Best Running Leggings for Women: The Pairs Worth Every Mile

Finding the best running leggings for women is about far more than just style. The right pair should support every stride, stay comfortably in place and perform through everything from quick morning runs to longer training sessions. Whether you’re completely new to running or building towards bigger distance goals, high-quality running leggings can make a noticeable difference to comfort and confidence.

At The Sports Edit, our edit of women’s running leggings has been carefully curated by runners and activewear experts, with styles selected for their fit, sweat-wicking performance, comfort and durability. We focus on leggings that really work for running, balancing moisture-wicking fabrics, secure waistbands, practical storage and distraction-free fits that move with you.

Not all leggings are built for running. Unlike everyday gym or lounge styles, running leggings need to withstand sweat, repeated movement and friction without slipping, sagging or becoming uncomfortable over longer distances. Features like quick-drying fabric, seamless construction, lightweight compression and secure pockets can all help improve performance and comfort on the move.

Our edit includes trusted performance brands including Nike, adidas, On, Sweaty Betty and New Balance, with every style chosen based on real performance features, customer favourites and editor testing.

What to Consider When Choosing Running Leggings

The best running leggings for women should provide comfort, breathability and support across a range of running styles and distances. From technical fabrics and secure waistbands to practical storage and seam placement, small performance details can make a big difference to how your leggings feel while running.

Material

Running leggings should be made from lightweight, technical fabrics that wick moisture and stay lightweight during movement. Sweat-wicking and quick-drying materials help regulate temperature during runs, while breathable stretch fabrics allow for unrestricted movement and long-wear comfort.

Performance-led styles from adidas use technologies like Climacool to help keep runners cool and dry, while brands like On and New Balance focus on lightweight, flexible fabrics that move comfortably with the body. Softer performance fabrics from Goodmove also offer breathable comfort for beginner runners or lower intensity training.

Fit

The best running leggings should feel secure without limiting movement. A reliable fit helps prevent sagging, bunching or constant adjusting during runs, while compressive fabrics can provide additional muscle support and stability.

Styles from Lilybod offer a more sculpting, compressive feel, while brands such as adidas and Nike focus on streamlined fits with adjustable waistbands designed to stay comfortably in place throughout movement.

Length

Running leggings come in a range of lengths, with the best option often depending on weather conditions and personal preference. Full-length leggings offer maximum coverage and warmth during colder months, while cropped and capri styles can feel lighter and cooler during warmer weather.

7/8 leggings are one of the most popular choices for runners thanks to the versatile fit and breathable feel. Performance styles from Sweaty Betty, On and adidas all offer lightweight 7/8 designs that work particularly well for everyday training and transitional weather.

Waist Design and Fit

A secure waistband can make a huge difference to running comfort. High-rise designs are especially popular for running as they provide extra support around the core and help leggings stay securely in place during movement.

Many running leggings now include adjustable drawcords or compressive waistbands for additional stability. Styles from PUMA and Nike combine supportive high-rise fits with adjustable features that help minimise slipping or rolling during runs.

Pockets and storage

Secure storage has become an increasingly important feature in running leggings, particularly for runners who carry phones, keys, gels or headphones. Well-designed pockets should feel accessible without creating bounce or bulk during movement.

Running leggings from Sweaty Betty and Goodmove feature side stash pockets and zipped compartments designed to keep valuables secure while running. Many performance-focused styles also now include hidden waistband pockets for smaller valuables.

Seams

Seam placement can significantly impact comfort during runs, especially over longer distances. Bulky seams or poorly positioned stitching can lead to irritation and chafing, particularly in warmer conditions.

Many of the best running leggings for women now feature minimal-seam construction or flatlock seams to reduce friction. Performance styles from Nike and On are specifically designed to support smoother movement and long-wear comfort during training.

Weather considerations

Running leggings should help keep you comfortable across changing weather conditions. Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics work best for warmer runs and higher intensity sessions, while colder weather may call for thermal lining or thicker performance fabrics.

Many winter-ready styles from Sweaty Betty and Nike combine moisture-wicking technology with reflective detailing and temperature-regulating fabrics to support colder-weather training and low-light runs.

Leak protection

For many women, feeling confident while running during their period is an important consideration when choosing leggings. While not all running leggings are specifically designed as period activewear, secure waistbands, squat-proof fabrics and darker colourways can all help provide extra reassurance during runs.

Moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabrics can also help improve comfort during longer training sessions, while seamless designs may help reduce irritation and sensitivity during movement. Many runners choose to pair supportive running leggings with period underwear or additional protection for extra confidence while training.

How we Chose our Best Running Leggings for Women

At The Sports Edit, running is part of our everyday lives, so this edit was built from real experience as much as product knowledge. As runners and activewear experts, we know how much difference the right pair of leggings can make, from waistbands that really stay in place to fabrics that remain comfortable through sweat, movement and longer distances.

Many of the styles featured are worn regularly by our team for training, gym workouts and everyday running. Every pair featured in this guide has been selected from brands we know and trust, including Nike, adidas, Sweaty Betty, On and New Balance.

Alongside editor testing, we also considered customer popularity, performance-focused features, comfort, durability and overall versatility when narrowing down our recommendations.

Best Overall Running Leggings from Our Experts

When choosing the best running leggings for women, we look for styles that deliver comfort, support and versatility for every type of run. A great all-round pair should stay securely in place, manage sweat effectively and feel comfortable over both short and long distances. Breathability, waistband stability and distraction-free movement are all key features we prioritise when testing running leggings.

Sweaty Betty Runner’s High Power 7/8 Leggings

Best for: Everyday running, race training and long runs

Key features:

• Sweat-wicking quick-drying fabric
• Sculpting compressive feel
• High-rise stay-put waistband
• Seam-free front design
• Side and back pockets

Why Phoebe, our Marketing Manager, loves it:
These are one of my go-to running leggings because they strike such a good balance between support, comfort and practicality. The compressive fabric feels secure without being restrictive, and the waistband genuinely stays in place throughout runs. I also love how lightweight they feel, plus the pockets are actually useful without adding bulk.

Things to consider:
The compressive fit may feel firmer than softer studio-style leggings.

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Sweaty Betty Runner’s High Power 7/8 Leggings - Black Cliff Face Print
Sweaty Betty Runner’s High Power 7/8 Leggings - Merlot Red

Best Running Leggings With Pockets

Secure storage has become an essential feature for many runners, especially during longer runs or race training. The best running leggings with pockets should allow you to comfortably carry phones, keys or gels without bounce or distraction. Discover our full range of leggings with pockets.

adidas adi365 Climacool AOP Running 7/8 Leggings

Best for: Everyday running and hands-free comfort

Key features:

• Zipped back pocket
• Side stash pockets
• Climacool sweat-wicking technology
• Soft Adiflex performance fabric
• High-rise supportive waistband

Why Eleanor, our Junior Buyer, loves it:
These feel really practical for everyday running because the pockets are genuinely useful without making the leggings feel bulky or heavy. The fabric is lightweight and breathable, so they stay comfortable even on longer runs, and I love that the waistband feels secure without digging in.

Things to consider:
The 7/8 length may feel slightly cropped for runners wanting full ankle coverage in colder weather.

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adidas adi365 Climacool AOP Running 7/8 Leggings

Goodmove Go Move Cool Comfort Embossed High Waisted Gym Leggings

Best for: Everyday training and accessible storage

Key features:

• Side phone pocket and back pocket
• Cool Comfort moisture-wicking technology
• High-waisted fit with secure inner tie
• Squat-proof stretch fabric
• UPF50+ sun protection

Why Lily, our Senior Ecommerce Trading Executive, loves it:
These are such a good everyday option if you want something supportive and practical without spending a fortune. The pockets are really useful for walks, gym sessions or runs, and the fabric still feels lightweight and breathable even during tougher workouts. I also love that they feel secure and flattering without being overly compressive.

Things to consider:
The embossed design gives these a more gym-to-running crossover feel than highly technical race-focused tights.

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Goodmove Go Move Cool Comfort Embossed High Waisted Gym Leggings

Best High-Waisted Running Leggings

High-waisted running leggings are a popular preference for both beginner and experienced runners, thanks to their supportive fit and secure hold. A stay-put waistband can help minimise distractions during runs, while offering added comfort and confidence through different distances and training styles.

Nike Swift High Waisted 7/8 Running Leggings with Pockets

Best for: Everyday running and supportive comfort

Key features:

• High-waisted supportive fit
• Dri-FIT moisture-wicking technology
• Three practical storage pockets
• Perforated panels behind the knees
• Reflective graphics for visibility
• Internal drawcord for an adjustable fit

Why Ellie, our Paid Marketing Manager, loves it:
These leggings are such a reliable go-to for everyday runs because they feel supportive without being too compressive. The waistband stays comfortably in place throughout runs, and the perforated panels make them feel much more breathable during tougher sessions. I also love that the pockets are genuinely practical while still keeping the leggings feeling lightweight and streamlined.

Things to consider:
The 7/8 length may feel slightly cropped for runners wanting more coverage during winter training.

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Nike Swift High Waisted 7/8 Running Leggings with Pockets

Best Compression Running Leggings

Compression running leggings are designed to create a more secure, supportive feel during training, making them a popular choice for both beginner and experienced runners. The best compression running leggings should feel sculpting without restricting movement, helping provide stability, comfort and confidence across longer distances and higher intensity runs.

Lilybod Chelsea Ultra-Core Run Legging

Best for: Supportive comfort and long-distance training

Key features:

• Signature sculpting compression fabric
• High-waisted full-length silhouette
• Breathable moisture-wicking material
• Minimal seam construction
• Soft-touch performance feel

Why Katy, our Junior Buyer, loves it:
These leggings feel really supportive and sculpting without being too restrictive, which makes them ideal for longer runs or higher intensity sessions. The compression gives a really flattering fit, while the minimal seams help keep them comfortable over longer wear. I also love how smooth and premium the fabric feels compared to some firmer compression styles.

Things to consider:
The sculpting fit creates a firmer feel than lightweight running leggings.

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Lilybod Chelsea Ultra-Core Run Legging - Black

Best Lightweight Running Leggings

Lightweight running leggings are ideal for warmer weather, faster paced sessions and runners looking for a more breathable feel on the move. The best lightweight running leggings should feel comfortable over long periods of wear, helping minimise overheating and chafing while still delivering enough support for everyday training.

Nike Epic Fast Pocket Running Leggings

Best for: Summer runs and breathable comfort

Key features:

• Lightweight performance feel
• Breathable mesh panels
• Curved back seams
• Reflective swoosh detailing
• Mid-rise supportive waistband

Why Sara, our Ecommerce Manager, loves it:
These leggings feel really lightweight and breathable, especially during warmer runs or higher intensity sessions. The mesh panels help with airflow without making the leggings feel too exposed, and the smooth seam placement keeps them comfortable over longer distances. They’re a great option if you prefer a lighter, less compressive feel while running.

Things to consider:
The mid-rise waistband offers a slightly lower fit than high-waisted running leggings.

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Nike Epic Fast Pocket Running Leggings

Best Leggings for Long Runs

When it comes to long-distance running, comfort becomes everything. The best running leggings for women should feel supportive over extended wear, helping minimise chafing and distractions while still offering practical storage for essentials like phones, keys or energy gels. Breathable fabrics, smooth seam construction and secure waistbands can all make a noticeable difference during longer training sessions.

On Performance Tights 7/8

Best for: Long-distance training and everyday comfort

Key features:

• Moisture-wicking performance fabric
• Adjustable waistband
• Side pockets and zipped back pocket
• Lightweight cropped 7/8 design
• Comfortable long-wear feel

Why Isabella, our Junior Merchandiser, loves it:
These are the kind of leggings you almost forget you’re wearing on longer runs because they feel so lightweight and comfortable. The waistband feels really secure without digging in, and the pocket placement is genuinely practical for carrying essentials without bounce. I also love that the fabric stays breathable even during longer sessions.

Things to consider:
The cropped 7/8 length may feel lighter than some runners prefer during colder winter runs.

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On Performance Tights 7/8

Best Budget Running Leggings

You do not need to spend a premium price to find supportive, reliable running leggings. The best budget running leggings should still offer key performance features like breathable fabrics, moisture-wicking technology and secure fits that feel comfortable across different types of training.

Goodmove Go Move Cool Comfort Embossed High Waisted Gym Leggings

Best for: Affordable everyday running and gym training

Key features:

• Cool Comfort moisture-wicking technology
• High-waisted fit with secure inner tie
• Side phone pocket and back pocket
• Squat-proof stretch fabric
• UPF50+ sun protection

Why Nancy, our Senior Buyer, loves it:
These are such a good affordable option if you want running leggings that still feel supportive and practical without the premium price point. The fabric feels lightweight and breathable during runs, while the pockets and secure waistband make them feel really functional for both training and everyday wear. I also like that they have enough stretch to feel comfortable without losing shape throughout the day.

Things to consider:
The embossed finish gives these more of a gym-to-running crossover feel compared to highly technical running tights.

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Goodmove Go Move Cool Comfort Embossed High Waisted Gym Leggings

Summary: our top-rated running leggings for women

The best running leggings for women ultimately come down to your personal running style, preferred fit and the conditions you train in. Some runners may prioritise lightweight, breathable fabrics for summer runs, while others may prefer compressive support, thermal lining or practical storage for longer distances.

High-waisted designs can offer extra stability and confidence during movement, while technical sweat-wicking fabrics help keep runs comfortable across changing weather conditions. Features like secure pockets, seamless construction and adjustable waistbands can also make a noticeable difference, especially during longer training sessions or race preparation.

At The Sports Edit, we’ve selected running leggings that balance comfort, performance and versatility across a range of running needs, from beginner-friendly everyday styles to more technical performance tights designed for long-distance training.

Whether you’re training for your first 5K or building towards longer distance goals, investing in the right running leggings can help every run feel more comfortable, supported and confidence-boosting.