How to choose the best running leggings

Be you a light jogger or training for the marathon, here’s our guide to the best running leggings
image Run Lola Run / Arte
words Lucy O'Brien
2023 is upon us, and for many, the new year is all about taking up new hobbies, trying new things and setting new goals. If for you, one of these goals includes taking up regular running, it’s important that you equip yourself with the best activewear, tips and gear to see you through your ventures, no matter the weather or environment.
The right pair of running leggings will both fit you correctly and comfortably while helping to optimise the effectiveness of your exercise. The wrong activewear can be the difference between a good and a bad run – there’s no worse feeling than a waistband that you have to constantly pull up, feeling the nuisance of an improper fit or constantly worrying if the stretch fabric is too sheer.
We want you to have everything you need to feel your very best on your jogs, because the better you feel, the more motivated and comfortable your run will be. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best running leggings for all skill levels and preferences, and you can thank us later. Into speed-walking rather than a flat-out sprint? You’ll be after a looser, more flexible fit. Working on finessing your mobility and reaching a new personal best? We’ve got high-performance, muscular compression leggings for that. Scroll down to discover more options for yourself. On your marks, get set, go!
Mens running leggings
PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENT
Conscious Capsule Leggings
£75.00
Men! Your everyday fitnesswear prayers have been answered. Above a yoga studio in Newcastle, the Presca Sportswear team worked tirelessly to perfect the most classic pair of leggings. Using regenerated Nylon (made in Europe) these leggings boast subtle muscular compression, aimed at decreasing the production of lactic acid, thus boosting a faster recovery of energy after those long trail runs. Stylish and backed by science? Say no more.
Women’s running leggings
LOW IMPACT
Full Circle Seamless Legging
£68.00
If you’re starting your running journey off slow, this is the pair for you. A legging with flexibility, style and stretch. YMO's Full Circle Seamless Leggings in Rainforest have a compressive fit, ribbed waistband and cut out details – perfect for low impact activities like yoga, pilates and hiking.
BIODEGRADABLE
Biodegradable Seamless Leggings
£50.00£90.00
Feel good about your workout, and the planet. Made in Portugal, these seamless leggings offer a snug and soft compressive fit for ultimate comfort. It features a deep waistband and its ribbed construction gently lifts and supports. The nature of the construction of seamless garments also means they are low to no waste styles.
TIGHT BUT RIGHT
THE STREAMLINE 8/8 Legging Black
£108.00
The streamline leggings are knitted using seamless technology to create different levels of compressive panelling on the thigh and bum for added lift and support. LNDR uses a higher grade of elastane than most brands, too, which means a compressive, sculpting fit that doesn’t compromise on flexibility and ease of movement.
Running leggings with pockets
FLARED LEGGINGS
Yoga Studio Flared Leggings in Trace Grey
£38.50£55.00
While we wouldn’t recommend this for a sprint, these are a go-to for those brisk-walkers among you. They also make for perfect leggings for warm ups or even loungewear – a hidden inside pocket to hold your phone makes them even handier.