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 leggings for running.
Best Running Leggings of 2026
- Best Overall Running Leggings – Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tights
- Best Running Leggings with Pockets – Quince High-Rise Utility Running Tight
- Best Running Leggings for Cold Weather – Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Leggings
- Best Budget Running Leggings – The Gym People High Waist Yoga Pants
- Best High-Waisted Running Leggings – Fabletics On-The-Go Powerhold Leggings
Best Overall Running Leggings: Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tights
Good for: Folks who want an overall aesthetically pleasing and durable running legging
Best Overall
Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tights
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
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 former GGR 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, mobility drills, and more. 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. As such, we rate the durability and workout performance both at 5 out of 5
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 storefront. At no cost,” she adds.
| Price | $128 |
| Material | Nylon and lycra |
| Inseam length | 25” or 28” |
| Size range | 0-20 |
| Pockets | 3 waistband pockets, 2 side pockets |
Best Running Leggings with Pockets: Quince High-Rise Utility Running Tights
Good for: People who need lots of areas to store their stuff during a workout
Best with Pockets
Best Running Leggings for Sprints, Endurance, and Casual Jogging (2026)
Product Highlights
- Moisture-wicking material
- Adjustable waist tie for your exact fit
- Reflective detailing for safety
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Adjustable waist tie
- 5 pockets
- Moisture-wicking material
Cons
- Size range only XS-XL
- Only short and regular lengths available
Bottom Line
If you're looking for an affordable yet quality pair of running leggings, these should be on your radar. They're moisture-wicking, lightweight, and have 5 pockets to store your fuel, keys, and phone while you run.
Quince may not be your first thought for activewear, but these leggings made Nicole Davis, GGR Senior Director of Content, reconsider. Not only are they lightweight and moisture-wicking, but they offer some great details that runners will appreciate, including five pockets and reflective detailing on the ankles for safety. “Although my phone, an iPhone 14 Pro, did jiggle in the side pocket, I really appreciate the three separate pockets along the back of the waistband to hold my keys and any fuel needed for long runs,” Nicole told me. She awarded these leggings a 5 out of 5 in our pockets category.
The Quince High-Rise Utility Running Tights are a great length and rise for Nicole, who is 5-feet, 3.5 inches tall and opted for the regular inseam length. “I also really appreciate the adjustable waist tie, especially because after reading reviews that said these leggings run small, I opted for a size large; they’re a bit too big,” she explained. “I’m typically between a size medium and large in leggings but probably should’ve ordered the medium in these. Despite that, I’m able to cinch the waist and they still feel comfortable and perform well, earning a 4 out of 5 in workout performance.”
Nicole rated these a 4 out of 5 in fit, as well. They are definitely high-rise—they come up about 3 inches above Nicole’s belly button—but she said she didn’t mind that, at all. Plus, they’re not overly compressive, which is another positive for running clothing. “I docked a point here because there is an inseam running right down the middle of the crotch area, which I know some women absolutely hate, and the leggings are only offered in a size range from XS to XL,” Nicole says. “I would’ve loved to at least see a 2XL option, also.”
At just $44.90, the High-Rise Utility Running Tights are a great option for running, especially if you’re just getting into it and need some affordable gear. Nicole gave these leggings a 4-out-of-5 rating in value; her go-to brand for running clothes is Brooks, and their leggings are double the price of these from Quince while definitely not being double the quality.
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| Price | $44.90 |
| Material | 84% nylon and 16% Lycra® |
| Inseam length | 25” (short) or 28” (regular) |
| Size range | XS-XL |
| Pockets | 5 total: 3 in the back, 1 on each leg |
Best Running Leggings for Cold Weather: Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Leggings
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
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, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC 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.
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Amanda also notes these leggings feature fantastic compression, saying, “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, however, 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.
| Price | $78 |
| Material | 79% recycled plastic bottles (RPET) and 21% spandex |
| Inseam length | 19.5”, 23.75”, or 28.5” |
| Size range | XXS-6XL |
| Pockets | 1 small waistband pocket |
Best Budget Running Leggings: The Gym People High Waist Yoga Pants
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
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, these high-waist yoga pants from The Gym People 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 Johnson, NASM-CNC, ISSA-SET 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 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 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.
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| Price | About $30 on Amazon |
| Material | 88% polyamide and 12% spandex |
| Inseam length | N/A |
| Size range | XS-3XL |
| Pockets | 1 waistband pocket, 2 side pockets |
Best High-Waisted Running Leggings: Fabletics On-The-Go Powerhold Leggings
Good for: Those who want some extra coverage
Best High-Waisted
Fabletics On-The-Go Powerhold Leggings
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 Senior Director of Content Nicole Davis has nothing but great things to say about these 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, adding 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 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, though, if you like high-waisted, compression leggings.
| Price | $85 |
| Material | Powerhold maximum compression (88% polyester/12% Spandex) |
| Inseam length | Regular, short, or tall inseam |
| Size range | XXS-4X |
| Pockets | 1 waistband pocket, 2 side pockets |
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 our tester 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-of list.
Benefits of Running Leggings
To sum up the benefits to choosing the best pair of running leggings, I turned to Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, who is not only a GGR editorial team member 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.” 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
What type of leggings are best for running?
OK, so every athlete has a preferred style, which means that one pair of leggings may work wonders for one individual yet fall short for others. That said, our current favorite when it comes to running leggings is the lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tight. These tights are durable, breathable, and available in a wide swath of color options—perfect for matching your personality to your fitness wardrobe.
What are the best running leggings for no chafing?
We didn’t have problems with chafing in any of our top picks for the best running leggings, but the Fabletics On-The-Go Powerhold Leggings specifically say they’re chafe-resistant.
What’s the difference between running tights and running leggings?
They’re pretty similar—both are form-fitting, stretchy, and meant to allow ease of movement during your run. Running tights, however, are typically worn underneath shorts or for warmth underneath another pair of pants, while running leggings can be worn on their own.
