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Whether you’re someone who insists on wearing shorts until there's snow on the ground or you prefer to rock a pair of leggings all year round, when the temperature drops, finding a good pair of winter running leggings is essential. These tend to be slightly thicker than standard leggings, with softer, fleecier inner linings that keep you nice and warm.
Below, you'll find our tried and tested pick of the pairs that will keep you comfortable and moving freely until the weather warms up. So, grab a pair of gloves, zip up that gilet and get ready to conquer winter running.
What to look for in a pair of winter running leggings
Not only is running in the winter less appealing, but cold muscles perform worse and fatigue quicker. Winter running leggings are designed to insulate against prolonged exposure to cooler temperatures, allow your skin to breathe to prevent overheating, wick sweat from the inside, whilst blocking it from the outside and allow a full range of movement.
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The best winter running leggings 2025
Here are the best winter running tights and leggings that will make running in cold weather a little bit easier.
| Sizes | XXS-XXL |
|---|---|
| Fabric | 76% Recycled Polyester, 24% Elastane |
These are the ultimate winter running leggings for those looking to invest. The thermal lining, made from 78% recycled fabric, is super-warm and toasty on the coldest winter runs, with the soft brushed fleece backing feeling warm and comfy against the skin. There are reflective details to keep you seen in low light and an impressive three pockets — two deep side pockets and one back zip pocket.
| Sizes | XS-XL |
|---|---|
| Fabric | 85% Polyester,15% Elastane |
They make it onto this list year after year as a warm, affordable layer for the winter. They might not last forever, but these Decathlon running tights have all you need for when the weather really drops. There's a zipped pocket on the back, large enough to hold your smartphone, and two large drop-in pockets.
The technical fabric is designed to keep you warm in temperatures between 0 and -5°C and the flatlock seams help minimise chafing. The downside here, they might not last forever, but if you're new to running or don't want to spend a fortune on winter kit, they're a good buy.
| Sizes | UK4-UK24 |
|---|---|
| Fabric | 83% Nylon, 17% Elastane |
Sure, these might be a lot more than you'd usually spend on a pair of running leggings, but they'll last for years to come, without going bobbly. Other stand-out features include side pockets for your iPhone, plenty of pockets in the waistband for your keys, lip balm and snacks. We've worn these for speed sessions on the track and long 20-milers and have been really impressed by the fit and comfort.
| Sizes | XS-L |
|---|---|
| Material | Body Fabric: 35% Lycra, 33% Polyester, 32% Nylon Liner Fabric: 67% Polyamide, 24% Elastane Lycra, 9% Polyurethane |
First tested on a sub-zero degree run through dark city streets, these leggings felt like a cosy, comforting hug for the legs and waist. There’s little worse than the sensation of sore, weather-beaten skin after running in the cold, but you needn’t worry about that with these full-length leggings. Specifically engineered for winter training, they’re made from warm, double-sided fabric and additional wind-blocking lining at the front of the thighs. Although tight and highly insulative, they still feel light, stay comfortably in place and in no way inhibit your movements while running. They also offer substantial pocket space on the waistband for your keys, phone, gels and more, and the wraparound reflective panel helps you feel safe and seen.
| Sizes | XS-XXL |
|---|---|
| Fabric | 87% Polyester/13% Elastane |
Under Armour's ColdGear range is specifically designed for cooler temperatures. With a compressive, ultra-tight fit, and an elastic waistband that sits right on the hips, these leggings are a bit like wearing a second-skin fit. The interior consists of an ultra-warm, brushed fabric for warmth, with a smooth, fast-drying exterior. While they can be worn on their own, they're also good as a base layer underneath shorts or waterproof trousers.
| Sizes | XXS-XL |
|---|---|
| Material | 74% recycled polyester, 26% elastane |
With brushed fabric to lock in warmth and covered pockets to protect your valuables, these On running leggings are perfect for running throughout the winter. Extra touches like an adjustable waistband mean you can achieve a snug and comfortable fit. There's a pocket in the waistband big enough for most smartphones. They might be on the more expensive side, but they are built to last.
| Sizes | XS-XXL |
|---|
Brooks' running tights have a soft, stretchy feel, using the brand's thicker DriLayer Threshold fabric to keep the legs warm while controlling their temperature. An envelope, no-bounce pocket in the waistband can hold a phone, with a pocket on either leg holding gels or other items. The smooth seams help reduce chafing. An all-around good buy, that will keep you safe all winter and (hopefully) make getting out the door a little easier.
| Sizes | XS-2XL |
|---|---|
| Fabric | 88% recycled polyester, 12% spandex |
Brushed fabrics and reflective detailing make this a great winter tight and with side pockets for your phone and gels, plus a zipped pocket on the waistband, you can safely leave your running belt at home. There's also a 7/8 leg length which is perfect for shorter runners. They're high-waisted and comfortable on the move and have a flattering fit.
