It’s cold outside right now. You need to go for a run still today, but with the low temp and biting wind, there’s no way you can wear shorts. But what pants are the best running pants?
I’ve been there many times. When it gets cold in the winter, it is paramount to have running pants or full length tights that are comfortable to run and that will protect you from the elements.
While I’d rather run in nice 60-70 degree conditions, my winter running is made much easier by my rotation of running pants. But what qualifies as running pants you might ask. I personally look for a couple different qualities in the pants I run in: material, fit, and zippered ankles
Running Pants that are Moisture Wicking, Breathable, and Stretchy Athletic Materials:
I always look for pants made from wicking breathable materials. In my experience, running in heavy thick sweatpants inevitably ends up getting heavy with sweat and creates friction/chaffing issues. I like to stick to mostly polyester pants that provide plenty of stretch, wick moisture, and don’t create chaffing problems. Most of my favorite running pants are made up of about 90% polyester and 10% spandex or elastin. These materials allow full flexibility needed while running and are able to keep my legs warm without chaffing or riding uncomfortably.
Running Pants that are Fitted (Avoid the Baggy):
My next stipulation in choosing running pants is that I prefer pants that have a more “fitted” or athletic cut to them. This is mostly due to the fact that I hate having really baggy, loose fitting pants on while running. I find that athletic cut pants are more comfortable, less annoying, and allow me to run more fluidly and easily. If you have ever tried to run or be active in any really baggy clothing, this likely makes sense to you. Personally, I like running in pants that aren’t skin tight, but start to hug my calves and lower legs more closely than normally cut pants, but still allow freedom around my knees and quads/hamstrings.
Running Pants with Zippered Ankles:
The last thing I look for aren’t a requirement, but I much prefer running pants that have zippered ankles/zippered cuffs. This makes taking off or putting on pants much easier. Zippered cuffs are especially useful when you are warming up and don’t want to take off your spikes. It’s a important to me to be able to shed a layer without having to take off my shoes. The pair of pants I wear leading up to races must have zippered lower legs just to allow me to be able to take them off without taking my spikes off. The zipper also allows me to access my calves if I want to roll or massage gun them out. While not every pair of running pants I own has lower leg zippers, I much prefer the pairs that do.
Other Considerations:
There are some other key features that matter greatly like adjustable waistbands, long enough inseam, and zippered pockets (for a key). I would make sure that a pair has ever feature you need for your running experience (maybe you don’t need zippered pockets for a key, or you are happy without the zippered ankles). But here are some of the top running pants for use during the cold winter months.
Asics – THERMOPOLIS Taper pant
Under Armour – Challenger training pants
Under Armour – Mens Woven Vital Pants
Tights:
Tights are another option during winter months. Nike and Under Armour offer some full length running tights that are highly regarded in the running community. I personally have never worn these models of full length tights, but have many teammates and friends that have. The most popular are definitely the Nike Areoswift, followed by Nike Dri-Fit and Under Armour Qualifier Elite.