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Best Running Pants Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
Picking out comfortable running pants is important to your success as a runner. Pants that are uncomfortable can end up causing a distraction which can take the fun out of running or jogging. Your pants should be so comfortable that you are not even aware of them while you are running. The pants should feel good against your skin and fit well. You should also look for pants that wick away moisture and maintain their shape while running. If your pants meet all three areas of concern, then you can expect them to feel great for running.
Comfort matters because running pants that are not comfortable will be distracting. It is much harder to concentrate and enjoy your run or jog if you find that the pants are uncomfortable and driving you crazy. There are a couple of different things to consider when assessing the comfort of your running pants. You should consider how the pants feel, fit, and wick away moisture. Pants that fit correctly are also more comfortable to wear. Finally, you want to make sure that the pants are moisture wicking so that you feel cool and dry.
Materials
You will see running pants sold in different materials depending on the design of the pants. Almost all athletic clothing, including running pants, uses fibers from three different categories. The first category of fibers is natural fibers which would include cotton or wool. The other category of fibers is synthetic fibers examples of which include polyester, spandex, or nylon. The final category of fibers is a blend of natural and synthetic fibers.
Natural fibers are the first categories of fibers used to make athletic clothing. These are textile fibers that occur in nature and include cotton, silk, and wool. Silk and wool are not typically used in athletic clothing but it is common to see athletic clothing made from cotton.
Synthetic fibers are clothing fibers that are made out of polymer-based materials such as plastic. Since synthetic fibers are made from polymers (which is oil based), they do not retain moisture and breathe well. This is why synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester, and spandex are so popular for running pants. Clothing made out of such material helps your body breath well and it is also moisture wicking which helps your body to stay cool while you are running and sweating.
Also, the fabrics we're looking for in running pants are seasonally, and weather dependent so our choices run the gamut, but generally lean towards synthetic fabrics that are going to be cooler, and also better at keeping water away from your skin, and will also dry easier.
Nylon: Still the king of synthetics for running gear and it's easy to see why. This fabric is sweat-wicking and breathable. Run in it all day long and it won't get too waterlogged and it will resist all of the bugaboos of the long distance runner, chafing, and add sweat-weight. As an added plus it's generally super stretchy so it will move with you, not against you.
Polyester: The fabric of the leisure suit and stretchy old guy pants has found it's home in running gear. Another plastic fabric, polyester fabric is light, durable, breathable, and resists moisture. These are all big pluses for runners, but as an added bonus polyester is also UV resistant which makes it great for windbreakers and as well as running trousers.
Spandex: The bane of 90's high school yearbook photos (see big sweaters and spandex pants) Spandex or Lycra have found a new life in the running world. This stuff is ridiculously stretchy and can expand some 100 times its normal size and then snap back to its natural state without losing its shape. What that means for you is that it will accommodate a full range of motion but also keep you snug and dry and that's two of the biggest things you can ask from a running pant.
Cotton: Nope, don't do it. Cotton is a great fabric, we love it, it's the "fabric of our lives." But that doesn't mean it should be in everything. Cotton gets wet, it gets heavy, it gets 'chafey,' so don't bother. As much as we love natural fibers, and we do love them and will choose them in almost every instance except exercise equipment.
Breathability
Our bodies produce sweat while we are running in order to cool our bodies and maintain optimal body temperature. While we are running, the sweat will evaporate from our skin which is the mechanism by which our bodies are cooled. It is critically important that we are able to maintain optimal body temperature while we are running. When we are unable to maintain proper body temperature, we can experience issues such as nausea, dizziness, or even heat exhaustion. You could even end up developing a heat stroke in extreme cases. None of these conditions allow for a runner to perform at his or her maximum performance.
For these reasons, it is important that our clothing works with our bodies in order to reduce moisture quickly and allow sweat to evaporate from our skin. The running pants that you consider to purchase should be moisture wicking and breathable. You should feel as if your running clothing is a second skin so that sweat is removed from your body quickly and you remain cool. The more moisture wicking your pants are, the better your body will be able to maintain its optimal temperature.
Style
The style of the clothing will make a difference regarding how you look and feel while you are wearing it. You should try and look for running pants that offer a combination of performance, comfort, and fashion. Running pants that address all three areas of concern are ideal because you will feel better about them and will be more inclined to wear them while you are running. If you do not like your running pants and they end up staying in your dresser or closet, then you did not get your money’s worth. The best running pants are pants that you love to wear while running and jogging.
Your safety as a runner matters a lot because no activity is worth it if you do not come home safely. While running and jogging are a relatively safe sport, you should be aware of some potential hazards that you could encounter while you are running. You certainly do not want to get hit by cars or trucks while you are running as an example.
Also, a good pair of running pants should be able to do some double duty. Don't get us wrong we don't want to see you head out to work in a pair of running trousers (we'll leave the same conversation about Yoga pants to smarter reviewers), but they should serve for a day spend out running errands and still look cool enough so that you can still look reasonably well put together if you have to make a quick dash somewhere post run. So, in general, we've tried to keep an eye out for running pants that avoid the bulk and have some clean lines that keep you away from that much-maligned High School Football Coach aesthetic (not that there's anything wrong with that). We also kept on the lookout for wide ranges of colors so you can show off your colors even when you're out on the run.
Features
You may want to wear pants that have pockets while running. Pockets have the advantage of allowing you to securely and safely carry items such as a smartphone, keys, or wallet. This can be an advantage for the casual runner. However, having pockets means that there are additional materials used to make the running pants. The pants could end up feeling heavier and you make feel as if your items are wearing you down or bouncing around while you are running. This can lead to a distraction and may impact your performance as a runner.
Velcro should be large enough and strong enough to keep the pants closed in a secure fashion. If your pockets close with snaps, then you will want to make sure that the snaps fit tightly and maintain a secure hold while they are snapped together. The buttons should also be fastened securely to the pants, and the buttonholes should be large enough to accommodate the button but not so large that the button can slip out and become undone. Higher quality running pants will make the effort to make sure that your items stay secure in the pants.
Although visibility is important for maintaining a runner’s safety, it isn’t the only concern either. You will need to make sure that your clothing can protect your skin from UV radiation. The UV radiation is caused naturally by the sun and it leads to skin damage. At a minimum, exposure to UV radiation can cause sunburn but over time, it can cause your skin to wrinkle early or even lead to skin cancer.
A few more seemingly minor items, which only seem minor until you wish you had or didn't have them, depending on your own personal preferences, are:
Waistbands
There is nothing worse than having your running shorts be 'that' pair. The pair that's too tight, or the one that just won't stay with you. So we did a bit of looking around for good waistbands. The kind that will hug the hips without cutting off the circulation or drop down towards indecency one step at a time.
Elastic
A must. You're going to need a waistband that comes with some grab around the waist elastic is the trick, and if the pant is light enough, that's all your going to need. The problem is of course if things get really wet or really sweaty and that means wet weight added to the pants, or if you've got a lot of stuff in the pockets you're going to want to make sure those pants stay snug, and sometimes just elastic isn't going to cut it.
Drawstring
We're big fans of the drawstring. At the end of the day, you want your pants to not only stay up but also change with you. You're running pants need to stay up even when you're packing that roll of quarters just in case you run through a gang war. On a more general note, you want pants that stay up even when you're carrying a wallet, keys, phone, or if all that running has resulted in a slimmed-down you. So, in general, we like to see drawstrings with our running pants.
BEST RUNNING PANTS REVIEWED & RATED FOR QUALITY
1. Tesla Compression
We are eager to share more quality running pants that users will appreciate due to their quality design and different color choices and benefits. Let’s talk about the Tesla men’s Compression Running Pants. These pants are designed for a better experience, better running flexibility, and a more comfortable fit. Here are two important points that users can take into consideration for these quality running pants.
The Material Design
What makes running pants so great is the running composition that many brands used in developing the product. With that, the polyester and spandex blend of these pants allow for a stronger and former fit for men without losing comfort in the mid-region. The polyester is used for enhanced durability and comfort while the spandex design is used for added elasticity and breathability. With that in mind, many consumers out using them at the gym, running, different sports, and other activities.
Moisture Sensing Material
What makes this one of the best running pants is the moisture active ingredients in the running pants that allow for better anti-microbial deodorization for better odor control. Other than that, they are moisture-wicking, so users can expect that the pants will be able to handle sweat and moisture for better running comfort. Users can expect that the pants are high quality and ability to hold their end of the bargain. Which brings us to the next part of the list, how much are they worth?
Cost And Value
Well, users can expect that these running pants will be designed from some of the best quality materials in the industry today. For example, the pants are designed for durability and comfort. With that, and many different color choices to choose from, users can expect to pay about the same average price that they would for many other quality pants on the list. With a cool and modern fabric design, these pants are highly recommended by over 1.5k users and running enthusiasts.
2. Defender Compression
We are eager to share another great manufacturer of men’s activewear pants that knows how to produce quality and comfort all in one simple package. The Defender Compression Running Pants have become a fan-favorite among individuals that love to run competitively and are seeking a more active lifestyle. Touted for their easy to wear design and extremely comfortable materials, we are eager to share two of the best benefits of these particular active wear men’s running pants.
The Quick Dry Design
One of the best benefits of these particular pants is the quick and dry design that allows for an excellent anti-moisture experience. Other than that, the pants are particularly designed for individuals that sweat a lot and what a better and easier way to stay cool while running. The materials are designed to wick away sweat and moisture while allowing air to flow through the fabric for a more comfortable experience.
Very Smooth Fabric Feeling
Nothing is better than discovering a product that feels soft to the touch and is also extremely durable. That is exactly what we can say about these particular pants. They are perfectly designed for individuals that want a smooth fabric that causes no chafing or discomfort. Thanks to the polyester, users can also expect durability alongside comfort. They are machine washable, making them ideal for individuals that want to wash them quickly and wear them as soon as they get out of the dryer. With that said, users have mentioned that these, in particular, will hold their shape and no fade.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration for these particular pants, we can say that they are designed with supreme comfort in mind for men that want to be able to run efficiently and effortlessly. Thanks to a no-discomfort fabric, users can allow cool air to travel through the fabric for less moisture and sweating. Other than that, the value is the same and users can expect a quality buy for a simple and low price. No disappointment and the 600+ reviews at 4.5 stars say so.
3. DRSKIN Thin-Fit
When it comes to the sport or art of running, comfort is at the forefront of everyone’s mind. I mean, there is a reason why no individual hardly ever runs in jeans or fancy shoes. Reason being is that to achieve the best results, to feel comfortable, to avoid chaffing, an individual needs to be wearing the most comfortable gear available. With that said, we are eager to bring you the first product on this list that offers plenty of benefits for an individual that wants to run. This one is for the men’s! Let’s talk about the DRSKIN Compression Cool Dry Sports Tights and what users can expect from these quality leggings today. Here are two points to take into consideration!
Designed For Every Day Wear
You never know when the running bug is going to hit you, do you? Therefore, running pants are designed for everyday wear for individuals that want to run, or simply wear comfortable pants. These, in particular, have everyday wear designed that is also perfect for all seasons. Individuals can use these in the summer, fall, winter, and any possible outdoor outing from baseball to the football game. With that in mind, we highly recommend them for everyday comfort wear.
For Summer & Winter
Now, we have mentioned that they are both for summer and winter. However, how is that so? Well, these running pants, in particular, are designed with a moisture sensing technology that in the summer acts as a two-way air circulation design. This allows a cool breeze to travel through the running pants fabric. However, in the winter, the pants retain heat, so individuals can stay warm and comfortable even during cold weather, making them perfect as an individual's best all-year running pants.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration, these running pants are designed with maximum comfort in mind. The pants are perfect for an all-day wearable experience while also being perfect for running and jogging. Now, the value alone has awarded these particular running pants over 2.5K reviews at 4.5 stars. Other than that, the pants are rated one of the best and this is why we share them at the number one spot. For the price, consumers will want to collect them all. With over ten different color styles ranging from white to yellow and blue, these pants are priced at a reasonable price.
4. Baleaf
We are eager to switch it up a bit and to share one of the best running pants for women. These next pants function as the perfect everyday comfort leggings for women that love to run, practice yoga, and relax. With that said, there are many benefits to these particular women’s active pants, it’s a shame we can only share two. With that in mind, let’s talk about the Baleaf Women’s Ankle Legging For Women. Here are two points to take into consideration when it comes to these particular running pants.
Breathable Running Experience
When it comes to quality running pants, there is one crucial aspect that makes them one of the best, if they are breathable. With that said, many brands have included a material that is breathable enough so users, when running, do not get uncomfortable or too hot. With that said, these pants, in particular, are designed for a breathable and stretchy fabric that provides complete comfortable coverage. This material is part nylon part spandex for added flexibility. This level of flexibility allows users to run without worry that they will be uncomfortable or not achieve the perfect yoga pose.
The Anti-Chafing Design
When running, what is one of the most uncomfortable aspects of running? Chafing! Chafing is no fun, it is itchy, and it can be uncomfortable for days. With that said, this manufacturer has developed these particular high quality running pants with an anti-chafing design. The design includes flat seams and better flexibility so users do not get the chafing results that they normally do from regular pants. For that reason alone, women will love these particular running pants. Now, what do these great quality pants cost?
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration, it is important to keep in mind that these are the first women’s pants on the list. Therefore, don’t be impressed by the price because it can get better! However, with a price as low as this one, users want to collect them all. Yes, there is more than one color option! In fact, there are four different colors to choose from that range from small to large. With that said, the value is evident from the moment an individual tries them on. What we can say is that they are perfectly designed for comfort and style.
5. ODODOS
We are eager to share with our readers, another great running, and yoga manufacturer, that although not known by many runners, they have over 2k reviews all extremely positive. Let’s talk about the Ododos High Waits Out Pocket Yoga and Running Pants, quality running pants for users that want an active experience with elasticity and flexibility. This is what users can expect from these quality running pants. Let’s begin with two points to take into consideration.
Elasticity, Comfort, and Flexibility
These particular running pants are designed with comfort in mind for the individual that leads an active lifestyle. Designed perfectly with a 4-way stretch fabric, these pants are designed for individuals that want reassurance that no matter the position, the longest running, or the movement they do, the yoga pants can withstand that. With that said, they are made out of 13% spandex, which is ideal for individuals that want the added elasticity so they can feel comfortable all day long.
Streamline Design
It is commonly known that some activewear manufacturers will create yoga and running pants not just for practice, but also for style. For example, these, in particular, have a high-waist design, so users can feel more comfortable in the mid-region belly area as they run and work out. This look allows for a streamlined design that contours to the body and are extremely comfortable and comforting to wear. Especially for women that may be self-conscience, these pants are ideal for an everyday wearable experience.
Cost And Value
When taking cost and value into consideration, these running pants are perfectly designed for individuals that want a quality and comfortable experience. Priced a bit higher than some of the many other brands on the list, these pants are designed with comfort and long-lasting results. For better durability and style, these are the pants that users are touting. With over 2k reviews at 4.5 stars, these pants are ideal for everyday wear, whether running or relaxing.
6. Compression Z
Let’s talk about what may be one of the best women’s running leggings available today. These leggings are designed for a comfortable feel that allows for women to feel a tight and snug fit that gives a level of support to all of the important areas below the mid-region. With that said, users will love these running tights for the appeal, the style, the comfort, and the snug fit. Let’s talk about two important points that make them one of the best wearable leggings available today.
Efficient and Durable
What makes these pants one of the best is the compression design. For example, when running many different areas of the body move at the same time, one of them being the stomach. With the high waisted compression design, users can move faster and quicker without worry that they will feel uncomfortable or over-exert themselves. Other than that, the material is durable and allows users to run longer, faster, and still receive an ideal and snug fit every single time.
Smart Fabric Design
Isn’t it great when a brand introduces a new and better design into the mix? With these running pants, users can feel more secure as they run. With a four-way stretchable fabric, users can feel secure that there will be no discomfort while running. In fact, these pants are guaranteed to be anti-itch, anti-irritation, and anti-chafing. Reason being is that the seams are tight and flat, the material is moisture wicking, and the fabric is odor-resistant. With a quality material such as this, users can expect to want to wear these all day long, seven days a week.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration, one of the most important aspects of these particular running pants is the compression design. With a design element such as this, users can expect that they will be able to run faster, better, and longer without specific areas of the body hurting. What we can say is that they are also priced accordingly to the value and with about six color choices to choose from, users will appreciate the shape-up design. Other than that, the value is ensured by a 100% money back guarantee.
7. Champion Jersey Pants
Let’s talk about one of the most popular active brands in the activewear industry today. We are eager to share quality jersey pants that are designed for an everyday comfort fit. Now, these pants, in particular, are designed from cotton, and so it can get hot in the summer. However, for the workout or running enthusiasts, these are perfect for everyday comfort and a loose running feel. Let’s talk about the Champion Jersey Pants and what users can expect from these quality pants.
Machine Washable
What we have discovered from certain running brands is that if the material is really sensitive, then it may not be machine washable, or at least only machine washable on the delicate cycle. However, that is no problem for these pants. If a user is wanting quality pants that can also withstand the test of a washing machine, these are the ideal pants. Thanks to a cotton polyester mix, the pants are extremely durable and can be worn for many runs to come.
Side Pockets
When it comes to running brands, some brands will not offer pants with pockets because of the style of the running pants. For example, most spandex running pants do not have pockets. However, for these particular pants, users do not have to worry about leaving their belongings behind or buying an added piece of carrying gear. These two pants, in particular, have two side pockets that are large enough to hold a cellphone or a wallet. With that in mind, they are very durable and perfect for everyday light running or jogging.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration, we believe that this pants, in particular, are perfectly designed for individuals that want a comfortable fit alongside everyday style and comfort. The jersey pant look is very relaxed and allows users a comfortable running experience. For the value, we believe that they are well priced and with four color choices to choose from, users can expect quality. With that said, the pants will range in price depending on the size and color choices but not drastically. We highly recommend them if a user wants cotton pants that are loose over tight spandex running pants.
8. Feivo Power Flex
Switching back to women’s running leggings, we are eager to share one quality brand that is known for small stylistic improvements in the running legging industry. These leggings are designed with comfort in mind, flexibility, and also a quality stylistic appeal. We are eager to talk about the Feivo Yoga Pant’s Women’s Power Flex Running Leggings, one of the best leggings available today. Here are two important points to take into consideration if you are considering these leggings.
Stretchy Material Design
One of the best aspects of these leggings is that they are designed with a stretchy non-see-through material that makes women feel more comfortable. The material is perfect for yoga enthusiasts, for better functional, performance, and allow users to run comfortably. The material is part of a polyester and spandex mix that allows for a better running experience. Other than that, the tummy control waist top gives a snug and tight fit that users out and appreciate. The control wide waistband contours a women’s curves and allows for a better enhance shape.
Breathable Material
As one has come to expect from quality running pants, users want a breathable material that can withstand the test of time. With that in mind, these pants are designed with a breathable and stretchy fabric that is also moisture-wicking and provides complete and better coverage. With that in mind, users can run more comfortably and for longer without worry that sweat will be a major discomfort. What we can say, is that the design enhances the shape and fits on the skin perfectly for a more comfortable snug fit.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration for these particular pants, users will be able to tell that they are in fact, cheaper than most pants on the list as far as price. With that in mind, durability may not be as well done or of qualitative value. However, the pants are still extremely well designed and built with great technology in mind. The pants work as described and with many different color choices to choose from, individuals can alternate between pairs for their daily run. What we can say, is that they are very comfortable as far as wearing them all day goes.
9. Oalka
As another great quality women pants manufacturer, we are eager to share the next running pants on the list. These running pants are ideal for everyday wear, have plenty of positive reviews and are known for being one of the most resistant and tough, yet comfortable, running pants available today. Let’s talk about the Oalka Women Power Flex Yoga and Running Pants and what users can expect from these high-quality running pants today. Here are two points that add the ‘power’ in Power Flex.
The Materials
Of course, if an individual is using particular pants for running they have to be made from some of the best materials available today. With that said, these materials are not only highly durable and can withstand the test of time. They are ideal for individuals that want comfort and style. The materials of these particular yoga pants are Nylon, Spandex, and Polyester. This is a powerful combination of quality and versatility to ensure that users are primarily comfortable in their pants. Which brings us to the next feature of these highly desired running pants.
Confident Running
When a user is running, they not only seek to be in shape, be healthy, but also, they seek to add a layer of self-confidence into their life. With that, this manufacturer designed these pants, so users feel more comfortable running. With a high waist and wide waistband design, this active shapewear has a tummy control design with a hidden inner key pocket. This way, users can feel more confident in the tummy region while running while also being able to hide their house keys. With that in mind, no wonder they have over 2k reviews at 4.5 stars.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration for these particular pants, we cannot help but say that they are priced perfectly for individuals that want comfort and style. With the added high waistband design, users can feel more confident with these pants. Other than that, they are offered in multiple color options and are perfect for everyday wear experience. With blue, pink, and even yellow to choose from, we have begun to collect them all and you should too!
10. Degree by Reflex
For women that want a more flattering form-fitting workout, these are the active pants for you. Let’s talk about the 90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Tummy Control Shapewear running pants, a step towards a more flattering and comfortable workout experience. What users can expect from these pants is that they are comfortable and perfectly designed for an everyday wearable experience. Let’s look at two points that may interest many of our readers.
Trusted Brand with Plenty of Review
So, these pants, in particular, are pretty simple to understand. With that, the brand, although not widely known, is one of the best activewear lifestyle brands online. As a cross between fashion and functionality, many of their products are designed for the everyday consumer that is passionate about living an active lifestyle. With that said, these pants, in particular, have over 4.0k reviews at about 4.5 stars. With that, women are touting the comfort and durability of these activewear pants.
Soft Compression Fabric Design
The fabric of these particular pants is designed with durability and comfort in mind. However, it is the benefit of it being form-fitting that users find most appealing. In fact, the fabric has a soft compression quality that allows users to feel a snug and more comfortable fit that wraps around the body while also allowing the body to move appropriately. With that, users tout the comfort of the high waist design which is perfectly designed for added comfort and flexibility.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration for these particular pants, what we can say is that women will love the simple flexibility and design of the pants. Other than that, they are durable and easy to wear. For the price, we believe they are one of the best form fitting pants in the industry today and users will be able to have an excellent experience with these pants. They are designed for the everyday individual that wants quality.
Sources
- , The Oregonian, News Site
- , Sundried, Lifestyle Blog
- , REI, Outdoor Site
