Best Running Leggings For Women 2023

Make sure the workhorses of your running wardrobe are thoroughbreds with our picks of the best running leggings

Whether you like them in muted shades or prefer to brighten up the world with multicolored patterns, your leggings have an important role to play in heat regulation when running. The right tights can do a great job of cooling you down when you’re sweating hard or keeping you warm on chilly early morning runs—not to mention protecting you from wind, rain and harmful UV rays.

You’ll need leggings that both suit the conditions and fit you well, but finding the right pair of leggings that don't fall down or ride up, chafe or make you too hot is easier said than done. Check the fit before you commit. Try different brands, styles and types of leggings to find the perfect fit for your body shape.

Stylewise, three-quarter-length cropped tights (or capris) will keep you cooler, while full-length thicker leggings will ensure you’re toasty on a winter's day. Opt for compression tights for (possibly) faster muscle recovery and fewer aches after running.

If you’re building out your running wardrobe, you may like to browse our picks of the best running bras, women's running jackets, women's running tops and women's running shorts.

You can trust Coach We give honest reviews and recommendations based on in-depth knowledge and real-world experience. Find out more about how we review and recommend products.

I have been testing and reviewing running leggings for Coach since 2018. I evaluate each pair for comfort, support and breathability, paying close attention to the waistband and pockets (or lack of). Coach writer Lois Mackenzie is also now testing leggings so you’ll see initials after each block of text to denote who tested it. I have included some leggings that we haven't tested but that I think are worth considering—in the specifications for each pair of leggings you’ll see whether it's been tested by us or not.

These high-waisted full-length tights are among the best I’ve tried, combining a flattering fit with staying power thanks to the wide, contoured waistband and drawstring that mean there's no need to readjust them mid-run. The lightweight, quick-drying Nulux fabric feels barely there but still offers good coverage. Drop-in gel pockets can be found on the back and sides of the waist, and there are also two snug leg pockets ideal for your phone or keys. They also come in a cropped length, and a wide range of colors and sizes (the website lists US sizes; 0-24 translates to 4-28 in UK sizes).

Tough enough to withstand the washing machine, they last for years and offer the perfect combination of comfort and a sleek look. They’re usually my top choice to run in because I know they won't let me down—I’ve run more miles in these than all my other running leggings put together.—Camilla Artault

Comfortable high-waisted leggings that stay up and have pockets and yet don't cost the earth are surprisingly rare, but this Sundried pair ticks all the boxes. They’re soft and supportive, with a wide waistband and lots of pockets: two roomy ones on the legs and a secure zip pocket at the back of the waist. I often reach for these leggings in milder weather, because the fabric is not too thick and perforated panels on the sides help keep me cool, too.—CA

These sleek, matt tights are seriously lightweight thanks to a pared-back laser-cut design that does away with any heavier elements such as hems. The medium compression hold combines with silicon grippers at the waist, thighs, calves and ankles to ensure the leggings stay put during your run. The thin, durable fabric is suited to a wide range of conditions, and because they’re made with a woven rather than knitted fabric, the leggings retain their shape better—they won't end up with baggy knees or a saggy crotch. The waistband is only slightly thicker than the rest of the fabric but impressively supportive and I found it stayed in place despite the lack of a drawstring. There's a large zip pocket on the back of the waist that should hold even the largest phone.—CA

Castore has recently launched its new Prism collection of running-specific clothing, and I’m impressed. These leggings are made with a silky-smooth matt fabric and clever panels around the waist that are flattering and supportive. There's just enough compression where you want it but not so much it feels restrictive.

Instead of just sticking on a reflective logo or two, Castore has integrated flatteringly-placed seams of highly reflective material, making you very visible in the dark when headlights shine on you. There are zips on the lower leg, and while I’m not sure they’re necessary, they allow for a very snug fit around the ankle with the zip done up. An internal drawstring on the excellent waistband helps avoid slippage.

I loved the look and feel of these leggings, and I even found them comfy enough to wear all day long. I wore them for several runs and they performed admirably, with no rearranging necessary at all. My only gripe is pocket-related: there is a secure zip pocket on the front of the waistband that fits a key or card, but there's nowhere to stash your phone. I’d have liked a drop-in pocket on the thigh, and would prefer the zip pocket on the back of the waistband, but these are minor quibbles.—CA

The most eco-friendly leggings are, of course, the ones already in your wardrobe. However, if you need a new pair and you’re looking for a brand that takes sustainability seriously, check out Rockay. As well as using recycled polyester, proceeds from each sale funds the ReSea Project, which removes plastic waste from the ocean. These leggings won me over with their lightweight, stretchy fabric which also manages to be squat-proof. They are high-waisted, and I found they didn't fall down because the waistband itself is very wide and supportive, with a drawstring to keep it in place. There's a large zipped pocket on the leg for your phone. They’re also treated with an anti-odor substance, which means you can get several wears out of them before they need a wash: another win for you and the environment.—CA

These lightweight leggings won me over immediately. The fabric is soft and smooth; it's body-hugging but feels barely there. The wide, high waistband offers plenty of support and ensures the leggings won't drift downwards. There's a mesh phone pocket on the leg and a drop-in pocket at the waist. And what's more, these leggings are made with polyester from recycled post-consumer waste, diverting materials from landfill and giving them a new lease of life.—CA

Shine bright with these leggings from reflective gear specialist Proviz. The material is lightweight and comfortable with plenty of stretch, and the high, shaped waistband offers plenty of support. A smattering of reflective dots on the lower leg will keep you visible to traffic in low light, without being overwhelmingly bright. You can keep your phone at hand thanks to a deep pocket on the left leg (left-handed runners rejoice!) and there's also a small zipped pocket below the waistband at the back to stash your keys. One warning: these leggings are not totally opaque when bending over.—CA

These bamboo leggings come from a "climate positive" company, meaning it goes one better than carbon neutral: not only does BAM offset the carbon emissions of bamboo fabric production, it also accounts for the estimated emissions generated by washing the leggings 50 times. As well as being surprisingly soft, bamboo fabric is highly absorbent and therefore efficient when wicking sweat away from your skin. The Kennick leggings, which are high-waisted and slightly cropped in length, are made from a fabric that's thick and very supportive and yet manages to feel soft and comfy. The two deep leg pockets feel secure and there are no zips to dig in if you’re doing floor work.—CA

These are just about as good as running leggings get: comfortable, high-waisted, and they don't fall down when you run. And let's not forget the pockets—two large ones run along the outside of the thigh, perfect for storing your phone, keys or gels. These leggings come in more than 45 different colours and prints from eye-catching patterns to pastels and earthy hues, so there's sure to be a style for everyone.

Fabletics works on a "VIP" subscription model that charges members $59.95/£54.99 a month, which can be used against any outfit worth up to £80. There is the option to skip the payment each month, and your option to buy for this price will also be skipped. Members benefit from lower prices on items, too. While these leggings do tick all the boxes, for non-members the price is on the higher end of the scale.—Lois Mackenzie

These cold-weather leggings are lined with a soft, fleecy layer that gave me a little extra warmth, but was breathable and thin enough to avoid overheating when I upped the pace. The most noticeable feature of these tights is the well-placed reflective water-resistant overlay on the thighs. I found it also helped keep the cold wind out, although I'd appreciate a rear panel to keep other areas warm too. I liked the snug high-rise waistband with a drawstring on the outside. An envelope pocket at the back of the waist fits a phone, and there's a zippable pocket on the thigh for your keys.—CA

Soft and warm yet breathable, these running tights from Gore keep me warm on chilly morning or evening runs without making me overheat. Zips at the ankles mean you can wear them while warming up for a race or a track session before whipping them off easily. The wide elasticated waistband with a drawstring stays firmly in place, and the zip pocket on the back waistband will keep your valuables secure while the two side pockets are perfect for your phone or gels.—CA

Pockets are one of the key features of a good pair of running leggings. Without them where would you put your keys, phone and fuel for your long runs? The Asics Distance Supply leggings were made with this in mind. Storage is no issue at all with a plethora of pockets big enough to store running gels, chews or fuel of your choice. Two big pockets run along the outer thighs and above each there is a smaller pocket. There's also a large pocket at the back of the waistband with elastic straps for extra security.

For long runs in cool temperatures, these leggings are truly your best friend. While the material is thick and supportive (not to mention flattering), it's also warm and therefore not as comfortable on warm, sunny days.—LM

If you like a soft, seamless feel to your running leggings, these Flexa leggings are a good choice—both for you and for the planet. They’re made with an eco-friendly blend of bamboo viscose and Amni Soul Eco, the first biodegradable polyamide yarn. It breaks down within five years, rather than hundreds of years like most synthetics.

I found these leggings soft and comfy, with a good amount of elasticity—you can do some post-run stretching in these without fear of ominous ripping noises. The waistband is wide and supportive without being overbearing, and didn't budge much when I ran. Although they’re called seamless leggings, there are seams on the inside of the legs and around the gusset, but these didn't irritate me. I wouldn't head out in these when it looks like rain—the fabric doesn't dry as fast as standard synthetics, though it does wick sweat away effectively. The main drawback for me was the complete lack of pockets.—CA

These leggings are part of Fabletics’ PowerHold range, a flattering material designed with maximum compression to support you during your activity. The thick material is perfect for runs on colder days and the high waistband does not budge, no matter what distance you’re running. Unlike other Fabletics leggings, these don't have any thigh pockets, but there's a small key pouch on the inside of the waist. Take your pick from the 30-plus colors and prints available.

Fabletics uses a "VIP" subscription model where members pay $59.95/£54.99 a month, a cost that can be offset against any combination of items worth up to £80. There is the option to skip the payment each month, but if you skip it, you won't benefit from the members’ discount for that month.—LM

These sleek mid-rise leggings look the part and are more affordable than Nike's Luxe version. The compressive fabric is thin yet opaque, and wicks sweat well. A mesh panel behind the knees helps keep you cool and avoids any uncomfortable bunching. The fit is on the snug side, so you may want to consider sizing up. A zip pocket at the back keeps your keys safe and there's a deep phone pocket on the hip. It also features a drawstring waist for extra security.

An excellent-value high-street option, these supportive and high-waisted leggings from M&S's Goodmove range offer totally opaque coverage, a phone pocket on the leg and a zip pocket on the waistband. And best of all, they come in some stylish prints that could almost be from one of the high-end athleisure brands. We won't tell if you don't.

These lightweight, compression running leggings are high-waisted, bum-sculpting and available in some pretty awesome prints. There's a secure zipped pocket at the back of the waistband and a deep side pocket that will fit your phone. Although a popular choice among runners, be aware they’re not ideal for anything that involves squatting because the lightweight material isn't completely opaque when stretched.

If it's compression you’re after, 2XU has you covered. The Aussie brand specializes in engineered compression tights that promote maximum blood flow to the muscles, potentially aiding recovery and improving energy efficiency. These mid-rise tights feature the aggressively named "Muscle Containment Stamping" – a form of muscle mapping, in which varying levels of compression are delivered by panels covering different muscles. Flatlock seams and a bonded wide waistband help avoid any chafing. There are no pockets, though.

An update to a classic, these mid-rise, ¾-length tights offer targeted medical-grade compression. According to CEP, the compression delivers an extra boost of energy during intense sessions, as well as ensuring more joint and tendon stability. Seams are extra flat, and there's a soft stay-put band on the lower calf. Although the waistband is narrow, the compression fit means the tights shouldn't move while you run. There's a small zip pocket at the back of the waist.

Made with a tight-knit blend of nylon and spandex with a polyester-power-mesh lining, these lightweight leggings are soft and comfortable while providing structure and support. Also, most importantly, they don't need yanking up mid-run. The fabric choice makes for less microfibre shedding in the wash and a more durable garment. As well as drop-in waist pockets there are two deep leg pockets that will keep your belongings bounce-free and within reach. The shorter length and mid-rise waist makes these leggings a popular choice for petite runners.

These high-waisted leggings, available in sizes 8-18, have extra elastic around the wide, shaped waistband to ensure they don't roll down, and the sweat-wicking material is squat-proof and supportive. There are two mesh panels for ventilation on the lower leg, as well as two mesh side pockets and a hidden key pocket.

These second-skin leggings are made with a lightweight, soft and stretchy fabric that uses mechanical stretch rather than elastane. The wide waistband has a hidden drawstring and there are several drop-in pockets, one with a key loop, while the pocket at the back of the waistband is big enough to fit a large smartphone.

These lightweight mid-rise capri leggings may not be the most exciting-looking but they are a good choice for racing or training in warm weather if you prefer more coverage than shorts. A hidden drawstring on the wide waistband helps them stay put, and there are drop-in pockets on the leg and a phone pocket at the back of the waist. The very lightweight material (made partly from recycled polyester) combined with mesh panels below the knee helps keep you cool and dry.

UK brand Natal Active specializes in functional maternity sportswear that can be used postnatally too. The over-bump waistband offers extra support and has silicone strips inside to help it stay put. Seams are carefully placed so as not to irritate a C-section scar. The brand also does a softer, comfier pair of workout leggings, but for running we like these ones that are designed to stay put during high-impact activities.

Camilla Artault is a writer and keen runner. She has covered women's running gear – testing leggings, jackets, running bras, tops and shorts – for Coach since 2018, as well as interviewing experts and writing about a range of health and lifestyle topics.

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