Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you need to put your running shoes up for the winter or be doomed to hours of treadmill running. In fact, finding the best winter run pants for women could ensure that running outside this winter is both comfortable and enjoyable.
To have a great winter running experience you need quality gear that keeps you warm, dry, and comfortable while you’re out braving the not-so-ideal temperatures. In this article, we’re breaking down the best winter running pants women can buy to keep up with their runs all winter long.
Just take a look at our top pick, the Under Armour Women's HeatGear Armour Leggings. These cold weather running tights are engineered to keep you warm without weighing you down.
The Best Winter Running Pants Women Can Buy This Winter
As seasoned cold-weather runners ourselves, we know a thing or two about what it takes to run in the cold. We chose the top 11 women’s cold weather running pants based on our personal experience and lots of research. Without further ado, here are our picks.
The Wavelength Joggers from 1st Phorm are next-level comfort. With a flattering ribbed material that’s extremely stretchy for all-day comfort, these pants will move with you wherever you’re running. This pair of joggers successfully mesh leggings with joggers, giving you a flattering fit for running as well as everyday use. Plus, the material is not overly hot nor overly thin - it's a thick material that will keep you warm without the risk of overheating or dealing with stagnant sweat.
These are perfect for running because they offer a looser, more relaxed fit through the legs with a tapered ankle that stays in place. I own several pairs of Wavelength Joggers and find them to be one of the most comfortable and functional running pants I own. Wavelength Joggers are the ideal pants for fall and winter.
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This is the perfect pair of women’s cold weather running pants, as far as we’re concerned. This is a great option for runners who prefer to not wear compression tights, or as a second layer on top of fleece tights for extremely cold days. The BALEAF apparel brand is a rising star when it comes to comfort, quality and affordability.
The soft, cozy fleece inside traps heat to keep you warm and comfortable. The smooth exterior wicks away sweat and keeps you dry. One of our favorite features of these winter running pants is the ankle cinch option which allows you to keep wind and chill out of the bottom while you run.
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These BALEAF fleece lined leggings are perfect for chilly winter runs. Between the reflective details and the super warm fleece interior, you’ll be warm, comfortable, and ready to crush a long run no matter what the temperate outside is.
The best part about these womens running pants is that they come in a two-pack! These can easily be your go-to winter running leggings with their high waist that doesn’t slip and their deep side pockets for holding your phone.
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This is a pair of winter tights women can rely on to keep them warm, dry, and stylish all winter long. Nike’s Hyperwarm Stay Warm Shield Training Tights feature their patented Dri-FIT technology which works to keep you warm while wicking away any moisture and odor.
We love the super-snug, but not restricting waistband that stays in place throughout your whole run and the stretchability that these winter run pants offer. There are two bold jewel tones to choose from that are perfectly on-trend for this winter season.
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We love these fleece-lined leggings for winter running for a few reasons, but mostly because they feel like you’re wearing your favorite cozy sweatshirt on your legs. They’re comfortable, soft, and most importantly—warm!
They’re a high-waisted, full-length winter running tight that provides the right amount of compression with making you feel uncomfortable. They come in a ton of different color options and you can choose either with or without pockets. The pockets are handing for stashing your phone, keys, or even a snack.
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These are the Under Armour tights women's workout apparel needs more of! Under Armour is known for its athletic and sportswear and this pair of cold weather running tights certainly upholds their reputation.
The ColdGear technology keeps your body temperature without trapping sweat or odor. They are super light-weight and feature a 4-way stretch that makes them feel as though they’re actually part of your legs. They run true to size and come in 3 different colors—we especially
love the metallic ones for a dose of flash on your runs!
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This awesome pair of winter run pants from TSLA made our list because we love the look and feel of these. These are a pair of fleece lined running tights that should absolutely be in your arsenal of outdoor running gear.
The fleece lining is soft and comfortable without adding any bulk. Additionally, it maintains its softness throughout multiple washes/dries—no getting rough!
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These fleece insulated leggings made our list because not only are they warm, but we love the look and feel of this pair, too. There are several different colors to choose from and they feature zippered pockets down the front of your thigh, as opposed to the traditional side pocket which can add bulk to your hips.
This pair of thermal tights is soft warm and creates a great silhouette—especially with the high-waist. Speaking of the high-waist, you can count on this pair to stay up where they’re comfortable for your entire run.
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This pair of womens thermal tight leggings by CRZ YOGA is by far the priciest pair on our list, but if you’re a serious outdoor winter runner, you’ll more than get your money’s worth with this pair of winter run pants.
These are a super-compressive winter tight that works well on its own or as a base layer for super cold days. The waffle texture on the front of these pants is not only warm but also stylish. In fact, you could take these tights from your outdoor run to brunch with the girls.
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It should come as no surprise that Under Armour made an appearance on our list of the best winter run pants for women two times—they’re really that good! When it comes to keeping warm in the coldest of temps (think 30 or below), you need a pair of high-quality winter running pants that will pass the test—and this pair fits the bill.
These Under Armour tights womens are warm, compressive, and fit like a glove. There’s nothing fancy about this pair, they offer a sleek and simple look. There are a couple of basic color options to choose from, ensuring they match with whatever the rest of your winter ensemble looks like.
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These are the winter running tights Women’s apparel lines should all add to their inventory. This pair from FitsT4 is affordable, quality, and stylish.
We love the high waist, the super-soft fleece lining, and the side pockets. These are super warm, enough so that you can run in the cold without needing an extra layer. And the best part is that they’re extremely comfortable, so you can easily wear this out and about, not just while
you run.
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How to Choose Winter Running Pants
When it comes to finding the best winter run pants for women, there are several considerations to keep in mind, including the following:
Lining
When it’s cold outside you want to find a pair of cold weather leggings that have fleece or other thick, insulated lining. Fleece lined running tights are not only warmer than non-fleece lined options, but they’re also very soft and comfortable.
Compression
Winter run pants can either be a compressive legging fit, or you can select a pair that’s looser like a jogger or sweatpants fit. For very cold temperatures, your best option is to either wear a compressive pair of cold weather running tights on their own or wear a pair womens winter running pants with a base layer underneath to keep your body heat in close, keeping you warmer.
Length
You can find plenty of women’s running leggings that are capri or 7/8 length, however, if you’re running in the winter, you’ll want to find a pair of full-length winter running pants. As you’re searching for the right pair for you, be sure you snag a pair that goes all the way to the top of your ankles for maximum warmth and heat efficiency.
Waist
It’s never good when the band of your running leggings slips down while you run, but it’s especially inconvenient when you’re running in the wintertime. With your extra layers and gloves or mittens on your hands, it can be a real pain to have to keep pulling your pants up while you run.
What Kind of Women’s Running Pants Keep You The Warmest?
The best winter run pants are the ones that have a fleece lining along with moisture-wicking fabric. The thing about running outside in cold temperatures is that you’re still going to sweat. When you mix being wet and sweaty with cold air, things start to get dangerous and unsafe. Finding a pair of womens running pants that’s designed to keep you warm while wicking away moisture is the best option for keeping you safe and dry this winter season.
Winter Running Tights Vs. Winter Running Pants
The main difference between winter running tights and winter running pants is that tights fit more like a compression legging, close to your body and most running pants are looser. There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing your winter running gear, a lot of it depends on your personal preferences.
Do you like to wear tight, close-fitting clothing when you run? Do you feel better with a baggier fit? Do you plan to wear layers? Consider these questions and then plan accordingly. When it’s especially cold, we love to wear a pair of insulated leggings as a base layer with a pair of winter run pants on top of them for maximum warmth.
What’s The Scoop on Insulated Leggings?
Insulated leggings and fleece lined leggings are essentially the same thing—they’re just a pair of leggings that have extra padding and materials added in to help hold in your body heat.
Winter Tights Women Can Rely On
If you’re anything like us, you dread the long, cold days of winter and the thought of giving up your favorite past time is daunting…but you don’t have to! Running in the cold is not a problem when you’re armed with the right winter running gear, and that includes the best winter run pants.
Hopefully, our list of the top women’s running pants for this winter has given you some inspiration…and some incentive to get grab a pair and get out there this winter. Don’t let the chilly temps keep you inside slogging along on the treadmill!
Happy running, friends!
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