Best Running Leggings for Sprints, Endurance, and Casual Jogging (2024)

When it comes to running apparel, our product testers here at Garage Gym Reviews are constantly seeking the latest, greatest, and best value products. We’ve tested tons of the best running shoes, sports bras, hydration vests, and running water bottles.

We’re also a group of fitness professionals with decades of collective experience as nutrition coaches and certified personal trainers. 

We’ve even tested the best workout leggings that are both squat-proof and fashionable. All that said, we thought it was time our GGR product testers got into the best running leggings and took them for a spin through trail running, hill sprints, and HIIT workouts. 

We rated each pair on a scale of 1 to 5 in categories including:

• Appearance
• Fit
• Workout performance
• Durability

Here’s our list of the best for running.

Best Running Leggings  

• Best Overall Running Leggings: Lululemon Fast and Free
• Best Compression Running Leggings: Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity
• Best Running Leggings for Cold Weather: Girlfriend Collective Compressive High Rise Legging
• Best Running Leggings for Long Distances: Brooks Run Visible
• Best Budget Running Leggings: The Gym People Running Leggings for Women
• Best Running Joggers: Old Navy Powersoft High Rise ⅞ Joggers
• Best Running Leggings with Pockets: New Balance Impact Run
• Best High-Waisted Running Leggings: Fabletics On-The-Go Powerhold Leggings

Best Overall Running Leggings: Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tight

Good for: Folks who want an overall aesthetically pleasing and durable running legging 

Best Overall

Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tights

GGR Score: 4.5

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Product Highlights

• Nulux™ Fabric with Lycra
• Available in multiple inseam lengths
• Breathable and sweat-wicking fabric
• Fun colors 
• High-rise fit 
• Sizes from 0 to 20

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Don’t slip down when running
• High-rise fit for full coverage
• Several colors available
• Ultra-soft
• Wicks sweat away
• Pocket

Cons

• Bright colors show sweat easily
• Fabric is somewhat thin
• Expensive (3 digits)

Bottom Line

You really can’t argue that Lululemon produces some of the best-quality leggings on today’s market. The Fast and Frees are a fan favorite due to the soft, moisture-wicking fabric and high-rise fit.

Our product testers agree that Lululemon products are often worth all the hype. These Fast and Free running leggings are no exception. These leggings come in a variety of colors (including your basic black!), two inseam lengths, and a wide range of sizes. 

Product tester and GGR’s head of content, Kate Meier, tested the Fast and Free leggings with nearly every type of exercise you can imagine—everything from running to burpees and barbell squats to mobility drills. Kate also notes she’s owned a pair of Fast and Free leggings for about three years and they still look brand new thanks to the nylon and lycra blend which is durable and breathable. We rate durability and 5 out of 5 and workout performance a 5 out of 5 because of this.

These leggings also feature two side drop-in pockets that can accommodate a smartphone. The waistband drawcord helps you keep your leggings in place and sit high on the waist as intended with this high-waisted design.  

Kate knows these are a pricey pair of leggings—the price category gets a 1 out of 5 rating—but feels confident recommending them. “These are fantastic and last forever—if you have the money, these are worth every penny,” she says. “Plus, they actually have a great return policy and will fix any holes that pop up in their leggings or shorts at a store front. At no cost,” she adds. 

Best Compression Running Leggings: Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity

Good for: Anyone who likes high compression and a high-waisted legging design 

Best Compression

Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity High-Waisted Running Leggings

GGR Score: 3.8

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Product Highlights

• A booty sculpting legging designed for running
• Lightweight fabric keeps you dry and has compression
• UV protection of 40+
• Side pockets and a back zip pocket

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Ultra-lightweight fabric
• High compression
• UV protection
• Adjustable waist

Cons

• See through when squatting
• High price point

Bottom Line

Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity High-Waisted Running Leggings are made with lightweight Italian materials and have just the right amount of compression. With a zip pocket for essentials and UV protection, they are a great option for running leggings. However, the material can be see-through when squatting, so that is something to keep in mind before purchasing.

Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity leggings are going to make you feel aerodynamic when you put them on for your first run. The highly compressive but lightweight and breathable material locks everything into place for road or trail running. 

GGR editor Frieda Johnson tested these Zero Gravity leggings and reports these compression tights will withstand high-performance workouts like hill training, sprinting, or high-intensity interval training. She rates workout performance as a 4.5 out of 5, saying they were just a bit too compressive for her but they performed like a dream.

Frieda did notice that once she placed her phone into one of the side pockets and started running, the leggings started to slide down. The adjustable drawstring around the waist band can help aid with this, but sometimes with the weight of a smartphone it’s inevitable. 

Frieda says one of the standout features is the fact these leggings offer UV protection material with a 40+ rating. There are also mesh panels on the outer thigh that add to the fabric’s breathability. 

These are pretty expensive at $128, getting a 1 out of 5 in the price category, and only have two colorways and one inseam option. However, if you’re looking for an ultra-compression running tight for running and other high-impact activities, these just might be the leggings you’re looking for. 

RELATED: Cross-Training for Runners

Best Running Leggings for Cold Weather: Girlfriend Collective Compressive High Rise Legging

Good for: Anyone looking for high-quality running gear that will perform in low temps

Best for Cold Weather

Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Leggings

GGR Score: 4.9

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Product Highlights

• Environmentally friendly recycled fabric
• Available in 3 lengths: ankle, above ankle, mid-calf 
• 30-day returns with tag on 
• Several colors available
• High-rise fit

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Available in wide variety of sizes: XXS-6XL
• Available in 3 lengths
• Environmentally friendly, made with recycled bottles

Cons

• No phone pockets; just back pocket for keys/cards
• Line dry
• Mixed reviews on comfort

Bottom Line

The Girlfriend Collective compressive high-rise leggings are available in a wide variety of sizes and lengths with mixed reviews on comfort.

These Girlfriend Collective Compression leggings are our pick for cold weather runs because of the full length and compressive fabric, which is made from recycled plastic bottles and spandex. 

Amanda Capritto, a GGR product tester and writer, tested these leggings and says, “they are simple and flattering.” She tested them with multiple long-distance runs, hikes, and CrossFit workouts and still sees no signs of wear and tear. She rated them a 5 out of 5 in workout performance, durability, and fit—a triple whammy.

RELATED: Best Long-Distance Running Shoes

Amanda also notes these leggings feature fantastic compression, saying that, “they stay put during all sorts of high-impact and high-intensity movements, yet they don’t feel overly tight on the abdomen or constricting in any way.”

These leggings come in a variety of colors, sizes, and two different inseam lengths. Amanda ordered her pair in an earth brown color because black (her go-to color) was out of stock when she was making her purchase. Much to her surprise, she likes the brown and overall likes them enough to order again. 

It’s worth noting that these leggings do not offer side pockets, but you will find a small pocket inside the waistband on the back. Amanda says it’s not large enough for a smartphone. 

And for $78—which gets a 3-out-of-5 rating—the value is there.

Best Running Leggings for Long Distances: Brooks Run Visible

Good for: Long runs when you need to be prepared for anything

Best for Long Distances

Brooks Run Visible Tight

GGR Score: 3.5

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Product Highlights

• Made to keep you warm in cold or cool weather
• 360 degrees of visibility with reflection in all motion zones
• Compression and minimal seaming to help make your run comfortable
• Stay put–waist band to prevent annoying mid-run slip downs

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very reflective
• Great compression
• Minimal seams

Cons

• No zippered pocket
• Higher price point

Bottom Line

If you enjoy a late night or early morning run, the Brooks Run Visible Tights are a great running legging option. The reflective technology makes sure you are visible as a runner, and the material is designed to keep you warm.

When you’re out for long distances, you never know what you may need, so pockets, a comfortable fit, and even reflective capabilities will be important.

These Brooks Run Visible leggings have not one reflective detail, but multiple reflective details on the front and back of the leggings, making them one of the best pieces of reflective running gear as well. The reflective details are easy to see and are constructed from 3M Scotchlite carbon black stretch reflectivity. 

You will also notice that the bottom portion around the ankles features high-contrast yellow to help make you more visible, which is important if you run in low light conditions. I personally think high visibility clothing is ideal for winter running, too. 

Amanda tested these leggings and reports the fabric is moisture-wicking, stretchy, breathable, and stays in place. What she didn’t like was the mid-rise design. “I recognize that not everyone wants high-waisted leggings,” says Amanda. “But, I’m just not a fan of where these sit on me, which is below the belly button.” While she rated fit as a 3 out of 5, she gave workout performance a 4.25 out of 5.

Amanda does say that although these sit lower than she prefers, the inseam length was long enough for the leggings to hit her ankles, which she appreciates. 

Amanda also notes that the reflective details are the standout feature on this pair of running tights. However, if you’re not someone who runs early in the morning or late in the evening, spending $130 on these very specific types of tights might not be the best choice. 

These leggings also feature a zippered left pocket and a drop-in right pocket that will allow you to run with your smartphone and keys. 

Best Budget Running Leggings: The Gym People Running Leggings for Women

Good for: Anyone looking for a simple pair of running leggings that don’t cost a small fortune

Best Budget

The Gym People High Waist Yoga Pants

GGR Score: 4.9

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Product Highlights

• Wide elastic waistband helps with tummy control
• Moisture-wicking and has a 4-way stretch
• Flatlock interlocking seams minimize rubbing and chafing 
• 2 large side pockets and a hidden pocket in the back waistband

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Plenty of color and pattern options
• Flatlock stitching
• Ultra stretch
• Deep side pockets
• Lower price point

Cons

• Doesn’t run true to size
• Material picks up lots of dust,lint, and crumbs
• Some color and patterns can be sheer

Bottom Line

With light compression that is sometimes sheer when squatting, The Gym People High Waist Yoga Pants are more suited for lounging than for those looking for serious workout leggings.

If you’re looking for affordable running gear, The Gym People women’s running leggings are soft, comfortable, and under $30 on Amazon. In fact, we think these leggings are a steal, especially if you’re spending your dough on other training accessories like the best running headphones to keep you jammin’ while you run. 

They also come in a ton of different colors—from a variety of neutrals to vibrant hues. 
Frieda tested these tights and notes, “they look nice and offer a classic style with tons of color and size options.” Although the inseam length is not disclosed on Amazon, be aware that there are both capri-length and ankle-length options while making your color selection.

Frieda says that this pair of tights is softer and doesn’t offer as much compression as a pair of traditional running leggings, however she enjoyed the minimal compression and reports that they are super comfortable and stayed in place even when she put her phone in one of the side pockets. 

She also raves about the durability mentioning that she accidentally wandered into a blackberry bush while trail running and her and her running pants came out unscathed.

RELATED: Black Friday Deals For Runners

Best Running Joggers: Old Navy Powersoft High Rise ⅞ Joggers

Good for: Anyone looking for a lightweight and breathable jogger versus traditional running tights

Best Joggers

Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft ⅞-Length Joggers

GGR Score: 4.8

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Product Highlights

• Light compression fabric with a soft feel
• Has diagonal on-seam pockets on the hips for essentials
• Breathable interlock fabric keeps you cool
• Flatlock seams to prevent chafing
• Gusset stitching to help you move easier

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Light compression
• Breathable and moisture-wicking
• 4-way stretch
• Gusset stitching
• Flatlock seams

Cons

• Inconsistent fit with different colors
• Users report that the fabric feels cheap

Bottom Line

With the ability to be worn as stylish leisure wear or to support you through a workout, these Old Navy joggers are a great addition to any wardrobe.

These Old Navy joggers are a high-performance jogger, not your average lounge jogger. They are constructed from polyester and spandex and offer a super flexible four-way stretch that is ideal for high-intensity movement.

Amanda is a huge fan of the look, feel, and the price! You can snag these for $40, choose from nine different colors, and select sizes from 0 to 30 (XS-4X). 

Amanda notes that these high-rise joggers feature a contoured structure that is designed to offer more room through the hips. According to Amanda, “it’s like magic” because she often struggles to find clothing that fits around her muscular legs and glutes but doesn’t slip off her waist. She rates fit a 5 out of 5.

Amanda says these joggers are moisture-wicking and quick-drying and offer light compression around the ankles and waist. She also appreciates the fact the “PowerSoft” fabric is thick and durable without feeling too hot or stuffy. Plus, the flat-lock seams prevent chafing, which is ideal for runners and joggers alike. 

Lastly, Amanda does mention one drawback: “My only complaint is that at times, the pockets can bunch up,” which leads to a solid 4.75-out-of-5 rating. That said, the pockets are more like traditional pant pockets rather than a drop-in pocket or a zip pocket. “Otherwise, these joggers are a go-to for many types of workouts and following along with the best running apps,” she adds. 

Best Running Leggings with Pockets: New Balance Impact Run

Good for: Runners looking for more than one place to store keys, phone, and wallet

Best with Pockets

New Balance Impact Run Tight

GGR Score: 4.5

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Product Highlights

• Storage tunnel to thread extra layers through
• Zippered back pocket for essentials
• Moisture-wicking NB DRYx technology
• Reflective branding to help visibility

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Sustainably made
• Reflective
• Plenty of pockets
• Storage tunnel for layers

Cons

• Only 2 color options

Bottom Line

The New Balance Impact Run tight stands out from the crowd with its storage tunnel to store extra layers. The NB DRYx keeps moisture away from you during your run for even more comfort. With a mid-range price, this is a great legging option.

These New Balance Impact Run leggings have multiple pockets for your smartphone, keys, and credit card. And the reason we rated these as the best legging with pockets is because they didn’t budge an inch during runs. 
I personally tested these New Balance tights and at first felt skeptical about where the pockets start. However, I quickly realized that because the side-drop mesh pockets start high on the elastic waistband, the weight of my smartphone doesn’t cause these to sag.

Perhaps even more impressively, these leggings feature a back pouch built into the waistband that can also hold your phone while you run. Under this pouch is a zip back pocket that is slightly too small for my iPhone, but could easily store both keys and credit cards. 

It’s worth noting that these leggings are mid-rise, which is usually not great for me but there was no problem with how these performed during runs, walks, or my new method of strength training for runners. These tights also feature reflective taping down each leg on the side seam.

Best High-Waisted Running Leggings: Fabletics On-The-Go Powerhold

Good for: Those who want some extra coverage

Best High-Waisted

Fabletics On-The-Go Powerhold Leggings

GGR Score: 4.5

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Product Highlights

• High-waisted, compressive workout leggings
• Available in sizes XXS-4X
• Regular, short, and tall inseams
• 4-way stretch
• Moisture-wicking
• Two side pockets
• Many colors and designs available

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High-waisted
• Compressive
• Pockets
• Wide size range
• Wide color/design range
• 90-day fit guarantee

Cons

• Fabletics really pushes the membership
• Some reviewers say they fit small
• Some reviewers don't like the fabric

Bottom Line

The Fabletics On-The-Go Powerhold leggings are a great workout legging if you like high-waisted, compressive styles. Our tester enjoys wearing these for runs, strength workouts, and even just running errands around town. Some reviewers dislike the heavier fabric, so keep that in mind if you're considering purchasing these.

GGR Head of Content Nicole Davis has nothing but great things to say about the Fabletics On-The-Go Powerhold high-waisted leggings. Although these aren’t marketed as a running-specific legging, Nicole loves to wear these for runs in the cooler weather. “I love the compression on these and the thick fabric—they also have pockets, which is super key for an outdoor run.” 

Nicole says because of the compression, these stay in place once they’re on, which is key for running apparel—no riding up here! Fabletics says these are “chafe-resistant,” and Nicole would tend to agree, saying she hasn’t experienced any issues while wearing them. We also love the size range—XXS to 4X is available, as well as regular, short, and tall inseams, plus there are always fun patterns and colors that change from month to month.  

Nicole has two pairs of these leggings and they’ve both held up super well to washing, drying, and frequent wear over the last few years—we score them a 5 out of 5 for durability. 

Non-members can purchase the On-The-Go Powerholds for $85—a 3 out of 5 for price. Nicole thinks the price is worth it if you like high-waisted, compression leggings. 

Other Running Leggings We Tested

Nike Epic Fast: I personally tested these leggings and thought they were just OK. There is only one side-drop pocket and two other small pockets built into the waistband. Additionally, at the time of ordering these tights, Nike didn’t have my size, so I sized up. They turned out to be pretty large through the waist and baggy behind the knees. 

Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Tight: Although tester Amanda enjoyed these simple, black high-waisted leggings, she found they are more suitable for yoga. She says she has tested them on runs and they are “fine for shorter distances, but they don’t wick sweat or provide compression like a true pair of performance leggings.”

lululemon Base Pase: We liked these, especially for petite runners, but it seems like the may be retired fairly soon.

How We Picked and Tested

Our expert product testers here at GGR have collectively tested, worn, and exercised in 25 pairs of leggings from more than a dozen different brands. We start our process with researching popular brands, top-rated items, and products with highly rated customer reviews. 

From our initial research, we narrowed down a really long list to a more manageable list of 10 top running leggings to actually order and test. 

Each of our product testers are fitness professionals including CrossFit coaches, certified personal trainers, and nutrition coaches. We take our decades of collective industry knowledge to help inform our decision making when it comes to testing fitness equipment and apparel. 

While we were out running and walking we rated each pair of leggings on overall fit, rise, compression, durability, workout performance, overall value, and the presence of pockets. Leggings that performed the best and were rated the highest made it to our best list. 

Benefits of Running Leggings

To sum up the benefits of choosing the best pair of running leggings, I turned to Amanda who is not only a GGR writer but an experienced endurance athlete and certified personal trainer.  

Apparel is similar to buying anything fitness equipment or supplement related, meaning that the best solution for you is subjective. Finding the best pair of leggings is an individual experience  based on fit, weather conditions, and personal preferences. 

A Snug, Comfortable Fit

Amanda notes that a good pair of running leggings means, “they fit your body snugly without slipping, bunching, twisting, or otherwise moving around,” she says. Basically, she suggests that if you have to interrupt your session to pull them up or down or shift them around, that is probably not a good fit. 

Sweat-Wicking and Temperature Control 

Amanda suggests that keeping weather in mind is helpful when buying leggings. For example, Amanda lives in Florida and would certainly not benefit from the fleece-lined leggings I wear all winter. 

“Climate-appropriate material helps with temperature regulation so you can worry less about being too hot or too cold,” says Amanda. 

High-Quality and Durable 

Lastly, Amanda notes investing in high-quality materials will help extend the life of your leggings and the need to keep buying new pairs. Nylon, spandex, and lycra are often found in tights and offer more durability for high-impact workouts than cotton.

“High-quality fabric (and seams) means your investment will last you many runs,” says Amanda. “Leggings are in the ‘you get what you pay for’ category,” she adds. 

What to Look for in a Pair of Running Leggings

Here are few things to keep in mind when you’re shopping for your next pair of running leggings:

Pockets

If running with your phone, credit card, and keys is important to you, make sure you’re looking for leggings with pockets. Fortunately, many leggings offer pockets beyond the teeny-tiny waistband pockets with little functionality. 

Rise

Most leggings these days are high rise, offering compression and covering up to your belly button. However, some of the leggings we tested were mid-rise. We’ve also tried leggings in the past that were ultra-high rise. We suggest browsing the product description on this aspect before you click the add to cart button. 

Inseam

It’s important to look at seam lengths, especially if you have a particular preference around where your running leggings end. For example, Amanda seeks out full-length leggings so she can tuck her socks under her pants while she runs in cold weather. 

Inseam length will also look different for different people. If you’re tall or have long legs, a pair of cropped capri-length leggings won’t cover as much of your leg compared to someone who is generally shorter or has short legs and a longer torso. 

Compression

Although compression is a personal preference, we find some amount of compression helpful for running so that your pants fit securely and don’t ride, bunch, or fall while you move. 

Best Running Leggings FAQs

Lauren Strong, CPT

Lauren is an NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer working with clients of all ages and skill levels. She specializes in coaching the squat, bench, and deadlift and enjoys introducing beginners to barbell training. Before becoming certified, she worked in marketing roles after graduating from the University of Maine with a BA in Journalism. Writing for Garage Gym Reviews blends her two passions: writing and lifting. Lauren spends her leisure time in the kitchen, reading fiction, and taking nature walks. She's also an avid downhill skier, learning how to ski when she was just two years old. She lives in Maine with her husband and two cats.

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