--- source_url: "https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/g23120243/mens-workout-pants/" title: The 8 Best Winter Running Pants of 2026 - Men’s Workout Pants mirrored_at: 2026-08-14T01:04:32.936Z host: www.runnersworld.com cited_in_42a: true mirror_canonical: "https://index.42a.ai/www.runnersworld.com/gear/g23120243/mens-workout-pants/index" --- > **Original source:** https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/g23120243/mens-workout-pants/ ### Pros - Brushed interior is really comfortable - Great warmth - Useful storage ### Cons - No zippers at the ankles A clear favorite among _RW_ testers, Brooks’s Momentum Thermal Tights will take the sting out of cold weather and help you maintain your motivation to run on the frostiest of winter mornings. They’re made from a stretchy blend of polyester and spandex, and the fabric has a brushed interior for a fleece-like feel against your legs. Three pockets—a zippered rear waistband pocket and two elastic drop-in pockets on the thighs—keep a lockdown hold on your phone, keys, and gels, and the internal drawcord waistband ensures a slip-free fit. Testers wore these tights in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit, and they felt “super toasty” even when the wind picked up. Testers also appreciated the wide, flat waistband, which felt comfortable on the run. The only drawback? There’s no zipper at the ankle and the cuff is pretty snug, which makes these tights tricky to get on and off over large feet. But overall, these tights were a winner for cold weather running. And if you’re not a fan of tights, the [Momentum Thermal Pants](https://brooksrunning.sjv.io/c/3006986/1980738/24286?subId1=ruw&subId3=xid:{xid}&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.brooksrunning.com%2Fen_us%2Fmens%2Fapparel%2Fbottoms%2Fmomentum-thermal-pant%2F211567.html%3Fdwvar_211567_color%3D001) were a smash hit among _RW_ testers as well. ## Key Specs Material 79% recycled polyester, 21% spandex Inseam 29 inches Pockets 3 Credit: Trevor Raab ### Pros - Great overall fit - Useful storage ### Cons - Ankles can be a bit tight New Balance’s RC Pocket Tights are an outstanding value. They fall on the lower end of the running tights pricing spectrum, but their premium fit and feature set makes them an especially good buy. In _RW_ testing, the tights stood out for their exceptionally stretchy fabric and body-hugging fit: They feel great and stay in place while running (the drawstring offers extra insurance, but it’s really not necessary). Better yet, they have a surprisingly large amount of storage. A zippered pocket at the back can tote a phone, while two drop-in thigh pockets and dual drop-in rear pockets at the back provide plenty of real estate for gels or other small essentials. One drawback: The fit at the ankles is a bit tight, so getting these tights around larger calves can require some finessing. Overall, though, they’re a reliable choice for temperatures down to around 30 degrees Fahrenheit. ## Key Specs Material 71% recycled polyester, 29% Lycra Inseam 28 inches Pockets 5 Advertisement - Continue Reading Below Credit: Trevor Raab ### Pros - Windproof panels offer good weather protection - Good fit at the waist - Excellent temperature regulation ### Cons - Rear pocket is shallow and hard to zip closed Run Tights Winter Protection isn’t the catchiest name, but it is certainly accurate: These Diadora tights deliver a supremely comfy feel through all kinds of wintry weather. They’re made with Fibrazero yarn, a stretchy polyester-elastane blend that offers great freedom of movement, and the tights are brushed on the inside for a plush, cozy texture. The front of each thigh has a windproof panel to block cold breezes, and _RW_ tester and Editorial Assistant [Michael McDonough](https://www.runnersworld.com/author/459066/michael-mcdonough/) found the panels even blocked rain, keeping his thighs totally dry while running through a rainstorm. Despite a cramped rear pocket and a somewhat loose fit around the ankles, he was really impressed with the Run Tights. In addition to their weather resistance, these tights also breathed well and kept McDonoughhim comfortable in temperatures ranging from 18 degrees up to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. His final judgment: They’re “a solid staple for any winter runner.” ## Key Specs Material 82% polyester, 18% elastane Inseam 32.5 inches (medium) Pockets 3 Credit: Trevor Raab ### Pros - Hollow yarns in fabric trap heat - DWR finish repels water - Slim silhouette reduces bulk ### Cons - Items will bounce in side pockets When you’re running in remote areas, getting too cold isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. Bandit’s Superwarm pants will keep you protected from wintry conditions on the trail. They’re made with a DWR-treated, woven stretch fabric at the front and back for good freedom of movement and weather protection (it’ll repel raindrops and block wind). That textile is paired with a knit synthetic fabric made from hollow yarns that insulate your legs while also venting moisture, so you stay dry and warm. Both fabrics are brushed for a soft texture, and the drawstring waistband helps you dial in a perfect fit. The rear zippered pocket will house your phone, but you’ll likely need a belt or pack for other stuff—items will likely bounce a bit in the zippered side pockets. Even so, these pants deliver strong warmth and weather resistance, and their trim silhouette makes them less bulky than typical joggers. ## Key Specs Material 57% polyamide, 28% polyester, 15% elastane Inseam 27.5 inches Pockets 3 Advertisement - Continue Reading Below Now 76% Off ### Pros - Effective wind protection - Zippered side pockets - DWR finish repels light rain ### Cons - Snug fit isn’t ideal for layering Blustery winds can make even milder temperatures feel brutal, but these Wind Shield Pants, (along with a windbreaker jacket) will be an effective shield. I wore them on a recent run along the shore of Lake Michigan, and the pants completely blocked the lake breeze and kept me cozy. I used one of the two zippered thigh pockets to keep my phone secure without jostling, and the wide drawstring waistband delivered a slip-free fit. The Wind ShieldSheild pants have a subtle fleece interior lining at the legs and they stretch well, but their slim silhouette makes them difficult to wear over tights or shorts. Yet that’s less of a drawback than you might think: Their wind-blocking power makes these pants warmer than they appear, so you won’t need to layer up so much. ## Key Specs Material 100% polyester (body); 68% recycled nylon, 15% polyester, 17% spandex (panels) Inseam 30 inches Pockets 2 Now 35% Off Credit: Trevor Raab ### Pros - Warm and weather-resistant - Stirrups ensure waist-to-shoe coverage - Tough fabric ### Cons - Single open pocket is not very useful - Runs low on sizing options The Bislett is a proudly old-school design: Tracksmith based them on a pair of USA-made, stirrup-equipped running pants from the ‘80s. The brand updated them with a modern performance fabric that’s truly excellent—it’s super durable, warm, and keeps your legs protected from wind and rain. The stirrups prevent the pants from riding up above your ankles and contribute to an overall snug fit. They’re not quite tights, but they’re definitely more form-fitting than a typical pair of running pants. Runner-in-Chief Jeff Dengate loved their warmth and weather protection, and the premium fabric makes the Bislett a worthy investment. “These are going to outlast any of your other tights,” he said. ## Key Specs Material 63% nylon, 31% polyester, 6% elastane Inseam 29.75 inches (medium) Pockets 1 Advertisement - Continue Reading Below ### Pros - Warm but not bulky - Breathable - Stretchy, great freedom of movement ### Cons - No pockets My Smartwool Intraknit tights were stuffed in my underwear drawer for years, but now that I live in Michigan, they’ve become an essential part of my running wardrobe. I absolutely love wearing them. The secret sauce here is the merino wool: The fibers have a crinkled shape that traps heat while also venting moisture, keeping me in a Goldilocks state of warm-but-not-sweaty while running. These tights also have a soft, itch-free texture, and they stretch easily to accommodate movement. I usually layer them under a pair of lightweight pants or shorts, and they’ve kept me totally comfortable while running (and biking) in frigid single-digit temperatures. ## Key Specs Material 52% merino wool, 44% polyester, 2% elastane, 2% polyamide Inseam 28.75 inches Pockets None ### Pros - Roomy fit - Wind- and water-resistant - Available in tall sizes ### Cons - Fit at the waist is a bit loose While many runners avoid pants with looser fits, sometimes the extra room has advantages, and the Dash Pant shows why. McDonough appreciated the Dash’s roomy design and lightweight fabric, noting it “makes them perfect for layering” over a pair of tights for extra warmth in freezing weather. And when the temperatures rise a bit, you can wear the Dash pants on their own. They feature wind- and water-resistant front panels to protect you from the elements, and the right zippered pocket has an elastic sleeve to secure your phone. Bonus: These pants are comfy enough for post-run lounging, too. ## Key Specs Material 81% recycled polyester, 19% spandex Inseam 29 inches (regular), 31 inches (tall) Pockets 2 Advertisement - Continue Reading Below 9 ## What to Consider ![person placing a device into a zippered pocket](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/brooks-thermal-0012-699c70234d34e.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top "person placing a device into a zippered pocket") Trevor Raab First off, think about the wintertime conditions you’ll face. If you never [run in the rain](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a20866193/best-running-rain-jackets/), for example, you won’t need pants or tights that are water- resistant. If temperatures dip well below freezing where you live, look for pants that insulate, as you’ll need the extra warmth. Here are the main components to keep in mind as you shop for running pants and tights. Material The fabric is arguably the most important feature in any pair of pants or tights. Most are made from synthetic fabrics like polyester. This material wicks sweat and doesn’t absorb moisture, so it won’t soak like cotton and weigh you down. Tights and pants usually have some elastane (a.k.a. sSpandex or lLycra) blended in, which helps them stretch. This is essential for a snug fit and good freedom of movement. Many pants and tights are designed with brushed or fleece interiors; this fluffy texture traps heat and makes them feel soft and warm. If you prefer natural fabrics, look for tights made with merino wool (it’s usually blended with synthetics for better durability). Merino wicks sweat and provides excellent temperature regulation, which makes it a great choice for wintertime running. Pockets Most pants and tights have at least one or two pockets, and they can provide helpful storage when running. If you want to store heavier items like your phone, look for a zippered pocket located at the rear along the waistband or an elastic sleeve along the thigh—these are the best spots to keep your phone from jostling around as you run. For storing [smaller items like gels](https://www.runnersworld.com/nutrition-weight-loss/g22716327/best-energy-gels/), look for pants and tights with zippered side pockets or drop-in pockets along the waistband. Of course, pockets aren’t strictly necessary. You can also use a [running belt](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/g20865114/best-running-belts/) or [hydration pack](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a20788395/hydration-pack-reviews/) for storage. Weatherproofing If you run in the rain or battle icy breezes in the winter, look for pants or tights that’ll resist water and wind. Some models, like the [Bandit Superwarm Run Pant](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbanditrunning.com%2Fproducts%2Farctic-cold-weather-mens-flo-run-pant-storm), feature DWR finishes that cause raindrops to bead up and roll off, rather than soaking into the fabric, so you stay dry. Others, like the [Patagonia Wind Shield Pants](https://patagonia.pxf.io/c/3006986/1948563/23649?subId1=ruw&subId3=xid:{xid}&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.patagonia.com%2Fproduct%2Fmens-wind-shield-windbreaker-pants%2F196924427310.html), have engineered fabric panels that resist airflow and block the wind, keeping you warmer. ## Running Pants Q&A With Our Expert ![line break listicle](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/run-line-break-listicle2-65ce1cd823a87.png?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top "line break listicle") **What’s the difference between men’s and women’s tights?** Men’s and women’s tights are designed to fit the different contours of male and female bodies. Women’s tights typically have wider waistbands for a snug fit over the waist—female waists tend to be narrower relative to the hips than men’s waists (the [men’s](https://brooksrunning.sjv.io/c/3006986/1980738/24286?subId1=ruw&subId3=xid:{xid}&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.brooksrunning.com%2Fen_us%2Fmens%2Fapparel%2Fbottoms%2Fmomentum-thermal-tight-2.0%2F211568.html%3Fdwvar_211568_color%3D021) and [women’s](https://brooksrunning.sjv.io/c/3006986/1980738/24286?subId1=ruw&subId3=xid:{xid}&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.brooksrunning.com%2Fen_us%2Fwomens%2Fapparel%2Fbottoms%2Fmomentum-thermal-tight-2.0%2F221737.html%3Fdwvar_221737_color%3D459) Brooks Momentum Thermal Tights illustrate this difference well). Men’s tights are also cut differently, with more room in the crotch, a straighter fit through the thighs, and wider ankles than women’s versions. The exact differences will vary from one model to another, however. **Should I wear shorts over tights?** That’s up to you! Wearing shorts or pants over your tights gives you an extra layer of protection from cold and wind, keeping you warmer, but they definitely add bulk to your running outfit. I prefer to wear pants or shorts over my tights, but plenty of guys wear tights alone, and that’s totally fine. **When should I wear pants or tights?** I start to consider pants or tights when temperatures dip below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, though your personal “time for pants” threshold may be lower or higher and change based on how far you’re running. When cold weather hits in the fall, I’ll start with a windbreaker or insulated running jacket before bringing pants or tights into the mix—these top layers keep me comfortable even if my legs are more exposed. Another factor to consider: If you get too hot, you can always remove a jacket, but you can’t take off your pants or tights (unless you have shorts underneath). ![Headshot of Michael Charboneau](https://hips.hearstapps.com/rover/profile_photos/439fd428-7025-4835-bedb-0ca1ebbbf35e_1644948005.file?fill=1:1&resize=120:* "Headshot of Michael Charboneau") Michael is a freelance writer with years of experience covering gear and the outdoors for _Runner's World_ and other publications; when he's not writing, he's usually biking, hiking, and running in the mountains around Los Angeles, where he lives.  ![Headshot of Amanda Furrer](https://hips.hearstapps.com/rover/profile_photos/834ca306-afa9-4d8c-acdb-b604ad955588_1651178293.file?fill=1:1&resize=120:* "Headshot of Amanda Furrer") Amanda Furrer, Editor, Running Reviews, studied journalism at NYU and writing at Emerson College. She has reviewed gear and covered other topics in the running space for almost 10 years. Since 2013, she has consecutively run the Boston Marathon. She also has a master’s degree in gastronomy from Boston University and was formerly a professional baker for two years before hanging up her apron.