Running in the winter presents its own set of challenges—cold weather, wind, and sometimes snow. The right pair of leggings can make all the difference in staying warm and comfortable during your runs. When selecting leggings for winter running, it’s important to choose materials that provide warmth, breathability, and flexibility, as well as protection from the elements. Here’s a guide to some of the best leggings designed to keep you moving no matter how cold it gets.

What to Look for in Winter Running Leggings

When choosing winter leggings, consider the following key features:

1. Insulation: Look for leggings with thermal or fleece-lined fabrics that provide warmth without adding bulk.
2. Breathability: Even in cold weather, you’ll still sweat. Moisture-wicking materials will keep you dry and prevent chafing.
3. Wind and Water Resistance: Opt for leggings with windproof and water-resistant fabrics, especially if you’re running in snowy or rainy conditions.
4. Stretch and Comfort: Choose leggings that offer enough stretch for freedom of movement and comfort.
5. Reflective Features: Shorter daylight hours mean that visibility becomes crucial. Look for leggings with reflective elements to enhance safety.
6. Compression: Some leggings offer compression to support your muscles and reduce fatigue during longer runs.

Top Winter Running Leggings

1. Lululemon Wunder Under High-Rise Tight (Brushed)

Best for Insulation and Comfort

• Why We Love It: These leggings are made with Lululemon’s brushed fabric that keeps you warm without sacrificing flexibility. The high-rise waist provides extra coverage and support, while the moisture-wicking fabric helps keep you dry throughout your run.
• Features: Brushed fabric for warmth, moisture-wicking, high-rise fit, and four-way stretch.
• Price: $$$
• Best For: Cold weather runs and indoor training.

2. Under Armour ColdGear Reactor Leggings

Best for Cold Weather Performance

• Why We Love It: These leggings feature Under Armour’s ColdGear technology, which adapts to your body temperature, providing warmth when needed without overheating. The brushed interior adds extra warmth while still offering breathability.
• Features: ColdGear technology, brushed interior for warmth, breathable fabric, and moisture-wicking.
• Price: $$
• Best For: Extremely cold weather running.

3. Nike Pro Warm Tights

Best for Flexibility and Comfort

• Why We Love It: The Nike Pro Warm tights are designed to keep you warm without being restrictive. The stretchy material offers excellent flexibility, and the thermal fabric helps regulate body temperature during cold runs.
• Features: Thermal fabric, moisture-wicking, high-compression fit for muscle support, and durable stretch.
• Price: $$
• Best For: Cold weather running with a focus on comfort and support.

4. Smartwool Merino 250 Baselayer Bottoms

Best for Extreme Cold Conditions

• Why We Love It: For those running in extremely cold weather, Smartwool’s Merino 250 Baselayer Bottoms are a great option. Made from merino wool, these leggings provide exceptional warmth, while also being breathable and moisture-wicking. Plus, merino wool is naturally odor-resistant.
• Features: Merino wool fabric, warmth and breathability, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant.
• Price: $$$
• Best For: Extremely cold temperatures or layering under other gear.

5. Baleaf Fleece-Lined Running Leggings

Best for Budget-Friendly Warmth

• Why We Love It: Baleaf’s fleece-lined leggings offer excellent warmth at a more affordable price. The fleece lining provides insulation, while the moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry. These leggings also feature reflective elements for better visibility in low-light conditions.
• Features: Fleece lining, moisture-wicking, reflective details, high waistband for extra support.
• Price: $
• Best For: Budget-conscious runners who need warmth and comfort.

6. Brooks Greenlight Thermal Tights

Best for Durability and Long Runs

• Why We Love It: Brooks’ Greenlight Thermal Tights offer durable, thermal fabric that keeps you warm during long-distance runs. The leggings feature a zippered back pocket for convenient storage, and the reflective details make them a great choice for low-light conditions.
• Features: Thermal fabric, zippered back pocket, reflective details, durable stretch.
• Price: $$
• Best For: Long-distance runners looking for performance and durability in cold weather.

7. 2XU Thermal Compression Tights

Best for Muscle Recovery and Warmth

• Why We Love It: 2XU’s thermal compression tights offer the best of both worlds: warmth and muscle support. The compression design helps reduce muscle fatigue, while the thermal fabric ensures you stay warm during winter runs. The tights also feature moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry.
• Features: Compression fit, thermal fabric for warmth, moisture-wicking, and reflective elements.
• Price: $$$
• Best For: Runners looking for muscle recovery benefits and warmth.

8. Reebok Thermowarm+ Tights

Best for Versatility and Comfort

• Why We Love It: These leggings from Reebok are built with Thermowarm+ technology that adapts to your body temperature. The fabric regulates warmth, keeping you comfortable in varying weather conditions. The leggings also provide moisture-wicking, making them suitable for both running and other outdoor activities.
• Features: Thermowarm+ technology, moisture-wicking, breathable, and versatile design.
• Price: $$
• Best For: Versatile runners who want a pair of leggings that can handle cold and moderate temperatures.

Conclusion: Choose the Right Leggings for Winter Running

Winter running can be exhilarating and rewarding with the right gear. The best winter leggings for running are those that balance warmth, breathability, and flexibility. Whether you prefer high-end options like Lululemon’s Wunder Under tights or budget-friendly choices like Baleaf’s fleece-lined leggings, there’s something for every runner. When choosing winter running leggings, make sure to look for features like insulation, moisture-wicking fabric, wind and water resistance, and reflective details to ensure you stay comfortable and visible.

Ready to hit the pavement in winter? Which winter running leggings are you excited to try? Let us know in the comments!