for gels. There are small reflective details and zips at the ankle for ease of getting on/off over run shoes. Personally I don’t love these as I find the zips often irritate my ankle bone, but they can be handy.

Adjustment is via drawcord at the waist which worked well, though women with sensitive tummies may prefer something a little flatter. Sizing is UK6-16 and I’m wearing a UK14.

2. Soar Run Tights

Price	£170/$220
Sizes	XS-XL
Pockets	Large rear zip pocket
Features	Reflective strips, laser-cut seams, quick-drying

Soar are making a name for themselves in top-end run kit and these Run Tights are no different. Gulp at that price tag by all means, but these tights are unlike anything I’ve ever tried before. Made from a super-lightweight fabric with laser-cut seams the material feels barely-there once they are on, but still kept me warm enough on chilly winter mornings plus they’re quick-drying.

The tights have no drawcord but are held by a series of rubber grippers at the waist, knee and ankle which worked superbly and avoided any feeling of constriction or bulk with a flat waistband. Reflective details are included.

A large zipped pocket on the rear was big enough for a phone, though I preferred just to keep smaller items in there so I didn’t disrupt the light feeling of the tights. I’m in an XL here which is a UK14 and the largest size available, which is a shame.

3. Arc’teryx Essent High-Rise Utility Legging

Price	£130 / $140
Sizes	US00-16 / UK2-20
Pockets	Waistband pockets, zip small pocket, easy-access thigh pocket
Features	Abrasion-resistant material, leg mesh panels, moisture-wicking, anti-microbial, bluesign

The Arc’teryx Essential Utility Legging were one of those pairs of run tights that I knew were going to be a hit as soon as I pulled them on. From the silky-smooth fabric to the wide, perfectly-fitting waistband I couldn’t wait to run in them. Arcteryx sent a size 12 which equates to a UK16 and the fit was perfect (they come in equivalent to UK2 to 18 as well as three colourways).

The Nylon and Lycra fabric was comfortable and very breathable, yet warm enough for mild winter days. As you’d expect from an outdoor brand there’s plenty of room to stash stuff too. The whole waistband features a deep pocket, ideal for gels and small items. There’s a deep pocket on each leg and a key loop.

While the Soar might just nudge these in this test for cutting edge details, these are my day-to-day go-to tights now!

4. Asics Road High Waist Tight

Price	£63 / $100
Sizes	XS-2XL
Pockets	Waistband pockets, side thigh pouch
Features	Made from 78% recycled materials, drawstring waistband, elasticated rear loops, laser cut

Here in a pretty azure (also in red and dark blue online) these Asics Road High Waist Tights come in a generous size range from XS to 2XL and at a reasonable price point. Fabric is a Polyester/Elastane mix with 50% from recycled materials.

I tested a size L and fit was good here. The wide waistband incorporated a draw cord which made adjustment easy. There are other features too including one side pocket perfect for a phone and nicely close-fitting, a back one for gels, plus two rear loops which can be used to ‘hang’ a jacket through.

I’m not keen on having things flapping round me as I run so usually take a running pack with me, but this might appeal to runners doing shorter distances who like to shed layers. No zippy pocket for keys though, which is disappointing.

Punched holes on the back of the knees aid breathability and generally, these tights were good for cool autumn mornings though not as technical as the Soar or Montane in tougher conditions.

Also consider…

5. Inov8 Active Tights

Price	£60 / $100
Sizes	UK6-16
Pockets	Rear zip pocket, side gel/phone pouch
Features	Drawstring waistband, 70% recycled materials

These run tights from Inov8 are made from 70% recycled materials and made for comfort during active hikes and runs. The tights feature a rear zip pocket for valuables, as well as a side thigh pocket for easy access to gels or a phone while running. A drawstring waist keeps everything in place, while the high waistband is designed to cinch comfortably and offer support.

6. Dartmoor Waterproof Trousers

Price	£54.99 (UK only)
Sizes	XS-XL
Pockets	Waterproof rear zip pocket
Features	Elasticated waist, high leg zips, 15,000HH waterproof rating

These waterproof trousers from Harrier are made to run in. When rain threatens, simply pull them over your run shoes thanks to the half leg zips and stay dry and protected from the weather. The waterproof rating on these is 15,000HH, which should be plenty for even those heavier downpour. The full taped seams make sure no water seeps through, while a rear zip waterproof pocket can keep your phone or keys safe. Despite the high waterproof rating, these trousers are still highly breathable with a rating of 15,000g/m2. Harrier also says that there’s ‘no annoying rustling’ while running.

7. Kiprun Run 100 Warm Leggings

Price	£24.99 (Europe only)
Sizes	UK4-16 / XS-XL
Pockets	Two side phone pockets, rear zip pocket, waist pocket
Features	High waist, brushed inner, waist drawstring,

These run tights from Decathlon should be a staple in your winter run wardrobe. Made with a soft, brushed inner, they’re designed to be warm, flexible, and comfortable over long miles. Pocket options are a-plenty, with two side phone pockets and a rear zip and waistband pocket for all the essentials. The high waist and wide waistband should help you feel comfortable and supported while running.

Features to look out for in women’s running tights

The best running leggings for women will be constructed from fabrics that feel soft and comfortable against the skin, while offering warmth, sweat wicking and microbial properties to avoid it holding onto sweat or ending up stinky by mid-season.

Next, look for extra features but don’t pay for them if you don’t need them. Some runners like a zipped pocket for keys/card/gels etc, while reflective details or colourways that aren’t just black are always welcome for all kit, especially as many winter runs are likely to be in low light.

Material

Moisture-wicking fabric helps to pull sweat away from the skin to keep you dry during runs. This prevents chafing and keeps you more comfortable over longer distances. The tight material should have good stretch, while remaining at least a little compressive to provide a supportive hold as you run. Some tights will be fully compressive, which provides gentle pressure on muscles to improve circulation and reduce fatigue.

Waistband

As you can see from all our options on test – a high waist band is commonly. winner among women. A higher waistband offers better coverage and prevents slipping as you move. It also provides core support and reduces the need for readjusting mid-run.

Breathability

Even if you’re after run tights for super cold temperatures, breathability should still be a factor when you’re making your choice. Mesh or ventilated zones improve airflow where you heat up most. This helps regulate temperature and keeps you cooler during intense workouts.

Flatlock Seams

Reduced seam bulk helps prevent skin irritation. They lie flat against the body, lowering the chance of rubbing or chafing.

Those all-important pockets

Convenient for carrying keys, cards, gels, or a phone without bouncing. Well-placed pockets ensure essentials stay secure during your run. Look for slide-in pockets at the thighs for housing heavier items like phones and rar zip pockets for valuables.

Quick-drying material

This often comes hand in hand with sweat-wicking qualities. Quick-drying helps sweat evaporate faster so you stay comfortable. Useful for long runs or humid climates where moisture buildup is common.

Anti-odour tech

Some fabrics include antimicrobial treatments to reduce odour. This keeps the tights fresher for longer between washes.

Waistband

Often a drawstring waist is the most guaranteed way to go for extra adjustability to prevent slipping and a good overall fit. Otherwise, some waistbands rely solely on their elastication and good fit to hug to the body, while others employ features like silicone grippers.

For more essential run gear, check out our favourite running watches for tracking and analysing your run performance.