Running - Leggings

Running tights are a mainstay in many runners’ wardrobes. They can make you feel comfortable and fleet of foot on both roads and trails in a wide range of conditions. Their technical fabrics move naturally with your body while wicking sweat and regulating body temperature. At Oberson, we offer a wide selection of running tights from trusted brands, including ASICS, Salomon, Rossignol, and Nnormal. Shop online or visit our stores in Laval or Brossard to browse our collections.

How to Choose Running Tights

Running tights offer a close, supportive fit that feels like a second skin. With no loose fabric to shift or flap, they move naturally with every stride. They can be designed for different weather conditions and often include practical features, such as pockets or reflective details, to help you make the most of every run.

Weather

Running tights are designed for a wide range of conditions. Thin tights made with highly breathable fabrics are well suited to mild or warm weather, where heat management is important. Many runners also go with capri or ¾-length tights to leave more skin exposed, which improves heat dissipation. For sunny runs, look for tights with UV protection.

Full-length or 7/8 tights with thicker fabrics or brushed interiors are best for cold-weather outings. They provide additional warmth without sacrificing breathability or mobility.

Fit

Running tights should hug your lower body without restricting movement, riding down, or digging in. Some tights offer light compression for additional muscle support, which can help circulation and reduce soreness.

Waistband design can also influence how comfortably tights fit. Some feature low-rise waistbands that sit on the hips, while mid-rise and high-rise designs sit higher on the waist for additional coverage and support. Some runners prefer a high or low waistband because they feel less constriction in the midsection when breathing heavily. Many models use wide, flat waistbands that resist rolling or pinching. Internal drawcords can help keep the tights in place, which can be especially important when it’s rainy and the fabric gets wet.

Practical Features

Design details make a big difference in comfort, convenience, and safety during a run. Here are some common features to look for:

  • Flatlock or bonded seams — Reduce friction and irritation
  • Zippered ankles — Make tights easier to put on and remove
  • Zippered or drop-in pockets — Carry keys, gels, a phone, or other essentials securely with minimal bounce
  • Reflective elements — Increase visibility during early morning or evening runs
  • Compression panels (on some models) — Provide additional muscle support
  • Wind-resistant or water-repellent panels — Offer protection in variable weather conditions
  • UPF-rated fabrics — Provide added protection from the sun

Running Tights at Oberson

At Oberson, you’ll find a wide selection of running tights designed for different conditions. Lightweight tights help keep you comfortable during mild weather, while brushed fabrics and weather-resistant panels provide additional warmth when temperatures drop. Many models also include practical features, such as pockets, reflective details, and UV protection. If you need assistance finding the right running tights, reach out online or visit our Laval or Brossard stores.

FAQ — Running Tights

Can I wear tights for trail running?

Yes. Running tights can work well on trails. Their close fit reduces excess fabric that could snag on branches or brush and allows full freedom of movement on uneven terrain. Many trail-specific running tights use more durable fabrics, such as nylon blends, which offer increased abrasion resistance compared to some road-focused tights.

What’s the difference between running tights and regular leggings?
Running tights are designed specifically for running, using technical fabrics that wick moisture, stretch comfortably with your stride, and reduce chafing. They often include features such as secure waistbands, pockets for small essentials, or reflective details for visibility. Regular leggings may look similar, but they are usually designed for casual wear or general workouts and may not offer the same breathability, strategic seam placement (to avoid chafing), or features needed for running.

What should I wear under running tights?

Running tights are designed to fit close to the body, so many runners wear them without underwear to avoid bunching or chafing. Others prefer close-fitting briefs or performance underwear for added comfort and support. Some runners also choose to wear shorts over their tights for extra coverage. Ultimately, you should wear what feels most comfortable.