Buzz
If you think running tights are exclusively for women, you’re missing out. Many men hesitate to try them on for the first time, only to find they offer an unmatched level of support and comfort that regular shorts can’t. The key to wearing tights is finding the perfect fit. While tights come in various lengths, they should fit snugly against your body. For those who prefer more coverage, you can layer shorts or looser tights on top. Additionally, choose tights that are suitable for the conditions you’ll be running in. With the right pair, running can become a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Steps
Choosing Fitted Tights
Select tights that reach your ankles for running in colder weather. Go for tights that end at or just above your ankles. If they’re too short, your ankles could be left exposed to the cold. The ideal tights should align with the top of your socks.
- If you plan to wear long socks, opt for slightly shorter or looser tights. Compression socks that hug your body closely are a great choice as they won't interfere with your tights.
Opt for shorter tights when running in warm weather. Tights come in various styles, so you can select ones that offer more ventilation. Capri-style tights, which end at your calves, are ideal for staying cool during moderate weather. If it’s particularly hot or you’re running indoors, switch to shorter tights for added comfort.
- Compression shorts or half-tights may feel more comfortable for some runners. If you’re accustomed to running in shorts, you might want to try compression shorts before transitioning to longer tights.
Choose tights that are comfortable, not constricting. Tights are designed to fit like a second skin. Tights that are too tight can hinder your movement and circulation. If your tights are restricting blood flow, try a larger size. However, if they’re too loose, they won’t provide the proper support.
- Above all, comfort should be your top priority when choosing running tights. The style and length are secondary as long as you feel at ease in them. Always try on tights before purchasing if possible.
- Loose-fitting tights aren’t effective unless worn as a second layer.
Opt for tights with an adjustable waistband for a customized fit. Many running tights come with elastic waistbands for a quick fit, but these can sometimes be uncomfortable. Look for tights with drawstrings at the waist, which allow you to adjust them for a more tailored fit.
- Many runners experience tights rolling down at the waist. To prevent this, make sure the tights fit well, though keep in mind that body shape changes can affect the fit over time.
- Drawstrings help keep tights snug and form-fitting. Even if the tights aren’t a perfect match, you can adjust them for added comfort.
Consider tights with a reinforced crotch for extra support. Since tights are usually worn without underwear, extra support in the crotch area can be very helpful. Reinforced tights offer added padding that supports both your skin and muscles, minimizing unwanted movement. This extra padding also prevents the fabric from shifting, bunching, or wearing out too quickly if you wear something underneath. If you find regular tights too thin or uncomfortable, try ones with additional reinforcement.
- Men’s tights are designed differently from women’s tights and are not interchangeable.
- If you’re planning to wear a jockstrap or compression shorts underneath, you may not need the extra padding.
Select opaque tights to keep your skin well-covered. Some running tights can become see-through when exposed to sunlight. To avoid this, make sure the tights you choose are thick and solid in color. Thinner tights may need to be paired with other layers for coverage. Take your tights outdoors for a test run to ensure they are opaque.
- If your tights turn out to be too revealing, you can always cover up with running shorts. Opt for loose-fitting shorts in a color that matches your tights, for example.
Wearing Tights
Skip your usual underwear when wearing tights. Since tights are designed to fit snugly against your body, you don’t need to wear anything underneath them. There likely won’t be room for underwear anyway. If that makes you feel exposed, you can cover up with shorts or a longer shirt.
- Even if you manage to fit something under your tights, it will restrict your movement. It can cause the fabric to bunch up and irritate your skin.
- Additional layers will also prevent the tights from properly wicking sweat away from your body.
Wear a jockstrap under tights for extra support with thinner materials. While some people prefer just the tights, you can add a form-fitting jockstrap for added support. Make sure the jockstrap fits comfortably and doesn’t chafe your skin. Choose one made from breathable, quick-drying fabrics like nylon or mesh. A jockstrap is a good option if your tights feel a bit loose or if you simply prefer wearing something underneath.
- Compression shorts or briefs are also suitable over a strap-style jockstrap. They provide the same function as regular underwear.
Ensure the tights fit snugly against your skin. Putting on tights is similar to wearing any other pants. Step into them and pull the waistband up over your hips. Be sure the fabric isn’t bunched up anywhere, especially around your ankles.
- If the tights feel loose or puff out, try a different size. They should fit tightly to your skin, preventing any movement while you run.
- If you’re wearing long tights, they should end at your ankles. If they’re too loose, they will bunch up and create discomfort.
Adjust the drawstring above your hips if your tights have one. Pull the drawstring to tighten the waistband. Make sure it's set at a comfortable tightness, ensuring the tights stay in place without slipping down. Once you’ve found the right fit, tie the drawstring securely.
- If your tights don’t have a drawstring, keep the waistband above your hips. If it rolls down, your tights may be too loose.
Wear compression socks under your tights. Socks should not go underneath tights as there isn't much space, especially with long tights. Opt for socks that fit snugly, such as ankle-high ones that cover your ankles. Compression socks are a great choice because they fit well and help keep your feet dry.
- Regular socks work too, as long as they’re made of a fast-drying material like polyester instead of cotton.
- Be mindful of the length of your socks. If they’re too short, your skin could be exposed. Longer socks or stockings are better with shorter tights.
Throw on some shorts over your tights if you want more coverage. Many athletes prefer wearing shorts over their tights. The main reason is to avoid feeling too exposed in public, but there are other perks as well, like extra warmth in cooler weather. The additional layer also gives you extra pocket space for essentials during your run.
- Tight running tights can make some feel self-conscious. Adding shorts lets you go about your day without worrying about being too exposed if you stop in a public place after your run.
- However, wear shorts with caution in hot weather, as the extra layer could lead to overheating and sweating.
Consider a long T-shirt or scoop hem shirt for an alternative cover-up. If you’re not keen on wearing shorts, a longer shirt can do the trick. Choose one that offers enough coverage to hide your crotch area, ensuring you feel comfortable while running. Running shirts are also great for any weather conditions.
- For maximum comfort, opt for shirts made from fast-drying materials like polyester. Cotton tends to retain moisture, making it uncomfortable for long runs.
- If you don’t need extra coverage, you might prefer a compression shirt. It acts like tights, providing support while keeping you dry.
Get a second pair of running tights for added warmth. Layer up for cold weather. Start with your regular skin-tight running tights, then add a looser pair on top. Make sure the second pair fits well to avoid any bunching or discomfort. Take a quick jog to ensure you feel good.
- Additional tights aren’t useful in warm weather. If you need coverage, opt for shorts or a long shirt instead.
- Many runners don’t need extra tights in cold weather. It depends on the warmth of your tights. Remember, you’ll warm up as you run, so you won’t feel as cold once you get going.
Choosing Tights with Extra Features
Choose thermal tights if you run in cold weather. Some tights are specifically designed to provide extra warmth during freezing temperatures. If you live in a region with severe winters, thermal tights allow you to continue running all year long. These tights are generally thicker than regular ones and include insulating materials, with some even lined with fleece on the inside.
- While regular tights can keep you warm in cold conditions, they are more versatile. If you choose to wear regular tights in winter, pair them with full-length tights and appropriate socks.
- Thermal tights are always full-length and well-insulated for maximum warmth.
Wear tights with mesh panels to stay cool and dry. While tights keep your muscles warm, they also wick away moisture from your skin. Many brands design tights with mesh vents to help with ventilation. These panels are often placed behind your knees or on the sides of your legs, allowing better airflow to keep you dry and comfortable.
- Mesh panels are easy to spot but they don’t compromise on coverage. Your tights will still be opaque despite the vents.
- Although they may feel chilly in the cold, mesh panels are effective at dissipating sweat and preventing discomfort during intense runs.
Opt for reflective tights if you run in low light. For those who run early in the morning or late at night, reflective tights can enhance your safety by improving your visibility. Some tights come with reflective strips along the legs that light up when illuminated, such as by car headlights. Others have subtle reflective threads woven into the fabric, so they look like regular tights until light hits them.
- Whenever you run in the dark, make sure to wear reflective tights. Treat low visibility as a safety concern and avoid wearing non-reflective tights.
- You can also wear additional reflective gear, like a shirt or accessories, to increase your visibility and stay safe.
Choose tights with zippered pockets for secure storage. Many tights come with built-in pockets that can securely hold your phone, keys, or other small items. If you’re someone who likes to carry essentials with you during your run, having pockets with zippers can provide added security.
- Tights with zippers offer extra protection against losing your belongings while on the move, though some runners may find the zippers cumbersome.
- While storage space can be limited in running tights, shorts can help provide extra storage but may not be as comfortable. Choose your tights based on the amount of storage you need for your items.
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Women’s running tights have a different cut than men’s and are not interchangeable.
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Some people may feel uncomfortable wearing tights, and there’s even criticism about men wearing them in public. However, if you feel confident and comfortable in them, don’t worry about others' opinions.
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Running shorts are a great alternative to tights in warm weather, but be cautious of loose-fitting shorts, as they may cause chafing or ride up during your run.
